EP REVIEW: Rituals - Show Me The Signs
Newcastle based modern metal quartet Rituals formed in 2018, to date they have released one EP 2021's "Awake" and an array of singles. "Show Me The Signs" is an amalgamation of their last two singles with the addition of a new song which is also the title track.
"Show Me the Signs" starts with a simplistic indie feel before bursting into an electrifying riff. It builds and mellows numerous times with gorgeous powerful vocals that swoop and soar throughout with magnetic force. It's an epic example of a powerful rock vocal with screaming metalcore guitars and a killer drum track.
"Ocean Subside" is much heavier with aggressive drums, a meaty riff coupled with massive, melodic clean vocals and growled unclean vox in true metalcore style. It's a hell of a song that totally consumes the listener with every word and riff.
The last song "In Devastation" screams of Slipknot in every way! The drums are frantic and chaotic. The sung portion has a chanty edge and the unclean section is the perfect amount of fierce and angry.
The band state they want to create a record that engulfs the listener and that's exactly what "Show Me the Signs" does. I like the fact the more modest title track provides a more gentle start before the record builds to a crescendo of pure ruthless passion. Listening to it with your eyes closed gives it more depth and makes the band's passion come to life and the record feel even more real and intense.
I rate this EP very highly, some of the best new music I've heard!
