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Cheyenne Johnson

Review: "Lighthouse (feat. John Rzeznik)" - Okean Elzy


Okean Elzy Lighthouse Cover Art


Shining like a light in the dark, Okean Elzy has released their uplifting new single, "Lighthouse (feat. John Rzeznik)." The track fosters a message of hope and unity, aiming to inspire the people of Ukraine and beyond. Shedding light on the meaning behind the song, Okean Elzy’s lead vocalist Sviastoslav ‘Slava’ Vakarchuk states, "Lighthouse is a very powerful metaphor for me. As a Ukrainian I couldn't think of a better metaphor to express our hope for the future, which is part of why the song and album bear that name." Music with a purpose, a portion of the proceeds from "Lighthouse" will be donated to United24, an initiative launched by the president of Ukraine in support of the country during the ongoing war. 




Exuding an essence similar to the Goo Goo Dolls' "Better Days," Okean Elzy's "Lighthouse" features a heartfelt soundscape that complements the song's warm and hopeful message. The moving track starts with a lush combination of tender piano lines and guitar riffs, later kicking things up a notch with the driving drums provided by blink-182's Travis Barker. Frontman John Rzeznik of the Goo Goo Dolls lends his voice to "Lighthouse," resulting in an undeniable chemistry between Vakarchuk and Rzeznik as they trade expressive lines and create rich harmonies together over climatic choruses.


Founded in 1994, Okean Elzy is a five-piece rock band hailing from Lviv, Ukraine. The group already fill stadiums in Ukraine and now they're expanding their reach by releasing their first English-language album, Lighthouse. Okean Elzy have released two singles from the album so far, "Voices Are Rising" and "Lighthouse," gaining international attention with the former as they have gotten airplay in Germany and acclaim in the UK. To support the upcoming album, Okean Elzy will embark on their largest North American tour to date, kicking off on October 21st in Toronto, ON. Some of the tour's proceeds will be donated to the Open Eyes Fund, specifically supporting their Drive For Life initiative with the goal of delivering 30 ambulances and essential medical equipment to the frontlines in Ukraine.


Written By Cheyenne Johnson



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