Purity Ring

Purity Ring

Purity Ring is an electronic group from Edmonton, Canada, formed in 2010 by Megan James and Corin Roddick. The duo remain the core members of the act and are known for a performance setup that combines live sound and lighting with custom-built equipment.

Background and formation

James and Roddick both grow up in Edmonton, Alberta. Before Purity Ring begins, James plays piano and Roddick plays drums, although neither instrument is their main role in the group. They first emerge from the Edmonton band Gobble Gobble, later known as Born Gold, where they are among several members. While touring with that group, Roddick starts experimenting with R&B and hip hop beats. Purity Ring forms when James is asked to sing on a track called “Ungirthed”.

Live performance and visuals

In live shows, Roddick uses a custom-built tree-shaped instrument to control both the music and the lighting. The group also wear clothing custom designed and sewn by James during performances.

Releases and labels

Purity Ring release “Ungirthed” in January 2011. In 2012, the group announce a worldwide deal with 4AD and a Canadian deal with Last Gang Records. Their debut album, Shrines, follows later that year and includes the singles “Obedear” and “Fineshrine”.

Chart performance

Shrines reaches number 100 on the UK Albums Chart, number 32 on the Billboard 200 in the United States, and number one on the Dance/Electronic Albums chart.

Style

The group is associated with dream pop, futurepop and witch house, and is also tagged with electronic, experimental, chillwave, indie pop and synthpop.