PeelingFlesh | |
|---|---|
| Origin | Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, United States |
| Genres | |
| Years active | 2021–present |
| Labels | |
| Website | peelingfleshok |
PeelingFlesh is an American death metal band formed in 2021 from Oklahoma City and Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Their musical style blends elements of slam and brutal death metal with hardcore influences and often features samples of hip-hop and Blaxploitation films., creating what they refer to as "Slamming Gangster Groove." [6] with lyrical themes including gore, murder, and thuggery. [7]
The band's approach has been noted for its fun and ruthless nature. [8]
PeelingFlesh played at Oklahoma Death Fest in 2023, performing alongside Dying Fetus and Cattle Decapitation. [9]
Their debut full-length album, The G Code, was released in September 2024. [7]
In late 2024, PeelingFlesh joined Whitechapel and Revocation for the "Death and Decay" North American tour. [10] [11] [12]
The G Code received generally positive reviews for its energetic and heavy sound. MetalSucks described it as "just what the doctor ordered," praising its "sticky grooves, choice samples, and life-ending fight riffs of the hardest order." [1]
Loudwire called it "a mind-melting mix of slam and deathcore that will leave listeners drenched in sweat and gasping for air," noting the band’s seamless integration of "gut-punching breakdowns" and "dark, industrial influences." The review also praised the album’s diversity, stating that "it’s clear PeelingFlesh is ready to push the boundaries of their sound even further in future releases." [33]
The album was highlighted by The PRP as one of the "top slam albums of the year," with a focus on its "impressive guest features and unrelenting energy," calling it "an absolute must-listen for fans of the genre." [34]
Blabbermouth.net’s review highlighted the album’s raw intensity and described PeelingFlesh as a "band at the top of their game," with the reviewer stating, "The G Code shows the band’s incredible ability to create music that’s both brutal and memorable." They praised the album for its "melodic yet pulverizing nature," citing standout tracks like "Ghetto as Hell" and "Brainflesh," which they called "thrashing anthems of chaos and control." [35]
The album also garnered attention for its powerful collaborations, with publications like Kerrang! noting the "chemistry" between the band and guest artists such as Alex Erian of Despised Icon and Steve Marois, calling their contributions "the perfect addition to the overall energy of the record." [36]
Additionally, critics from Metal Injection stated that The G Code "sets a new standard for slam and deathcore," and that "PeelingFlesh's mix of guttural vocals, intricate drum patterns, and bass-heavy riffs push the envelope without losing any of the genre’s essential raw power." [37]
In December 2024, members of the deathcore band Orphan filed a lawsuit against PeelingFlesh members Mychal Soto and Joe Pelletier, alleging copyright infringement related to their previous band Strangled. The lawsuit also named CDBaby, the distributor of Strangled's music, which led to fluctuations in the availability of Strangled's discography on streaming platforms. [38] [39] [40]
In early 2025, PeelingFlesh faced criticism for initially accepting and later canceling a controversial tour. [41] [42] [43]