Tetrarch: A Gem Among the Riff – NORWAY ROCK MAGAZINE
Tetrarch, the American heavy metal band, is gearing up for the release of their third album, “The Ugly Side Of Me,” in May 2025. Lead guitarist Diamond Rowe sat down before the release to discuss the album, her new signature guitar, and her musical journey. The album showcases a diverse range of sounds, blending industrial elements with heavy guitar solos, as seen in the first single, “Live Not Fantasize.” Diamond explained the decision behind choosing this song as the lead single, citing its infectious chorus, heavy vibes, and industrial elements as a perfect introduction to their multifaceted sound.
Diamond’s journey to getting her signature guitar with Jackson guitars was a dream come true for her. Initially hesitant due to loyalty to her previous guitar company, Diamond was eventually won over by the quality of Jackson guitars after testing and demoing several models. She ended up writing most of the album using a Jackson guitar and fell in love with its sound and feel. The custom shop guitar they built for her sealed the deal, and Diamond couldn’t be happier with the outcome – a fitting tribute to her guitar heroes like Kirk Hammett and Dimebag Darrell.
Reflecting on her early days of playing guitar, Diamond recalled how she received her first guitar on her 12th birthday and spent hours learning cover songs, including tracks from Metallica’s “Master of Puppets” album. She immersed herself in music, jamming with her band and writing her first song within two years of picking up the guitar. This passion for music and continuous growth as a musician fueled her desire to pursue music professionally.
One of the standout tracks from the new album, “Head Space,” came together late in the writing process but quickly became a favorite for its nu-metal vibe, creepy undertones, and dynamic structure. The song captures the ups and downs of the creative process, reflecting the band’s mental states during the album’s production. Similarly, “Best of Luck” takes a tongue-in-cheek approach, addressing the challenges of navigating the music industry and dealing with dismissive responses from industry professionals. Despite its origins, the song serves as a defiant anthem, showcasing the band’s resilience in the face of adversity.
As Tetrarch prepares to unleash their latest creation onto the world, Diamond Rowe’s passion for music, dedication to her craft, and unwavering determination shine through in every note. With their unique sound, powerful lyrics, and dynamic performances, Tetrarch is poised to solidify their place as a force to be reckoned with in the heavy metal scene.