O Emperor were a five-piece rock band hailing from Waterford. The members first crossed paths in secondary school in Waterford, where they played a mix of covers in local pubs and clubs. After heading to college in Cork, they evolved into an original band and officially adopted the name O Emperor in 2009.
Their debut album Hither Thither was recorded after the band members completed their studies in 2009. They relocated to a country house in Kinsale, County Cork, where they spent nine months self-recording and producing their debut album. Released in October 2010 through Universal Records Ireland, Hither Thither was met with critical acclaim and was nominated for the Choice Music Prize for Irish Album of the Year in 2010.
In 2012, the band focused on recording their second album, Vitreous, which was released on June 14, 2013. The band also released a double A-side single, Electric Tongues/Erman Gou, in November 2012 as a preview of the new material.
Vitreous was self-recorded and produced in the band’s own studio, Big Skin HQ, located in Cork City. The studio, which the band literally built from scratch, serves as the heart of their creative process—from label administration to recording. The album’s sound reflects the raw, DIY ethos of Big Skin, presenting a more abrasive, distorted edge compared to their debut. Heavily distorted drums clash with syrupy analog synths and fuzz-laden guitars, creating a chaotic yet compelling sonic landscape. The album’s bold, fragmented sound stands in stark contrast to the lush, textured layers of Hither Thither, showcasing the band's evolving creative vision.
In March 2015, O Emperor released the Lizard EP, continuing to explore new sonic territories.
We can set you up with access to edit this page if you are involved with this artist or are knowledgable about this artist.
Alternatively, if you just have a small tidbit of info to add or a correction to our content, you can just mention it in the comments above.