Ritualist

The Ritualists are a New York City-based band known for their unique blend of post-punk, glam rock, and psychedelic new wave. Emerging from the underground scene of the Lower East Side, they first gained international attention with their debut album *Painted People* (2019), which features a mix of dark, theatrical soundscapes and catchy, anthemic hooks. Their style is heavily influenced by artists like David Bowie, T. Rex, Suede, and the Velvet Underground, combining dramatic flair with melodic songwriting to create a sound that is both nostalgic and fresh.

Led by singer and bassist Christian Dryden, a multi-instrumentalist with a deep musical background, The Ritualists have continued to evolve their sound through subsequent releases such as *Baroque & Bleeding* and their 2025 album *Too Pure to Cure*, produced by GRAMMY-winner Mario McNulty. Their music merges goth, glam, and modern rock, emphasizing theatricality and emotional depth, which has earned them a devoted following and acclaim for their powerful live performances. The band’s lineup also includes Jeffrey Andrew on keyboards, David Andreana on guitar, and Eric Kuby on drums, all contributing to their richly textured soundscape.