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.

Ten years after Jon “Bones” Jones took the UFC world by storm, we reflect on his career, the controversies, and the personal battles that have defined his legacy. A fighter’s story like no other.

For a couple of years, I lived out in Los Angeles.  “Come on Feel The Lemonheads” was played on a constant rotation in my black 1991 Chevrolet Corvette as I drove around California. The Lemonheads were the band from my childhood that just nailed the Californian care free vibe and sound. Turns out my ears were deceiving me all along as The Lemonheads are actually from Boston, 3000+ miles from where I had always imagined their sound had originated from!  It didn’t matter though, California sparked my love for The Lemonheads all over again twenty plus years later. Running back through the vast AltSounds interview archives I found this gem from November 2006 with lead singer of The Lemonheads Evan Dando where he promises to make our writer a personal mix CD!  I wonder if she actually ever got it?! — Interview with Evan Dando of The Lemonheads by Lina Rahman, 8th November 2006. It is a strange feeling to realize you have just spoken to someone with whom you have loved (albeit, from afar) since the age of 14. It is even stranger to have them sing down the phone to you and offer to make you a mix […]