The Ocean marks end of an era with farewell Audiotree session and lineup shake-up

Berlin-based post-metal collective The Ocean have officially closed the chapter on their current lineup, releasing a special “Audiotree From Nothing” session recorded in Chicago last summer. The farewell performance features four tracks spanning the past 15 years, offering a tribute to the departing members and capturing one final moment from this era of the band.

The lineup shift follows the announced departures of longtime vocalist Loïc Rossetti and guitarist David Ramis Åhfeldt. Rossetti, who joined in 2009, cited creative differences and a natural evolution as the reason for his exit, emphasizing that it’s a peaceful move in different directions. Åhfeldt, who had been with the band since 2017, also confirmed his departure. These exits come shortly after drummer Paul Seidel’s own departure earlier this year.

Founding member and primary songwriter Robin Staps reflected on the physical and emotional toll of heavy touring—over 120 shows per year since the pandemic—while expressing pride in what the group has accomplished together over the past decade.

But the band isn’t slowing down. With new drummer Jordi Farré already playing recent festival sets at Freak Valley and Hellfest—shows that also served as the farewell gigs for Rossetti and Åhfeldt—The Ocean confirmed that writing for their 11th studio album is complete, with recording set to begin later this year. The album is expected to be released in 2026.

The Audiotree release is both a celebration and a send-off: four songs from four different albums, showcasing the range and legacy of the outgoing lineup. Fans can stream the full session now and look forward to what’s next as The Ocean turn the page on a new chapter.