Rosetta: Audio/Visual

Rosetta: Audio/Visual is a poignant and deeply personal documentary that delves into the world of the Philadelphia-based post-metal band Rosetta. Formed in the city's underground music scene, the band's early years were marked by a passion for creating music that resonated with their own sense of disillusionment and frustration. Comprising members who led double lives as electronics technicians, high school civics teachers, coffee shop baristas, and martial arts instructors, Rosetta embodied the spirit of DIY (do-it-yourself) ethos that was rampant in the early 2000s. The documentary, directed by Justin J. Jackson, takes the viewer on a journey through the highs and lows of the band's journey, from the creation of their early albums to the grueling tours and gigs that followed. Through a combination of interviews, behind-the-scenes footage, and intimate moments caught on camera, Rosetta: Audio/Visual humanizes its subjects and sheds light on the very real challenges they faced in pursuing their dreams. For the band members, their involvement with Rosetta was not just about making music; it was a labor of love that often came at great personal cost. Guitarist and vocalist Michael Lerner, who worked as an electronics technician, and fellow guitarist Jon Walton, a high school civics teacher, would spend their evenings and weekends rehearsing, writing new music, and planning shows. The band's drummer,olest (also referred to as Michael), worked as a coffee shop barista, a job that gave him the flexibility to take last-minute breaks for rehearsals and performances. One of the film's most compelling aspects is its portrayal of the band's creative process. Rosetta's music was a reflection of their inner turmoil and frustration with the world around them. Each album was a milestone in their journey, a testament to their growth as musicians and friends. As they pushed the boundaries of their sound, experimenting with new textures and moods, they struggled to find an audience that truly understood their vision. Jackson's camera captures the intense chemistry between the band members, particularly during rehearsals and performances. These intimate moments reveal the raw emotion that fueled their music and highlight the unbreakable bond that existed among them. At one point, the band is shown preparing for a particularly grueling tour, with Lerner and Walton trading stories about their jobs and family lives. The camaraderie is palpable, and it becomes clear that their music was not just a source of creative expression but also a means of coping with the stresses of their everyday lives. As the documentary progresses, Jackson sheds light on the business side of things, highlighting the challenges that Rosetta faced in finding a record label willing to take a chance on them. Their eventual partnership with a local, independent label proved to be a turning point, allowing them to maintain artistic control and financial stability. However, the film also reveals the difficulties that accompanied this newfound success, from grueling tours and promotional obligations to the emotional toll of constantly being on the road. Throughout the documentary, Jackson employs a subtle and observational filmmaking style, allowing the band's story to unfold organically. He is a masterful storyteller, able to coax forth revealing insight from even the most reluctant interviewees. The result is a film that is both introspective and expansive, offering a nuanced portrait of a band that embodied the spirit of rebellion and creative expression. Ultimately, Rosetta: Audio/Visual is a testament to the power of music to transcend circumstance and connect people across borders. This documentary is a love letter to the music and the people who made it, a celebration of the DIY ethos and the unbreakable bonds that form between artists who share a common vision.