If you’ve been tuning into this platform for a while, you already know Rosetta West — those Chicago-based sonic alchemists who have been quietly carving out a fiercely independent, genre-bending niche since the ‘90s. Not your average blues rock band, Rosetta West’s music is a swirling brew of gritty blues roots infused with psychedelia, world folk textures, and lyrical explorations of mysticism and spirituality. They are a band for seekers, wanderers, and those who crave music that’s both timeless and unshackled.
Their recent video release, “Dora Lee (Gravity),” from the album ‘Gravity Sessions,’ perfectly captures their raw, experimental essence. The ‘Gravity Sessions’ itself is a fascinating snapshot; quick, passionate takes of beloved tracks recorded at the legendary Gravity Studios in Chicago, where every note is charged with spontaneity and intensity.
From the first moment, “Dora Lee (Gravity)” grips you with its grimy, electric guitar riffs — those searing strings echo the band’s deep blues roots, grounding the track in tradition while teasing the wild ride ahead. Before you can catch your breath, the drums kick in — a powerful, rolling crash of cymbals accompanied by thudding beats that drive the track forward like a relentless heartbeat. The production is impressively raw yet focused, capturing the immediacy of a live take with a clarity that lets each instrument breathe and pulse.
The bass lines, courtesy of Herf Guderian, weave subtly beneath the surface, adding depth and texture without ever overpowering the blues-rock framework. Mike Weaver’s drums keep a tight but organic groove, perfectly balancing the song’s intensity and fluidity.
At the center of it all is Joseph Demagore; Rosetta West’s founder, guitarist, and vocalist whose voice is a force of nature here. His vocal delivery is raw, emotive, and soaked in authenticity. There’s a gritty edge that perfectly complements the blues-rock instrumentation, while his phrasing carries a mystical weight, inviting listeners to dive deeper into the song’s themes.
Demagore’s guitar work is just as compelling; sharp, evocative riffs that weave through the track like a narrative thread, at times simmering with tension, other times erupting in fiery bursts. His playing is unpolished in the best possible way, a reflection of the band’s commitment to honest, heart-driven music.
The video for “Dora Lee (Gravity)” is as bold and unconventional as the band itself. Set against the backdrop of a sinister, militaristic figure — an evil tank commander — the visual story unfolds with supernatural female entities descending upon him. Figures like Ishtar, Hecate, and Kali appear, weaving ancient mythologies into a modern narrative. This blend of mysticism and cinematic storytelling perfectly mirrors the band’s lyrical themes and musical mood — intense, mysterious, and otherworldly.
The haunting imagery elevates the track beyond mere blues rock, turning it into a ritualistic experience that challenges you to confront forces beyond the tangible world.
“Dora Lee (Gravity)” is a vivid experience that capture everything Rosetta West stands for: deep roots in blues, fearless exploration of psychedelia and folk, and a fearless dive into spirituality and mysticism. With Joseph Demagore’s commanding vocals and guitar at the helm, supported by a tight rhythm section and captured in the revered walls of Gravity Studios, the track pulses with life and raw emotion.
For fans of music that refuses to be boxed in, Rosetta West continues to be a beacon of authenticity and underground brilliance. If you haven’t yet immersed yourself in their vast catalog, now is the perfect time to start. “Dora Lee (Gravity)” and the ‘Gravity Sessions’ are proof that true artistry thrives on passion, independence, and a willingness to venture beyond the ordinary.
Listen to “Dora Lee (Gravity)” on Spotify
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