Jesus Piece – Only Self (Review)

This is the debut album from Jesus Piece, a hardcore band from the US.

Only Self opens up a world of expressive violence with 29 minutes of aggressive hardcore tinged with experimental elements.

Very heavy, with a strong metallic core that comes from the early 00s era, (think Trustkill and Ferret Records), this is raging hardcore that has not only heart, but some unexpected tricks up its sleeve. Apart from the metallic influences, the band also dabble in sludge, drone, industrial, post-metal/hardcore, and ambient waters too. Although only part of their sound, it all still adds another layer to the Only Self experience. It demonstrates a band comfortable with experimentation, and they pull it off well.

Full of vicious vocals, grinding grooves, and virulent riffs, the songs crush and maim with their devastatingly heavy assault. A mix of blast beats and punishing breakdowns assist with the dynamics of the music, and alongside the other aforementioned elements help to keep these tracks relatively diverse and nuanced.

Although there is plenty of brutal aggression and intensity here, it’s the fact that the band have incorporated depth and atmosphere into their music that pulls this album up even higher.

Think a mix of Harm’s Way, Zao, and Amenra. Think this and be happy, as Only Self is a winner.

Very highly recommended.