Artist description The Ritual's socially poignant lyrics and powerful sound provides an explosive and persuasive element to the modern rock scene.

Music Style Rock/Indie

Musical Influences Incubus, Deftones, Radiohead, Red Hot Chili Peppers

Similar Artists Incubus, Deftones, Radiohead, Red Hot Chili Peppers

Artist History The Ritual | Band Bio Making music together is anything but a ritual for the newest addition to the modern rock scene, The Ritual. Within their first jam session together as a full band in December of 2002, the five members of The Ritual recorded three original tracks. During their session in the recording studio (and throughout each one of the band’s rehearsals), the chemistry between the members is exuded in the quality of their songwriting. After their experience in the studio, it was obvious to all involved that The Ritual’s music-making was immediately authentic, inventive, and overwhelmingly productive. The next few months were spent writing and jamming together, further establishing the bond of the band. The Ritual’s eclectic influences and talent bring together a songwriting power that defines music at its finest with a most distinguishing sound. The distinctive and politically-minded vocals come from Winston Gainey; his socially-poignant lyrics and powerful voice help define The Ritual’s sound and the band’s passion and intentions. The Ritual’s music is the vehicle for the expression of Gainey’s ideas and a means to explore deeper emotions. Gainey’s pointed, intellectual vocals are supported by guitarists Mike Schuldt and Mario Ortiz. Schuldt derives his musical style from a variety of influences— he hails from a popular Las Vegas punk band and is currently studying studio guitar and Music Industry at the University of Southern California. Guitarist Ortiz’s diverse musical influences contribute to the distinguishable melodic riffs that further enhance the band’s characteristic sound. Bassist Jay Yaskin whose experience in jazz and metal bands contributes the effect-laden riffs to the band. He pushes the technical side of his music while providing a solid foundation to The Ritual’s sound. The fifth element of The Ritual, Derek Ward, defines the group’s multi-talented genius. The drummer/vocalist utilizes a variety of instruments to achieve an innovative and stimulating sound. Two years ago, vocalist Gainey and drummer Ward dropped everything they had in South Carolina and headed to Los Angeles. When their U-Haul broke down on the way to California, there was less than $100 between them. Las Vegas, Nevada became their temporary home. As fate would have it, they met Schuldt at a local rehearsal studio in downtown Las Vegas. The trio jammed together and by the end of the first practice, wrote “Take a Bow.” Guitarist Ortiz responded to their classified ad and gelled with the trio instantaneously. “Automatic Annie” was a result of the newly-formed quartet’s first jam session. An acquaintance at the rehearsal studio introduced 17-year-old bassist, Yaskin whose energy and style further fused the band. The Ritual’s main aspiration is to create good music for the right reasons. Their studio talent and explosive live performances derive from their collective rule not to limit themselves. Writing, creativity, and exploration are key to the band’s evolving musical expansion. Different sounds and unconventional instruments allow them to experiment and impart messages that comment on the ailments affecting modern society. The band spends a lot of time exploring themselves musically. Jam sessions for The Ritual usually involve the five musicians coming together to simply enjoy the sounds of the music they make together and the creative expansion of each of their abilities as artists. The Ritual’s sound is impossible to pinpoint. The band’s music is flavorful and colorful, with a mix of styles and techniques influenced by a variety of bands, including the Deftones, Radiohead, and Incubus. Their songs are compelling and interesting with clever lyrics drawn from social issues. Most importantly, The Ritual is fueled by their effort to have their music heard. Written by: EVC

Group Members Winston Gainey - Vocals Jay Yaskin - Bass Derek Ward - Drums Mario Ortiz - Guitar Mike Schuldt - Guitar

Location Los Angeles, California - USA

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