A Q&A with Ohmwork
Classic hard rock, doom grooves, progressive energy…
What’s the title of your latest release, and what does it mean to you?
Ex Nihilo means “out of nothing.” It reflects the creative process of turning ideas, riffs and raw energy into something real. It’s our seventh album, and we wanted to keep things direct, heavy and honest.
What was the hardest part about putting this release together, and why?
Getting everything right without overthinking it. We wanted to capture the raw energy of a live trio while making every song count.
Who produced the release – what did they bring to it? If you produced it yourselves what do you enjoy most about producing your own material?
The album was recorded at LP Studio in Tromsø with Yngvar Mehus, who also handled the mixing and mastering. He helped us preserve the raw, live feel while making the sound punchy and powerful.
What do you want the listener to take away from listening to your music?
A good dose of heavy riffs, hypnotic grooves and the urge to turn the volume up. If a song sticks in your head afterwards, we’ve done our job.
How does a track normally come together? Can you tell us something about the process?
It often starts with a riff or an idea I bring to the band. We build on it together in the rehearsal room, letting the music evolve naturally. Sometimes the best parts happen when things don’t go according to plan.
What band/artists have influenced you the most since you started this project, and why?
Black Sabbath is a major influence, alongside bands like Avatarium, Sword and the classic hard rock and metal acts we grew up listening to. We love heavy riffs, strong grooves and music that doesn’t need to rush.
What countries would you like to tour? Are there any standout venues you’d like to play in?
We’d love to tour more of Europe, especially Germany, the UK and the Netherlands. Playing legendary venues and festivals where heavy music has a passionate following would be fantastic.
If you could pick one track for our readers to listen to in order to get a taste of your music, what would you pick, and why?
‘Yeti’. It’s short, heavy and straight to the point. Three minutes of riffs and groove that capture what Ohmwork is all about.
What ambitions do you have for the band/your career?
To keep making music we believe in, play more shows outside Norway and reach listeners who appreciate heavy music with its own identity. We’re not chasing trends; we’re here for the long haul.
Finally, as you leave the stage, what are your parting words?
Thank you, good night, and drive home safely. And remember: you can always turn it up a little louder.
Find out more about Ohmwork at ohmworkband.com
