ONTOLOGICS
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ONTOLOGICS

Providence, Rhode Island, United States | Established. Jan 01, 2009 | SELF

Providence, Rhode Island, United States | SELF
Established on Jan, 2009
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"Ontologics' Heading To The Outer Realm"

This Providence, Rhode Island-based duo is most certainly onto something with their latest release titled ‘Heading To The Outer Realm’. Ontologics is made up of: singer/songwriter, Ian Campopiano and Matthew Walshe on drums. These multi-instrumentalists create an experimental type of sound that will blow your senses! The label of genre doesn’t exist here as one will hear elements of rock, hip-hop, metal, electronica, funk, alternative and everything else under the sun. Ontologics play their music, their way and so now brace yourself because you are ‘Heading To The Outer Realm’.



This is the third album for the Providence duo and I can tell you firsthand that there is a tremendous amount of depth on the new record. It’s quite mind-blowing when you realize that the vast sound you are hearing on ‘Heading To The Outer Realm’ is all being done by two musicians. Right from the trippy start, the listener is getting that incredibly unique approach from Ontologics with “Upside In Downside Out”. From the beginning, I also picked up on a similar vocal styling to that of Brandon Boyd of the band Incubus. I’m thinking more of older Incubus like the album ‘Make Yourself’ where I was detecting some similarities between Ian Campopiano’s voice and Brandon Boyd’s vocals. Rolling along, you will get one catchy flow and feverish playing on “Use Your Utopia Or Lose Your Utopia” that will have you craving more. On track three, “Thought Crimes”, Ontologics are in the zone and simply killing it with their infectious groove. I was also very excited to discover that a member from one of my favorite groups is featured on “Thought Crimes” and that would be P-Nut of 311. Next, you will be rockin’ out and truly feelin’ it on “Assemble Them” and then get ready to jam out like there is no tomorrow on “To Go Along To Get Along”. Track six, “Cliff Or Lift (Instrumental) I. Sepulchre”, is hanging on nice & tight with a crowd-pleasing middle break and then you will be soaring high way past the blue skies exploring the outer reaches of audio on the title track. Next up, one will get hit with fresh ‘n’ fiery effects on “Around The Fire We Sit And Wait Part 1” and then you can count on futuristic beats ‘n’ hooks on “It’s All In The Numbers”. Track 10, “Around The Fire We Sit And Wait Part 2”, is just groovetastic and then Ontologics provides a fan-favorite with “Hindsight Mind’s Right (feat. P-Nut)” that will have you getting down and up as you hold up, stop, wait and think about it. Ontologics finishes the 12-song set with a worldly tune called “Mitigated Moments” that will have you traveling to distant lands where music is the universal language now and forever.

‘Heading To The Outer Realm’ is such an original blend of music that will excite you and have you jumping aboard the Ontologics musical express. You won’t be catching any ZZZ’s on this unique ride where mundane, mainstream noise doesn’t reside or survive here. Ontologics is a strong force in the music world and with their latest release, ‘Heading To The Outer Realm’, endless potential is in this band’s foreseeable future.

https://www.ontologicsmusic.com/

By Jimmy Rae - Skope Magazine


"ONTOLOGICS ARE ‘HEADING TO THE OUTER REALM’"

With the amazing multitude of genres that keep popping up every day, it is always refreshing to see an artist that bends some of these genres together to form their own unique sound. Our new friends Ontologics have taken this even further by morphing seemingly ALL of the genres into their totalitarian sound. New album, Heading To The Outer Realm, takes this to new heights.

The Providence, Rhode Island based project is the result of the pairing of singer/songwriter Ian Campopiano and drummer Matthew Walshe. That instrumentation description may be a little short as they bring in Programming, Guitars, Midi-Controllers, Korg Wave Drum, Korg Synth, and Keyboards into the mix. Together as Ontologics the experimental multi-instrumentalist duo grabs from a wide assortment of genres. These include progressive rock, hip-hop, electronica, jam band, and world music. Basically something for everyone to love in one massive package of sound. The band has found great success on college radio and specialty shows.

For the latest album Heading To The Outer Realm, Ontologics take the progressive genre to new universes with their exploration of odd meters, left turn feel changes, and lyrical depth. The opener “Upside In Downside Out” begins the journey into the unknown with an amalgamation of noise that blurs your mind right from the start. As the exotic instrumentation opens your ears, the vocal swings between melodic storytelling and fast-paced rapping keeps you guessing. This ‘not knowing what will come next’ is a main part of the enjoyment.


