OHMME Release Their Debut Record, Parts

(Header photo: Ohmme by Alexa Viscius)

By: Sun Noor

Following the release of their self-titled EP last year, the Chicago-based duo OHMME’s full length debut Parts, came out yesterday via Joyful Noise Recordings. OHMME is comprised of Sima Cunningham and Macie Stewart, two classically trained multi-insrumentalists who are quite notable and active among Chicago’s extensive music scene. In addition to getting involved with local venues, as well as the scene. For instance, the pair have also collaborated with various local artists including Chance the Rapper, Twin Peaks and Whitney, while touring with other artists such as The Joy Formidable, Jeff Tweedy (Wilco) and Tortoise.

From the start, Cunningham and Stewart sought out to create something dissimilar to their past works, which explains why their sound appears to be guitar driven. Interestingly, Parts contains the perfect combination of elements from different genres such as grunge, shoegaze, punk rock as well as folk. The alluring harmonies are also quite strong and very present on almost each song. The opening track, “Liquor Cabinet” is a slower number with harmonies that compliment the guitar riffs. The song also builds up and has grungy appeal. “Water” is among my favourite tracks of the album since it is quite catchy. The song consists of a distorted riff, heavy drumming and shows off the pair’s vocal range. “Sentiment Beings” is another slow number, starting off with a distorted cello notes. The song a slightly melancholic, yet still fits the record alongside the other tracks. “Peach” is also another one of my favourite tracks given that it is very punk-driven rock and characterized by heavier, distorted guitar riffs. In terms of collaboration, the album features Doug McCombs from Tortoise,Ken Vandermark, as well as Tomeka Reid on cello. Parts was also self-produced and recorded by the pair together in Cunningham’s home studio.

OHMME are set to kick off their headlining North-American tour in Chicago tomorrow with their record-release show. Click here to purchase tickets.

Download/ Stream Parts here

Watch the video for “Icon” below: