Author: Ritualcontrol

New Zealand-based post-punk and synthwave act Stars and the Underground is making a comeback after a two-year hiatus, showcasing a new single “Lonely Black Hearts” that celebrates embracing darkness as a form of self-expression. With a new lineup and global ambitions, the band is set on reaching a wider audience with their unique sound. How do you think the theme of embracing darkness and finding beauty in it resonates with listeners in today’s music scene? Read the Full Article

London four-piece Dogviolet have released their new single “Dandelion”, a blend of shoegaze and grunge that balances gritty tones with delicate melodies. The track’s lyrics serve as a critique of capitalist productivity culture, urging listeners to remember their inherent worth beyond productivity. With a driving energy and moments of intimacy, “Dandelion” showcases the band’s potential and ability to capture contrast in their music. Question: How do you think the themes of productivity and inherent worth in “Dandelion” resonate with modern society and the pressures individuals face in a capitalist world? Read the Full Article

Precious Child’s new album, Trantifae Terroir Cellars, continues her bold and unapologetic stance against transphobia and societal injustices. The album is a powerful expression of defiance and resistance in the face of hate and discrimination. How can music continue to be a driving force for social change and activism in today’s world? Read the Full Article

Oliver Ho, under his moniker Broken English Club, presents an exceptional album with Songs Of Love And Decay, blending techno, EBM, and industrial influences into a coherent and engaging experience. The album pays tribute to Silent Servant and showcases a producer ahead of his time. What are your thoughts on the blend of different styles and influences in this album? How do you think it contributes to the evolution of techno-industrial music? Read the Full Article

Barry Andrews of Shriekback discusses the creative process behind their latest album, “Monument,” highlighting the themes of pleasure, anhedonia, and the search for home. He also touches upon the band’s evolution and future direction, as well as the challenges of maintaining fan engagement in an ever-changing industry. It’s clear that Shriekback’s unique blend of musical influences and thought-provoking lyrics continue to resonate with fans, old and new. What are your thoughts on the balance between pleasure and anhedonia in music, and how can artists like Shriekback continue to evolve and engage with their audience in a rapidly changing music landscape?…

Nashville trio Lockstep has returned with their new music video, “Drag Along,” exploring themes of the passage of life. The band has evolved from a recording project to a dynamic live act, gaining recognition in various music communities. With a tour scheduled and new music out, Lockstep continues to push boundaries in their sound. What aspects of life and experience do you think are best expressed through music like Lockstep’s? Read the Full Article

UK dark shoegaze band Cloud Studies, consisting of Adam Cresswell, Nat Guest, Martin J Langthorne, and Adrian Taylor, released their second single “Cloud Cartography” on Happy Robot Records. The sonorous vocals, hazy and dreamlike, perfectly complement the guitars and keyboard, creating a symphony of sonic joy. The track, inspired by a visit to the Derryveagh Mountains in Ireland, explores the idea of mapping clouds as a metaphor for life’s unpredictability and impermanence. Question: How do you interpret the metaphor of mapping clouds in “Cloud Cartography” and its reflection on the transient nature of life? Read the Full Article

Roger Ebner’s EBNR album is a blend of alt. rock, industrial, and neo-jazz featuring expressive saxophone leads and dark, atmospheric vibes. With slick sophistication and gritty songwriting, this album stands out as a unique and immersive musical experience. How does the fusion of genres and instruments in EBNR create a distinctive sonic landscape for listeners to explore? Read the Full Article

Derision Cult’s album Mercenary Notes Pt. 2 is a brutal and fiery display of industrialized metal diatribes that will surely please fans of the genre. With influences from MINISTRY and Sister Machine Gun, the band’s sound remains aggressive and unapologetic. The remixes by Cyanotic and JK Flesh add an extra layer of discordant chaos to the already intense tracks. How do you think Mercenary Notes Pt. 2 compares to the band’s previous works? What do you appreciate most about Derision Cult’s unique blend of industrial, rock, and metal? Read the Full Article

Shriekback’s album “Monument” features a mix of dancefloor anthems and introspective tracks, with themes of pleasure versus its opposite running through the album. The juxtaposition of euphoric stupidity and anhedonic lyrics showcases the band’s versatility and depth. The album’s title track, “Monument,” offers a stark reflection on legacy and impermanence. Overall, the album receives a glowing 5-star rating, showcasing Shriekback’s continued artistic evolution. What themes or elements do you find most compelling in Shriekback’s music, and how do they resonate with you personally? Read the Full Article