The Swedish band Ritual entered the prog scene like a typhoon with their 1995 debut album. The Scandinavian scene was already strong with bands like Änglagård, Anekdoten, White Willow and Landberk, but Ritual came with a different approach. They are both highly accessible and melodic, and also very technical and symphonic. Tove Jansson’s Moomin universe inspired several songs on the album, but the music leans more toward folk, symphonic rock, and 70s-style prog, resulting in a richly imaginative sound. Drawing on Jansson's work, the lyrics explore imagination, nature, and the fantastical. Ritual’s songwriting focuses on storytelling and emotional depth, creating an immersive experience.
“Ritual” is one of the iconic Scandi-prog releases from the 90s, repressed on CD several times. But now, 30 years after its initial release, it can be heard on vinyl for the first time - carefully re-mastered by Hans Fredriksson.
1. Wingspread
2. The way of things
3. Typhoons Decide
4. A Little More Like Me
5. Solitary Man
6. Life Has Just Begun
7. Dependence Day
8. Seasong For The Moominpappa
9. You Can Never Tell
10. Big Black Secret
11. Power Place