GODFLESH
Reviewed by Christopher J. Kelter
Godflesh's minimalist approach isn't for everybody and "Hymns" is no exception. The innovative,
slow grind of Godflesh's past isn't as prominent in the new millennium, but Godflesh's steely
approach hasn't wavered one iota despite the various approaches they've employed over the last 13
years or so.
"Hymns" is mostly hypnotic and claustrophobic which gives Godflesh's narrow approach very
limited room to maneuver, but somehow creating a cycle of songs that manages to drain and
replenish energy all at once. Much of the music on "Hymns" juts out at strange angles despite the
deliberate, regimented approach. The detuned guitars are fat enough to fill a vast valley while
Broadrick's famously noise-oriented sounds emanate from the speakers with a glorious, albeit
crawling, snarling buzz.
While Godflesh doesn't rely on industrial beats or samples like they have on the last couple of CDs,
the relative simplicity of "Hymns" gives the pounding guitars, bass, and drums approach just the
right amount of heaviness to marry up with the doom and gloom of the lyrics. Sometimes the vocals
are distorted, but sometimes the vocals are left untreated which really hasn't been done by Godflesh
in the past.
Godflesh are one of those bands that will be long remembered for being for their fresh approach to
heavy metal, if not for the fact that commercial success has eluded them. "Hymns" is another
testament to their skillful approach to heavy music that is as uncompromising as it is crushing.
Fans of Prong and Ministry will enjoy "Hymns."
"Hymns" was produced by Godflesh.
Godflesh is Justin Broadrick on guitar and vocals, GC Green on bass, and Ted Parsons on drums.
For more information visit http://www.avalancheinc.co.uk.
Rating Guide:
A classic. This record will kick your ass.
Killer. Not a classic but it will rock your world.
So-so. You've heard better.
Pretty bad. Might make a nice coaster.
Self explanatory. Just the sight of the cover makes you wanna hurl.
Copyright © 2002 by R. Scott Bolton. All rights
reserved.
Revised: 18 Nov 2024 12:24:00 -0500.
