Photo by:

Weatherbox’s new album, The Cosmic Drama, blends the darker moods and tones of rock with some unique sounds to create a memorable listening experience. 

The band is already known for its stylish guitar rifts and dark, penetrating lyricism, but the musicians have outdone themselves on this new album.

Unlike the previous album, American Art, the Cosmic Drama uses more simplified instrumentation. Sometimes only two or three guitar rifts carry a melody, while the rest of the instrumentation remains conspicuously subdued.

Although this may seem boring, Weatherbox finds a way to make this work exceptionally well. The restraint weaves a dark and ominous tone through the album that goes well with the poignant and disturbing lyrics. 

Even the singer’s voice refuses to make itself stand out although it is always there, fitting seamlessly with tone and mood. His voice is either soft and smooth or weak and strained, but the coalescing of all these elements creates an intriguing and powerful sound. 

This is a sad and simplified album, unlike any that I have heard since Nirvana. However, it is simply brilliant in its presentation as exemplified by “Mindthings to W.A.S.T.E.” where the singer’s voice is strained and sad as the lyrics burst out in anger.

As the song finishes and the anger recedes back to regret, the drums start hitting on the off beats of the singer’s voice. This conveys an audible sense of stress and is a sign of masterful musicianship. 

Nothing on this album is complicated and yet all the simple elements converge to create a very unique and appropriate mood. The music is addictive and compelling. So far, this is the best album I have heard all year.