Jack Leatherland, A2 Coursework Blog: The Band -

The Rituals

Background -
The Rituals are an English Indie Rock band formed in 2010 in Woodhouse, a suburb of Leeds. The band consists of Dean Welch (lead vocals, rhythm guitar), Harry Julian (lead guitar,backing vocals), Angus Cox (bass guitar) and Harry Lunn (drums)

In August 2010, school mates Dean Welch and Harry Julian began their musical careers. After realizing that they both had extremely similar tastes in music, the two opted to start writing and performing their own indie rock songs. After months of busking on the streets of Leeds, the duo were offered a spot to perform alongside some of the cities best new and upcoming artists. Although their debut gigs were good, both Welch and Julian felt that a change was needed, to ensure that their presence in the world of music was known.

In March the following year, the duo doubled, and The Rituals were born. The band opted to name the band after the literal meaning of the word 'ritual' which translates as 'a sequence of activities involving gestures, words and objects, performed in a particular place, and performed according to set sequence.' With the addition of bass guitarist Angus Cox and drummer Harry Lunn, Welch and Julian were ready to take the bars and clubs of Leeds by storm, and light up the lives of spectators with their modern indie swagger.

After performing at some of Leeds' best known venues, The Rituals were fast becoming the most popular up and coming band in the whole of Yorkshire, and were offered a slot to support fellow indie rock band The Courteeners on tour in late 2012. After performing in front of thousands up and down the country, the band decided that the time was right to begin producing their debut album.

Musical Style -
The Rituals musical style is indie rock. In an exclusive interview with NME, lead singer Welch cited the following artists as the bands main inspiration. "Who are we influenced by? some of the greatest artists ever to grace a musical stage. Oasis, The Arctic Monkeys, Ian Brown, you get the picture.."

Other Influences -
The Courteeners, The Strokes, Beady Eye, Jake Bugg, The Smiths.
By listening to The Rituals, it is clear to see where they draw their musical inspiration from. Although their sound is completely unique, you can here the style of bands such as The Smiths, Oasis and The Courteeners within their music.

Band members -

Lead singer - Dean Welch (2010-present)