Last year saw the release of one of the most impressive debut albums in recent years, the ferociously exciting Into The Unknown by Ireland’s XIII Doors. Now, their in-demand singer/guitarist, DJ O’Sullivan, is back on the creative trail with a very promising new outfit, OGMA. and their debut single, Enslaved.
The fact that the new hard rock project features members of Geoff Tate’s touring band indicates that something quite special is simmering.
O’Sullivan is joined by James Brown (Mark Daly And The Ravens), and Jimmy Wynen (Darker Half), who met and formed the band while working with the legendary ex-Queensrÿche singer. They are joined by Colin Frecknall (Today Is The Day) on drums.
OGMA opened for Geoff Tate on his recent spring tour and are currently on the road with him again, with further dates confirmed for Spain this summer.
Whatever amount of praise and hype this band has amassed in its short life so far simply is not enough. Enslaved is an instant and vibrant shot to the veins.
The opening riff is straightaway a headturner. Robust and full of abrasive snarl, it has set an expectant tone.
But that only tells half the story. Vocally, it sucks you in with its hypnotic drawl, and the menacing middle section works brilliantly. OGMA very much ladle their sound from a wide melting pot of influences.
But if I were to stick my ever-expanding neck out, I would say a modern take on a classic Alice In Chains rings the loudest here.
If Enslaved is an accurate example of what is coming down the tracks, Christ on a bike, we are truly in for something extraordinary.
OGMA release Enslaved on 8 May 2026, with an EP set to follow. Keep an eye on the band’s Facebook page for more details.
