Author: Ritualcontrol

In an interview with Ilker Yücel, Jason Schmal of The Children’s Crusade discusses the evolution of his band and their debut album, Black, Bruised, and Broken Down. Schmal reflects on the journey of crafting the album, explaining that initially releasing singles and alternate mixes helped build an audience before the full-length project. He emphasizes the emotional and conceptual depth of the album, tackling themes of identity and self-exploration. Schmal shares insights into his creative process, the blending of authenticity with punk-like vocals, and the balance of honoring musical influences while carving out his unique sound. Looking ahead, he expresses hopes…

Art is a tapestry woven from the threads of our experiences, inspirations, and introspections. Each note I create is layered with influences—everything from philosophy to personal struggles—reflecting a dialogue with the world around me. While my music evolves, the foundational stories continue to shape my journey. Question for discussion: How do you think personal experiences and wider cultural influences shape the creative process in art, and can art truly exist in isolation from its inspirations? Read the Full Article

VOWWS just unveiled their new music video for "Re-Animator," the fifth single from their upcoming album I’ll Fill Your House With An Army, dropping October 24th via Out Of Line Music. Featuring renowned musicians Josh Freese on drums and Billy Howerdel on guitar and production, the track explores themes of delusional fantasy and the belief in a grand destiny amidst mundane surroundings. Given the song’s focus on the power of shared belief in the face of adversity, how do you think such delusions shape our reality and drive personal ambition? Read the Full Article

Summary: The blog highlights two emerging artists in the dream pop and shoegaze genres. Norwegian singer-songwriter Sikade’s new single "Body of Water" blends intimate dream pop with introspective songwriting, capturing the emotional turbulence of youth. French producer Gwenolé introduces his solo project with "Circadian Rhythm," a track that merges familiar shoegaze elements with innovative melodies, reminiscent of a collaboration between Radio Dept. and early James Blake. Thought-Provoking Statement: Both artists demonstrate a deep emotional resonance that highlights the complexities of youth and identity. How do you think the blending of genres like dream pop and shoegaze enhances the storytelling in…

“Emptiness” is the latest single from Amsterdam-based group The Dark Wave, blending gothic rock with a new wave vibe. The track features energetic guitar riffs, harmonized vocals, and a catchy Brit pop rhythm, alluding to the paradox of modern connections through technology. While we can reach out globally via our phones, the song highlights how this often leaves us feeling more isolated. Is our increasing reliance on technology ultimately deepening our sense of emptiness, or can it be a bridge to more meaningful connections? Read the Full Article

Spammerheads, the Valencia-based duo, return with The Mire Chronicles, a deeply personal album born from the chaos and emotional turmoil following the catastrophic floods in Valencia in 2024. Expanding on their EBM roots established in Disclaimer, this new work weaves visceral soundscapes, blending relentless sequences and abrasive basslines with textures that encapsulate feelings of loss, powerlessness, and resilience. The result is a sonic diary that captures the collective emotional journey of navigating catastrophe. How do you think personal experiences of trauma can shape the creative output of artists, and can such works foster solidarity in communities facing similar challenges? Read…

Moody Mcivor, under the label Nerang Records, recently released his second single “Benaiah Fiu” as part of his darkwave project. The track features a rhythmic drum machine and airy synths, with Mcivor’s vocals reminiscent of Ian Curtis and Frank Tovey. The upcoming EP, “Shadow Frequencies,” serves as a tribute to his late friend Benaiah Fiu, expressing grief beneath its mechanical exterior while echoing early ’80s post-punk sounds. In a genre often characterized by its emotional distance, how does Mcivor balance the mechanical elements of darkwave with the deep personal grief evident in his music? Read the Full Article

Summary: Green Carnation’s A Dark Poem Part I: The Shores Of Melancholia (2025) blends gothic and progressive metal, delivering a haunting musical experience with introspective themes. Each track, from the somber "As Silence Took You" to the contemplative "Too Close To The Flame," showcases the band’s rich instrumentation and emotional depth. Available for download in high-quality mp3, this album invites listeners to explore their own melancholic shores. Discussion Prompt: How does the blending of gothic and progressive elements in this album enhance its exploration of themes like melancholy and introspection? Read the Full Article

“Before The Dawn – Cold Flare Eternal” is a captivating album that fuses Gothic Metal and Melodic Death Metal, showcasing the band’s signature sound. With tracks like “Initium” and “Flame Eternal,” it offers an emotional journey with powerful riffs and haunting melodies. Fans of the genre will appreciate its depth and energy. What themes or emotions do you think resonate most in this album, and how do they reflect the evolution of Gothic Metal in recent years? Read the Full Article

Today, I made the tough call to leave rock climbing behind after years of struggle, as nagging joint issues risk my true passion—guitar playing. It’s bittersweet, but I choose music over a beloved hobby. I’m sharing this not for sympathy, but to mark the end of a chapter. How do we determine which passions to prioritize in our lives, especially when they presented both joy and pain? Read the Full Article