Jamie Lenman isn’t just a musician; he’s a creative force, a whirlwind of innovation and audacity who embodies everything that makes art exciting and impactful. Best known for his role as the frontman of Reuben and his bold solo ventures, Lenman exemplifies what it means to take risks and stay true to your artistic vision—an ethos that aligns with our values. In a music industry often driven by trends and safety nets, Jamie Lenman reminds us that the most memorable art comes from stepping into the unknown and creating on your own terms. Breaking All the Rules A disruptor in the truest sense and in an industry that often favors neatly defined genres and predictable formulas, Lenman thrives on unpredictability. He doesn’t just flirt with the boundaries of genre—he dismantles them entirely. One moment, he’s delivering a bone-crushing metal riff; the next, he’s easing into a jazz groove that feels like it’s from a completely different universe. This constant reinvention and defiance of expectations make his music a wild ride for listeners and a masterclass in creative freedom. Take his album Muscle Memory—a bold, two-part opus that merges heavy metal with jazz in a way that feels fresh and unexpected. […]

The ZX Spectrum 48K wasn’t just a home computer; it was a digital canvas that sparked a revolution. From pioneering game developers to bedroom coders, this humble machine inspired a generation of creatives, transforming technical limitations into boundless opportunities for innovation and imagination. Dive into the story of how the Spectrum 48K became a cultural icon and a gateway to digital dreams.

Dashboard Confessional: A Voice for a Generation In the early 2000s, a new wave of music began to dominate the airwaves. It was raw, confessional, and unapologetically emotional. At the forefront of this movement was Dashboard Confessional, led by singer-songwriter Chris Carrabba. With his heartfelt lyrics and acoustic melodies, Carrabba became the voice of a generation that was seeking something genuine amidst the chaos of mainstream pop and rock. Born out of the ashes of his previous band, Further Seems Forever, Dashboard Confessional started as a solo project for Carrabba. It wasn’t long before his introspective songs, like “Screaming Infidelities” and “Hands Down,” resonated with an audience hungry for authenticity. His music wasn’t just played—it was felt, capturing the angst and vulnerability of youth in a way few artists have managed to achieve. As Dashboard Confessional’s popularity soared, they became a defining force in the emerging emo scene. Carrabba’s deeply personal lyrics and acoustic sound set them apart from their contemporaries, and by the time their seminal album, The Places You Have Come to Fear the Most, was released in 2001, they were well on their way to becoming one of the most influential bands of the era. The Emo […]

Discover the legacy of The Holy Bible by the Manic Street Preachers—an album born from the personal anguish of Richey Edwards and a reflection of societal decay. From its harrowing lyrics to its bold political statements, the album remains a raw, unfiltered expression of art.

Tool's "Ænema" is more than just a music video—it's a visceral and surreal journey into the human psyche. Directed by Adam Jones, the video broke boundaries with its stop-motion animation, dark themes, and visual mastery.

At RIOT, music is the heartbeat of everything we create. It’s the pulse that drives our wildest ideas and keeps us pushing boundaries. We take our cues from the industry’s game-changers—those who’ve ripped up the rule book and redefined what music can be. One name that’s always at the top of our list? Rick Rubin. The mastermind producer whose raw, genre-busting creativity is etched into the soul of RIOT. Rubin’s knack for blending the unexpected and his relentless pursuit of authenticity is what makes him a legend in our book. To celebrate his genius, we’ve embedded a massive 97-hour playlist by GLV Records, showcasing the depth and breadth of his work. Smash that shuffle button, crank up the volume, and let Rubin’s magic be the soundtrack to your day. Trust us, it’s the creative kickstart you didn’t know you needed. That’s not art. That’s commerce. Rick Rubin’s career spans over four decades, breaking boundaries and redefining sound. From co-founding Def Jam Recordings with Russell Simmons to shaping the sound of rock, hip-hop, metal, and beyond, Rubin’s influence is legendary, transcending pure music production. “I don’t really know anything about music. It’s more a way of looking at the world, and […]

At RIOT, music is more than just a passion—it’s the pulse of our creativity. We’ve always championed bands and artists pushing the boundaries of music and their entire package to the outside world, or, as it’s 2024, their “branding.”. One band that epitomizes this ethos is Sleep Token. Their unique branding, an intricate blend of mystique, musical innovation, and visual textures resonates deeply with us and fuels our creative vision at RIOT. The Genesis of Sleep Token Sleep Token appeared on the scene in 2016, almost out of nowhere, with their debut single, “Thread the Needle,” presenting a sound that defies conventional genres. Their music is an eclectic mix of progressive metal, ambient soundscapes, and soulful melodies that immediately captured our attention. However, it is their branding—rooted in anonymity and mystery—that truly sets them apart and aligns with our philosophy at RIOT. Sleep Token’s enigmatic presence, led by the mysterious figure known only as Vessel, involves members donning masks and robes, keeping their identities concealed and emphasizing the art over the artist. This approach isn’t just a gimmick; it’s a core element of their brand, allowing the audience to immerse themselves fully in the music and the narrative. The Mythos […]

Unearthed from 2013, this James Blake interview offers a deep dive into his unique approach to music production and his creative process. A rare look into the mind of one of music’s most innovative artists, influencing modern soundscapes across genres.

Steve Albini was more than a music producer—he was a visionary whose raw, DIY approach to sound engineering shaped an entire era of music. In this tribute, we explore his legacy, influence, and how his ethos continues to inspire artists and producers today.

Discover the raw artistry of Ren's 'Sick Boi' in our latest RIOT journal entry. Dive into the world of audio tape revival and experience how this Welsh rapper's personal narrative is driving a resurgence of musical tangibility.