Ritual Dictates

**Ritual Dictates** is a Vancouver-based metal duo formed in 2016 by Justin Hagberg (3 Inches of Blood) and Ash Pearson (Revocation). Blending gnarly extreme metal with post-punk textures and gothic rock atmosphere, these two seasoned musicians craft a sound that’s as brooding as it is brutal. Their 2020 debut album, *Obey in the 3rd Person*, and follow-up releases like *Terror of Time* showcase their knack for pairing jagged riffs, haunting melodies, and lyrics steeped in existential dread and societal decay.

Known for their DIY ethos, Ritual Dictates handles everything from visceral live performances (yes, they tour as a duo!) to their own striking visual art. Tracks like “Burn the Widow” and “Goth and Exhausted” balance raw aggression with darkly catchy hooks, cementing their reputation as innovators in Canada’s underground metal scene. Whether they’re dissecting human frailty or channeling ritualistic imagery, Hagberg and Pearson keep things unapologetically heavy and refreshingly unpredictable.

Genres

Death Metal

Latest Release

Chamber of Reflection

Ritual Dictates

Ep - 4 Tracks - Released October 13, 2023