On “Assemble Them” the amazing bassline leads the way as a funk tone creeps in among the other vibes present. Even with the mind-warping sonic attack, the lyrical content is attention-grabbing as well. There is real meaning behind these words that demand a few listens to take it all in.

World Music instruments are a major part from the start of “To Go Along To Get Along” but the full sonic tapestry is soon filled with sounds of every which kind. This multi-universe vibe continues on the title track “Heading To The Outer Realm”. This is truly music for people that appreciate music, and are open to letting their minds get taken over.

Since working with him on their last album, Ontologics brought back super-fan P-Nut of progressive-pop powerhouse 311 into the fold. On bass-heavy “Hindsight Mind’s Right” P-Nut spins his well-known style into the mix as the group blurs genres once again with noises coming from seemingly every angle.

As we reach the closer “Mitigated Moments” our brains have been through the blender and could use a mellow break. That is not to be the case as the instrumental masterpiece builds and builds to a massive soundscape to take in all at once. The switches again keep your mind from holding onto anything too tightly. You are in the hands of Ontologics now and they will release you when they see fit. - Indie Band Guru


"Ontologics Top 30 Jam Bands!"

Ontologics Top 30 Jam Bands/Relix Magazine [College Radio/CMJ/AAA] - Relix Magazine


"Ontologics get experimental with latest offering"

For a musician or a band, bring stuck inside of an artistic box can be a terrible affliction. It’s even worse when it becomes obvious to outside observers that an act is sticking to one style. Contrasting that trend is Ontologics, a duo consisting of Coventry natives Ian Campopiano on electronics, guitar and vocals and Matthew Walshe on drums, percussion and keys. They blend rock, hip hop, funk and numerous other elements into a sonic cornucopia. Their latest installment is their third full-length Heading To The Outer Realm that was self-released on December 20.

I had a talk recently with both Campopiano and Walshe about the making of the album, not abiding by music industry stereotypes, doing their own thing and plans for hitting the road later on in the year.

Rob Duguay: “Heading To The Outer Realm” has this modern rock sound that’s very reminiscent of what was coming out in the late ’90s and the early 2000s. What were you and Matt trying to accomplish while making the album?

Ian Campopiano: We’re leaning more toward the progressive side. While making the album, we expanded our writing of odd meter instrumentation. We wanted to push the experimental side a bit further this time while layering acoustic and electronic tones with more depth.

Matt Walshe: We’ve branched in to some sounds and arrangements I believe are pretty unique. It’s difficult to say what genre we’ve landed in, honestly. Some of our strongest influences in the early 2000s were founded in earlier progressive groups. These include, King Crimson, Gentle Giant, Frank Zappa, Yes, Genesis and others. When considering our more modern and current influences, the resulting blend of progressive-fusion and hip-hop result in new sounds that almost any listener of modern music can sink their teeth into.

RD: You also produced the album yourselves. How was the experience like for the both of you when it came to being in control of both parts of making the record?

IC: It was a great learning experience while both producing and recording. We’ve always had a hand in production to a degree, but taking the leap into the producer role for this album really marks a turning point for us. It gives us more freedom moving forward and control of any budget concerns.

MW: We’re happy with the results and we’re thankful for what we’ve learned over the last 10 years of recording. We removed some of the constraints that come with the process which allowed us to stretch more within our own performance. However, it was certainly a collaboration of resources that allowed us to produce the best product possible.

RD: P-Nut from 311 lends his talents to the tracks “Thought Crimes” and “Hindsight Mind’s Right” on the album. How did you guys get connected with him?

IC: We’ve worked with P- Nut prior to this record, on a song titled “Primal Discourse” off Ontologics sophomore LP, Drones From Home, that came out 2015. The relationship stems back to 2009, when some of our songwriting caught the attention of P-Nut. He actually talked about it in an interview with Popdose.com not too long ago.

MW: We’re thankful for his interest and we’ve really enjoyed collaborating with him.

RD: The music you guys create combine elements of rock, hip hop, prog and electronica. What inspires you to fuse these sounds together?

IC: As songwriters, we’re always looking to create something unique and challenging. We enjoy blurring genres and removing the stereotypes that the industry has cemented in. Taking the contrasting sounds of progressive odd meter execution and blending it with elements of electronic minimalism is a recipe we have been conjuring since our conception in 2009. Our musical partnership really dates back to our progressive rock roots from a previous project called Moments of Imagination that we were in from 2001 to 2004.

MW: We’re inspired by everything and using electronics has allowed us to push the envelope in our own compositions. We’ve tried hard to let go and have fun only executing what entertains and challenges us as artists and musicians.

