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News : Thy Art Is Murder Reveal Uncensored ‘Holy War’ Artwork & Launch Pre-orders

By on April 27, 2015

Sydney’s Thy Art Is Murder are steadily becoming known for their rather controversial decisions. After being booted off last year’s Soundwave festival following a bout wherein the band tried to encourage festival goers to rush the stage and attack security staff during the Brisbane leg, the extreme metallers have now unveiled the official, uncensored artwork for their forthcoming third full-length album, ‘Holy War’. Depicting the image of a young boy garbed with robes and explosives, the artwork has been gathering attention since it was released last week. Band guitarist Andy Marsh offers the explanation that the cover art is intended as a naked reflection of today’s society and war-driven culture, and is offered as a symbol of remembrance for a disenfranchised youth of whom are fruitlessly sent off to war.

He explains:

“We wanted Holy War to be our most confronting release to date. From the moment the album title was conceived and the lyrics were born we had a distinct vision that the album cover artwork must be equally as confronting, as scary, and as real as what we are about as a band. Unfortunately after circulating our intended album cover around to the distributors and retailers, and after several meetings with the label and those we all work with, we were told we would have to cover the image, or choose a different cover. Not wanting to alter our desired cover in any way shape or form, we opted to contain it within the album packaging and roll with one of the other images from the layout. 

“Here it is in all its magnificent glory, a child for every religion that has indoctrinated the young and disadvantaged, and sent them off to war and bloody death without cause or reason. This album is for them.”

The album cover and packaging photos were taken by the band’s long-time photographer and friend, Thomas Savage. It was further produced by Will Putney (The Amity Affliction, Northlane) and will be Thy Art Is Murder’s first released via Melbourne record label, UNFD.

The album with the uncensored will not be available on retail versions of the album (CD), but will be appear on a Limited Edition 12″ Picture Disc vinyl version that will be available exclusively via 24hundred.net.

Holy War - Limited Edition LP

‘Holy War’ is available to pre-order now via multiple formats, some of which include the uncensored artwork, as that from 24hundred.net. Included in the pre-order options is an exclusive digi-pack that includes a bonus track.

‘Holy War’ is out June 26th via UNFD.

1. Absolute Genocide
2. Light Bearer
3. Holy War
4. Coffin Dragger
5. Fur and Claw
6. Deliver Us To Evil
7. Emptiness
8. Violent Reckoning
9. Child Of Sorrow
10. Naked and Cold

Holy War - uncensored artwork

About

Jonathon is an aspiring fantasy/sci-fi novelist and music journalist. Thanks to the influence of the music he grew up with, he has always possessed a keen interest in metal and rock. He is also a huge fan of mythology, legend, and folklore from all across the world. You should follow him on Twitter.