We recently had the pleasure of chatting with Cammie Gilbert, the powerhouse vocalist of progressive metal band Oceans of Slumber, on MetalGodZradio. Fresh off the release of their self-titled fourth album, Cammie opened up about everything from creative reinvention to gardening, reaction videos, and even her dream of collaborating with Snoop Dogg.
Here’s what went down.
A Fresh Chapter with the New Lineup
Oceans of Slumber’s latest release marks more than just another entry in their discography—it’s a turning point.
“We wanted to mark a fresh start,” says Cammie. “It’s our first album with a new lineup, and we felt like it was the right time to put a definitive stamp on our identity as a band.”
The result is a deeply expressive, immersive album that showcases the group’s evolution without sacrificing their signature depth.
Collaboration is Key
Cammie and drummer/co-founder Dobber Beverly welcomed new members into the songwriting process with open arms.
“They’re amazing writers with incredible ideas. The collaboration has been one of the most exciting parts of making this record,” she says.
And while fans often ask if other women have auditioned for the band, Cammie notes that the recent search was a tight-knit one—but she’s had meaningful female collaborations in other ways, including a powerful live performance with Lindsay Schoolcraft (formerly of Cradle of Filth).
Cover Songs with Meaning
The album features 11 original tracks and a striking cover of Type O Negative’s "Wolf Moon", a song the band had been performing live for some time.
“We have a lot of cover ideas in the works,” she adds. “But this one just fit the vibe of the album perfectly.”
Musical Life
Born in Chicago but raised in Sugar Land, Texas, Cammie describes herself as a lifelong Texan. Her musical roots run deep—growing up in a musical family and singing in choirs throughout school set the stage for her eventual career in Oceans of Slumber.
“Oceans is my first real go at being a professional musician, but singing has always been a part of who I am.”
Style, Showmanship, and Aloe Vera
Though Cammie says she’s not much of a DIY fashionista, she loves collaborating with creatives in other disciplines.
“I’m pretty helpless with makeup and fashion, but I have a friend who helps design my stage outfits and a great makeup artist named Karma. It’s part of the show—and I enjoy being a canvas for others’ creativity.”
As for daily life, she finds joy in the little things—like gardening with her future mother-in-law, making jams, and nurturing her thriving aloe vera plant.
Reaction Videos and Guilty Pleasures
She admits she finds reaction videos a little silly—but still loves them.
“I watch them all the time,” she laughs. “I know I’m being a hypocrite.”
Some of her favorites include AMP Reacts, Lost in Vegas, and vocal coach Rebecca Vocal Athlete.
On Candace Owens, Police Talks, and Cultural Conversations
When asked about public figures like Candace Owens, Cammie doesn’t shy away from nuance.
“I have mixed feelings. I think there's a tendency to chase publicity and be a contrarian without always connecting to real-world issues.”
She also reflects on growing up Black in America and how her family, like many others, had “the talk”—not about the birds and the bees, but about how to safely interact with police.
The Art of Not Fitting In
Oceans of Slumber has drawn comparisons to bands like Gojira, Opeth, and Katatonia—but Cammie sees the band’s identity as fluid.
“We’re always exploring and evolving. We don’t follow a formula. It’s really about authentic self-expression.”
On Ayreon, Snoop Dogg, and What’s Next
Cammie recently appeared on Ayreon’s album Transitus, thanks to a connection formed in the UK. Since then, the collab offers have been rolling in.
“If Snoop Dogg called? I’d absolutely say yes!” she laughs. “If it fits my aesthetic and feels real to me, I’m all in.”
Music Firsts and Collector Dreams
Cammie recalls the Red Hot Chili Peppers as her first album and T-shirt purchase. Though she didn’t get to see them live at the time, it made a big impact. Today, she treasures a box set complete with an autobiography—a prized piece of musical memorabilia.
Final Words
With a birthday coming up on October 8 and a new house (with a piano!) on the horizon, Cammie is looking ahead with hope.
“We’re excited to get back out there. I hope everyone’s staying safe and healthy—we’ll see you all soon.”
Stay heavy. Support the underground. Long live metal.
Want more? Follow Oceans of Slumber on their Bandcamp, Spotify, Facebook and catch them when they come to your town.
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