Justin K. Broadrick has announced that Godflesh will no longer perform live, citing health-related issues.
In a statement posted on March 4, Broadrick disclosed that he recently underwent major open abdominal surgery to repair a large inguinal hernia that was nearing a critical stage. The operation required a six-inch incision because minimally invasive keyhole surgery was not possible.
Now 57, Broadrick said the procedure has left his abdominal wall too compromised to endure the physical demands of Godflesh’s intense performances — especially the forceful shouting and screaming that are central to the band’s sound. Continuing to perform under those conditions, he explained, could lead to further hernias or even severe abdominal injury.
Although the band’s days on stage are coming to an end, Godflesh’s recording work is not finished yet. Broadrick confirmed that the group’s next-to-last studio album, titled Decay, has already been completed and is currently being mixed, with a tentative release planned for July or August through Relapse Records.
He also noted that the final Godflesh studio album has already been written and is scheduled to be recorded and wrapped up in late 2026. After that, Broadrick said there will be no additional studio records or concerts, though future dub releases, live recordings and archival material could still surface.
His full statement in as follows:
“I’ve dreaded sharing this news, partly due to the threat of insensitive and/or negative comments, combined simply with the general anxiety of it all, I am also exhausted, but I’ve left comments on.”
“So, 3 weeks ago I had significant open abdominal surgery for a inguinal hernia that was close to an emergency. I am still in shock from the process, and as someone with diagnosed Autism and C-PTSD, open surgery is absolutely debilitating, not that it is easier for anyone of course.”
“I had a huge hernia, and for it to be repaired, I had to endure a 6 inch incision in my groin. This unfortunately was not keyhole surgery. I have a very weak abdominal wall, which at being 57 yrs old this year, is not going to improve.”
“If I continue to perform and shout/scream as I do with Godflesh, then I am at high risk for more hernias, and blowing out my abdominal wall entirely. Godflesh live ended the day of my surgery, and upon the surgeon making this statement. I am now just about walking freely, but with little pace, albeit extremely carefully.”
“The full healing process is approximately 6 months. Fortunately, my other projects do not require screaming/shouting nor a physically demanding performance; jesu and JK FLESH shows remain.”
“I have been mixing, what will be the penultimate Godflesh album – DECAY, for
release on Relapse in hopefully July/Aug, mixes are being completed imminently. The album is basically done. I’ve had the final Godflesh studio album written, for almost a year and half now, that will be recorded and completed late 2026.”
“After that there will continue to be Godflesh dub albums, live albums, and so on,
but no new studio releases nor performances.”
“In the near future, a new solo project will emerge, further exploring the parameters
of heavy/ugly music, featuring my guitars and electronics, and of course vocals, but
NOT shouted vocals!”
“Regarding Godflesh in Athens, Gr, please contact the promotion for details, etc.
There will be an official announcement via my agency/management regarding this
ASAP.”
“Thank you for your understanding. Take care out there. Justin“
