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Norwegian power-trio Ohmwork are gearing up for the release of their latest album ‘Pareidolia’ and Ohmwork vocalist/guitarist Anders L. Rasmussen joined us to talk about the album, and what to expect when you check the band out.
What are the origins of the band, how long have you been playing together?
We have played together for nine years. In the spring of 2012, all three of us were in-between bands. I got hold of the drummer. He knew of a bass player. We got together and the rest is history.
Our bass player suggested ‘Ohmwork’. Luckily, we stuck with it. It sounded way cooler than other crappy band names we considered (and at the time thought were great…).
How did you feel performing your first gig? And how was it?!
Nervous as hell! Nine months had gone by since we announced the band. People were curious, and kind of impatient for us to play. There were big expectations for sure! With our backs to the wall, we got out on stage and killed it. I think, I hope… If a remember correctly we were happy with our performance. The feedback from the crowd and from our fellow peers (the music police) was great.
What should people expect when they check the band out? How would you describe yourself?
A metal band with traces of prog and classic 70s rock thrown in here and there. A dose of early 80s metal. Hopefully, we represent something different from other bands out there. To some degree a unique ‘Ohmwork sound’. But that is up for the listeners to decide.
The new music scene is bursting at the seams with fresh talent, in what ways do you feel that a band has to stand out from the others trying to build a name?
Be yourself, write and play music you like! Find your uniqueness. If it’s good, it goes places. And practice a lot! Rehearse ‘till the band is tight as a vice. When you then think you are ready, rehearse some more! After that when opportunities knock, take it! That said, be careful about which contracts you sign…
What are you working on at the minute that people can check out?
Waiting for our new album to release. Doing promos. Our fifth album Pareidolia comes out August 27. Hopefully, there will be some touring in the fall. Rehearsals are coming up in the next couple of weeks. Apart from that, we are currently writing on new material for a future release.
What band out there at the minute do you feel that you would be best suited to open for?
Audrey Horne. Would be great to do some touring with these fellow Norwegians. Probably one of the best hard rock bands out there!
Who do you feel is the next band to break out?
Hmm. Maybe Blood Heave & Die? A local doom band (from Tromso). They are going places for sure. Deception is another awesome band. Great Norwegian death metal from Stavanger. Check out their latest release The Mire.
What are your first musical memories? And what was the light bulb moment that made you go “I want to do that”?
Listening to Kiss at the age of four-five! With carpet banks, me and my brother rocked the shit out of our living room! Years later, around 12 I picked up my first guitar and wanted to be the next Angus Young. From then on, to be in a band was what I wanted. World domination!
What was the last gig that you attended as a fan?
Shit, it feels so long ago! Greta van Fleet in Copenhagen back in November 2019. That was great!
The album that you have in your album collection/Spotify playlist that would surprise most people?
The opening act for Greta van Fleet the same evening: Yola. What an awesome voice! Really cool music too. So much groove, and great musicianship.
Although 2020 was a year to forget for many reasons, there was been some incredible music released; what would be your album of 2020?
Maybe Splid by Kvelertak.
How active are you on social media and where can people connect with you?
Yeah, we are pretty active. People can connect with us on facebook.com/ohmworktromso and Instagram.com/ohmworktromso. And check out our website at www.ohmworktromso.com.
Photo credits – Mads Sørensen