RD: What are some things you and Matt would like to accomplish in 2020?

IC: We’ll be doing some touring in support of the new album and looking to stretch out into the underground college radio scene across the states. We hope people enjoy the record, and enter the realm with us this year. - Independent RI


"Ontologics Heading to the Outer Realm Review by Gary Hill"

Sometimes I have questions about putting something under progressive rock. This is not one of those times. That said, don't expect this to sound like 70s progressive rock. This has a lot of Frank Zappa and modern King Crimson in the mix, but it's mixed with things like Red Hot Chili Peppers, Korn, Living Colour and King's X. There are raps throughout the set. Yet, it's so creative and proggy that I can't imagine anyone but the most stubborn prog purists refusing to see that this music is "progressive," pretty much by definition. Whatever you call it, this is a very unique and intriguing set. It also definitely earns parental advisories on just about every song.
This review is available in book (paperback and hardcover) in Music Street Journal: 2020 Volume 2. More information and purchase links can be found at: garyhillauthor.com/Music-Street-Journal-2020.




Track by Track Review

Upside in Downside Out
Opening with some keyboard elements, the introduction takes on a bit of a world music thing. The cut shifts from there as the edgy guitar joins, resembling something Frank Zappa might do. As it changes again for the entrance of the vocals it makes me think of what you might get if you merged King's X with Living Colour in a proggy arrangement. This shifts to a Zappa-like break before we get a twist to pure hip hop type sounds for a rap. More of a proggy thing emerges as it continues from there. The cut continues by evolving different sections. We get another rap, but then it shifts to something that makes me think of what a prog-based Korn would sound like. It eventually makes its way back to the song proper from there. Another killer prog meets modern instrumental movement takes it beyond that. It evolves and changes before taking the track to its close.

Use Your Utopia or Lose Your Utopia
Hard rocking sounds along with proggy and psychedelic elements open this in an intriguing and powerful way. We get a rap after the opening vocals. The changes ensue from there with the cut getting proggier again. This thing continues its evolution with both the prog angle and the rapping one getting revisits. There is a killer prog jam at the end, too.

Thought Crimes
Coming in with a tastefully off-kilter kind of prog jam, this works out from there to some unique music that merges modern hard rock with King Crimson-like prog to create something very cool. This one merges the various sounds a bit better than some of the other songs here do. It's not that those don't showcase both aspects, but this one does so more in the way of mashing them together rather than visiting them consecutively. This has some more raps and plenty of intriguing shifts and changes. There is one section that focuses more purely on the raps and modern almost Korn-like sounds. It starts with a percussive workout, but turns almost toward crazed fusion for a time at the end of it. Don't get comfortable, though, because this number just keeps shifting and changing.

Assemble Them
Funk and rubbery Crimsonian prog merge as this thing opens. As it moves out I'm reminded of King's X to a large degree. I really dig some of the breaks on this cut and the cool prog textures they bring. As with everything here, this is full of frequent changes and merging of sounds. There are some killer instrumental sections built into it.

To Go Along to Get Along
I really dig the killer opening movement on this. It's tastefully weird and off-kilter while weaving psychedelia and modern rock together. The package is taken to a new level when the vocals join. Don't get complacent, though because the number shifts and changes. We get more raps and other modern elements at play as it makes its way through. There are parts here that reminds me just a bit of The Grateful Dead's "Terrapin Station."

Cliff or Lift I. Sepulchre
Starting in rather subdued ways, this gets a bit dreamy in the introduction. It powers into a faster paced prog jam that's so cool. This instrumental is more constant than a lot of the stuff here. It's also particularly classy.

Heading to the Outer Realm
World music percussion opens this. The cut eventually shifts out into the kind of thing you expect here, prog meets modern alternative rock. Overall this isn't a big departure from the rest of the album. The thing is, change and odd directions is what makes this like the rest. This has some sections that even lean toward heavy metal.

Around the Fire We Sit and Wait, Part 1
This is actually one of the coolest cuts of the set. It's not a huge departure, but the classy, almost funky rocking groove that opens it is so tasty. The tune evolves in some great directions, too. I love the almost Red Hot Chili Peppers sort of section mid-track.

It's All in the Numbers
There's a heavy, trippy, psychedelic vibe as this thing opens. Yet, there is some funk in the mix, too. It works out from there in the kind of unexpected way you learn to anticipate on this disc. This cut includes pretty much all the different types of sounds and changes we've heard throughout the set. I particularly like the prog jam that closes the track.

