Who on Earth is this band? Where did they come from? and Who is Coosh?

16 Jan 2026

Based out of New Jersey, this five-piece metal ensemble is making waves on the East Coast. With their unique, unmistakable sound and a powerful ability to harness the raw aggression of classic heavy metal, Who On Earth is quickly becoming one of the most talked-about bands to watch. A brief taste of their heavy, high-energy style is enough to pull you in, and it’s no surprise they’ve already shared the stage with names like Texas Hippie Coalition, Sponge, and more in such a short time.

On January 17th, they’ll be performing at Capital City Music Hall in Harrisburg, supporting Tantric on their 25th Anniversary Tour. It’s a chance to experience the mayhem up close.

Formed by musicians who grew up inspired by the legends of metal — Iron Maiden, Black Sabbath, Metallica, and Alice in Chains — Who On Earth has a clear mission: to create original music that echoes the classics while pushing the genre forward. Led by vocalist Coosh, whose distinct wail and vocal control give him a commanding presence on stage, the band’s lineup is as formidable as their sound.

Pete Rizzi on bass provides the backbone with heavy-hitting riffs, while guitarists Jimmy Kocha and Johnny James Barone face off in a fiery, intense battle of leads and runs that will melt your mind. Behind the kit, Howie Fallon, a seasoned studio musician, knows exactly when to turn it up and bring the energy to the next level.

The band was formed in 2021 after Coosh and Pete, tired of playing cover songs with their previous band MadHaus, decided to take a bold step into the world of original music. Their goal? To compose an album worthy of the metal legends that inspired them. With Pete laying down the foundational riffs and Coosh contributing vocals, they built the structure for what would become their debut album.

In 2022, they hit Sonic Stump Studios with Mike Orlando (Category 7, Adrenaline Mob), who pushed them to new heights while also stepping in as a “stunt guitarist” to help complete the album. The result? Blame, a 10-track album that hits hard from start to finish. The relentless sound and fast-paced rhythms leave listeners craving more, with each track offering the kind of contagious, heart-pounding metal that keeps the energy high. With powerful hooks, strong harmonies, and relatable lyrics, every song feels like a story, and those hooks hit harder because of it.

After the success of their debut, the band wanted to do something special to showcase their versatility. So, they decided to cover a classic: Toto’s “Hold the Line.” The reimagined version quickly became their biggest hit, amassing over 1.4 million views on YouTube. The heavier, deeper sound of the song gives it a completely new life, and it’s something that truly needs to be heard to be appreciated.

In 2025, they released Smoke and Mirrors, a six-song EP that takes no prisoners. Tracks like “Lobotomy,” “DAWGZ,” and “VooDoo” tackle themes like greed in the industry and putting those “trash talkers” in their place — with heavy lyrics backed by a band that knows how to deliver. It’s raw, it’s bold, and it’s unapologetically metal. These tracks are well-written and packed with attitude, making you ask, “Who On Earth are these guys?”

Keeping the energy light and fun, they decided to follow up the EP with another cover — this time of Jefferson Starship’s “Jane.” Their gritty, half-step down version adds a crunchy twist that gives the track its own identity while still paying tribute to the original. The music video, complete with wigs and outfits, offers a comedic Jack Black-esque vibe. Working with Rob at Shotwell Productions, the band elevated their ideas to the next level, creating something fresh and memorable.

Kicking off 2026 strong, Who On Earth is set to tour with Tantric on three dates in January — January 9th at Toad’s Place in New Haven, CT, January 17th at Capital City Music Hall in Harrisburg, PA, and January 18th at Bar XIII in Wilmington, DE. With more singles set to drop throughout the year, the band is preparing for another full-length album.

If you’re a fan of classic heavy metal, strong lyrics, and powerful harmonies, and you’ve been wondering who’s still carrying the torch for genuine, original heavy metal — look no further. Who On Earth is bringing the fire. Keep an eye out for their upcoming shows and make sure to get your tickets. Check out the links below for the latest updates and news on the band.