Norma Jean

The Profile

Norma Jean are an American metalcore band formed in 1997 in Douglasville, Georgia. Formerly known as Luti‑Kriss, they helped define 2000s metalcore with the visceral Bless the Martyr and Kiss the Child and continued with albums like O' God, the Aftermath and Redeemer.

American metalcore band from Douglasville, Georgia, active since 1997 and formerly known as Luti‑Kriss. Debut as Norma Jean with Bless the Martyr and Kiss the Child (2002). Redeemer was released on September 12, 2006 and produced by Ross Robinson. Often labeled as part of Christian metalcore; influences and sonic references cited include Coalesce, Botch, Neurosis, Converge, and The Dillinger Escape Plan. Vocalist Cory Brandan is featured on Redeemer.

Reviews hail Bless the Martyr and Kiss the Child as a seminal, nerve-fraying blast of post-hardcore-derived metalcore. Redeemer, produced by Ross Robinson, adds cleaner vocals and a more linear edge, sparking debate over inventiveness vs accessibility. The band’s ferocity, intricate drumming, and tension-loaded atmospheres are repeatedly highlighted, with nods to influences like Coalesce, Botch, Neurosis, Converge, and Dillinger Escape Plan.