Symphonic Metal band Nightfall have a surprise new member.
Actress/pop singer Emily Ritter has joined the band as their new female vocalist.
After a successful acting career through the early 2000s, Ritter joined pop band His and Hers full-time in 2010. The three-piece band enjoyed a decent following until they called it quits in 2020 due to the pandemic.
Nightfall – known for their heavy and symphonic sound and mix of harsh male vocals and clean female vocals – recently lost their female vocalist to a different band and were wondering what to do with the female sections. That’s when Ritter came in.
With her sister married to Howard (Nightfall’s singer), Ritter often visits the band during recording sessions when she has time.
While hanging out with the band one day, Ritter was asked to do demo vocals on some new songs.
“I love my brother-in-law and the rest of the group are really nice,” said Ritter. “So, I thought I’d give it a shot. If only to help out the guys.”
But Ritter’s vocals blew everyone away; and after a few more recording sessions, she agreed to join the band full-time.
“It took a while to get used to how loud they are, but I’m fine with it now,” said Ritter. “The symphonics parts are quite lovely and I’ve gotten used to Howard’s screaming.”
Though, with a tour coming later this year, Ritter is concerned how Nightfall fans will react.
“I’ve heard that some metal fans can be a bit stubborn, so hopefully they like me.”
“She’ll be fine,” said Howard, “Unlike fans of some metal genres, most of our fans are open-minded enough to accept new members. And she’s family, so I’m not going to tolerate anyone who hates on her.”
