Secret Rituals

Released in 2011, Secret Rituals marks a pivotal moment for The Grates as they transitioned from a three-piece to a duo following the departure of drummer Alana Skyring. Recorded in New York with producer Gus Seyffert, the album represents a sonic evolution toward a more robust, guitar-driven sound compared to the quirky indie-pop of their debut. The record was famously accompanied by a series of DIY videos for every track, emphasizing the band's hands-on, artistic ethos. Critics noted the increased maturity in the songwriting, particularly in tracks like 'Change' and 'Moving On,' which trade some of the band's earlier whimsy for a more grounded, rock-oriented intensity. Despite the lineup change, the album maintained their status as Triple J staples and solidified their position as icons of the Brisbane indie scene. It is widely considered their 'grown-up' record, retaining their infectious joy while exploring deeper emotional textures and heavier production values.