Ocean to Ocean, a duo from Huntsville, Alabama, released their only 45 in 1986, which remained obscure for almost four decades. It features two lo-fi gems that capture the essence of the 80s DIY spirit. "Summertime" is a smooth, slow jam that exudes a laid-back, sun-soaked vibe, reminiscent of warm nights and cool breezes. Its bedroom-produced sound brings an intimate, raw charm that will have you putting it on loop. On the flip side, "The World Need A Lesson" shifts gears with its Electro-inspired rap, driven by a relentless programmed drum machine beat. This track pulses with an urgent, gritty energy, delivering a message rap that feels both nostalgic and timeless.
Paul Hines managed to convince his uncle to produce a record with his longtime friend, Terry Crutch, who was also the group's keyboardist. Terry, a talented writer, wrote “Summertime,” which became the anthem of their release. The band toured briefly before eventually dissolving.
Years later, while Paul found himself in and out of prison, the record never gained traction and remained obscure for decades. Tragically, many copies were lost in a fire, adding to its rarity and value today. The few records that did circulate were only among a select group of collectors.
The group remained unknown until recently; Memphis collector and DJ Daniel Mathis tracked down the artists, shedding light on the musicians behind the release. Interestingly, the band's name, Ocean to Ocean, was inspired by a T-shirt Paul had spotted while shopping around town.
This ultra-rare 45 is sought after by collectors far and wide for its quintessential Memphis funk & soul grooves. The other half of this funky 45, Summertime, is also available for purchase digitally.