Around the Fire We Sit and Wait, Part 2
The funky groove here is so tasty. The tune has some killer shifts and turns, though. There is a dramatic guitar based movement that is edgy and feels a bit dangerous. A rap emerges from there.

Hindsight Mind's Right
Hard rocking, edgy and very cool, we're off on another intriguing ride here. This one gets more metallic than some of the other cuts do. It has some killer raps, too. The exploratory jam mid-track on this thing is so tasty, too. This is another powerhouse of a tune.

Mitigated Moments
Killer psychedelia, jazz and more merge on this number. This closing instrumental is strong and even includes some Zappa-like moments. - Music Street Journal


"Ontologics"

A quarter of a century of uninterrupted reviews, interviews and features across the progressive genre is quite some landmark. To celebrate the occasion, we shall publish one review edition every single day during this month - 31 editions!

Welcome to Progtober!

In addition to our usual in-depth, independent reviews, our team has compiled a collection of interviews, artist features and several of our ever-popular Duo and Round Table Reviews. Over 40 different albums will be covered.

As ever, thank you to all our readers for your ongoing support, as well as all the artists and labels who create the music we love, and not forgetting the hundreds of people who have written and contributed to this website over the past 25 years.

Ontologics — Heading To The Outer Realm
country: USA
year: 2020
time: 56:37
Ontologics - Heading To The Outer Realm
tracks:
Upside In Downside Out (5:47), Use Your Utopia Or Lose Your Utopia (4:26), Thought Crimes (Feat. P-Nut) (4:22), Assemble Them (5:57), To Go Along To Get Along (5:10), Cliff Or Lift I. Sepulchre (Instrumental) (2:08), Heading To The Outer Realm (5:50), Around The Fire We Sit And Wait Part 1 (5:48), It's All In The Numbers (4:50), Around The Fire We Sit And Wait Part 2 (2:28), Hindsight Mind's Right (Feat. P-Nut) (4:41), Mitigated Moments (Instrumental) (5:10)
info: ontologicsmusic.com, Bandcamp, Facebook, Twitter
samples: Bandcamp
8Martin Burns
If there is a more divisive vocal style in prog than the death metal growl, then odds-on it is rap. If you find shouty tales that boast of "guns 'n' money in hos" not to your taste, then I have to agree with you. However, in the case of Rhode Island's Ontologics, you find rap of a generally political nature that fits seamlessly with the sometimes-hyperactive music this duo produces. If you think that Rage Against The Machine would have been better as a modern experimental prog group, with sung vocal lines as well as rapped ones, then look no further.

Released at the end of last year, Heading To The Outer Realm is Ontolgics third release following on from 2013's Something To Needle Over and 2015's Drones From Home. Both received appreciative reviews here on DPRP.net. Reviews that recognised that Ontologics' take on prog is something new and adventurously-challenging.

They use Ian Campopiano's multi-instrumental prowess (vocals, lyrics, guitars, aux percussion, programming, Midi controllers, keys) and Matt Walshe's fantastic drums, percussion and keys plus special guests from the previous album, P-Nut of 311 and additional bass work by Steve Johnson. The music has pop-ish melodies that are twisted in a prodigious mix of prog-rock, experimental progressive hip-hop, metal guitar shapes and electronica.

The album opens in fine style with the mutant Talking Heads funk of Upside In Downside Out. Fusion style bass drives this along, with its hummable melody sketched-out with blocky guitar riffs and squelchy keys. The vocal line is sung superbly by Ian C., and when he switches to rap at will, it is entirely convincing and fits like a finely-balanced watch movement.


Ontologics. Promo photo courtesy of official Ontologics Facebook page.

Since their debut, Ontologics have added in some world music elements (sitar and tuned percussion) which make their first appearance on _Use Your Utopia Or Lose Your Utopia). Here Ian C. has a super-fast vocal line that left me breathless just listening to it, especially his matching of the fierce drum line. The track suddenly switches to a jazzy guitar break, but it never abandons its hooky chorus. Terrific stuff.

Ontologics continue with more densely-layered music. Squelchy funky keys and bass, chugging prog-metal guitars and their trademark hypnotic drumming, that supports the vocals and rapping, are all finely balanced by a pin-sharp mix and warmer production values than on their debut.

There are different highlights and accents on each track, as they twist and turn without ever losing the melodic thread. There are examples all through the album, but I particularly like the cracking guitar solo on Assemble Them. On the title track, Ontologics move from tuned percussion, through Mellotron and delicious riffing guitars, to a rap that matches in intensity the guitar solo that precedes it. On Around The Fire We Sit And Wait Part 1 has stop/start electronica that gives way to a lovely Fender Rhodes sound.

