Rock/Review Rosetta West - Night's Cross

Rosetta West is a blues rock band from Illinois. Their music frequently includes elements of psychedelia and world folk music, and their lyrical themes often venture into mysticism and spirituality. Founder and songwriter Joseph Demagore handles vocals, guitars, and keyboards. Jason X plays bass and keyboards and was co-producer and sound engineer for the new Night's Cross album, which was recorded at a home studio in rural Illinois. Nathan Q. Scratch plays drums and percussion.

Rosetta West makes a comeback with "Night’s Cross," a moving and poignant album that weaves a complex web of blues, rock, and folk to examine themes of death, grief, and human resiliency. The album embraces darkness with a feeling of creative boldness and emotional depth, celebrating life's beauty and dignity rather than being a melancholy rumination on mortality.

Following the popularity of their last album, "Labyrinth," Rosetta West expands on their distinctive sound while pursuing a more somber and reflective tone. "Night’s Cross" tends toward a deeper, more profound aural experience, whereas "Labyrinth" has periods of levity. An immersive listening experience is produced by the gritty but soulful instrumentation, which combines folk narrative, raw bluesy guitar riffs, and rock-driven passion.

Thoughtful and poetic, "Night’s Cross" explores mortality in its lyrics, yet rather than wallowing in grief, it gives courage and introspection. Every song demonstrates the band's skill at fusing many genres together, enabling passionate musical intensity and soft, vulnerable moments to coexist together.

Rosetta West demonstrates once more their skill at creating music that speaks to people deeply and universally. For those who value music with substance, soul, and an unafraid narrative style, "Night’s Cross" is a captivating listen that is both eerie and uplifting.