Ocean Sleeper sign global deal with Rise Records and BMG

Ocean Sleeper sign global deal with Rise Records and BMG

Sydney metalcore band Ocean Sleeper have announced a new global recording deal with Rise Records and BMG, according to Billboard. The partnership was confirmed on May 15, and the band's new single "Break the Cycle" is already out as the first release under the agreement.

An existing bond made bigger

This is not Ocean Sleeper's first time working with BMG. The label had previously partnered with the band on their debut album Don't Leave Me This Way and the EPs Maybe Death Is All I Need and Is It Better Feeling Nothing. The new deal layers Rise Records on top of that foundation, a label whose roster includes Spiritbox, Sleeping With Sirens, Sum 41, Polyphia, Dance Gavin Dance and Memphis May Fire.

In a statement, the band described the signing as a natural evolution rather than a break from their roots. "The essence of this band has always been independent and driven by a DIY attitude, but we are ready to level up with a team who we trust with our vision," they said.

Industry backing

Heath Johns, President of Australia, New Zealand and Southeast Asia at BMG, called Ocean Sleeper "one of Australian heavy music's best kept secrets" and said the combined resources of both labels would take the band "to every corner of the planet." Sean Heydorn, SVP of Rise Records, pointed to the band's "relentless work ethic, creative ambition, and a deep connection with their audience."

Built on the road

Ocean Sleeper have earned their place through touring rather than hype. The band have completed sold-out headline runs in Australia and the U.S., played Good Things Festival, and shared stages with Northlane, Parkway Drive, Polaris, Make Them Suffer and Thornhill. They now join a BMG Australia and New Zealand roster that also includes Chet Faker, Crowded House, Dope Lemon, Hockey Dad, The Cat Empire, Pacific Avenue and Ladyhawke.

With "Break the Cycle" out now, the next question is what a full project under Rise and BMG will look like.