2DCAT’s upcoming album, This Is Not For You, marks a significant evolution in their sound, melding analog synths reminiscent of the late ’70s and early ’80s with darker, more emotionally charged themes of loss and survival. Drawing inspiration from innovative authors and creators like Mark Z. Danielewski and David Lynch, the duo, comprising producer/multi-instrumentalist 2DCAT and vocalist/lyricist HAEZL, describes the album as a journey through despair towards enlightenment. With a release date set for July 18, pre-orders are available, and music videos for several tracks have already been launched. Given the album’s focus on navigating trauma and disorientation, how do…
Author: Ritualcontrol
Read More
The post reflects on the similarity between obscure bands and their more commercially successful counterparts, particularly from the 80s and 90s. It highlights The New Day, a Houston-based band whose album draws heavily from the sound of The Cure. Released in 1986, their only album, Voices, channels jangly guitars, catchy hooks, and haunting synths, reminiscent of The Cure’s iconic era. Despite their closeness to their influences, the author treasures the DIY charm and quality of the songs. Is it possible for a band to create something genuinely original while still drawing heavily from their influences, or is the line between…
Sumo Cyco, the Ontario band known for their dynamic fusion of alt-metal, punk, pop, and electro, has released their new single "Villains," showcasing a more polished sound aimed at broader commercial success. The track explores themes of misunderstood outcasts and the complexities of villainry, with lead singer Skye Sweetnam describing it as a tongue-in-cheek reflection on the nature of antagonism and idol worship. Co-written with guitarist/producer Matt Drake and produced by Salvatore Sam Guaiana, "Villains" marks the band’s first release since their critically acclaimed album Initiation in 2021 and is now available on major streaming platforms. Considering Sumo Cyco’s evolution…
Gary Marx, a founding member of The Sisters of Mercy, has released a new album titled Sad Songs for Anthony, following his previous work Green Ginger Jive. The album showcases dark, guitar-driven post-punk tracks reminiscent of his earlier music, featuring standout songs like "Sahel" and "Diaspora," which blend Marx’s guitar prowess with innovative violin tones. While the album reflects his creative evolution, Marx acknowledges its need for more polished vocals. He views Sad Songs for Anthony as a thank-you to fans and a return to his musical roots. Despite the interest in live performances, Marx is hesitant to return to…
In June 2025, Consequence features Hotline TNT, a fuzz rock band, and their standout album Raspberry Moon. Lead singer Will Anderson captures the essence of heartache in the poignant track "Lawnmower," blending personal reflection with vivid imagery of everyday life. The album marks a shift from the band’s earlier DIY sound to a polished, collaborative effort, showcasing Anderson’s growth and willingness to embrace teamwork in the creative process. How does the evolution of an artist’s sound reflect their personal experiences and relationships over time? Read the Full Article
Silver Sircus, a Brisbane-based band, has reinterpreted Gary Numan’s iconic tracks from 1978-1981 in their album Metal, featuring haunting performances led by vocalist Lucinda Shaw. The interpretations blend classical elements with electronic roots, creating a fresh yet nostalgic experience that highlights the emotional depth of Numan’s work, especially in tracks like "Metal," "Cars," and "Down In The Park." Given the artistic risks Silver Sircus has taken to reimagine such classic pieces, how do you think reinterpretations of iconic songs influence the way we perceive their original meanings and impact on contemporary music? Read the Full Article
El 5 de julio, el festival Emergencia Sonora regresará para celebrar la cultura old school, dark e industrial en la sala 16 Toneladas. Esta edición ampliada incluirá exposiciones de artesanía, proyecciones artísticas y la presentación del libro “La autarquía creativa de Javi Golo”. La noche se iluminará con poesía y una sesión de ambient por el Dj Antibavs. ¿Cómo puede un festival como Emergencia Sonora ayudar a revitalizar y conectar las escenas artísticas contemporáneas con sus raíces históricas? Read the Full Article
JC Lobo, known as Ritualz (†‡†), marks 15 years in the music scene with the release of Forever, a double album compilation from Re:Mission Entertainment featuring 22 tracks. Most tracks have been re-recorded with fresh arrangements reflecting Lobo’s live performances, alongside two new songs, "Testify" and "Nothing." The album showcases Ritualz’s diverse sound, spanning from witch house to industrial influences, and is dedicated to the memory of Sky Hutchens and Aaron Perez. Set to release on July 18, it’s already available for pre-order on Bandcamp. What do you think about the evolution of an artist’s sound over time, and how…
"Abandoned by Humans – Adopted by Wolves" is Devil’s Breath’s fifth album, featuring a bold, nearly hour-long track that explores disillusionment with humanity while celebrating the instinctive purity of wolves. This genre-defying work, a departure from their industrial roots, merges ritual noise and dark ambient into an unsettling yet elevating soundscape. As they yearn for a harmonious connection with nature, the album challenges listeners to reflect on what we’ve sacrificed in our modern existence. Discussion Point: In a world increasingly disconnected from nature, how might art and music like this influence our relationship with the environment and our understanding of…
Thomas Dolby is embarking on a brief East Coast tour this fall, coinciding with the fall break at The Peabody Institute, where he has taught for over a decade. Renowned for his innovative contributions to music across various media, Dolby will perform in charming theaters near his home in Baltimore. Expect a blend of music and storytelling, reminiscent of his past performances and his memoir, “The Speed Of Sound.” The tour kicks off on October 23, 2023, and includes stops in Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, New York, and Delaware. What does Dolby’s unique blend of music and storytelling reveal about the…