The wait is over, God Bullies are back with As Above, So Below, their first full-length album in three decades. The long-anticipated release, set to drop on October 4 via Reptilian Records, marks a triumphant return for one of the most audacious bands to emerge from the Midwest’s noise-rock scene.
From the opening track, “I Am Mighty,” listeners are thrown into a world where chaos meets craftsmanship. With a lineup featuring the ever-charismatic Mike Hard alongside guitarist Scott Kodrik, bassist Pat O’Harris, and drummer Cliff Carinci, the band channels their signature blend of sludge and noise-rock with a tightness that feels both revitalised and dangerously unhinged. The production, helmed by the legendary Steve Albini at Electrical Audio, adds a visceral punch that enhances their raw sound which makes each riff and lyric hit harder.
What makes As Above, So Below special is its unflinching exploration of themes like loss, conspiracy, and existential dread, reflecting Mike’s recent personal experiences. He states,
“Losing David and Johnny, my two closest friends and bandmates, within a year of each other caused some serious soul searching on my part and this album reflects that whole esoteric and existential struggle.”
This introspection gives the album a depth that’s often absent in genre peers and makes the chaotic soundscape not just an aural assault, but a thoughtful commentary on the human condition.
Tracks like “Lies (WWG1WGA)” and “Fight the Fascist” capture the band’s penchant for sharp social critique that blends heavy with pointed lyrics that challenge the status quo. Their ability to mix humour with darkness is also on display in tracks like “Nice Place to Visit,” that showcases a satirical edge.
The album draws from the band’s rich history while pushing into new territories. The familiar grinding guitars and pounding drums are complemented by a newfound sophistication in their arrangements. It allows for moments of sonic clarity amidst the chaos. “Help” and “You Call This Love” exemplify this evolution and feature rhythms that invite repeated listens and deeper analysis.
As Above, So Below isn’t a nostalgia trip; it’s a reminder of why God Bullies remain influential in the noise-rock landscape. Their capacity to weave together jarring sounds with clever lyrics and a sense of urgency is unmatched. This album not only brings their legacy into the present but also demonstrates that they are not merely relics of the past.
See God Bullies live
10/11/2024 Smalls – Detroit, MI
10/12/2024 Liars Club – Chicago, IL
10/18/2024 The Lift – Dubuque, IA
10/19/2024 TBA – Madison, WI
10/24/2024 Westside Bowl – Youngstown, OH
10/25/2024 Cattivo – Pittsburgh, PA
