ALBUM REVIEW: Void – Coma Rossi

Indian rock band COMA ROSSI have just put out their second album Void. The band released their debut all the way back in 2018, but due to circumstances relating to line-up changes, the pandemic and displacement between countries for work, it’s only now that they’ve been able to release a follow-up. Those factors resulted in the writing and recording of the album taking place across India, the UK and Germany, allowing the band to take in a variety of influences. The main theme heard throughout the album is one of contemplative silence and melancholy, creating something atmospheric yet somehow incredibly soothing due to the familiarity in how it feels.

From the opening intro track, Wither, which focuses on moody rock and dreamlike sound effects that are quite ethereal, COMA ROSSI waste no time in letting us know who they are and what they stand for. Moving into Waves Of Time, on the surface this track features elements from 90s rock and grunge with names like SOUNDGARDEN and SMASHING PUMPKINS coming to mind, yet what sets them apart from the aforementioned style is the use of noise and distorted elements that create a melancholic atmosphere.

Indeed, throughout the record you will notice how the band use noise to create something that one moment can feel haunting and unsettling, yet in the next moment soothing and calm as you bask in the emotion. There are moments where you can picture yourself in a variety of film scenes from drastically contrasting genres. One moment we’re in a Western where the protagonist sits around the fire listening to the wise elder telling personal anecdotes and playing acoustic songs in Falling Apart, the next we’re in a folk horror film as a cult prepares their ritual in Farm Of Lights involving us as the protagonist who has now fallen for their honeyed words and enticing lies.

COMA ROSSI have created something incredible here that each person should listen to at least once in their lifetime. Their blend of noise and alternative rock is nothing short of beautiful, particularly when it has you feeling a range of emotions or has you picturing a multitude of scenarios. We wouldn’t be surprised if in years to come they’ll be at the forefront of this genre-blend, creating a movement to inspire a new wave of artists.

Rating: 8/10

Void is out now via self-release.

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