On Heading To The Outer Realm there is something for those with adventurous ears, as it is awash with a broad but intense musical pallet, a mix of rhythmic switches, inventive arrangements and instrumentation. If you are looking for a guide, it has the aroma of King Crimson at their most out-there, with a friendly wave to Gentle Giant's complexity and Frank Zappa at his most song-focussed. Ontologics have a modernist take on prog, a take that shares the experimentation of Bent Knee, but with experimental hip-hop as its base.

Have a listen to the sound of (for the want of a better term) the walls of 'traditional' prog being kicked down, and then re-assembled in ways that you might think that you might not enjoy. But be open-minded as Ontologics are a band that are beginning to scale the uplands of greatness. - DPRP


"02/21/2017 Prog-Sphere Ontologics Interview “Dynamic Alterations”"

02/21/2017
Prog-Sphere Ontologics Interview “Dynamic Alterations”

-See link for full interview - Prog-Sphere


"Relix Magazine / Jambands.com Top 30"

Ontologics’ debut album and sophomore release reached the Top 30 on the Relix Magazine/
Jambands.com national college radio chart for over three consecutive months and breaking the Top
10 with both records. - Relix Magazine


"Bill Copeland Music News - Album Review "Drones From Home""

Bill Copeland Music News - Album Review "Drones From Home"
"Ontologics prove masterful on Drones From Home"
"Cruising into a psychedelic territory, the duo creates an intriguing soundscape that reflects the thoughts
inside the human mind." - Bill Copeland Music News


"03/30/2016 Ontologics Interviewed by Wheelers Weekend Jams LIVE AND DIRECT"

03/30/2016
Ontologics Interviewed by Wheelers Weekend Jams LIVE AND DIRECT
"Wheelers Weekend Jams chats with the guys from Ontologics. This Skype interview talks about their latest
album, 'Drones From Home.' We all also discuss how their albums have evolved, working with P-nut from
311, favorite gear and much more. Thank you for watching this interview." - Wheelers Weekend Jams


"12/20/2015 Camel Let Go, Japan (translated) International review of "Drones From Home":"

12/20/2015
Camel Let Go, Japan (translated) International review of "Drones From Home":
"This work "Drones from Home" is full album of the second work. Based on the hip-hop, progressive rock,
world music, jazz, of Ontologics a mix of electro sounds, we finished in a unique avant-pop...gradually tilted
to the strange pop from reggae "Drones from Home" and, instrumental space rock tone "Stretch Armstrong",
dry slash-pop "A Wizard's Touch For All You Skeptics", such as it is addictive clarity." - Camel Let Go / Japan


"Crash And Ride Music reviews "Drones From Home""

Crash And Ride Music reviews "Drones From Home"
"Crash and Ride Music's favorite prog-hop band...Drawing upon influences of progressive rock and jazz,
"Drones From Home" again dazzles its listeners with its distinctive and fresh sound..." - Crash and Ride


"05/12/2016 The Dutch Progressive Rock Page - Album Review "Drones From Home""

05/12/2016
The Dutch Progressive Rock Page - Album Review "Drones From Home"
"I definitely suggest this album as listening for everyone. It is not merely for rap lovers, nor specifically for numetal
lovers. Even less for progressive rock fans. It's potentially for everyone!" - DPRP THE DUTCH PROGRESSIVE ROCK PAGE


"02/12/2016 Daily Vault - Album Review "Drones From Home""

02/12/2016
Daily Vault - Album Review "Drones From Home"
"There was never a doubt regarding the phenomenal musical ability of this outfit, but to exploit this skill fully
and translate it into an album as brilliant as their debut requires equally skillful songwriting chops...the
musicianship on par with its predecessor and even the songwriting is every bit as good...Drones From Home
certainly has a more proggy sound because of the muscular guitar-driven music, which also means lead
vocalist Ian Campopiano's passionate rapidfire vocals and drummer Matthew Walshe's insane drumming are
more hard-hitting than ever from start to finish." - Daily Vault


"Roots Time, Belgium (translated) International review of "Drones From Home" 01/01/2016"

Roots Time, Belgium (translated) International review of "Drones From Home":
"...On Drones From Home, some will hear rock influences from groups like...Rage Against The Machine and
Red Hot Chili Peppers. Others will hear more psychedelic rock influence by groups like Pink Floyd. And still
others will hear some jazz-fusion influence reminiscent of guitar great Al Di Melola on tracks like "Stretch
Armstrong." Ontologics' lyrics show a sort of political and social awareness by Campopiano and Walshe..."
http://rootstime.be/ - Roots Time


"Top 30 on Jambands.com and Relix Magazine for 4 consecutive months."

