AMPED – ALEX OHM - NORTHERN EXPOSURE

Dudley Dude Alex Ohm certainly made a impression in their Amped competition semi final. The Midlands based indie singer/songwriter has had an incredible few years since releasing their debut EP At First A Drop, Then A Flood in 2017. Supporting the likes of legends such as Ian Brown, The Charlatans and Ocean Colour Scene, Alex Ohm is a captivating vocalist with a tuneful flare which captures modern indie rock music with style. Their 2021 EP The Lost Persons Meeting Point and fan favourite single Joy cemented Alex Ohm as one to watch.

With fellow Bristol semi finalists Siracuse and Echo Gecco both naming them competition favourites from last week’s Exchange showcase, it’s surprising that Alex Ohm never made the grand finale. However, despite not winning the main prize (£5K and a Main Stage slot at LakeFest alongside Johnny Marr and Gaz Coombes) Alex Ohm will still bring their exciting live show to this year’s Lakefest on the Amped stage. We spoke to Alex Ohm about the experience so far.

How would you describe your sound in three words?

Rousing alternative anthems.

Shortlisted from 543 artists down to just 25 – how did that feel?

Pretty amazing! We were all taken back by the news. It’s always rewarding hearing news like that. It makes all the hard work worth while.

Most competitions have only one winner, were you shocked to find out there was also an opportunity to play the Amped stage?

We were. It’s unique for a competition to benefit entrants other than solely the winner. Being given a platform such as Lakefest to share your music is an amazing prize itself. Witnessing the talent that we saw in Bristol it’s brilliant to see them also getting a platform to share their music because it needs to and should be heard!

You are playing the Amped stage – what can festival goers expect from your set?

It’s going to be an energetic ball of summer energy. We can’t wait!

Who is one band/artist you want to catch at Lakefest?

There are lots I’d like to catch but I think Johnny Marr would be the one!

Who stood out for you at the semi final?

You know what. I started typing out who I enjoyed then and realised I was just naming all the bands so I’ll just say all of them. Each and every act brought something special to the stage. It was a privilege to be a part of such an awesome night of talent.

Of all the bands competing who would you like to see win the prize?

Alex Ohm ha. There are some big names left in the mix. I think The Chase or The Assist could be in with a chance.

What else have you got planned as a band this year?

We’re gearing up for a busy end to the year. We’ve got some new music that we can’t wait to share with the world.

One track of yours that everybody should listen to?

Joy