Rosetta West’s latest blues rock opus ‘Snake 25’ is a slow-burning, hypnotic, emotional love ballad.
Every time we’ve had the pleasure to review one of Rosetta West’s tracks, its never failed to entrance, surprise, and ultimately, delight. Each of their releases is distinctly different but channels that wicked, wild psychedelic blues rock energy. The band consists of veterans Joseph Demagore on guitars and vocals, bassist Jason X and drummer Nathan Q.
‘Snake 25’ opens with dark, brooding arpeggios, creating a voodoo, ritualistic aura. Demagore’s aching, haunted vocals enter, creating a palpable tension and meloncholy. His voice dripping with emotion and depth. It all sounds quite morose and serious up to the 2-minute mark, when the track unleashes an unexpected wickedness. Riding on the same serious lyrical melody, the instrumentation kicks in, the tempo rises, and this evolves into an all-out blues rock piece.
At just under 6 minutes runtime, the track has plenty of ground to cover, and it does so effortlessly, making smart transitions and gripping instrumentation. The range of emotions the sound is able to evoke is diverse and fascinating. This is a surreal listening experience. Even in the last 30 seconds, we’re treated to a short but brilliant ethereal burst of instrumentation before the track fades into silence.
‘Snake 25‘ is another confirmation of Rosetta West’s as a fearless blues rock group that are sonic explorers. They weave deeply spiritual and viscerally powerful music. Unpredictable, evocative, and unapologetically raw, this track is a testament to the band’s underground, independent spirit.
