Aina Virtanen, under her Puppe Magnetik alias, has unveiled "The Labyrinth," an atmospheric single that teases her debut album, Laudans Deum. The song uniquely blends neofolk, industrial ambience, and gothic melodies, distinct from her earlier works like "Act. XXII." Virtanen notes that "The Labyrinth" started as a playful challenge to write a catchy tune, aiming to inject some lightness into the darker themes of the album. The single is available on all major platforms, with the album set to release on June 21, including limited vinyl editions. Given the eclectic soundscapes Virtanen is exploring, how do you think this playful…
Author: Ritualcontrol
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Scaler, recently signed to Black Acre Records, has announced their sophomore album, Endlessly, set for release on September 26. The Bristol-based alt. electro outfit blends genres like techno, metal, trip-hop, and drum & bass into a more accessible format. Unlike their previous album, created during lockdown, this new project features increased collaboration with guest artists, including Akiko Haruna, who appears on the single "Salt." This track reflects on the cyclical nature of shame in personal identity. Additionally, Scaler will be touring the U.K. from November 6-19, following a local performance with IDLES. Reflecting on this evolution, how do you think…
Slam Dunk South kicked off the UK festival season with an electrifying array of performances, merging old-school punk, pop-punk, and ska. From the political wake-up calls of The Meffs to the infectious energy of A Day To Remember, the festival provided a platform for both established icons and emerging talents, all under a cloud of social commentary. Despite looming rain, the atmosphere was anything but dreary; it was a day dedicated to fun, unity, and a shared love for music. What does the rise of political themes in festival performances say about the state of music culture today, and how…
The Italian band PsycHolies has released a new music video for “Another Pray,” teasing their upcoming album, Deep, which continues the stylistic journey from their 2022 release, Perfect Puppet. Blending gothic atmospheres, glam metal, and techno production, the band, led by founder Vigos von Lies, has taken on production duties themselves this time. “Another Pray” was released on June 6 and is available on major streaming platforms, with more singles expected as the album’s 2025 release approaches. What do you think this evolution in PsycHolies’ sound suggests about their artistic direction and the impact of self-production on their music? Read…
The author expresses frustration over a recent reissue of a cherished album, "Special Sauce," which includes a CD addition they initially desired but missed out on. After spending a significant amount on the original vinyl, they’re torn about purchasing the new edition, questioning the value of their investment in music that remains unplayed. The dilemma highlights a common struggle among collectors: balancing passion for music with practical financial decisions. Insightful Question: How does our attachment to physical media influence the way we value music, and should collectors prioritize accessibility over rarity? Read the Full Article
The narrator reflects on a recent sunset by the sea, sharing moments of youthful recklessness and adventure alongside their friend Sara. They reminisce about several daring escapades—from crashing on a bike to facing potential danger in foreign lands—illustrating a life rich in bold choices. This nostalgia is contrasted by Greta Thunberg’s powerful message of responsibility against global injustices, prompting a reflection on the balance between youthful boldness and adult consciousness. Thought-Provoking Question: How do our past experiences of recklessness shape our understanding of responsibility in the present, particularly in the context of social and environmental activism? Read the Full Article
This week’s playlist showcases a dreamy ethereal vibe, featuring artists like Powder Pink & Sweet, Swallowtail, and Yndling, while tracks from Draining and OutControlJoys elevate the energy. Sugar For The Pill and Jeanines contribute fresh material from their upcoming albums, alongside new singles from Slowcoaching and Deary. What elements do you think contribute to the allure of dreamy ethereal music, and how do they shape our emotional experiences? Read the Full Article
Rotersand has unveiled their latest album, Don’t Become the Thing You Hated, along with the single “Private Firmament (I Feel For You).” This track critiques society’s binary views on human nature and encourages genuine connections beyond digital screens. The album serves as both a dance record and a philosophical reflection on current global disillusionment, blending anger and empathy. Scheduled for an August 8 release through Metropolis Records, it will include two exclusive bonus tracks on the CD version. Given the stark contrasts in modern discourse, how can we bridge the emotional divides created by digital interactions while fostering genuine human…
Texan darkwave artist Vera Gloom and Parisian producer Fluid Ghost have released their latest collaboration, “Hate,” via Mother Solitude Records. The track, described by Gloom as exploring the tension between nature and urban dystopia, tackles the theme of succumbing to communal hatred. It features both an original mix and a minimal remix by Fluid Ghost, who is also known as Adriano S. Iacoangeli. Following Gloom’s previous single “Hollow Mind,” this release continues their fruitful partnership, which includes contributions from other artists on Fluid Ghost’s Songs I EP. A video premiere for “Hate” is set for June 7, showcasing performances by…
Gaahl, a pivotal figure in black metal since 1992, celebrates the tenth anniversary of his band Gaahl’s Wyrd with the release of their sophomore album "Braiding the Stories." This album diverges from traditional black metal, showcasing a blend of gothic rock, somber atmospheres, and melodic introspection. Tracks like "As the Now" and "The Dream" demonstrate the album’s depth, juxtaposing dark, fragile emotions with powerful instrumentation. The overall sound transcends extreme metal, inviting listeners into a haunting exploration of mood. Thought-Provoking Question: In what ways do you think the evolution of a band’s sound, like Gaahl’s Wyrd moving from black metal…