01/22/2015
Ontologics' debut album, "Something to Needle Over", broke the Top 30 for four consecutive months at Jambands.com/Relix Magazine; this time at #27. - Jambands.com


"Something to Needle Over Album Review (Crash and Ride Blog)"

I had a musical experience occur to me recently. I was searching through Bandcamp last week, and an epiphany struck me like a lightning bolt. I noticed that the majority of what I have been finding and listening to have been bands that are independent, unsigned, or small-time artists. Despite the basically non-existent presence these bands have in relation to the entire music industry, I believe these artists and bands that I’ve been listening to are churning out higher quality, more thought-provoking, and simply more interesting albums. Because of this epiphany, I’ve decided that I want to give more attention to such bands, the ones that are out there making awesome music despite their status. I feel it is my duty to help these bands out in such a dog-eat-dog industry.

With all that said, this first band’s music is what I was listening to when this epiphany occurred. I think it occurred because of the absolute experimental sound they have, and is the first band that even steps as far as being considered “hip-hop influenced.” Not too many bands get me to listen to that far out of my comfort zone, but the band Ontologics did just that, and I thank them for it.

All the way from Rhode Island, Ontologics is Ian Campopiano on vocals/guitars/synths/keyboards/samples/bass guitar and Matthew Walshe on drums/percussion. These gentlemen have come up with the most interesting sound I can possibly imagine, a combination of progressive and experimental rock, jazz, electronica, and hip-hop. I imagine this band is the result of bands like Gentle Giant and Tool having a child with the Beastie Boys. Let’s just call it “progressive hip-hop” from now on, ok? Nonetheless, Ontologics’ latest release “Something to Needle Over” is something to… well, needle over.

Ontologics Matthew Walshe
Photo by Ontologics (Flickr)
Everything about this album is unique, a completely contemporary twist on the word “progressive.” Using a number of synths, keys, machines, and other modern sound effects, the entire album is one massive pushing-of-the-envelope for an already extensive genre. The programming and work done by Campopiano borders the production and sounds of bands like De Facto and 311. The songs “Lions To Go” and “The Clever Cat Kills Another Friends” show the collective use of these modern gadgets, and creates a sound that Money Mark would be proud of. I thoroughly enjoy the genre of “acid jazz,” and this album satisfies those cravings.

Besides the more modern instruments, these two also play every other traditional rock instrument. Walshe is a beast on the drums, creating a very snare-heavy sound reminiscent of reggae and jazz beat styles. The songs “From Then Until Now” and the title track “Something to Needle Over” provide the greatest examples of Walshe’s rhythm and flair. I can’t help but think of the percussion in Omar Rodriguez-Lopez’s side projects when I hear his amazing drumming. In addition to the marvelous bass lines and keys, Campopiano provides the vocals as well, a slightly-less-than-rap style that reminds me of Anthony Keidis from Red Hot Chili Peppers. With a poignant delivery, I am easily moved by Campopiano’s style and lyrics.

Despite all the contemporary sound instilled in this album, my favorite thing about “Something to Needle Over” is the subtle but incredibly groovy lead guitar. Throughout the album, the guitar is heard by the listener, but plays a much smaller role compared to most progressive rock albums. From the heavy guitar intro on “Storm the Gates,” the tremolo-laced guitar in “From Then Until Now,” the rhythm/lead work on “Dug Until The Rest Could Drink,” and the almost improvisational lead in “Soundscape,” the listener can hear the multi-faceted Campopiano at work. I absolutely love the many moments of guitar brilliance on this album.

I was able to contact Oncologics, and hold a mini-interview with Ian Campopiano:

Keno: What are some of your musical influences?

Ian: We’re influenced by different genres of music such as prog-rock, hip-hop, jazz, and metal. Growing up, bands like King Crimson, Tool, Beastie Boys, Peter Gabriel, and A Tribe Called Quest were influential for sure.

Keno: How did your band start up?

Ian: Ontologics formed in 2009 with lineup Ian C. & Matthew W. Prior to Ontologics, we played together in a prog-rock band, MOI (2000-2004).

Keno: What was it like recording “Something to Needle Over” in the studio?

Ian: Recording our first LP, “Something to Needle Over” was an 11 month process. Now we are working on our new LP (title and release date TBA), which has been more condensed. We really dug in and recorded most of the album in four weeks.

Keno: Any recent Ontologics news worth sharing?

