Author: Ritualcontrol

I recently submitted my track “Ego Mortuus Sum” to various playlist curators, receiving positive feedback on its progressive vibe and strong musicianship. However, some curators felt it didn’t align with their audiences—some sought more raw aggression, while others preferred less atmospheric sections. This highlights that my music resonates with listeners who appreciate a balance of heaviness and atmosphere rather than sheer extremity. What does it say about our musical landscapes when distinct audiences crave such specific elements? Read the Full Article

AUTHOR & PUNISHER has unveiled a new music video for "Thrush," a track from their upcoming album Nocturnal Birding, dropping on October 3rd via Relapse Records. Tristan Shone describes the song as capturing the essence of the album, inspired by the melody of the wood thrush and reminiscent of bands like Neurosis and Jesu. The creative collaboration with artist Lucile, known for her medieval-inspired artwork, has resulted in striking visuals that complement the music. In an era where music and art are evolving together, how do you think artistic collaborations like this one influence the emotional depth and impact of…

Berlin-based Irish producer Simon Hayes revives his Swarm Intelligence project with “Radiance,” a four-track EP that plunges into the darker realms of techno. Following a successful collaboration with Natural Selection, this release showcases Hayes’ distinctive sound—an evolution of corrosive techno mingled with rhythmic noise and cinematic soundscapes. As he returns to the label after notable performances, “Radiance” marks a bold step in showcasing the heavier tapestry of techno and IDM. What does this evolution in Swarm Intelligence’s sound reveal about the changing landscape of techno, and how might it influence future productions within the genre? Read the Full Article

Nearly two years after the original release of the Thrown Away EP, London-based industrial/metal artist Binary Order, led by Benjamin Blank, has unveiled an expanded version featuring the title track cover of Papa Roach and three remixes. The new release includes six additional remixes from various artists connected through the Russian Dark Community, making it a diverse collection. This expansion follows the June release of an extended edition of The Future Belongs to the Mad and anticipates a new album in December 2024. The Thrown Away album is now available on Bandcamp as a name-your-price item. What do you think…

After six years since the dissolution of Severed Heads, founder Tom Ellard releases “FILM,” a collection of 13 previously unused tracks for film and advertising. Described as “the Magilla Gorilla in the pet shop window,” these re-edited pieces were once part of the exclusive Sevcom Music Server collection but are now available for a broader audience. The album, released on September 4, follows Ellard’s continued musical endeavors and the impending release of the double-LP “Ear Bitten” in 2024. Given Ellard’s ability to evolve and adapt his work post-Severed Heads, what does this suggest about the role of legacy acts in…

Pulp kicks off their North American tour tonight in Atlanta, marking a significant milestone for fans. Tomorrow, the excitement continues with Sparks. Stay tuned for updates on these iconic performances! What do you think makes a concert experience truly memorable for an artist or a fan? Read the Full Article

Ailise Blake, the "spectral folk" artist, is set to release her second album, Soave, on November 7 via These Hands Melt, with the debut single "Apollo (The Attraction Towards the Sun)." The album symbolizes the stillness beneath daily life, highlighting themes of subjective peace through a blend of natural imagery and intimate moments that reflect her isolated writing process. Recorded in a remote mountaintop village, Blake aimed for raw authenticity, exploring influences from her philosophical studies. In a world increasingly dominated by digital noise, how do you think immersive isolation affects an artist’s creative process and the authenticity of their…

Exciting news: my song "Ego Mortuus Sum" from Horror Sacri has hit #1 on both the RepostExchange Pop-Rock chart and the overall Top 40 chart! This marks my highest achievement on the platform, and I’m incredibly grateful for the support I’ve received. It’s a reminder of the power of connection in the music community, where artists uplift one another to reach new heights. What do you think drives the emotional resonance of music, and how does community support amplify that experience for artists and listeners alike? Read the Full Article

Daniel Sombra, head of Dark Valencia, discussed an exciting upcoming event on September 13th at Sala Matisse, featuring dark, gothic, post-punk, and alternative music. His journey began with influences from iconic bands like The Cure and Depeche Mode during his youth, and he’s remained passionately dedicated to nurturing Valencia’s dark music scene despite its fluctuating popularity. The collaboration for the event, involving various local promoters, signifies a collective effort to revitalize and celebrate this niche genre within the community. Given the historical fluctuations in the dark music scene, how can local communities better support and sustain niche music genres like…

Crippling Alcoholism has unveiled a dynamic music video for their latest single "Ladies’ Night," the fourth from their upcoming album Camgirl. Released on September 2, the video features fan-submitted footage, creating a chaotic narrative that aligns with the album’s club-centric vibe. Shifting from their previous Americana-inspired sound, the band now explores the realms of dance music and party pop. The album itself, out on September 12, delves into the harrowing tale of an online performer’s exploitation, viewed through the eyes of those who exploit her. Given this evolution in sound and the deep themes explored in Camgirl, how do you…