The title of this 1st release references the mystical, sacred syllable revered by Hindus, Buddhists, Sikhs and others; representing the all-encompassing, timeless energy that’s been present since the formation of the universe. Some even believe the primordial sound to be the true name of God, insisting that it only be pronounced with absolute concentration.

ISM (born Scott Trenton Mallory, Jr. in the international hub of
Washington, D.C.) chose the title for his first album of recordings fully
aware of the term’s weighty nature. A writer, filmmaker and artist in
addition to being a musician, he utilizes a multi-disciplinary approach to
more completely express concepts that defy compartmentalization.

For example, he explains, “I put it all together in order to fully explore
and exploit the depths --- such as what causes people's breathing and
heartbeats to become simultaneous, creating linkage between minds. The rhythm of people's heartbeats and how it dictates the rhythm of their actions, the rhythm of all events and the rhythmic phrasing of those events, the predictability of that phrasing.“

ISM’s multi-ethnic heritage and experiences provide him with a unique perspective that emanates strongly and consistently from the first notes of OMM. Raised by his mother -- who was born in Andhra Pradesh, India-- and his African-American father who was born in Nuremberg, Germany, he found himself backstage frequently as a youth
beside luminaries at historic East Coast venues like the Apollo, Radio City Music Hall, Constitution Hall and the Brooklyn Academy of Music. At just 9 years of age, his precocious talents caught the notice of world-renowned Jamaican Reggae producer Philip “Fatis” Burrell, who bought ScottM a set of LP professional congas. Within months, he was called on stage to play them at a concert in Washington, D.C. alongside Mr. Burrell’s band, Firehouse Crew. Speaking of extraordinary Reggae producers, ScottM was also greatly inspired and influenced by
his good friend, UK-based Dub master Neil “Mad Professor” Fraser.

ISM recorded the songs on OMM between earning a Fine Arts degree with honors from the University of Maryland and other studies at London Film Academy, Prague Film School and Vancouver Institute of Media Arts (VanArts). He played the instruments himself (his uncle/conga teacher “Bobu” is featured on the final track), and you’ll hear echoes of Dub, Hip-Hop and a mélange of other styles, always held together by consciousness of his East Indian roots. Listen for the sitar and tablas.

This album marks the beginning of a multifold musical journey. Enjoy.