O.R.k. - Screamnasium (2022) Hi Res

The expansive & emotive, 'Screamnasium' is O R k's most essential album to date - Spontaneous yet intricately crafted, it is perhaps the most concise statement of the band's sonic aims yet. With the quartet having formed a strong creative bond over the course of three previous studio albums & with countless miles clocked up on tour, the highly anticipated follow up to 2019's acclaimed 'Ramagehead' has finally arrived. The pent up, derailed energies of O.R.k. have found a release with their gutsy & striking new album 'Screamnasium'.

Setting the pace, lead single/album opener 'As I Leave' delivers the distilled O.R.k. spirit directly to the listener. Lef's powerful vocals, Carmelo Pipitone's energetic riffing, Pat Mastelotto's inventive rhythmic accompaniment & Colin Edwin's distinctive bass tones all infuse 'Screamnasium' with a refreshed intensity & a new luminosity. Energy levels are maintained throughout the 42-minute runtime as O.R.k. state the case for optimism, tolerance & inclusivity - these are hopeful anthems for an increasingly uncertain world.

A highlight is 'Consquence', where Lef spars with Grammy winning vocal phenom Elisa, best known outside her native Italy for her collaboration with the legendary Ennio Morricone on Quentin Tarantino's 'Django Unchained' soundtrack.

Album closer 'Someone Waits' features virtuoso cellist Jo Quail who provides seductive, intertwining melodies which contrast the huge riffs underpinning Screamnasium's sound.

The creative duo of Grammy winning art director Adam Jones (of Tool) & Marvel/DC Comics illustrator Denis Rodier have handled the artwork & layout to create an iconic album artwork with remarkable visual imagery, while mixing & Mastering duties have been undertaken by Machine (Lamb of God, King Crimson, Clutch).

Encompassing a wide breadth of emotional landscapes, 'Screamnasium' is the perfect catharsis for our troubled times.-