ONTOLOGICS: Dynamic Alterations

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Ontologics is an experimental duo from Providence comprised of Ian Campopiano and Matthew Walshe. ‘Drones from Home‘ is the project’s second studio album released in November 2015. Prog Sphere talked with Ian about their work, the record, and future plans.

Define the mission of Ontologics.

Make unique records, have an extensive discography, and differentiate ourselves from the sea of noise.

Tell me about the creative process that informed your latest album “Drones From Home” and the themes it captures.

It involves us both working in our own prospective wood sheds and generally Ian will bring demos that he’s written to the table, and we hash them out in rehearsals. We feel it’s up to the listener to decipher any themes that may be present in the compositions.

We’re trying to push the envelope by fusing genres, some of which are not typically blended. Both musically & lyrically we like to challenge the listener and ourselves.

What is the message you are trying to give with “Drones From Home”?

Just trying to expand our catalog, we put a lot of effort into our albums sounding unique and having a slightly different perspective than other artists.

Not sure if there is a “message” that runs through the record, it’s certainly not a concept album, we haven’t discussed the possibility of doing a concept album in the future. We can’t rule it out.

How did you document the music while it was being formulated?

By notation and recordings. It’s a long multi stepped demo’ing process before the songs make their way to rehearsals.

Is the dynamic flow of the pieces carefully architected?

Yes, but the creative process can open up new avenues that were previously untravelled. Even when there is certainty within a composition, rehearsals could bring about changes or dynamic alterations that we may not have been hearing during the genesis of the idea.

Describe the approach to recording the album.

It’s a layering process. Typically, the drums are recorded first, and then the other instrumentation follows suit.

All the songs are recorded using a metronome, and we play the songs live with a click as well, to orchestrate the syncopation with precision.

How long “Drones From Home” was in the making?

This album took a little over a year before it was released.

Which bands or artists influenced your work on the release?

We are influenced by everything.

What is your view on technology in music?

As long as the music is still music and the technology isn’t governing or providing the artistic content in it’s entirety, songwriters should always be writing their own songs.

Do you see your music as serving a purpose beyond music?

We do. It’s all about connecting with people on some higher plain. Whether it’s with the musicianship or the lyrics, there is hopefully some kind of consciousness or awareness that listeners can dig up out of Ontologics music.

What are your plans for the future?

Continue to work on the new album (LP III) and a possible EP release.

Keep in touch with Ontologics via Facebook.

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