Hailing from New Haven, Connecticut, USA, an area traditionally known for Hardcore and Metalcore, VRSA decidedly diverges from that with their progressive post-metal sludge. Drawing from the heavy roots of the culture, VRSA embodies these elements while also allowing their sound to venture beyond confining limitations. The quartet’s upcoming album, Saltwater Circadian, will be released on March 30th, 2024.
VRSA comments:
“The first single and the title track comes from a general understanding and a realization that humanity as a whole has always been drawn to the sea whether it’s for exploration or just to walk on the beach and breath the salty air. It brings to mind the stories of HP Lovecraft and the hypnotic allure of Cthulhu.”
Listen to “Saltwater Circadian” here: https://youtu.be/UEaHh5K-30o
About VRSA:
VRSA (Vancomycin-resistant Staphylococcus Aureus) formed in 2007 as Josh sought to start a band with a more unique name who did something different. Taking their name from the staph infection that has mutated by the overuse of antibiotics, it’s a commentary on the human race doing things we don’t fully understand and destroying ourselves in the process. It seemed to have just the right amounts of social commentary and enigmatic meaning.
Their debut full-length Old Man Gray released in 2010 followed by albums Galaxia in 2011 and Phantom of an Era in 2015. Their 2018 EP Cvlt of Machina is to be followed by VRSA’s upcoming offering Saltwater Circadian, to be released on March 30th 2024. Musically the outfit are predominantly influenced by post metal, sludge metal, some stoner and doom, but are no by no means bound to these styles alone. The band’s upcoming fifth album, Saltwater Circadian, explores water imagery, sea creatures and ancient sailing traditions.
“VRSA is a hard band to categorize, although everyone (on the net) calls them some form of doom […] It’s almost like alternative doom, or dark metal or something….” – Heavy Planet
“They veer stylistically to either side of the designation, but there’s little question that Connecticut four-piece VRSA are metal at their roots”. – The Obelisk
VRSA is:
Joshua – vocals, guitar
Andrius – Guitar
Matt – Bass, Vocals
Walt – Drums
Credits:
Recorded at our own Last Bastion studios
Mixed By Paul Pavao
Mastered by Alan Douches at west westside music
Album artwork by MIchael Miglietta
Links:
https://www.facebook.com/VRSAband
https://www.instagram.com/vrsa.band/
https://www.youtube.com/@vrsaband
Track Listing:
1. Saltwater Circadian
2. Hurricane Song
3. Shellbacks
4. Thirst
5. Born on the Tide
6. Ocean Floor