Justifications have officially arrived with their debut single “Urge To Kill,” bringing together a lineup featuring several veterans of the metallic hardcore and extreme music scenes.
The new project is fronted by Guy Kozowyk, best known as the vocalist of The Red Chord, alongside former The Red Chord guitarist Kevin Rampelberg. The lineup is rounded out by guitarist Mark MacDonald of Austrian Death Machine, bassist Jason Edney, and drummer Tony Hersey.
“Urge To Kill” received its initial airing on SiriusXM for roughly a week before being made available online. The track was recorded under the direction of Kevin Billingslea, whose credits include work with Lamb Of God and Cruel Hand, while Zeuss, known for his work with Rob Zombie, Hatebreed and numerous other heavy acts, handled the mixing and mastering.
Kozowyk describes Justifications as an intentionally immediate project, built around reacting to the world without overcomplicating the process.
“Justifications is intended to be direct and fun. A knee-jerk reaction to the world around us.”
For Rampelberg, that straightforward approach is also central to the band’s ability to connect with listeners.
“The music is more direct, and I think that naturally allows it to connect with people in a different way.”
The vocalist also approached “Urge To Kill” with a specific goal for his delivery, aiming for lyrics that could remain harsh and aggressive without sacrificing clarity.
“I was on a mission to deliver lines that sounded abrasive but were also legible. I have a great appreciation for vocalists who are both brutal and can enunciate. If you actually have something to say, I want to hear it.”
Justifications will take the new material to the stage for the first time on September 19, opening for Deadguy in Bensalem, Pennsylvania. A second performance with Pathogenic is currently booked for September 26.
- 09/19 Bensalem, PA – Broken Goblet Brewing (feat. Deadguy)
- 09/26 Henniker, NH – Henniker Brewing Company (feat. Pathogenic)
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