The author expresses excitement about an upcoming Spandau Ballet box set featuring their early work from 1978 to 1982, reflecting on their journey from skepticism to fandom. Despite a growing collection of the band’s music, they critique the new hybrid format of the box set, the pricing, and the limited new content. They also question the value of the release for collectors who may already own much of the material. Insightful question: Given the nostalgia surrounding such box sets, do you think music fans prioritize collecting physical media over digital access, and how does that impact the music industry’s approach…
Author: Ritualcontrol
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Vazum, the Detroit goth/rock duo, has had an eventful year, kicking off with their February release of “Pretty Brutal” and a U.K. tour. They have now launched their second single of 2025, “Arise,” available on Bandcamp as a name-your-price item. The song, rich in coldly distorted guitars and aggressive vocals, draws inspiration from the phoenix myth, urging listeners to ignite their inner fire and confront issues like corruption and hypocrisy. Vazum’s upcoming performances include a short U.S. tour and shows in Lyon and Barcelona. Given the thematic depth of “Arise,” how do you think music can effectively promote social change…
SCORPION MILK, a new apocalyptic post-punk project by Mat McNerney (of BEASTMILK and GRAVE PLEASURES), has signed with Peaceville Records, set to release their debut album later this year. McNerney expresses excitement about joining a label that deeply inspired him, while Peaceville’s manager praises his creative talent. What do you think this collaboration could mean for the evolution of post-punk, especially given McNerney’s return to his musical roots? Read the Full Article
X Marks the Pedwalk has released “Light Your Mind,” the lead single from their upcoming album “Insomnia,” set for a late 2025 release. This modern synthpop anthem features powerful beats, driving basslines, and shimmering arpeggios, all complemented by Sevren Ni-Arb’s vocoder-enhanced vocals that merge emotional depth with a synthetic edge. What elements do you think are essential for a song to truly resonate on the dancefloor, beyond just catchy beats? Read the Full Article
After a decade of evolution, TV.Out has carved out a unique sonic identity that blends primitive techno, dark EBM, and electro into a distinctively raw sound. Known for their textured and industrial aesthetic, the duo has garnered attention from notable underground labels like L.I.E.S. Records and Dark Entries. Based in Berlin but originating from Tel Aviv, they are set to release their latest EP, Closer, on July 29, 2025, featuring distorted electro infused with broken rhythms and menacing basslines. What does TV.Out’s commitment to an analog and industrial sound tell us about the future of electronic music in a predominantly…
Suzi Sabotage returns with her new single and video “Suden Synty,” marking her first release since July 2023. The track, described as a “hypnotic and gloomy” exploration of personal identity and liberation, accompanies a visually striking video featuring Sabotage connecting with nature. She emphasizes that the song transcends mere nature worship, focusing instead on the internal transformation necessary for authentic self-expression. As she continues to perform live and work on new material, Sabotage already has upcoming shows in Barcelona and Madrid. Given her emphasis on personal liberation and self-discovery, how do you think artists like Sabotage influence conversations about identity…
Carla Harvey, fronting Lords of Acid on the Praise the Lords Tour, is also collaborating with Anthrax drummer Charlie Benante for their new project, The Violent Hour. Following singles “Hell or Hollywood” and “Sick Ones,” they’ve announced a debut self-titled EP set for release on July 25, with pre-orders starting June 19. Harvey describes the songwriting process as liberating, reflecting a reconnection with her musical roots. The EP features contributions from notable guitarists John 5 and Zakk Wylde, alongside Crobot’s Brandon Yeagley. What do you think the shift in Harvey’s songwriting approach signifies for her artistic evolution, especially in contrast…
Lene Lovich is set to open for DEVO and The B-52’s in a groundbreaking tour across 24 North American cities this Fall, marking her first tour in over 30 years. This collaboration stems from their recent performances together at the SNL 50 concert. Lovich, known for her unique sound, will also have solo gigs, providing fans multiple opportunities to see her. Excitement is palpable among long-time followers, especially as many haven’t seen her perform live before. Is the resurgence of these iconic bands a sign that nostalgia-driven tours are becoming a vital part of the current music landscape, or could…
Beauty in Chaos has released an intimate video for "Made of Rain," showcasing an Almost Acoustic rendition from their album Signs in the Heavens Reality Upside Down. Filmed by Fernando and Vicente Cordero of Industrialism Films, the performance features vocalists Whitney Tai and Ashton Nyte, who also plays acoustic guitar. The collaborative efforts continue with Michael Ciravolo and producer Michael Rozon, who enhance the track with their guitar and pedal steel, respectively. The release follows two previous videos and is part of an album packed with remixes and revisions. Ashton Nyte is set to embark on the Haunting Tour, highlighting…
"A Prayer For Derek Jarman" marks Psychic TV’s tribute to filmmaker Derek Jarman, featuring remastered soundtracks that blend ambient recordings, ritualistic sound collages, and avant-garde influences. This essential release not only revisits their pioneering compositions but also illuminates Jarman’s legacy as a filmmaker and LGBTQ+ activist. The centerpiece, a Tibetan-inspired homage, weaves personal memories into an evocative sonic landscape. How does the intersection of music and film shape our emotional and cultural understanding of artists like Jarman, and in what ways can such soundscapes serve as contemporary memorials? Read the Full Article