Sometimes, a story transcends the music it accompanies. This sentiment rings particularly true for Regional Justice Center (RJC), a band whose narrative is as compelling as their frenetic sound. At the heart of this story is Ian Shelton, whose journey intertwines with that of his brother, Max Hellesto, whose six-year incarceration profoundly shaped the band’s inception and evolution.
Regional Justice Center emerged in 2016, born out of Shelton’s need to cope with his brother’s imprisonment for first-degree assault. Initially conceived as a collaborative project, the band was meant to blend the voices of both brothers, with Hellesto contributing lyrics from behind bars. However, the reality of their situation forced the band to evolve into a more personal exploration of family trauma, systemic injustice, and the burdens of guilt. Over the years, RJC’s music transformed from a mere outlet of rage against the criminal justice system into a visceral reflection of Shelton’s battles with cycles of abuse and personal history.
With the release of Freedom Sweet Freedom, RJC finds itself at a pivotal juncture. The album marks a new chapter, showcasing Hellesto as a full-fledged member rather than a distant voice. This evolution breathes fresh life into their sound, and the brothers’ joint efforts reveal a collaborative spirit that resonates throughout the record.
Produced by Taylor Young, who is renowned in hardcore circles, Freedom Sweet Freedom presents a sonic shift for RJC. The album retains the fast, abrasive intensity characteristic of powerviolence but is more polished and accessible than previous efforts. Clocking in at a blistering 15 minutes across 12 tracks, the record is a whirlwind of harsh riffs and adrenaline-fueled rhythms that demand the listener’s full attention.
From the opening track, aptly titled “Freedom,” Hellesto’s raw vocal power encapsulates the album’s overarching theme: a complex interplay of exhilaration and dread surrounding the concept of freedom. The track’s immediate aggression is juxtaposed with a deeper introspection, as it questions the true nature of liberation after enduring years of confinement.
While the music remains punishingly fast, RJC plays with a more streamlined sound, introducing moments of catchiness amidst the chaos. Classic mosh breakdowns blend with thrash influences, crafting an auditory experience that is both disorienting and compelling. The record’s clarity allows even the most uninitiated listener to grasp its intensity, though the lyrical depth is best appreciated with a lyric sheet in hand.
The lyrics of Freedom Sweet Freedom are steeped in personal turmoil and societal critique. Shelton’s lines serve as a warning, a reflection of the hard-earned wisdom gained through trauma. For example, in the album opener, he proclaims, “Freedom can’t be gained! Not if you stay the same!” This stark realization echoes throughout the record, encapsulating the struggles of those grappling with their past.
Hellesto’s contributions further enrich the narrative. His verses, often delivered in a guttural growl, reveal the internal chaos faced by someone trying to reclaim their identity post-incarceration. Tracks like “Take A Step Away” and the late-album highlight “Curse” exemplify this struggle, with lines that expose the weight of familial legacy and mental health challenges.
The closing track, “Sweet Freedom,” stands out as a collaborative effort between the brothers, symbolizing their shared journey and mutual support. At just under two minutes, it encapsulates the urgency of their experience, addressing themes of ownership and the desire to break free from the past.
Freedom Sweet Freedom is not just an album; it is an intimate exploration of trauma, resilience, and brotherhood. While it delivers a visceral punch through its aggressive sound, the emotional weight behind each track elevates it beyond mere musicality. The album serves as a cathartic outlet for both Shelton and Hellesto, transforming their pain into a form of art that resonates deeply with listeners.
For those familiar with Ian Shelton’s work in Militarie Gun, this record presents a raw, unfiltered glimpse into another facet of his artistry. RJC’s live performances promise to be a wild and cathartic experience, and the urgency behind Freedom Sweet Freedom suggests that this chapter, while concluding a significant narrative, is far from the end. Instead, it stands as a testament to the power of music as a vehicle for healing and expression, making it a compelling listen for anyone willing to dive into its depths. In a world where personal stories often get lost, RJC’s latest effort reminds us that sometimes, the story is indeed bigger than the music.