Stays true to the edgy, screamo sounds of the group’s previous albums

On November 5th, Texas-based metal band Portrayal of Guilt released their latest record, Christfucker. This is the group’s third album and their second of 2021, the first being We Are Always Alone, released in January. Portrayal of Guilt first came together in 2017, founded by guitarist/vocalist Matt King, bassist Blake Given and drummer James Beveridge. As of 2021, the groups’ lineup consists of King on guitar and vocals, Beveridge on bass and Alex Stanfield manning the drums.

Christfucker is a 10-song continuation of the extreme stylings heard on the groups’ previous albums. The second song, “The Sixth Circle,” for instance, appears to be a story about a satanic ritual. The star of this song is Stanfield, who showcases his exceptional drumming skills toward the end. “Fall from Grace” may be one of the all-around best performances on the album. Kings’ vocals are perfectly complemented by Beveridge’s strong bass, and Stanfield’s drumming adds weight to the track’s overarching story about a fall from grace.

“The Crucifixion” is another standout cut. Bassist James Beveridge is sometimes overshadowed but shines on “The Crucifixion,” perhaps more than on any song on the entire album. “…where the suffering never ends” is also strong, with clear and audible vocals and exemplary guitar and drum performances that truly help the song stand out. The lyrical content, about the descent into Hell, is expressed in a tense, exciting story. “Possession” is also a fine addition to Christfucker.

Altogether, Christfucker is another solid entry into Portrayal of Guilt’s steadily growing resume. What makes this album so interesting is that the band isn’t afraid to say extreme things and make extreme sounds. The violent content may disturb newer listeners, and the occasionally murky vocal mixing may turn them off, but for longtime metal fans, it’s sure to be pleasing. Still, newcomers to metal can find plenty to enjoy in the instrumentals and vocals, which are consistently skillful.

Christfucker might be offensive to some listeners, with its name and the content described within, from death rituals to crucifixion. Regardless, it provides for an enjoyable listening experience. Both new and old metal listeners can find something to enjoy on this album. And those new listeners will be pleased to know that Portrayal of Guilt has more plenty more work to dive into—and plenty more on the way.