Pioneers of rock in Nepali music - Cobweb's legacy remains unmatched even after almost three whole decades, and their eighth album, "Astitwa" is proof of their persistent, unequivocal presence along with a will to progress and grow. After years of traversing through genres and working with ever-evolving styles from rock & roll, classic rock, reggae, to soft ballads and more, the band's 2016 album is a definitive arc in the change of their musical style towards heavier and proggier elements - for the better. A three-minute instrumental - steady, heavy, and energetic - warms up the audience for the band's change in direction from their usual classic rock & roll to a heavier tone, in terms of both music and matter. The change is welcome though, because with a set of hard drum beats, heated guitar riffs, and aggressive vocal performance, Cobweb has retained their authentic self which keeps them distinct and unstoppable. As seen in the second track on the album entitled "Samaj'' that introduces the theme of social commentary, which persists throughout. This is the first studio album after Sanjay Aryal joined on vocal duties as well in the band and that has added a powerful dynamic to the band's compositions. The vocal performance sways from that of classic rock & roll to angsty belting while the song expresses an individual's desire to break free from a repressive society, reflected in a gradual build-up of pace. Next up, the title-track begins on a more soulful note, only to break out into a full-on rock anthem; "malai jiuna deu, malai hasna deu" - the words are gut wrenchingly genuine and difficult not to relate to. The seamless transition from "Astitva" to "Pratibimba'' makes way for a self-reflective song that questions one's existence, conscious or unconscious, real or metaphorical, and the words are obscure enough to keep you pondering. One of the most beautiful songs ever about introspect and prospect. With the similarly themed "Rukh'', the album establishes that its poetic expression of existential themes and the fiery execution of sophisticated arrangements, is anything but generic or easy. Definitely a highlight of this album. Then comes a familiar but completely new territory - reverse swells - soothing vocal harmonies and a rock ballad at its core - "Timro Nau'' definitely stands out from the rest of the album for its melodious hook and soft presence. The song is an earnest attempt at making sense of memories and nostalgia, and it builds into the angsty and aggressive "Rajneeti"- back to heavy rock and metal. A live anthem already at all of their gigs. The final track on the album is "K Tero K Mero", a fast-paced metal, rock anthem you'd want to shout along to. A jab at our blissful ignorance and false pretense, the song is a satisfying ending to an album that is reflective of the society and the self. Undeniably, nobody does rock like the iconic and evergreen Cobweb, and "Astitva" is a must-listen game changer from their brilliant career.