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Emerging from the depths of Birmingham, England, Godflesh are an innovative industrial metal outfit that have transcended genre boundaries and captivated audiences since their inception in 1982. Originally known as Fall of Because, the group underwent a transformative rebirth in 1988 when visionary members Justin Broadrick (guitar, vocals, and programming) and G.C. Green (bass) adopted the Godflesh moniker and incorporated a drum machine to create their distinct sound. Seamlessly blending heavy metal with industrial, electronic music, and dub, Godflesh’s profound impact has paved the way for countless industrial metal and post-metal acts while simultaneously enriching the realms of experimental and extreme metal.

Godflesh’s innovative spirit and dedication to their craft not only influenced a multitude of artists across the heavy music spectrum but also garnered admiration from some of the industry’s biggest names. Kirk Hammett of Metallica became a major fan and supporter, while iconic bands like Faith No More took notice, even inviting Justin Broadrick to join their ranks as a guitarist. Broadrick’s talent was also recognized by established rock metal act Danzig, who offered him a position in their lineup. Moreover, Godflesh’s pioneering sound left an indelible mark on the burgeoning nu metal scene, with bands like Korn citing their influence.

In the late 1980s, Godflesh inked a deal with the influential Earache Records, which led to the release of their groundbreaking debut album, Streetcleaner (1989). Garnering both contemporary and enduring praise, Streetcleaner’s unyielding heaviness and uncompromising vision solidified Godflesh’s place at the forefront of the industrial metal movement. The band continued to push sonic boundaries with their sophomore effort, Pure (1992), and their major label debut, Selfless (1994). As their sound evolved, Godflesh experimented with live drums, hip hop, and breakbeat elements, further shaping their identity with each release.

The masterful fusion of genres continued with Songs of Love and Hate (1996) and Us and Them (1999), which showcased Godflesh’s penchant for innovation and fearless exploration. Hymns (2001) marked a stylistic shift as the band refined and distilled their sound to its essence. Following Green’s departure in 2002, Broadrick disbanded Godflesh to explore other creative endeavors, such as his acclaimed project Jesu.

In 2010, the world welcomed the triumphant return of Godflesh as Broadrick and Green reformed the band, reigniting their artistic flame. Their highly anticipated comeback album, A World Lit Only by Fire (2014), and the critically acclaimed Post Self (2017) proved that Godflesh’s innovative spirit and dedication to their craft remained unyielding.

Godflesh’s signature sound is characterized by relentless machine beats, powerful bass lines, distorted guitar, and Broadrick’s haunting, guttural vocals. As a dynamic duo, Broadrick and Green have delivered electrifying performances over preprogrammed percussion, often against a backdrop of apocalyptic imagery and Christian iconography. The band’s unparalleled heaviness and relentless pursuit of sonic innovation have earned Streetcleaner a revered status among the greatest and most influential metal albums of all time.

Godflesh’s lasting contributions to the world of music stretch far beyond their role as industrial metal pioneers. Their fearless approach to experimentation and their ability to seamlessly fuse disparate genres have served as a guiding light for countless artists across multiple musical landscapes. As they continue to push boundaries and evolve, Godflesh stands as a testament to the power of artistic vision and the unyielding spirit of innovation. Far from being a legacy act, Godflesh’s ongoing journey serves as an inspiration to both new and established musicians, proving that true artistry knows no bounds.

SHORT FORM

Hailing from Birmingham, England, Godflesh are a trailblazing industrial metal act that have defied genres and enthralled audiences since 1982. The brainchild of Justin Broadrick (guitar, vocals, programming) and G.C. Green (bass), Godflesh transformed from Fall of Because in 1988, incorporating a drum machine and blending heavy metal, industrial, electronic, and dub elements. Their groundbreaking influence has shaped industrial metal, post-metal, and experimental music.

Godflesh’s innovative spirit attracted high-profile fans like Metallica’s Kirk Hammett and Faith No More, who invited Broadrick to join as a guitarist. Broadrick’s skills also caught the attention of rock metal act Danzig, and their pioneering sound influenced the nu metal scene, with bands like Korn acknowledging their impact.

Signing with Earache Records in the late 1980s, Godflesh released the seminal Streetcleaner (1989), garnering lasting acclaim and solidifying their industrial metal status. They expanded their sonic horizons with Pure (1992), Selfless (1994), and further experimentation in Songs of Love and Hate (1996) and Us and Them (1999). Hymns (2001) saw a stylistic shift before Broadrick disbanded Godflesh in 2002, pursuing other projects like Jesu.

Reforming in 2010, Broadrick and Green reignited Godflesh’s flame, releasing the highly anticipated A World Lit Only by Fire (2014) and the critically acclaimed Post Self (2017), showcasing their unwavering innovation.

Godflesh’s signature sound features machine beats, powerful bass, distorted guitar, and Broadrick’s haunting vocals. The duo’s electrifying performances often include apocalyptic imagery and Christian iconography. Streetcleaner remains a revered metal album, testament to their unyielding pursuit of sonic innovation.

Godflesh’s legacy extends beyond industrial metal, inspiring countless artists with their genre-fusing fearlessness. As they continue to evolve, Godflesh remains an inspiration to musicians, proving that true artistry is boundless.