If there is one band that should define the critic-invented term "Industrial Metal", it should be Godflesh. Their thick, ominous sound has the feel of an early 20th century steel factory, churning out blistering slabs of molten material with all the heart and warmth of a robber baron. Godflesh is the epitome of uneasy listening, which is probably why despite first hearing them nearly twenty years ago, I have yet to actually try reviewing any of their material. Granted, there are many bands out there who are more abusive, harsh and grating, but Godflesh contained a certain level of musical alienation that set them apart. Perhaps that had to do with bandleader Justin Broadrick's occasional problems with anxiety and depression over the years. I have not come to make light of his ailments, but it stands to reason that elements of his inner turmoil have led to my apprehension for all things Godflesh.

Ironically, Selfless has been called Godflesh's "rock and roll" record, which really stretches the definition of that term. There's no Chuck Berry or even AC/DC to be found here. However, the music has a touch more hospitality towards the ear. It's sort of like being strangled by a grizzly bear. But regardless of the "warmth" of Selfless, Godflesh still layers it on like a thick wool blanket on a hot summer day. It's a hard album to feel completely comfortable while playing. Why is this Justin Broadrick fellow so disturbed? you might ask. Does he not ever kick his feet up and watch a little comedy on the television? Godflesh seems like that strange uncle who never laughs at anything and terrifies people simply by standing in any given doorway.

Despite the looming sense of utter doom and misery, Selfless is still somewhat accessible, at least for those who could look at a decaying steel factory and find beauty. Broadrick and bassist G.C. Green have a very identifiable sound on Selfless and have a good sounding drum machine at work. It could be argued that the drum machine is the most friendly member of this recording session, the one most likely to go out for a pint and chuckle. The biggest drawback to Selfless is that it contains perhaps two songs too many. The running length nears an hour and twenty minutes, which very well could be a half hour longer than anyone should endure this sort of emotionally bleak music. "Go Spread Your Wings" takes up over twenty minutes of time, but its experimentalism and brooding ambience makes it a bit more compelling than, say, "Body Dome Light".

Godflesh is certainly not date night music, nor something that ever could find more than niche appeal. Selfless is a record that requires some patience and time to develop an appreciation towards. Album opener "Xnobyis" might be somewhat catchy, but from that point on it takes considerably more effort to wade through the Godflesh architecture of bleakness.

Review by John Chedsey

Review date: 03/2010

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