OM’s new album “Südpol” (2026) offers a fresh perspective
OM, one of Europe’s most daring experimental rock bands of the 70s and early 80s, has embarked on a second act that extends far beyond their initial endeavors. Since reuniting in 2000 after an eighteen-year hiatus and releasing new material in 2010, the band has released its fourth album titled “Südpol” on June 19, 2026, under Intakt Records. This album captures a live performance from December 2024 at Südpol, Switzerland, featuring the original members Urs Leimgruber (Soprano Saxophone), Christy Doran (Electric Guitar, Devices), Bobby Burri (Double Bass, Devices), along with new additions Gerry Hemingway and Tony Buck on drums.
Following the loss of founding member Fredy Studer in 2022, OM pressed on with the addition of two drummers, each with their own exceptional backgrounds. Hemingway brings his experience from the Anthony Braxton Quartet, while Buck is known for his work with The Necks. The unique blend of free improvisation and structured music in OM’s repertoire lent itself well to the distinct styles of both drummers, creating a rich and dynamic sound on the album.
Tracks like “Fast Line” and “Gamelan” showcase the band’s ability to transition seamlessly between frenetic energy and quiet introspection. Leimgruber’s haunting saxophone, Doran’s ethereal guitar effects, and Burri’s rhythmic bass lines set the stage for improvisation to take hold, as Hemingway and Buck join forces to create a thunderous backdrop. Despite challenges such as Leimgruber’s struggle with fibrosis, the band demonstrates resilience and commitment to pushing the boundaries of their music.
In “PMF,” a tribal groove underscores Leimgruber’s saxophone explorations, with Doran’s guitar effects adding a touch of mystique. The drummers take center stage, driving the momentum forward and creating a sense of controlled chaos that characterizes OM’s sound. “The Frog Jumps In – Im Unterholz Bei Kyjiv” evokes a sense of spaciousness reminiscent of the band’s earlier works, culminating in a loose, funk-inspired exploration that highlights each member’s improvisational skills.
“Behind the Eye” stands out as a more conventionally structured piece, with a focus on Doran’s rhythm guitar and electronic elements that add an unexpected twist to the composition. OM’s ability to blend rock influences with free-form improvisation is showcased in this track, underscoring their versatility and willingness to experiment with different styles.
As OM continues to defy expectations and challenge musical norms, “Südpol” serves as a testament to their enduring creativity and collaborative spirit. By embracing change and exploring new sonic territories, the band remains at the forefront of avant-garde music, pushing boundaries with each release. To experience OM’s latest offering, listeners can acquire a copy of “Südpol” on Bandcamp and immerse themselves in the captivating sounds of this groundbreaking group.