Ian: “Something to Needle Over” broke the Top 30 for four consecutive months on the Jambands.com Radio Chart and is Featured in Relix Magazine in their January 2015 and March 2015 issues. The album also became available on Pandora radio earlier this year and our follow-up record may feature 311 bassist, Pnut, on a track.

Ontologics
Photo by Ontologics (Facebook)
If your musical taste buds are looking for something new, I definitely recommend you listen to Ontologics. They’re the perfect band to fuse friends of hip-hop and friends of rock music together. Please support this band by visiting their Bandcamp page, or by following them on Facebook and Twitter for news and announcements. I can’t wait to hear their follow-up album, which I can only assume will be another experimental masterpiece. - Kenny Norton; Crash and Ride Music Blog


"Pnut of 311 gives props to Ontologics on NECR interview"

12/23/2014
Pnut of 311 gives Ontologics some major props in an NECR interview from July.

An excerpt can also be found on the Ontologics' Youtube Channel. - NECR


"#9 on Top 30 Jambands.com and Relix Magazine"

11/23/2014
Ontologics' debut album, "Something to Needle Over" is #9 on Top 30 at Jambands.com and will be featured in the January/February 2015 edition of Relix Magazine. - Jambands.com


"Sub Modern Charts and National Specialty Radio Charts"

The lead single HOLOGRAM FOR THE HOLLOW MAN, had outstanding success on national specialty radio, getting spins all over America and charting at #11 on the Alternative Specialty singles charts (KKBB) and #12 on album charts. The album also reached #16 on the FMQB top 200 SubModern chart in 3/05/14, breaking their debut indie album into the top 20. - FMQB & KKBB Su


"National and College Radio Charts for Ontologics album "Something to Needle Over""

National & College Radio Charts:
# 1 CMJ on WRFW River Falls, WI
# 9 Top 30 Jambands.com/Relix Magazine
# 11 KKBB Singles
# 12 KKBB Albums
# 12 KKBB Singles
# 16 Top 200 Submodern Albums (FMQB)
# 16 Top 30 Jambands.com/Relix Magazine
# 18 Top 30 Jambands.com/Relix Magazine
# 19 CMJ on KRFP Moscow, ID
# 27 Top 30 Jambands.com/Relix Magazine
# 29 CMJ on WVIA Pittston, PA
# 40 CMJ on WVIA Pittston, PA - Magnotta MGMT


"Pnut of 311 giving props to Ontologics"

"...The cool thing about 'Ebb and Flow' as the 'Go' demo is that it was covered by a band called Ontologics, who did their own version of it and it kills. I played it for Scotch before we started writing the lyrics and the melody to set the bar. I was like, 'Listen to what these guys did. Like they turned this song into like a science fiction masterpiece. And if we can’t beat that, I think we should just do a cover of their song'..." - Popdose.com


"Top DIY Albums of 2014 by the Indie Rock Cafe"

01/02/2015
Ontologics' album, "Something to Needle Over", was voted one of the Top DIY Albums of 2014 by the Indie Rock Cafe. - Indie Rock Cafe


"#16 on Top 30 Jambands.com and Relix Magazine"

10/21/2014
Ontologics' debut album, "Something to Needle Over" is #16 on Top 30 at Jambands.com/Relix Magazine. - Jambands.com


"Top 40 Songs of 2014 on RADIO XENU"

01/01/2015
Ontologics' song, "Something to Needle Over", made the RX (Radio Xenu) Top 40 Songs of 2014, coming in at #28. - Radio Xenu


"Interview on KCR San Diego University Radio"

Transcription to come at a later date.... - KCR San Diego University Radio - Rick Keyes Music Caravan Eclectic Show


"Review of Ontologics debut album from The Dutch Progressive Rock Site"

12/14/2014
The Dutch Progressive Rock site (DPRP) reviews Ontologics' debut album, "Something to Needle Over".

"All of it is highly structured, and has for me, the feel of the jazz-inflected work of Frank Zappa, where precision, mixes with a restless, fidgety approach to the melody and song structure." - DPRP


"Ontologics "Something to Needle Over" Album Review"

"...from crunched up guitars to floaty synth drops, shredding solos and even glockenspiel sections, something to needle over is an intense orchestra of styles and sounds. get it into your ears already." - Red Lion Soul Blog


"Ontologics Album Feature/Review"

Ontologics, SOMETHING TO NEEDLE OVER, described as a cool instrumental album on Seth's Rock Report ! - Seth's Rock Report Blog


