DELLA NOVA is a dynamic rock trio emerging from the heart of London, blending hard rock, grunge, and progressive rock with an unmistakable modern edge. Founded by the visionary Alex Bowmer—who takes the helm as songwriter, lead vocalist, and master of the 8-string guitar—the band features longtime collaborator Joe Chauncy on bass and Adam Szabo on drums, adding depth and rhythm.
The band’s name, DELLA NOVA, was inspired by a mystical order Alex encountered in 2019, a nod to “The Ordine Della Nova,” a secret society from the 1980s. Their sound takes cues from rock legends like Black Sabbath, Alice in Chains, Audioslave, and Royal Blood, while carving out a unique sonic space that nods to rock’s past yet pulses with contemporary energy. Their self-titled debut album, set to release in December 2024, has been eagerly awaited, with the trio offering listeners a taste through four powerful singles, remixed and remastered for maximum impact.
“Wachasay”, released on October 18th, 2024, the first single in this pre-album series, encapsulates the essence of DELLA NOVA’s hard-hitting sound. Initially released in early 2023, the track has been given new life by renowned film industry sound professional Ben Jeffes, who brought his Hollywood-grade finesse to its remix and remaster. From the opening moments, “Wachasay” exudes an unmistakable intensity, beginning with a suspenseful, eerie build-up before exploding into a vigorous beat that propels the listener headfirst into DELLA NOVA’s world. It’s a track that grabs attention, pairing pounding basslines with blazing guitar riffs and a relentless drive.
There’s a haunting element in the initial sounds, almost ghostly, as though a storm is brewing, which gives way to the primal rhythm section. When the beat finally drops, it does so with a relentless intensity that establishes the track’s foundation—pulsing, aggressive, and unwavering. Adam Szabo’s drumming takes center stage here, laying down a rock-solid groove that perfectly complements Joe Chauncy’s growling, overdriven bass. Together, they create a rhythm that’s heavy yet crisp, each beat landing like a blow. This rhythm section serves as the backbone of “Wachasay,” supporting the energy of the track and allowing the other elements to shine, while still remaining an essential, gripping component that keeps listeners engaged.
Alex Bowmer’s guitar work on “Wachasay” is nothing short of incendiary. His 8-string guitar allows for a deeper, richer tone, creating riffs that are both crushingly heavy and incredibly intricate. Throughout the track, his guitar takes on different roles: first, it contributes to the haunting atmosphere, then drives the rhythm, and finally erupts into searing solos that showcase his technical skill and creativity. These solos are not mere displays of technicality but are purposefully placed within the song to heighten its emotional intensity, building up tension and then releasing it in an electrifying burst. Bowmer’s riffs draw from various rock influences ranging from the grinding weight of Black Sabbath to the anthemic energy of Audioslave, but manage to feel entirely fresh, with a tone that’s uniquely DELLA NOVA.
Alex Bowmer’s vocal performance is both commanding and nuanced, embodying a mixture of confidence, raw emotion, and a touch of grunge-laden edge. He effortlessly maneuvers through the song’s varying levels of intensity, delivering each line accurately and with a compelling urgency that draws the listener further into the song’s story. “Wachasay” captures the chaos and self-reflection experienced during lockdown, as Alex’s lyrics explore ideas of freedom and personal growth, specifically when letting go of unhealthy relationships—a message that resonates with many.
Special attention should be given to the production quality of “Wachasay”. The production has added a cinematic flair to the track, giving each layer of the song a vibrant and immediate quality. The balance in the mix is carefully maintained so that the guitars, bass, drums, and vocals can all harmonize without any one overpowering the rest. The mastering procedure guarantees that every instrument is presented with great clarity, allowing the song’s impact to be easily understood by listeners.
The instrumentation on “Wachasay” Is just as intense, featuring a mix of high-energy overdriven bass, sharp drums, and blazing guitar solos that capture the essence of traditional hard rock with a modern touch. “Wachasay” is a complex mixture of various influences and styles that achieves a balance between classic and innovative sounds. The cooperation among the instruments is notably remarkable, indicating a strong connection and harmony that reflects the band’s chemistry and commitment to their art.
In the end, “Wachasay” is not just a rock song but also a statement piece, a bold first look at DELLA NOVA’s artistic vision. It includes all aspects that define the band: strong instruments, compelling storytelling, great vocals, and top-notch production. The track resonates deeply with listeners, both in its energy and message, serving as an appropriate anthem for those seeking to move beyond their past experiences. Being the first single release from their upcoming album, “Wachasay” not only introduces what’s to come but also establishes DELLA NOVA as a strong presence in the contemporary rock industry. It is a song that will certainly be included in the music libraries of both rock fans and those who enjoy alternative music, making a significant impact as one of the standout releases of 2024.
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