Most of the messages (or DMs as I hear people far more hip than I call them) I receive on Instagram are an emoji notifying me about a shared post or a spam account. Maybe a worthwhile notification of a photo being shared, but rarely is it anything surprising.
Thanks to Justin Foley and it seems the gents of Great Falls, I found an unexpected gratitude for messages on the app which seems like a nuisance more often than not.
Bible Songs 2, the name of the record I’m reviewing, is due for release through Controlled Burn Records on the first of May. While I admittedly hadn’t heard of the Austerity Program in some time; seeing Justin Foley’s name in my inbox brought back memories of my fondness for Hydra Head records.
If you aren’t already aware going into my ramblings, there is a Bible Songs 1 from 2019 and I recommend taking time to listen to it if you haven’t previously. The irony in Justin approaching me about this review is that I was a bible teacher for a non-profit about a decade ago with a focus on the Old Testament which many songs on both records reference. I’m not under any delusions of coolness and I realize some might tune me out after mentioning my past as a Bible teacher.
Rest assured, I’m not about to capture you all for a Sunday school session like never before. So-called saints and sinners alike can calm down.
Justin Foley on guitar/vocals, bassist Thad Calabrese, and the world-renowned percussion virtuoso of Drum Machine have brought together a dizzying group of songs that I could have never imagined. With lyrics that manage to occasionally quote scripture while also taking some creative liberties; I would never have thought I’d be bobbing my head while having a split-screen comparison between a lyric sheet and the Bible.
Even as I’m writing this, I can’t help but think about how I’ve never heard a more unexpected meeting of my chosen faith tradition along with my taste in music. I would never assume faith in anyone, even black metal bands occasionally reference biblical verses before tearing the Bible into pieces. But whether the references are sarcastic or otherwise, this is an exciting six-song LP offering an engaging mix of sounds sure to appeal to fans of harsh guitars and bombastic rhythms.
I’m not sure if these songs will be played live at some point, but I’d be glad to come out and hear them if the opportunity arises. I know after first hearing 2010’s Backsliders and Apostates Will Burn, I didn’t imagine I’d be reviewing a new Austerity Program record 15 years later.
As I tap my foot in rhythm with the bass of “Lamentations 4:4-11” though, I want to again express my gratitude to Justin for reaching out to me.
As I said toward the beginning, Bible Songs 2 will be released through Controlled Burn Records on May 1st in a limited LP pressing and digitally as well.
Pre-orders are up at Austerity Program Bandcamp and the Controlled Burn website, respectively.
Tagged: the austerity program
