Author: Ritualcontrol

Melting Rust Opera has launched their new single "I’m a Ghost," collaborating once again with Carlos Perón, co-founder of the electronic pioneer Yello. This track, continuing in the avant-garde industrial/rock vein established with "Start Again," showcases the team’s unique sound, with Perón handling composition and production while frontman Stefan Bahners provides the lyrics and vocals. Released on December 19, the single is now available on Bandcamp and Spotify. This collaboration follows their successful partnership on the album The Power of I Don’t Care, which Perón also mastered. What do you think about the evolution of industrial rock in today’s music…

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Crying Vessel has evolved with the addition of vocalist/guitarist Larry, marking a new chapter in their sound with "Bringing Down the Nation 2.0," released on December 19 through Cold Transmission Music. This track, a reimagined version from their earlier Sepulchers duology, dives into darker political themes, emphasizing humanity’s precarious existence. The accompanying cover art captures the band in awe of Earth, symbolizing their message as a “transmission from the ruins.” The single follows their two earlier releases, solidifying their artistic growth. Thought-provoking question: How do you think the incorporation of political themes in music affects its emotional impact and the…

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Summary: Sinister Fate’s latest release, Profit of Doom, is a dynamic mixture of singles, new tracks, covers, and remixes, embodying the essence of goth horror rock. The standout singles include "beLIEve," which explores themes of societal unrest, and "Meet Mister Scratch," depicting a devilish character preying on moral ambiguities. The album also features a cover of Filter’s "Hey Man, Nice Shot" and the Cure-inspired "VVitch." With symbolic lyrics and a nod to past influences, especially Type O Negative, the album showcases a blend of old and new sounds. Discussion Prompt: In an era where music often seeks to challenge societal…

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The updated Shoegaze 2025 Spotify playlist showcases the year’s best shoegaze and dream pop tracks, featuring artists like Cigarettes For Breakfast, Leaving Venice, and Pretty Average, blending nostalgia with fresh sounds. Each song evokes moods from introspection to euphoria, reflecting on themes of love, distance, and melody. Given the diverse interpretations within the shoegaze and dream pop genres, how do you think current societal changes influence the themes and sounds in contemporary music? Read the Full Article

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F.I.V.E, the upcoming fifth album from Italy’s darkwave group Christine Plays Viola, features the single “My Redemption,” showcasing a blend of deep vocals and sparkling guitar. This track encapsulates the essence of the genre with its danceable rhythm and rich European flair. Fans should check out its vintage gothic video for a visual treat. What do you think sets darkwave apart from other electronic genres, and how does Christine Plays Viola embody that distinction in their sound and aesthetics? Read the Full Article

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Finnish post-punk trio Sonic Punter has released a new single, “Cloud Indigo,” as a holiday gift for fans, emphasizing it as a standalone track not featured on their upcoming sophomore album. The vibrant music video showcases their live performance at Kuudes Linja in Helsinki, highlighting the band’s tightness and energy. Released on December 13 via Blue Bear Records, the single is now available on streaming platforms, with a release show scheduled for December 20 in Tampere. Following their debut EP and a full-length album released earlier this year, the unannounced sophomore album is set for spring 2026. As Sonic Punter…

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After just three years since their debut, Swedish electronic group INLEGION is evolving their sound with the release of the Carthaginian Sessions EP. Recorded in historic Carthage, Tunisia, the four tracks reflect a shift towards darker sonic textures and deeper lyrical themes, inspired by the city’s rich history. While staying true to their electronic roots, the EP captures a more sinister atmosphere that intertwines place and process. This release follows their earlier projects in 2025 and marks their third EP. What role do you think historical contexts play in shaping the creative expression of contemporary artists? Read the Full Article

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Undertheskin merges minimal wave and post-punk to create hauntingly beautiful soundscapes, channeling gothic influences into a contemporary coldwave experience. Founded by Mariusz Łuniewski in 2015, their upcoming album, Never / Return, promises an introspective exploration of memory and grief across seven emotionally charged tracks. What does the blend of nostalgia with contemporary sounds suggest about the evolving nature of music and its ability to express complex emotions? Read the Full Article

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Summary: In an interview with Ilker Yücel, Paula Barouh discusses her independent music project, Descargo y Maleficio, which blends industrial noise and trip-hop while addressing social issues in Chile. Barouh highlights the importance of artistic autonomy after facing sexism in the music industry. Despite the challenges, she finds resilience in her continuing success, including a recent performance at Seattle’s Freakout Festival. The project, described as $hilean Tragedy, aims to confront injustice and inequality through music and performance art. Barouh is set to explore new avenues in 2026 with a collective art exhibition and a new album addressing systemic obstacles faced…

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The Six Impossible Things craft expansive, melancholic dream pop, blending emotional depth with a punk-infused edge. Their latest singles, “Eight and a Half” and “Nevermore,” showcase a rich, collaborative sound as they prepare for their first full album. Performing at the ShoeGaza Vol. 2 festival, they are committed to using their platform to raise awareness for Gaza, underscoring the importance of solidarity and empathy through music. In a world where art often touches on social issues, how can musicians balance their creative expression with activism, and what role does music play in fostering collective awareness and change? Read the Full…

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