You Know Better - Christian Dryden of the Ritualists

Better To... Podcast with D. M. Needom

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Christian, the lead singer and bassist for The Ritualists, stops by the show to discuss bass playing, the new album Too Pure to Cure, cooking, history, and more.

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NYC-based The Ritualists’ upcoming album, Too Pure To Cure (out now) is a trip. Produced and mixed by GRAMMY-winner Mario J McNulty (David Bowie, Nine Inch Nails, Prince), the album is packed with the band’s signature mix of goth, glam, and modern rock, all wrapped up in their larger-than-life energy.

Following their darkly danceable single "You Know Better", the band has recently released "The Wake" —a soaring, synth-heavy anthem inspired by classic ‘80s dark fantasy films (The NeverEnding Story, anyone?) and the shimmering hooks of the New Romantic era. Frontman Christian Dryden describes it as a reflection on childhood, resilience, and the ability to pull oneself out of tough situations. And it’s already earned praise from The NeverEnding Story theme song’s own (and fellow Reybee client) Limahl, who says:"I really like this—a little surreal, very melodic and with a video that has a classic early '80s vibe. The chorus asks, ‘Whoever wakes up?’ — well, I just did, to The Ritualists!" Tracks on the album range from "King of Air," a surrealist reflection on feeling misunderstood, to "Every Thread," which juxtaposes cosmic insignificance with the universal pangs of love and envy. And of course, there’s the title track, "Too Pure to Cure," which lead vocalist/songwriter Christian Dryden describes as less of a protest and more of a shoulder shrug—it’s a declaration of knowing who you are and refusing to be “cured” of it.

The Ritualists are Christian Dryden (vocals, bass), Jeffrey Andrew (keyboards), David Andreana (guitars), and Eric Kuby (drums). Too Pure To Cure is available on all streaming platforms today.

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