Robin Staps is the guitarist and lead songwriter for the German progressive metal band The Ocean. Over the last 20 years, The Ocean has released some incredible genre and mind bending heavy music, amassing a cult-like following in the underground. I spoke with Robin about The Ocean’s new upcoming album, growing up in the straight edge hardcore scene, the importance of the DIY ethics, playing squat punk communes in Europe, early musical influences, life during the pandemic and much more.