Artist: Flesh Hierarchy
Country: USA
Label: Grotesque Devotion
Formats: Demo Tape
Year: 2026
Flesh Hierarchy is the brainchild of a person named JN, and if we were to believe the internet sources, this one-man project is the first step into the realm of metal. It could be possible that JN has former experience in Punk or any other form of extreme music, but I find it hard to believe that ‘Demo 1’ is really his first musical output. Not because it is refined or otherwise demonstrates profound musical craftsmanship, but ‘Demo 1’ does show that JN’s knowledge of the primary values of Black Metal is of an excellent standard.
As a whole, ‘Demo 1’ is a prime example of the “less is more”-approach to Black Metal. Harkening back to the ultimate basics as displayed by acts such as Ildjarn, Bone Awl, Sort Vokter, Ødelegger, Vordr, Akitsa, Haat or more contemporary kindred spirits of Kūka’ilimoku, Sump, Nihil Invocation or Vengeance Sorcery, Flesh Hierarchy is a full-on Black/Punk affair. No frills or other unnecessary embellishments are to be found anywhere on this first 13-minute demo. Cold, harsh and rather lo-fi, it will appeal to those who have a soft spot for those acts mentioned above, or for stripped-down and stomping Black Metal in general.
Do not expect finesse or enchanting melodies, this is as simple and ugly as it gets. Delving deep into the Black Metal’s core, as also heard in Mayhem’s ‘Deathcrush’ for instance, that clearly shows deeply rooted Punk aesthetics. It isn’t even sweetened with folky elements like some bands do; this is truly back to basics. And, to be fair, Flesh Hierarchy does it well. Excellent first demo!
