Godflesh emerged from the industrial wasteland of Birmingham, England, in the late 1980s. They weren’t your typical metal band. They eschewed the pyrotechnics and theatrics of their contemporaries, instead opting for a sound as stark and oppressive as the industrial landscape that birthed them. Godflesh, a band comprised of Justin Broadbent (bass, vocals) and Ben Bartlett (guitar), revolutionized metal by fusing it with elements of industrial music and dub, creating a sound that was both brutal and strangely hypnotic.
From Hardcore Punks to Industrial Architects (1982-1988):
Godflesh’s story begins not with metal, but with hardcore punk. Broadbent and his original partner, bassist Paul Neville, formed the hardcore outfit Crass Assault in 1982. While their sound was undeniably raw and aggressive, the seeds of Godflesh’s future experimentation were already present. Broadbent’s love of electronic music, particularly Throbbing Gristle and Ministry, began to influence their sound.
By 1988, Crass Assult had morphed into Godflesh. Neville was replaced by guitarist Bartlett, and the band began incorporating elements of industrial music and noise rock into their sound. Their 1988 debut album, “Streetcleaner,” was a sonic manifesto. Distorted guitars churned out monolithic riffs, Broadbent’s vocals were a guttural rasp delivered with chilling detachment, and drum machines pounded out relentless rhythms. The music was devoid of melody, instead opting for a suffocating atmosphere that mirrored the bleak industrial environment that surrounded them.
Industrial Supremacy and Genre-Defining Albums (1989-1994):
Godflesh’s follow-up albums, “Pure” (1989) and “Selfless” (1991), further solidified their reputation as pioneers of industrial metal. Tracks like “Christbait Superstar” and “Mothra” were exercises in sonic brutality, blending elements of sludge metal with the cold, mechanical sounds of industrial music.
However, Godflesh wasn’t a one-trick pony. Their music, while undeniably heavy, possessed a strange beauty. Broadbent’s bass lines throbbed with a hypnotic low-end pulse, and Bartlett’s guitar work, while often detuned and distorted, contained moments of surprising melody. This juxtaposition of brutality and beauty became a defining characteristic of their sound.
1991’s “Selfless” also marked the beginning of Godflesh’s experimentation with dub. Broadbent’s fascination with the genre’s use of space and echo found its way into their music. Tracks like “Locust Furnace” incorporated dub’s spacious production techniques, creating a sense of dread and emptiness that perfectly complemented the music’s oppressive atmosphere.
The critical acclaim for “Selfless” propelled Godflesh to new heights. Their 1992 masterpiece, “Godflesh,” cemented their status as one of the most important metal bands of the decade. The album showcased their musical evolution, incorporating elements of post-rock and shoegaze into their industrial metal framework. Tracks like “Slavestate” and “The Pelt” were monolithic slabs of sound, yet possessed a strange sense of grandeur.
Breakup, Reformation, and Enduring Legacy (1994-Present):
Despite their critical acclaim, Godflesh disbanded in 1994 due to creative differences and personal struggles. However, their influence continued to ripple throughout the metal scene. Bands like Isis, Neurosis, and Tool all cited Godflesh as a major inspiration.
In 2000, Godflesh reformed for a series of live shows. While they haven’t released any new studio albums since their initial breakup, their reunion tours have been met with fervent enthusiasm from fans. Their music continues to be relevant and influential, a testament to their enduring legacy.
Godflesh’s Impact:
Godflesh’s impact on metal music is undeniable. They shattered the boundaries of the genre, fusing elements of industrial music, dub, and noise rock to create a sound that was both brutal and beautiful. Their music remains a masterclass in atmosphere and songwriting, and their influence continues to inspire new generations of musicians. Godflesh are not just a metal band; they are sonic architects who reshaped the landscape of heavy music in their own industrial image.
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