OSI Members, Gear & Sound

progressive rock band

Genre

Progressive rock Progressive metal Symphonic rock Electronic rock Avant-garde metal Metal Industrial rock Industrial metal Post-metal neo-progressive

Members

Select a OSI band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.

Mike Portnoy

Roles:

Drummer

Groups:

Avenged Sevenfold Dream Theater Twisted Sister The Winery Dogs Liquid Tension Experiment Metal Allegiance Cygnus and The Sea Monsters Hail! Transatlantic Sons of Apollo Flying Colors Yellow Matter Custard Hammer of the Gods Amazing Journey The Prog World Orchestra Adrenaline Mob BPMD Nightmare Cinema

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Sean Malone

Roles:

Bassist

Groups:

Porcupine Tree Cynic Cygnus and The Sea Monsters Gordian Knot

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Gavin Harrison

Roles:

Drummer

Groups:

King Crimson Porcupine Tree The Pineapple Thief Incognito Blackfield Renaissance

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Kevin Moore

Roles:

Keyboardist Composer

Groups:

Dream Theater On Chroma Key

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Joey Vera

Roles:

Bassist Music Producer

Groups:

Anthrax Armored Saint Fates Warning Doom Squad Engine Motor Sister

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Jim Matheos

Roles:

Guitarist Music Producer

Groups:

Fates Warning Arch / Matheos

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About

OSI is an American progressive rock/metal group renowned for its fusion of genres including progressive metal, symphonic rock, and electronic rock. Formed by Jim Matheos (guitar, keyboards) of Fates Warning and Kevin Moore (vocals, keyboards), formerly of Dream Theater, OSI's lineup has seen various collaborations with notable musicians like Mike Portnoy (drums) and Sean Malone (bass). The band's music blends intricate metal riffs with ambient electronic textures, creating a sound that's both technically proficient and atmospherically rich.

How to Sound Like OSI

OSI's sonic character is a complex blend of melodic intricacy and industrial aggression, often characterized by layered electronic textures and heavy, rhythmic guitar riffs. Their sound is both expansive and immersive, utilizing the atmospheric capabilities of synthesizers such as the Korg DW-8000 to craft a futuristic ambiance. The guitar tones are both crushing and precise, typically supported by the intricate drumming of Mike Portnoy, who frequently enhances the dynamic range with effects cymbals like the Sabian ThunderSheets. This creates a soundscape that balances technical prowess with a dark, cinematic quality, inviting musicians to explore a broad palette of sounds to emulate their unique style.

Discography

Office of Strategic Influence

2003

Free (Deluxe Edition)

2006

Blood

2009

Fire Make Thunder

2012

Get the OSI Sound

Want to sound like OSI? This gear comes straight from the setups of the band's members, based on proven sources. Dive into each artist's page for more detail and inspiration.