Photo by Derick Smith
In an era where our planet teeters on the precipice, amidst global pandemics, raging wildfires, and the relentless upheavals of nature and society, Ministry emerges as a beacon of daring and irreverence. Al Jourgensen, the titan of tumultuous industrial soundscapes, recently unveiled Ministry’s bold new track from the forthcoming album “HOPIUMFROMTHEMASSES.”
The new song, a commentary on right-wing ideologies on social media and television, does not mince words with its caustic song title: ” Goddamn White Trash.” Featuring the dynamism of Pepper Keenan, this politically charged track had previously made its debut live on Ministry’s recent headline tour.
“I’m just another observer in this lifetime,” muses Jourgensen. “Witnessing societal, political, and economic shifts, I voice my thoughts, backed by my First Amendment right. Some argue that artists should remain silent. But I’m on this journey too. I vocalize what I see, shaping the direction of each album. Instead of stagnant themes, I reflect on the world’s pulse, speaking as a fellow traveler.”
The visuals for “Goddamn White Trash,” helmed by Dean Karr, present a chilling narrative on the intoxication of anger. It delves into the fragility of the human psyche, illustrating how easily one can be swayed into violence by preying on deep-seated biases and fears.
Experience the video below:
Following the waves created by Ministry’s 2021 album, Moral Hygiene, HOPIUMFORTHEMASSES signals a fresh chapter for this legendary act. The prior album didn’t merely stir conversations; it dominated them, as Ministry electrified audiences coast to coast during their Industrial Strength tour.
Navigating through the album’s nine tracks, Jourgensen offers a raw reflection of a world on the edge. Like a seer for the digital age, he confronts the chaos head-on, his impassioned vocals echoing the urgency of our era.
Collaborating with Ministry is a stellar lineup: John Bechdel on keys, Monte Pittman and Cesar Soto on guitars, Roy Mayorga on drums, and Paul D’Amour on bass. HOPIUMFORTHEMASSES further diversifies its sonic palette with guest spots from Gogol Bordello’s Eugene Hutz, Jello Biafra (Lard, Dead Kennedys), and Corrosion of Conformity’s Pepper Keenan. This record is set to be a harmonious fusion of diverse talents.
HOPIUMFORTHEMASSES drops in three vinyl variants, a CD jewel case, and on digital/streaming platforms. Vinyl options include: green with yellow splatter (globally available); blue with pink splatter (exclusive to Nuclear Blast); and red with white splatter (exclusive to the band/tour).
The album is set for release via Nuclear Blast Records on March 1, 2024.
Secure your copy of HOPIUMFORTHEMASSES HERE.
Tracklist for HOPIUMFORTHEMASSES:
*Featuring Eugene Hütz (Gogol Bordello)
**Featuring Jello Biafra
***Featuring Pepper Keenan
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