In the ever-evolving world of hardcore music, Angel Du$t stands out by staying fiercely genuine, forging their unique path without compromise. As they prepare to drop their sixth studio album, “Cold 2 the Touch,” this Baltimore band remains committed to authenticity, experimenting within the genre to create something true to themselves.
The Authentic Edge of Justice Tripp
Known for his raw authenticity, Justice Tripp, the frontman of Angel Du$t, is as real as they come—save for his golden front teeth. Having endured numerous physical hardships from a lifetime of moshing and powerlifting, Tripp focuses on making music where authenticity prevails over any form of fakeness. “So much of my musical identity is in spite of fakeness [or] phoning it in,” he states, reiterating his commitment to genuine expression.
As Angel Du$t prepares to release “Cold 2 the Touch” on February 13, they promise a collection of tracks that blend past influences with the uniqueness that defines their sound. “The epitome of art is authenticity,” Tripp affirms, expressing a desire to defy expectations and present music that reflects their journey without adhering to trends or norms.
Evolution of a Hardcore Sound
Emerging from the same scene as their Grammy-winning peers Turnstile, Angel Du$t was founded by Tripp in 2013, with a lineup that has evolved over the years but continues to push the boundaries of what hardcore can be. Justice Tripp has remained a constant force, guiding the band’s sound and innovation, while current members, including guitarists Steve Marino and Jim Caroll, bassist Zechariah Ghostribe, and drummer Nick Lewis, contribute to their dynamic soundscape.
Ian Shelton of Militarie Gun praises Angel Du$t for integrating melody into hardcore music at a time when it was unfashionable. “They’re actually taking criticism to push the genre… into different, scarier places creatively,” Shelton says, highlighting their fearless willingness to experiment while staying true to their roots.
The Spirit of Rock and Roll
Driven by a pure and unfiltered passion for rock and roll energy, Angel Du$t’s latest work reflects Justice Tripp’s desire to capture the raw essence of music. “The current state of rock & roll music is hardcore,” he asserts. For Tripp, maintaining authenticity within this stripped-down, organic format is crucial.
The album kicks off with “Pain Is a Must,” featuring Terror’s Scott Vogel, a hardcore anthem about dedication and sacrifice for the craft. Tripp’s life experiences, such as leaving behind a stable HVAC career, underscore his total commitment to music, emphasizing gratitude for where this authentic journey has taken him.
Collaborative Spirit and Genuine Artistry
Produced by Brian McTernan, the album includes collaborations with musicians Tripp deeply respects. “Everybody on the record is someone I hugely admire,” says Tripp, who values artistry over online influence. This commitment to genuine collaboration highlights the band’s dedication to artistic integrity.
Angel Du$t’s ethos defies relying on imitation or past successes. Even though Tripp acknowledges his influences, like Prince, he strives to channel their energy rather than mimic their style. “I don’t want to imitate Prince. I want to take something from his energy and make it my own thing,” he explains.
Embracing Individuality
Tracks like the evocative “Cold 2 the Touch” convey Tripp’s disdain for artificiality in the music industry. “I literally hate bad art. It makes me sick,” he states, valuing authenticity over genre conformity. Patrick Kindlon of Drug Church admires Angel Du$t’s ability to consistently produce authentic records, likening their creative shifts to choosing different flavors without losing their essence.
The introspective “Jesus Head” explores themes of acceptance and self-embrace despite life’s challenges. Tripp, candid about his struggles, views music as his saving grace. “On paper, I’m a failure at everything except music,” he admits, finding solace and strength in his uniquely genuine expression.
The new single “I’m the Outside” further solidifies Angel Du$t’s status as a refuge for those on the fringes, creating a welcoming space for those who feel marginalized. Tripp’s message is clear: despite society’s pressures, he aims to remain true to himself while fostering an environment where others can feel similarly empowered.
