Music | New album out now
From the Arctic city of Tromsø in northern Norway, rock trio Ohmwork have released a new album, Ex Nihilo. If you like your rock heavy, melodic and played with real conviction, here are five reasons to give it a listen.
1. A proper power trio
Ohmwork formed in 2012 and are built around singer and guitarist Anders L. Rasmussen, with bassist Helge Nyrud. They’re a classic three-piece, and critics have long praised the tightness of their playing. Powerplay magazine once said the instruments practically breathe together, which is exactly what you want from a power trio.
2. Big riffs with plenty of variety
Their sound has drawn comparisons with Black Sabbath’s heavy riffs and the groove of Saxon, while they’ve also veered between power metal and prog. Norway’s Scream Magazine has recommended all of their albums to fans of good old classic hard rock, so if that’s your thing, this is well worth exploring.
3. A band that keeps evolving
Ohmwork have never stood still. They’ve made two concept albums, including Alyssa Drone, the story of a steampunk pirate queen, and on their 2023 EP Fractions they explored a softer, more melodic side, including a cover of Tim Buckley’s “Song to the Siren”. Ex Nihilo, Latin for “out of nothing”, is the next chapter.
4. Listen right here
The easiest way to decide is to press play. Stream the full album below:
5. Discover a gem from the far north
Norway has a thriving rock and metal scene, and Ohmwork have been called one of the best power trios from the northern parts of the country. If you’re tired of the same old playlists, this is a great way to discover something new from one of Europe’s most remote music cities.