SINGLE REVIEW: Rosetta West – Snake 25
Rosetta West have a knack for creating music that feels both steeped in tradition and completely their own, and ‘Snake 25’ is another perfect example of that balancing act. Stretching across six ambitious minutes, the track shifts between tranquillity and fire with a seamless grace that never feels forced. It’s layered, heartfelt, and full of personality—exactly what fans have come to expect from this fiercely independent Illinois outfit.
The opening is gentle and dreamlike, with soft acoustic guitars and a certain Celtic lilt that immediately brings to mind Big Country at their most tender. There’s a hushed, reflective quality here that’s deeply affecting, made all the more powerful by the understated vocal delivery. Joseph Demagore’s rasp carries warmth and sincerity, blending arty flair with genuine emotion. It’s simple, yes—but there’s real strength in its restraint.
Then, around the two-minute mark, the track blossoms into something far more forceful. The tempo kicks up, the drums come alive, and the guitars begin to twist and chime with retro 80s flair. It’s still artful, still true to the band’s eclectic vision, but now it’s punchy, hooky, and undeniably danceable. The vocals shift accordingly—less delicate, more driven—matching the momentum with a more classic rock feel without losing the track’s emotional thread.
Rosetta West have always excelled at mixing styles, and ‘Snake 25’ is no exception. The transitions between acoustic introspection and full-bodied rock are executed with real finesse. The melodies are memorable, the riffs are compelling, and the rhythm section never misses a step—especially in the second half, where the beat carries the track forward with steady determination.
This is Rosetta West doing what they do best: crafting thoughtful, dramatic music with an unmistakable voice. ‘Snake 25’ feels both expansive and intimate, mystical and grounded. It's a bold, genre-blurring piece that once again proves this band doesn’t need mainstream recognition to make a powerful, lasting impact. Great stuff, as always.
