Godflesh mastermind Justin K. Broadrick has officially announced the end of the band’s live performances due to health concerns.
In a candid statement shared on March 4, Broadrick revealed that he recently underwent significant open abdominal surgery to repair a large inguinal hernia that was close to becoming an emergency. The procedure required a six-inch incision, as keyhole surgery was not an option.
At 57 years old, Broadrick explained that his abdominal wall is now too weak to withstand the intense physical strain of performing Godflesh‘s punishing live sets – particularly the shouting and screaming vocals that define the band’s sound. Continuing to perform in that capacity would put him at serious risk of further hernias or even catastrophic abdominal damage.
While the touring chapter has closed, the studio legacy of Godflesh is not over just yet. Broadrick confirmed that the band’s penultimate studio album, titled Decay, has been completed and is currently being mixed for a potential July/August release via Relapse Records.
He also revealed that what will be the final Godflesh studio album has already been written and is expected to be recorded and completed in late 2026. After that, Broadrick says there will be no new studio albums or live performances, though dub albums, live releases, and archival material may continue.
“I’ve dreaded sharing this news, partly due to the threat of insensitive and/or negative comments, combined simply with the general anxiety of it all, I am also exhausted, but I’ve left comments on,” wrote Broadrick.
“So, 3 weeks ago I had significant open abdominal surgery for a inguinal hernia that was close to an emergency. I am still in shock from the process, and as someone with diagnosed Autism and C-PTSD, open surgery is absolutely debilitating, not that it is easier for anyone of course.
“I had a huge hernia, and for it to be repaired, I had to endure a 6 inch incision in my groin. This unfortunately was not keyhole surgery. I have a very weak abdominal wall, which at being 57 yrs old this year, is not going to improve.
“If I continue to perform and shout/scream as I do with Godflesh, then I am at high risk for more hernias, and blowing out my abdominal wall entirely. Godflesh live ended the day of my surgery, and upon the surgeon making this statement. I am now just about walking freely, but with little pace, albeit extremely carefully.
“The full healing process is approximately 6 months. Fortunately, my other projects do not require screaming/shouting nor a physically demanding performance; jesu and JK FLESH shows remain.
“I have been mixing, what will be the penultimate Godflesh album – DECAY, for
release on Relapse in hopefully July/Aug, mixes are being completed imminently. The album is basically done. I’ve had the final Godflesh studio album written, for almost a year and half now, that will be recorded and completed late 2026.
“After that there will continue to be Godflesh dub albums, live albums, and so on,
but no new studio releases nor performances.
“In the near future, a new solo project will emerge, further exploring the parameters
of heavy/ugly music, featuring my guitars and electronics, and of course vocals, but
NOT shouted vocals!
“Regarding Godflesh in Athens, Gr, please contact the promotion for details, etc.
There will be an official announcement via my agency/management regarding this
ASAP.”
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