Author: Ritualcontrol

The U.K. trio of Rhys Bloodjoy, Ms De Vine, and Jamie Headcharge is set to release their album “Bloodjoy Vs (Vol. 1)” on November 21 via Sister 9 Recordings. This collaboration was sparked during a live performance at April’s Resistanz Festival in Sheffield, where their combined styles fused dark electro, dance, and psych/coldwave. The album features 10 remixes by Headcharge, building on their previous work with the band Dolium. They’ve teased the release with two tracks, showcasing their evolution from past hits to fresh interpretations. Given the long-standing history and diverse backgrounds of these artists, how do you think their…

Read More

Summary: Igorrr is set to embark on their EU Tour Part II, featuring support from DVNE and Thoughtcrimes. The tour kicks off on February 5, 2026, in Meisenthal, France, and spans across multiple cities including Stuttgart, Munich, and Prague, concluding on February 28 in Rouen, France. Tickets are available on Igorrr’s official website. Discussion Prompt: Given the growing popularity of genre-blending artists like Igorrr, what do you think this says about the future of metal music? Will we see an increase in collaboration across genres, or is there a risk of diluting the core elements that define metal? Read the…

Read More

Distortion Productions has recently launched two new singles: “Not Under Your Spell” from the goth/post-punk duo Frenchy and the Punk, and “House of Sin” by the U.K. electro/rock trio Agency-V. Frenchy and the Punk’s energetic debut with the label highlights resilience against adversity, complemented by a vibrant music video that reflects the chaos of New York City. Meanwhile, Agency-V returns with their first new material since July, showcasing their evolution under Distortion Productions. Both singles are available on Bandcamp. In a landscape of ever-changing music trends, what do you think the significance of resilience in lyrics communicates to contemporary listeners?…

Read More

IWFYLS, the Russian cinematic post-rock band, has released their highly anticipated album Without/Within, accompanied by a full live performance recorded in Beijing. The album, a sonic exploration of consciousness inspired by astronomy, philosophy, and neuroscience, reflects the band’s thematic depth and artistic vision. Real-time visuals by Evgenii Popov enhance its immersive experience, allowing audiences to engage with its profound concepts. Founded in 2011, IWFYLS has carved a niche in the post-rock scene and continues to evolve, following their previous releases. What do you think about the interplay between music, visuals, and philosophical concepts in modern artistic expressions like IWFYLS’s work?…

Read More

Diana Sawicka and Fabian Filiks have launched a new dark electronic project called The New Flesh, drawing inspiration from David Cronenberg’s Videodrome. Their debut single, "Don’t Make Me Wait," explores themes of identity, humanity, and love in an increasingly tech-driven world, featuring striking visuals and poignant lyrics. The single was released on October 31 through Via Nocturna and is now available on major streaming platforms. Sawicka directed the accompanying video, showcasing her creative vision and featuring her cat. In what ways do you think the fusion of technology and humanity, as explored in The New Flesh’s music, reflects current societal…

Read More

Daniel Ouellette has collaborated with electro/industrial group Fun Never Starts to release a new single titled “A Song For an Evacuation (There’s Another Monster in Town!),” marking his third single of 2025 after the album Otherworld. The song was co-written with Fun Never Starts’ founder Jenny Rae Mettee and features backing vocals by Anne Marie Costa. Released on October 31, the track is available on Bandcamp alongside an accompanying music video. Ouellette, multifaceted as a production designer and illustrator, continues to intertwine his artistic skills with music, having previously worked with Fun Never Starts. As we delve into the evolving…

Read More

Mushroomhead brought an early Halloween vibe to The Forge in Joliet, showcasing their theatrical heaviness along with performances from Mind Incision, Black Satellite, and Psychostick. Each band contributed to a night of diverse heavy music, with Black Satellite standing out for their powerful stage presence and catchy tunes. Mushroomhead’s unique drumming display, featuring water-splashing drums, added to the spectacle that captivated long-time fans and newcomers alike. What does the theatrical element—like Mushroomhead’s use of masks and stage effects—add to the overall experience of a live metal show, and could it be seen as essential for connecting with audiences in the…

Read More

Summary: "Distraction," the third EP from Light of Eternity, delves into the current social turmoil, showcasing a mature sound shaped by Fred Schreck’s expressive guitar and vocals, Pauly Williams’ bass, and Big Paul Ferguson’s dynamic drumming. With tracks like the meditative “Distraction” and the confrontational “Fascist X,” the band blends post-rock, post-punk, and industrial elements, all while delivering poignant commentary on corruption and injustice. Thought-Provoking Statement: In an age where art often reflects societal chaos, how might the emotional resonance of music like "Distraction" inspire listeners to confront and challenge the injustices around them? Read the Full Article

Read More

Swedish metal band Avatar has returned with their new album, Don’t Go In The Forest, marking a milestone as their tenth full-length release. With a distinctive blend of heavy metal and a blend of horror-inspired elements, the album promises to captivate fans with tracks that traverse strange and eerie landscapes. Notable songs include "Tonight We Must Be Warriors," a dynamic opener, and the haunting title track, which boasts a memorable chorus. Avatar’s signature theatrical style is sure to resonate onstage. In exploring the themes of the album, how do you think Avatar’s approach to blending horror with heavy metal influences…

Read More

God Body Disconnect, the solo project of Bruce Moallem, explores deep themes of loss and nostalgia through cinematic soundscapes, combining drones and post-rock guitars with vintage recording techniques. His latest album, Lost Within Loss, presents a hauntingly evocative experience that invites listeners into a dreamy realm of personal sorrow and reflection. How does the use of vintage equipment enhance the emotional depth of the album, and do you think this choice makes the themes of loss and memory resonate more with the listener? Read the Full Article

Read More