Author: Ritualcontrol

Hackney-based duo French Nancy’s latest single, “The Vow,” showcases their blend of post-punk and krautrock influences while exploring themes of human relationships and strength in the face of uncertainty. The spontaneous writing process that led to the creation of this track highlights the band’s ability to adapt and improvise, resulting in a dynamic and introspective piece of music. How do you think the unexpected turn of events during the recording process influenced the final outcome of “The Vow,” and what do you believe the song’s message is about? Read the Full Article

The Damnation Festival in Manchester has announced six new bands, including DEAFHEAVEN, ONSLAUGHT, and AUTHOR & PUNISHER. The festival will also feature bands like TOXIC HOLOCAUST, MESSA, and NECROT. With more surprises and headliners yet to be announced, this year’s 20th anniversary celebration is shaping up to be a must-attend event for extreme metal fans. Who are you most excited to see at this year’s Damnation Festival? What other bands do you hope will be added to the lineup? Read the Full Article

GrabYourFace’s Sadgirl Mixtape is a deeply emotional journey through the depths of despair and heartache, with Marie Lando’s poignant delivery and melancholic lyrics drawing listeners into a world of sadness and introspection. The album’s dark electro and synthwave soundscapes perfectly complement the themes of anguish and regret, creating a cohesive and immersive listening experience. How do you think music like Sadgirl Mixtape can provide comfort and solace to those going through difficult times? Read the Full Article

AINSOPH’s new single “Seven Mouths in the Neck” stands out for its unique blend of post-punk and eerie blackened atmosphere, creating a suffocating yet brilliant listening experience. The track is part of their upcoming record Affection and Vengeance, which promises to be a personal and primal exploration of conflicting emotions. As the band describes it, the album captures the duality of human nature. How do you interpret the themes and emotions presented in this song, and what do you think sets AINSOPH apart in the post-punk genre? Read the Full Article

Chris Harms’ debut solo album “1980” is a nostalgic nod to the synthwave genre, showcasing his talent for creating catchy melodies and authentic ’80s-inspired sounds. The album features guest vocals from Sven Friedrich and Ronan Harris, adding an extra layer of depth and drama to the tracks. With a strong focus on achieving the right aesthetic, Harms has crafted a nearly perfect synthwave record that is sure to resonate with fans of the genre. Question: How do you think Chris Harms’ background in rock music, particularly with Lord of the Lost, influences the sound and style of his solo synthwave…

This week’s Heavy Song of the Week, Cloakroom’s “The Pilot,” kicks off their new album with a heavy yet calming track that will appeal to fans of shoegaze and space-rock. Other notable mentions include Corey Taylor and Bad Omens’ Celtic-inspired cover of “Dust in the Wind” and Deafheaven’s mix of clean singing and harsh moments in “Heathen.” Billy Idol also makes a nostalgic return with “Still Dancing,” reminiscent of his ’80s hits. What are your thoughts on artists exploring new sounds while still paying homage to their roots in their music? Read the Full Article

Neil Arthur of Blancmange and Midge Ure are teaming up for a North American mini-tour following their appearance at the Cruel World Festival 2025. Both artists have a strong electronic sound and a history of pop hits, making this collaboration an exciting prospect for fans. With tickets priced between $40 and $60 for their individual shows, it’s a bargain for fans of both artists. Will you be attending any of their tour dates? What do you think of this unexpected collaboration? Read the Full Article

Accelerated Corrosion, the Spanish producer, has released an EP showcasing his ability to blend industrial, techno, and EBM genres. The tracks, along with exciting remixes, offer a diverse sonic experience that captivates listeners. The EP’s release date is March 7th, 2025. How important is it for electronic music producers to constantly evolve and experiment with different genres to stay relevant in the industry? Read the Full Article

SOLO ANSAMBLIS’ video for “Meilės Mašina” cleverly pokes fun at relationship clichés through a Y2K lens, capturing our corny romcom caricatures of love and loss. The track’s “sad dance” disco darkwave sound leaves listeners yearning for more. How does this playful approach to music videos enhance the viewer’s experience and deepen the connection to the music? Read the Full Article

February flew by, but this mix provided the perfect soundtrack with tracks from The Royal Landscaping Society, The Daydream Twins, and The Primitives. Indonesian indie pop and shoegaze tunes from around the world made for a diverse and enjoyable listening experience. What songs or artists have been getting you through the month lately? Read the Full Article