Black Rose Garden

Tragic Dances
by J. Lianna Ness

My initial exposure to this amazing six-piece ensemble from Worcester, MA was a stellar live performance. It’s difficult to match intensity like that in a recording studio, but Black Rose Garden pull it off marvelously. Vocalist Rose Elliot’s strong, rich baritone-like voice reminds me a bit of Tyson Meade (formerly of Chainsaw Kittens). Having two percussionists gives this already distinct sound a quasi-tribal feel, yet still retains its hard edge, and alternative flavor. One of the most interesting and original acts I’ve heard in a long time.