Independent Project Records is releasing Jeffrey Runnings’ poignant posthumous album “Piqued,” crafted with an analog 8-track home studio, just before his untimely passing due to cancer. The album blends rich sonic textures reminiscent of the late 60s and post-Punk, weaving together introspective melodies and minimal lyrics. Songs like “Batman Forever” and “Elegy” encapsulate Runnings’ journey with both beauty and dignity, while the bonus tracks offer a nostalgic glimpse into his earlier works. As we explore the raw emotions reflected in “Piqued,” it raises an intriguing question: How does an artist’s personal struggle with mortality shape their creative output, and what…
Author: Ritualcontrol
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FÏX8:SËD8 has debuted their hard-hitting single “New Eden,” from the upcoming album “Octagram,” set for release on October 3, 2025. The album features eight tracks, each approximately eight minutes long, and explores themes of infinity and the influence of organized religion. With progressive elements, diverse vocals, and polyrhythmic experimentation, “Octagram” builds on the band’s established dark electro sound while expanding their musical boundaries. What do you think the significance of the number eight is in this context, especially regarding concepts of infinity and control within organized religion? Read the Full Article
Galya Bisengalieva, a Kazakh composer and virtuoso violinist, challenges musical boundaries with her innovative work. Following her haunting album Polygon, which reflects on the dark history of Kazakhstan’s Semipalatinsk Test Site, she unveils Polygon Reflections—a collaborative reimagining featuring a diverse group of contemporary artists. This project not only deepens the historical narrative but also transforms it into a dynamic soundscape that intertwines personal and cultural memories. As we contemplate the themes of history and identity in her music, how can art serve as a powerful tool for reexamining and healing collective traumas? Read the Full Article
Raven Black returns with a hauntingly theatrical music video for “This Little Piggy,” directed by Oskar Alvarado. The animated spectacle blends horror and humor into a visceral anthem for outcasts and misfits, showcasing the band’s signature macabre style. This release serves as the fourth single from their upcoming album Black Sonata, produced by Grammy-nominated Ulrich Wild, set to drop on September 12. Pre-orders are available now, following their previous singles “Fxck You,” “Burn,” and “Death Waltz.” What themes of outsider identity and societal rejection do you think the band explores through their music and visuals, and how do you believe…
Front Line Assembly released Caustic Grip 35 years ago, marking a pivotal moment in their evolution with Rhys Fulber’s full integration into the band. This album, which includes iconic tracks like “Iceolate” and “Resist,” was originally launched in 1990 and is now being reissued on vinyl to celebrate its anniversary. Fans can look forward to purchasing bundles featuring exclusive items, and the band is gearing up for the Industrial Nation 2025 Tour, showcasing classics from their WaxTrax! era. With ongoing solo projects from lead members, the legacy of FLA continues to expand. Given the longevity and influence of Caustic Grip,…
Pierre and Romain Audoynaud, alongside their sister Charlotte, fuse music, spoken word, and visual art into a dreamlike experience. Their debut album, Hyperboréen, transports listeners to an imagined North, where classical instruments meld with electronic soundscapes, crafting an ethereal atmosphere. Live performances translate these intricate layers into unique rituals infused with improvisation and immersive visuals. What do you think is the impact of blending various artistic forms—like music, poetry, and visual art—on the emotional experience of an audience? Read the Full Article
Summary: The review of "Shades of Life" by The Bleak Picture describes it as a melodic death-doom album that, while drawing on familiar influences from key genres, struggles with monotony in its songwriting. The album’s strengths lie in its heavy riffs and emotional weight, especially in standout tracks like "Silent Exit." However, it falls short of delivering a truly innovative experience, ultimately feeling like a pastiche of established sounds rather than a fresh contribution to the genre. Discussion Prompt: What elements of innovation do you believe are essential for an album to stand out in an established genre like melodic…
Chimes, a post-punk and goth/rock band from Florida, has released their debut music video for “Dovetail,” directed by Noelle Shuck, showcasing a mix of live performance footage and a shift toward a synth-driven sound. The song, featured on their album Pile of Parts, explores darker human experiences with themes of loss and disconnection, reflecting the weight of living. Released on May 23 via Ashtray Monument, the album is available on Bandcamp. Founded in 2019, Chimes brings together musicians with roots in notable Gainesville bands. As Pile of Parts delves into the depths of human experience, how do you think the…
Molecular Recordings celebrates its 50th release with Linear System’s EP “Turiban,” a masterful blend of rhythmic precision and visceral energy, designed for both club euphoria and deep listening. This release exemplifies the label’s dedication to pioneering techno while introducing the Covalence Series, a collaborative project that melds the visions of established and emerging artists, creating intricate soundscapes that defy genre boundaries. How does the fusion of established and emerging talents in the Covalence Series challenge our understanding of genre in electronic music, and can it pave the way for a more inclusive definition of techno? Read the Full Article
ACTORS, the Vancouver post-punk band, is gearing up for a North American tour from September 5 to October 2, following their European tour with Soft Vein. Festival appearances include ColdWaves in Chicago and Absolution Fest in Tampa, with stops in several major cities. They recently released a remix of “In Real Life” and are working on a new album after 2021’s Acts of Worship. Notably, they will support The Damned at a hometown show on July 28. Meanwhile, Soft Vein and Leathers have also been active, with new EPs and albums. Discussion Point: As ACTORS and their affiliated projects continue…