Ohmme - “Icon”

 

SXSW 2020 - OEB Score: 8; Popularity Index: 6

Pairs Well With…Palehound, Twin Peaks, Smith Westerns

The two core members of Ohmme are both classically trained pianists from Chicago, who traded in their ivories for intricate guitar jams. But their formal music training is on full display in their jangly rock single “Icon.” The quirky 5/4 timing plays a backdrop to the bright verse chords while the interlude features heavy distortion straight out of a St. Vincent or Tool record. But don’t sleep on their subtly brilliant vocals. The way their back-and-forth harmonies bounce off one another is akin to the vocals from Amber Coffman and Angel Deradoorian of Dirty Projectors. With just two guitars, Ohmme makes music so roaring and loud that you’ll ask yourself, “Who needs a bass anyway?” (Drew Doggett)