Ohm Square

Over time, Ohm Square’s drum’n'bass palette evolved through expanding production influences and accumulated experience. The quartet came together in 1996 when Jan Cechticky, Jan Klenick, Dusan Lipert, and English-born singer Charlie One joined forces. That same year the Prague-based imprint Mr. Cucumber issued two of their tracks across Europe. During a visit to the city the group crossed paths with pioneering jungle vocalist Nicolette; the ensuing rapport prompted her to include the Ohm Square cut “Pillow” on her 1997 DJ Kicks compilation.

In the following year the band delivered its debut full-length, Ohmophonica, via the Czech label Next Era. Although MFS Berlin handled European distribution, the record received scant notice stateside, where drum’n'bass had not yet secured a firm foothold. Throughout 1998 Ohm Square toured behind the album and welcomed drummer Vladimir Pecha plus drum’n'bass DJ DJ Koogi into the lineup. Those road experiences spurred further sonic exploration, culminating in the 1999 release of their second album, Scion. Recorded in London and helmed by Spooky’s Duncan Forbes, the set found the group oscillating between the aggressive textures associated with Metalheadz and the more understated approach of Alex Reece. Remixes drawn from Scion surfaced in 2001, after which the band began issuing material on its own imprint, East Authentic. The musicians also operate under the alias Babelfish Jr., with Cechticky handling turntables while Klenick and Charlie One contribute live keyboards and vocals.