The story of ROSSER, or at least the forming of the band, is a familiar one. Some longtime scene vets and fast friends get together for a few beers, an impromptu jam session kicks up, and everything just CLICKS. The musical chemistry is such that song sketches just come pouring out. Suddenly there’s talk of style and inspiration, of practice schedules and rehearsal spaces. Before you know it, you have a band—or at least the beginnings of one.

In the case of ROSSER, however, the story takes a dark turn. Just as the group was starting their search for a vocalist, drummer Kevin Wallace was struck by a car while vacationing in San Francisco. The accident left Wallace in critical condition with 8 broken ribs, 3 spinal fractures, a broken clavicle, flail chest, and a punctured lung. In the end, it would be weeks before Wallace could be discharged from Oakland’s Highland Hospital and make his way back to Atlanta. Undaunted, Wallace and his bandmates plunged forward upon his return. A singer was soon found to complete ROSSER’s lineup and after much literal blood, sweat, and tears, here we are this morning, sharing the debut of the group’s new single and video.

I mention this bit of back history because “Past Life” deals in tragedy, or more specifically, the idea that our lives need not be defined by past trauma. Sonically, the track is a fuzzy power-pop stomper with an earworm chorus. In a way it sounds like the Cars if Ric Ocasek and the boys had cut their teeth in the ‘90s East Atlanta club scene. In other words, it’s hooky as hell (although not too sugary), and the twin guitar attack of Leroi and band namesake John Rosser keep the propulsive grooves humming along nicely.

But as the accompanying video suggests, there is considerable darkness hiding behind the steady bounce of that infectious backbeat. The clip opens with singer Leif Westermark lying on the floor, his hands bound in chains. As he struggles to break free, there’s mention of hubris and of being a fool. “You don’t want any part of this past life, of this past life,” he repeats on the chorus as he finally manages to slip his shackles. It’s a simple but powerful metaphor—that of shedding the past in order to move forward.

Watch/listen above.

ROSSER will perform on Fri., Sept. 13 at the EARL alongside K Michelle DuBois and Chris Devoe. Doors open at 9 p.m. Admission is $10 in advance or $12 DOS. 21+ to enter.

More Info
Web: housecatrecords.com/rosser
Bandcamp: rosser.bandcamp.com
Facebook: @thebandrosser
Instagram: @thebandrosser