The devil doesn't always wear Prada – sometimes they wear a collar and preach from a pulpit.
In an age where metal has become increasingly sanitized, a voice emerges from Nashville's underground that refuses to play nice. Mourning Eve, fronted by former GFM guitarist CJ English, isn't just releasing a new single – they're ripping open wounds that organized religion would prefer to keep bandaged. Their latest track, "Holy Hell," dropping January 25th, 2025, isn't merely a song; it's a middle finger to every false prophet who ever used faith as a weapon.
"Some stories need to be screamed, not whispered," English tells me, her fingers absently tracing the strings of her battle-worn PRS guitar. We're sitting in their rehearsal space, a converted church basement that feels almost too perfect for our conversation about "Holy Hell" – a track that's about to turn the Christian metal scene on its head.
For those unfamiliar with Mourning Eve's journey, the band emerged from the ashes of English's departure from GFM (Gold, Frankincense & Myrrh), where she had made her name as a formidable guitarist and vocalist. The concept for Mourning Eve was born during what English describes as "a difficult time" following her exit from her former band. But like all powerful transformations, this period of mourning gave birth to something entirely new.
The current lineup reads like a who's who of Nashville's metal underground. Alongside English's guitar work and vocals, the band features the thunderous drumming of Delaney Jester, the earth-shaking bass lines of Hudson Bandit, the mysterious guitar textures of "Norad," and the powerful vocals of Sean Violet, dubbed the "tonsil breaker" by fans and fellow musicians alike.
"Holy Hell" tells the story of a young girl grappling with the suffocating presence of an overbearing parent and a deceitful religious leader. While the narrative is fictional, it strikes at the heart of a very real and prevalent issue within religious communities. The song's lyrics, co-written by the band members, pull no punches in addressing the psychological impact of spiritual abuse and the journey toward healing.
The production on "Holy Hell" showcases Mourning Eve's evolution as a band. The track opens with a haunting clean guitar passage before erupting into a maelstrom of drop-tuned riffs and orchestrated chaos. English's guitar work demonstrates her growth as a musician, moving beyond the beautycore elements of her GFM days into more technically demanding territory. The addition of Taylor Barber and Addithun's guest vocals adds layers of intensity to an already powerful composition.
What sets "Holy Hell" apart from other releases in the genre is its unflinching honesty. While many bands might shy away from tackling such sensitive subject matter, Mourning Eve leans into the discomfort, using it as a catalyst for both artistic expression and social commentary. The result is a song that serves as both a cathartic release for those who have experienced similar trauma and a wake-up call for those who might be blind to these issues within their own communities.
The band's approach to the topic is particularly noteworthy given their roots in the Christian metal scene. Rather than completely abandoning their spiritual backgrounds, they've chosen to engage with it critically, creating a space for necessary conversations about faith, abuse, and healing. This nuanced approach has already garnered attention from both secular and religious media outlets, marking Mourning Eve as a band unafraid to bridge divides while maintaining their artistic integrity.
The recording process for "Holy Hell" took place in Nashville's renowned recording studios, with the band working alongside producers who understood their vision for a sound that would be both commercially viable and artistically uncompromising. The final mix achieves a perfect balance between modern metal production values and the raw energy of live performance.
Looking ahead to the single's release, Mourning Eve has planned an extensive promotional campaign that includes live performances, music video releases, and intimate listening sessions where fans can engage with the band about the song's themes and creation process. This level of transparency and accessibility has become a hallmark of the band's approach to their art and their audience.
The timing of "Holy Hell" couldn't be more relevant. In an era where conversations about institutional abuse and personal trauma are finally coming to the forefront, Mourning Eve's contribution to the dialogue through their music provides another vital voice in the chorus of those demanding change and accountability.
For CJ English, this release represents more than just a new single—it's a declaration of artistic independence and a testament to the healing power of heavy music. When asked about the band's future beyond "Holy Hell," English remains optimistic but focused on the present. "We're taking it one song at a time," she explains, "making sure each release says exactly what needs to be said."
As January 25th approaches, anticipation for "Holy Hell" continues to build within the metal community. Early reactions from industry insiders who have heard the track suggest that Mourning Eve has created something special—a song that not only pushes the boundaries of modern metal but also serves as a powerful vehicle for social commentary and personal healing.
For fans of heavy music seeking substance behind the sound, "Holy Hell" promises to deliver both in spades. Mourning Eve has managed to create a track that honors the technical traditions of metalcore while pushing the genre forward through their willingness to engage with difficult subject matter in a meaningful way.
In a genre often criticized for its predictability, Mourning Eve stands apart as a band willing to take risks—both musically and thematically. "Holy Hell" is more than just a heavy metal song; it's a statement of purpose from a band poised to make their mark on the modern metal landscape.
As the release date draws near, one thing becomes clear: Mourning Eve isn't just making music—they're starting a conversation that's long overdue. And if "Holy Hell" is any indication, it's a conversation that will be impossible to ignore.