Summary: Årabrot’s Rite of Dionysus marks a bold, thematic departure from their previous noise rock anthems, embracing a quieter, more introspective soundscape reminiscent of bands like Swans and the Bad Seeds. Initially met with disappointment, the album reveals its depth upon further listening, showcasing repetitive song structures and evolving instrumentation. Tracks like "I Become Light" and "Rock ‘N’ Roll Star" highlight this transformation, blending haunting melodies with a unique conceptual approach. The album culminates in "Of Darkness and Light," a dance track that juxtaposes its upbeat sound with morose lyrics, encapsulating the album’s theatrical essence. Rite of Dionysus demands patience…
Author: Ritualcontrol
Read More
After six years since her acclaimed Phantoms album, Azam Ali has unveiled "To Pieces," the lead single from her upcoming Synesthesia album. Describing it as a meditation on betrayal—both personal and environmental—Ali combines striking imagery with a thematic exploration of destruction and renewal. Collaborating with instrumentalists Loga Ramin Torkian, Iman Ali Torkian, and Gabriel Vinuela, she aims for enhanced emotional depth in her music. Synesthesia is set for release on November 14, following Ali’s diverse musical journey, including collaborations with notable artists and contributions to various media soundtracks. What do you think the impact of exploring themes like betrayal and…
Sunshine Blind is back with their first new single in over 20 years, titled “Scarred But Fearless,” set to release on September 5th. The duo of Caroline Blind and CWHK showcases their renewed energy in two tracks, “Ghost of You” and “Unsinkable,” blending high-energy post-punk grooves with impactful lyrics. The music maintains a dramatic flair while steering clear of traditional goth rock, offering a fresh take for listeners. As we anticipate the release, it raises an interesting question: In a music landscape constantly evolving, how do bands that return after long hiatuses maintain relevance while still honoring their roots? Read…
Lord of the Lost has kept up their impressive momentum with the release of “Raveyard,” a new single featuring Finnish rapper Käärijä. Produced by Chris Harms alongside Corvin Bahn and Benjamin Mundigler, the track is a creative blend recorded in various locations, from home studios to tour buses, and features lyrics in English, German, and Finnish. This release comes after their August 8 album OPVS NOIR Vol. 1 and the anthem “Dark Heart of the Moon” for the M’era Luna Festival. Käärijä, known for his Eurovision entry “Cha Cha Cha,” adds an intriguing layer to this collaboration. As musical styles…
The End of the Road Festival showcased an impressive lineup despite challenging weather conditions, with first-time attendees like Elliott Simpson praising its small-town charm and deep sense of community. Highlights included Sharon Van Etten’s powerful festival debut, Matt Berninger’s emotional performance, and Father John Misty’s captivating closing set, which drew from his extensive catalog. Attendees remarked on the festival’s unique atmosphere, finding joy even in the rain-soaked experiences. As festivals evolve amidst changing climates and community dynamics, what do you think are the most important elements that contribute to a festival’s lasting appeal? Read the Full Article
Die Krupps, a pioneering force in industrial and electronic music since their 1980 punk roots, have evolved through noise, EBM, and heavy metal over four decades. Their ability to reinvent themselves without losing their transgressive edge is evident in their upcoming 45th-anniversary EP “Will nicht – MUSS! / On Collision Course,” featuring remixes from Ministry. As they continue to connect their rich legacy with today’s scene, one has to wonder: how do acts like Die Krupps shape the future of industrial music while honoring its past? Read the Full Article
Julien-K, fueled by their dedicated fanbase, continues to thrive with their latest projects, including the DRK|MODE album and the live performance Ritual, which was filmed raw and live, showcasing their evolving sound. Their crowdfunding efforts have consistently surpassed expectations, reflecting their strong community support. The band is gearing up for an extensive tour in 2025 after their recent California shows, expanding their reach to the U.K. and Ireland. Thought-provoking question: With their transition toward a more electronic sound and minimalistic approach in recent works, how do you think this evolution reflects broader trends in the music industry and fan expectations?…
After weeks of introspection and revisions, I’ve crafted the first complete draft of my album’s lyrics, spanning six and a half pages. This project explores the profound human experience of acceptance and rejection, mirroring a love story that evolves through despair and sorrow, yet consistently emphasizes the enduring nature of love—even amidst heartbreak. Ultimately, it raises the question: can love transcend mortality, offering a deeper meaning to our existence? Reflecting on this, how might our struggles with acceptance and rejection shape our understanding of love’s true significance in our lives? Read the Full Article
Chicago’s Sinister Fate has just released a new EP titled Profit of Doom, featuring the single "beLIEve." This marks a shift for the band, as they tackle sociopolitical themes, particularly criticizing the current state of affairs in the U.S., while maintaining their signature horror aesthetic. Frontman David Bates emphasizes a nuanced approach to commentary, suggesting that overt messaging can be limiting. The politically charged music video, directed by Bates, draws inspiration from The Purge and critiques conservative and Christian ideals. This release is a follow-up to their previous album, Broken Minds Damaged Hearts (2020). In a world where art often…
Experimental dark ambient performer Kathodos has announced a new edition of his debut album Parasomnia: Pavor Nocturnus, featuring remastered audio, an updated track order, and new artwork. Initially released in May 2024 with minimal promotion, the album encapsulates a dreamlike journey filled with both beauty and unease, constructed from fragments of dream and nightmare. Collaborating with Lavinia, who adds soprano vocals and spoken word, Kathodos’s work marries drones and rituals to create a haunting atmosphere. This new edition, set for release on October 28 via Rune Serpent Europa, will be available in a limited run of 500 CDs. A video…