In 2025, Rule of Two, the Norwegian indie electro and darkwave band, has been actively releasing standalone singles post their January EP, Echoes. Their upcoming EP, Dancing Drone, set for July 30, features a cover of Robyn’s iconic "Dancing On My Own," which inspired four additional tracks exploring themes of jealousy and dystopia. Produced by Kristian Liljan and Ronny Flissundet, this marks their third EP, with a full-length debut on the horizon for November. What do you think drives artists like Rule of Two to reinterpret existing tracks, and how does this influence their creative process and connection with audiences?…
Author: Ritualcontrol
Read More
Summary: WHITE ZOMBIE kicked off their iconic album Astro-Creep: 2000 with a nod to horror, evolving from their underground noise rock roots to dominate the ’90s metal scene. With a unique blend of industrial metal, samples, and a flair for the bizarre, the album encapsulates the band’s wild energy and creativity, becoming a defining work of the era. Despite their split in 1996, Astro-Creep: 2000 remains a crucial touchstone for metal fans. Discussion Prompt: How do you think the fusion of horror and music in Astro-Creep: 2000 influenced the metal genre and its subdivisions in the years that followed? Read…
As London endures the heat, a curated playlist of dreampop, indiepop, jangle pop, and shoegaze serves as a refreshing escape while also stirring up some passion. This selection celebrates the onset of a new month and the mid-year mark. Thought-Provoking Question: How do music genres influence your emotional response to different seasons or weather conditions? Read the Full Article
Summary: The upcoming book titled The Heart Of The Crowd, co-authored by Jim Kerr and Charlie Burchill with input from Graeme Thomson, offers a fresh perspective on the history of Simple Minds through the lens of their lifelong friendship. Set for release on October 2nd, 2025, it shifts focus from fans to the band’s dynamic and includes engaging vintage photos. While initially anticipated as a straightforward autobiography of Jim Kerr, this collaborative approach promises a more enriching narrative. Thought-Provoking Question: Given the unique angle of exploring the band’s history through their friendship, how do you think personal relationships shape the…
Adrian Sherwood has announced his new album, The Collapse of Everything, set for release on August 22. This marks his fourth solo studio album and comes 13 years after Survival Resistance. Sherwood embraces creative freedom, stating that as a solo artist, he can fully express his vision without external influences. The album features contributions from notable collaborators like Brian Eno and the late Keith LeBlanc, and it draws inspiration from current political and environmental issues. What do you think about the idea of artists using their work to address socio-political themes? How can this impact listeners and the broader conversation?…
Mumbles, a US-based band, released their sole album, Two Clouds, in 1990, cementing their place as a continuation of the experimental post-punk sound established by Drowning Pool. Featuring three members from that previous group, plus new vocalist Kelly Ray, the album is a perfect accompaniment to hazy summer nights and resonates with fans of Drowning Pool’s emotive discography. Released by the Italian label Viva Records, Two Clouds showcases a unique blend of ethereal, driving sounds. What do you think is the significance of legacy and continuity in music, particularly when bands evolve or change their lineup? Read the Full Article
Urban Kick Recordings cements its reputation with Alavux’s Bitrate EP, a testament to his mastery in blending raw electro and techno over a 20-year career. Featuring tracks like Robotech Pt 1 and Civil Rights, the EP is a high-energy exploration of underground sounds, culminating in the atmospheric Robotech Pt 2. This release doesn’t just showcase his technical prowess; it serves as a vital piece in understanding electro’s evolution in the 21st century. With artists like Alavux leading the charge, how do you see the future of underground electronic music evolving, particularly in terms of sound and community engagement? Read the…
The Download Festival continues to electrify audiences after 22 years, showcasing an eclectic lineup that covers everything from hardcore to pop punk. Highlights include Dead Pony’s infectious afternoon energy, Boston Manor’s political resonance, and Green Day’s powerful return to their roots filled with anti-war sentiments. With each act bringing its unique flavor, the festival embodies a spirit of independence and community, encouraging fans to revel in the music and messages. Given the festival’s commitment to both entertainment and political commentary, how do you think music festivals like Download can influence societal change in today’s climate? Read the Full Article
Summary: The Northern Territories return after 25 years with A Star in Orbit Still, an album that sidesteps the typical pitfalls of reunion records. Opening with the atmospheric “In Our Darkest Hour (Something New is Born),” the duo of John Alexander Ericson and Stefan Sääf showcase their rich vocal harmonies and emotional depth throughout the synth-driven tracks. Highlights include the euphoric “Dreaming of Tomorrowland” and a haunting reinterpretation of Lana Del Rey’s “Say Yes to Heaven,” which fits seamlessly within the album’s ambient textures. The closing track, “How Mercy Feels Tonight,” offers a warm, understated finish, highlighting a mature evolution…
Strange Boutique’s “Let the Lonely Heart Sing” is a rejuvenating comeback that embraces the cyclical nature of life and artistic expression, six years post-reunion. The album weaves together dreamy influences with a blend of post-punk and chamber pop, echoing nostalgia while forging a fresh path. Notable tracks like “The Night Birds” and “Radium Kiss” highlight their evolved sound, showcasing refined songwriting that feels both familiar and innovative. As fans contemplate this transformation, one must ask: how does the evolution of a band’s sound reflect the passage of time and personal growth within their artistry? Read the Full Article