Orbscure Recordings, founded by The Orb’s Alex Paterson, is set to release DF Tram’s new album, Bittersweet Afternoon, on July 11. Created during the pandemic in studios across Zagreb and Vienna, this marks DF Tram’s debut with the label, following his collaborative album with Canopy of Stars. The album features atmospheric elements, with contributions from violinist Violeta Vicci and Paterson himself on two tracks. Three singles—“Flashbulb Memory,” “Separate Ways,” and “The Librarian”—have already dropped, and fans can pre-order the album in various formats through Bandcamp. Given the challenges of creating music during a pandemic, how do you think the unique…
Author: Ritualcontrol
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Yorkshire post-rock supergroup ROTHCO has launched their debut EP, Fool’s Gold, blending diverse musical influences into what they call “Technicolour New Wave.” With members from bands like BUNKERPOP and BLACK DELTA MOVEMENT, the EP showcases a split personality, shifting from traditional rock elements in the first half to a theatrical horror punk vibe in the latter. The closing track evokes Tim Curry’s iconic vocals, offering a quirky and unforgettable experience. Given their eclectic sound and the promise of collaboration, how might ROTHCO’s diverse backgrounds influence the evolution of their music in future projects? Read the Full Article
Electro/darkwave artist C Z A R I N A and avant-garde metal band Dread Majesty have collaborated on a new single titled “Gemini,” which blends gothic and experimental electronic textures. This track, described as “the holy alloy of blood rite and divination,” showcases C Z A R I N A’s voice harmonizing with Dread Majesty’s vocalist Rex Vincent. Released after C Z A R I N A’s 2024 album and marking Dread Majesty’s fourth single of 2025, “Gemini” is now available on digital platforms. The collaboration highlights the fusion of distinct artistic visions and creative experimentation. What does this collaboration…
Vincent Guerrero IV, known as Night Ritualz, is redefining the darkwave and synth/punk scene by integrating Tejano influences and sharing personal narratives. His latest single, “Piensa En Mí,” reinterprets a classic 1935 song by Agustín Lara, blending modern darkwave elements with its rich emotional heritage. Released on June 13, the track comes alive through an evocative music video and follows his self-titled debut from March, available in both digital and vinyl formats. How do you think the fusion of traditional music styles with modern genres like darkwave can influence the preservation and evolution of cultural heritage? Read the Full Article
Irish industrial and darksynth artist Craven has released his latest single, “Drown,” marking his first offering of 2025. Drawing inspiration from the occult and horror, the track explores haunting memories resurfacing to affect one’s psyche, evoking imagery reminiscent of the 2002 remake of The Ring. With lyrics like “Drown your horses” and “Throw your problems down a well,” the song captures a chilling atmosphere. Available on platforms like Bandcamp, SoundCloud, and Spotify, “Drown” follows Craven’s 2024 releases and showcases his ongoing evolution as an artist, further highlighted by his energetic live performances across the U.K. and Europe. How does the…
Black Rain, a dark rock and post-punk band from Sunderland, has announced their self-titled debut album, set for release on July 14. The album features five studio tracks and four live recordings, reflecting the industrial influences of their hometown and a spirit of rebellion. The trio, comprising vocalist/guitarist Josh Cowey, bassist Scott Hays, and drummer Mick Christen, describes their sound as “Too goth to be punk. Too punk to be goth.” Following their EP “Live @ The Fulford Arms 28/12/24,” fans can preview the opening track “Inside” and a live version of “Broken Words.” They have upcoming performances at multiple…
Blood Handsome, the L.A.-based dark synth outfit, has released the single “Abandon” through Strict Tempo, marking their first release in over three years. The track features a gothic, gloomy atmosphere suitable for the dancefloor, exploring themes of romantic doom. This single serves as the lead for their upcoming untitled album, set to drop this September, following their previous works, including 2022’s A New Calm and 2020’s Rituals. Founder Gerren Reach collaborates with NYC DJ/producer Mark Cage for live performances. What do you think the shift towards darker themes in electronic music tells us about current musical trends and cultural sentiments?…
Affect Effect, a multi-genre electronic music project founded by Tal Kliger in 2018, channels ’90s cinema and cyberpunk culture in its latest album, Friday Night Firefight. Initially an academic exercise, the project transformed into a passionate homage to dark electronic sounds and heavy beats, inspired by Kliger’s own tabletop RPG campaign. With tracks that evoke high-octane chases and gritty battles against corporate oppression, the album also includes reimagined takes on the Cyberpunk 2077 soundtrack, pushing its themes further into darker, more intense territory. As music continues to explore and intersect with gaming and storytelling, how do you think soundtracks like…
FleischKrieg is back with Herzblut II, a remix and remaster of their debut album that includes eight revamped tracks, a cover of "Relax," and the 2023 single "Bloody Prophets II." Collaborating once again with producer Logan Mader, the band continues to evolve its industrial/metal sound, building on their success as touring support for Mushroomhead. Released digitally on June 13, Herzblut II showcases the band’s growth and artistic partnerships, including new material set for 2024. This evolution raises an interesting question: How significant do you think collaborations with renowned producers like Logan Mader are to a band’s identity and success in…
René Peraza’s journey from his 1989 single with Bolero, “Gypsy [Catch My Soul],” to his recent release “The World Is Your Oyster” highlights a remarkable evolution in his style and vocal delivery. In “Gypsy,” he showcased a high-energy, R&B-influenced sound reminiscent of the New Wave era, complete with congas and dramatic vocal flourishes. Fast forward to 2025, and his new single presents a tender, family-oriented message, driven by a gentle Fender Rhodes piano, reflecting a more intimate and mature perspective. This progression raises an intriguing question: How does personal growth and life experience influence an artist’s creative output over the…