Rituals

Toronto three-piece Rituals had the unfortunate fate of being the first band to perform the Garrison's main stage as part of the split Hand Drawn Dracula/Unfamiliar Records showcase. What should have a been a showcase standout -- the three-piece cranked out slab after slab of upbeat, distortion-blasted epics -- was subdued by a sparse crowd and too many houselights. To the trio's credit, they didn't seem to notice. They powered their way unfazed through their enjoyable set, thanked what crowd was there graciously, and made way for the other bands in their showcase. Don't be surprised if by next year, you find Rituals higher up in the pecking order. They'll have earned it.