GFM’s “Framing My Perception” an Instant Hard Rock Classic – Opinion

The Florida-based sisters Maggie, CJ, and LuLu English have spent the past few years taking the message, while thankfully not the annoying styling, of the 1985 Eurythmics/Aretha Franklin song “Sisters Are Doin’ It For Themselves” to heart. As the crushing metal trio Gold Frankincense & Myrrh, now going by GFM, the English sisters have forged a unique path of fusing bruising rhythms and riffs with a lyrical perspective cutting through surface-level angst down to the life-disturbing issues today’s youth face in a world of incessant messaging regarding sexuality and lack of self-worth. GFM, after several great independent albums, has just released their first major label effort. It is a six-song EP on the Rockfest label. Framing my PerceptionIt is the winner.

While all three members of the band are Christians and make no effort whatsoever to hide their faith in an attempt to gain a larger audience, GFM’s lyrics are far more intent on using their beliefs as a foundation upon which to observe what they see in the Light rather than incessant discussion of the Light Himself. A strong example is the new EP’s title track.

Perception can be as simple as the art of sleight-of-hand
Don’t be afraid, be afraid
You should take the chance
Today is a brand new day, take my hand
Don’t be afraid, be afraid

Are you ready?
Will you be able to stand strong even through the worst?
Unlock the potential for a fulfilling life
This time you won’t give in, so let the rain pour

We stand here, we move forward
Do not slow down because the days are becoming shorter
Today is a brand new day, take my hand
Don’t be afraid, be afraid

It’s difficult to pick a highlight as all six tracks are superb. “Honest Abe” furiously thrashes as the band muses over whether it will take divine intervention to heal this land’s divides. “The Enemy” is the closest thing to a ballad; a mid-tempo rocker managing the neat trick of being a simultaneous melodic breather and menacing slugfest. “Why So Toxic” is a speedy singalong-inducing romp. The closing track “Disturb The Silence” does just that, as drummer LuLu English pounds away with intricately controlled fury. While Maggie English, the bassist and vocalist, and CJ English (guitar/vocalist), simultaneously pound it down hard while putting their hearts into the message and music with enough passion to rip your heart out.

The EP’s heavy-handed production of synthesizer washes and electronic rhythmic insertions could quickly suffocate a less muscular band. GFM was not the one to blame, as they were throughout. Framing my PerceptionFocus on the important things. This band is a melodic sledgehammer. Although there is some echoes of Slipknot and Paramore, GFM’s identity transcends any idea of them being new. It is authentic, powerful music with a clear purpose. GFM isn’t for everyone. It is only for people who love heavy music. Framing my PerceptionThis is a wonderful treat.

The CD is available at the band’s website along with the usual online retailers, and is available for streaming at all major services.