Following the release of their latest album, An Instant Before the Promise of Dawn, First Draft has unveiled the music video for their single “Agnostalgic.” Directed by Yannis Pachaud and Julien Poulain, the video tackles themes of hope and memory against the backdrop of rising fascism, emphasizing the importance of remembrance in combating extremism. The track features heavy, fuzzy tones, blending post-metal, post-hardcore, and post-rock influences, showcasing the introspective dynamics of drummer/vocalist Marine Arnoult and bassist Clément Douam. This single is the third from their album, which is now available in multiple formats, following their previous works. What role do…
Author: Ritualcontrol
Melbourne’s goth duo Velatine has released their new single “We’re Not Suburban,” featuring Holly Purnell’s captivating vocals alongside producer Loki Lockwood. The track, filled with darkwave elements and hints of Portishead, explores the suffocating nature of suburban life from an artistic perspective. Purnell’s smooth delivery contrasts with the increasingly intrusive sounds of city life, while Lockwood’s deep vocals add to the rich, layered experience of the song. The accompanying video showcases their eerie aesthetic in suburban settings. How does the dichotomy between suburban life and artistic expression resonate in today’s society, and in what ways can music help navigate the…
Norwegian darkwave and indie electro act Rule of Two has launched their full-length debut, Aiming For the Sun, after a series of singles and EPs. The album, featuring 10 tracks, draws from the band’s passion for ’80s and ’90s music, blending elements of synthpop, ambient, and dreampop to create a melodic and atmospheric sound. The project is led by founders Ronny Flissundet and Kristian Liljan, alongside a lineup enriched by their backgrounds in various bands. The singles “Forever Minus One” and “Cloud Nine,” along with a Radiohead cover, highlight the album’s moody essence. Released today, Aiming For the Sun follows…
German goth/rock outfit Advocatus Dei has just released their single “Los Perdidos,” featuring El Gurú from Argentinian band Amáutica, marking the first preview of their upcoming album NEIN, scheduled for early 2026. This follows their May release of “Land” and showcases the evolution of their sound since their reformation, moving from their original name Advocatus Diaboli. Fans can download both tracks for free on Bandcamp. What do you think the collaboration with El Gurú adds to the emotional depth of “Los Perdidos,” and how do you see it affecting the band’s direction in their upcoming album? Read the Full Article
Lene Lovich’s unique style remains captivating, even after decades away from North America. A devoted fan recounts their excitement for her upcoming 2025 US tour, including multiple concerts that involve travel and reunions with friends. Despite challenges like a flood affecting ticket sales, the sense of community and nostalgia thrives as they reminisce about past concerts and connections. The concert in Mount Dora serves not only as a musical event but also as a gathering of friends from different phases of life, highlighting the enduring impact of Lovich’s music. How do shared musical experiences, like attending a concert together, shape…
Farnakht, the solo project of Masha Von Farnakht, emerges as a bold force in the industrial music scene, marked by its DIY ethos and rejection of conformity. The track "Lass Mich Sein," inspired by Masha’s experience as a transgender woman in a hostile medical environment, transforms personal pain into a militant anthem for liberation and pride, dedicated to the LGBTQIA+ community. The choice of German lyrics pays homage to the genre’s roots while speaking to contemporary struggles. With its powerful cover art, the project encapsulates the interplay between personal identity and political resistance. What role do you think art and…
The second edition of ShoeGaza, a shoegaze festival for Gaza, will take place on December 20, 2025, at the Arci Bellezza in Milan, featuring bands like Glazyhaze, Satantango, Six Impossible Things, and Stella Diana. With the dire situation in Palestine often overlooked, this event aims to maintain awareness and counter feelings of helplessness through collective action. Proceeds will benefit Médecins Sans Frontières, highlighting the festival’s commitment to impactful change amidst challenging circumstances. In a world where large-scale tragedies can make individual efforts feel insignificant, how can art and music serve as powerful catalysts for social change and awareness? Read the…
Still Machine has released the music video for "Trawling Tines," the third single from their upcoming album Echoes Within, which drops on November 14. The song, described as the lyrical climax of the album, critiques humanity’s self-destructive habits while showcasing resilience. Unlike the aggressive tone of the previous single, "Trawling Tines" features a more reflective sound, culminating in a grand piano performance by drummer Matt Martin. Engineered by Sanford Parker, the track’s significant emotional weight is enhanced by its production at the renowned Electrical Audio studio. The video, directed by Chris Eichenseer, follows the band’s previous visuals and builds anticipation…
Mandy, Indiana has signed with Sacred Bones Records to release their latest album, URGH, set for February 6, 2026. The album serves as a raw reflection on violence and suffering, featuring the lead single "Magazine," where vocalist Valentine Caulfield channels her trauma into empowering rage. The track, sung in French, showcases dynamic instrumentation, touching on themes of retribution and survival after sexual assault. Following their debut, they’ll also embark on a U.K. and European tour from March 25 to April 18. Given the album’s themes of anger and recovery, how do you think music can serve as a medium for…
K-Nitrate and UCNX have released a new industrial techno and EBM track titled “C-Resistor,” marking their first collaboration since 2020’s Kiloton Endgame. This explosive release features K-Nitrate’s signature basslines and aggressive beats, complemented by UCNX’s raw vocal performances. Released today, November 12, it represents UCNX’s fourth release in 2025, following the Replicator II remix collection and a tribute performance for Die Warzau. K-Nitrate describes the collaboration as a “detonation” rather than just a partnership. Given the fusion of aggressive soundscapes and punk elements in “C-Resistor,” how do you think such collaborations are evolving in the contemporary music scene, especially in…