Discography

4 Full Length Albums: *Feat. P-Nut of 311

It's Safe To Say The Veil Is Thinning [2.29.24]  [LP IV] *

Heading To The Outer Realm [12.20.19] [LP III] *

Drones From Home [11.6.15] [LP II] *

Something To Needle Over [12.8.13] [LP I]

1 EP:

EP Part 1 (Demo Collection) [6.6.10]


Photos

Bio

ONTOLOGICS is an experimental, multi-instrumentalist duo that has been recognized for fusing genres like progressive rock, hip-hop, electronica, and jazz with sharp lyricism and an explosive live presence. Based in Providence, RI, the duo features singer/songwriter, Ian Campopiano and drummer, Matthew Walshe. Ontologics upcoming album (LP IV / 2.23.24) features Andrew Morris of Indiana (Berklee Alum) on drums.

Their latest release, LP IV, It's Safe To Say The Veil Is Thinning (Release Date: 2/29/24) features the return of P-NUT / Aaron Wills of 311 for the third consecutive record.

​Prior to working with Ontologics on LP III, P-NUT collaborated on their sophomore album, on track “Primal Discourse”, and previously said of the duo, “they turned this song into like a science fiction masterpiece. And if we can’t beat that, I think we should just do a cover of their song" - P-Nut, popdose.com interview, referencing the “Go” Demo

​Ontologics’ have had three Top 30 consecutive albums on the Relix Magazine/ Jambands.com national college radio chart for over three consecutive months and breaking the Top 10 with both records. The band achieved outstanding success on national specialty radio, reaching #16 on the FMQB Top 200 SubModern chart and #11 on the Alternative Specialty singles chart (KKBB). Albums, Something To Needle Over, and Drones From Home have received scores of reviews and features noting their eclectic artistic depth and exploration of genre blurring.

 ​"Ontologics prove masterful on Drones From Home...Cruising into a psychedelic territory, the duo creates an intriguing soundscape that reflects the thoughts inside the human mind." - Bill Copeland Music News


 "There was never a doubt regarding the phenomenal musical ability of this outfit, but to exploit this skill fully and translate it into an album as brilliant as their debut requires equally skillful songwriting chops...the musicianship on par with its predecessor and even the songwriting is every bit as good...” - Daily Vault

 ​"All of it is highly structured, and has for me, the feel of the jazz-inflected work of Frank Zappa, where precision, mixes with a restless, fidgety approach to the melody and song structure." - DPRP (Dutch Progressive Rock Page)


 “...some will hear rock influences from groups like...Rage Against The Machine and Red Hot Chili Peppers. Others will hear more psychedelic rock influence by groups like Pink Floyd. And still others will hear some jazz-fusion influence reminiscent of guitar great Al Di Melola on tracks like 'Stretch Armstrong.' Ontologics' lyrics show a sort of political and social awareness by Campopiano and Walshe." - Roots Time, Belguim


Something To Needle Over was named one of the top DIY Albums of 2014 by the Indie Rock Cafe and has received numerous press features and reviews.


National Acts performed with: Afroman, Gangstagrass, Godsmack, Michelle Branch

National & College Radio Charts:


Heading To The Outer Realm [LP III 2019]
#19 Top 30 Jambands.com/Relix Magazine
#24 Top 30 Jambands.com/Relix Magazine
#10 NACC - WDCC NY
#11 NACC - WLFR NJ
#37 NACC - WTCC MA


Drones From Home [LP II 2015]
# 1 CMJ - KXUL, LA
#7 CMJ - WKKL, MA
#7 CMJ - WUMF, ME
#21 CMJ - WRST, WI
#26 CMJ - SCAD, GA
#27 CMJ - WCFM, MA
#9 Top 30 Jambands.com/Relix Magazine
#22 Top 30 Jambands.com/Relix Magazine
#29 Top 30 Jambands.com/Relix Magazine
#37 FMQB Submodern Top 200 Albums
#67 FMQB Submodern Top 200 Tracks
#11 KKBB Top 100 Songs
#14 KKBB Top 100 Artists


Something to Needle Over [LP I 2013]
# 1 CMJ on WRFW River Falls, WI
# 9 Top 30 Jambands.com/Relix Magazine
# 11 KKBB Singles
# 12 KKBB Albums
# 12 KKBB Singles
# 16 Top 200 Submodern Albums (FMQB)
# 16 Top 30 Jambands.com/Relix Magazine
# 18 Top 30 Jambands.com/Relix Magazine
# 19 CMJ on KRFP Moscow, ID
# 27 Top 30 Jambands.com/Relix Magazine
# 29 CMJ on WVIA Pittston, PA
# 40 CMJ on WVIA Pittston, PA


Band Members