Review: Cannibalistic – Ascension (2024)
Introduction
Cannibalistic is a very Christ centered and missionally focused band with a clear purpose behind their music. This is heavy music created to minister, confront, and communicate truth rather than simply exist for entertainment. Their faith is not symbolic or implied. It is direct, scripturally rooted, and openly proclaimed.
During an interview, Alfredo Garcia (aka Fred), the band’s vocalist, explained how prayer guides the band’s writing and outreach:
“I always pray, God, give me the words You want me to put to this so that we can reach as many people as possible.”
That posture of prayer and obedience defines Ascension from start to finish.
Visual Presentation
The artwork for Ascension is visceral and striking, immediately matching the weight of the music. The imagery reinforces themes of sacrifice, struggle, and spiritual ascent. It does not soften the message or distract from it. Instead, it prepares the listener for an EP meant to be confronted and engaged with fully.
Band Lineup
- Alfredo “Fred” Garcia – vocals
- Alex Garza – guitar
- Jerry Dee Ryan III – guitar
- Joshua Sanchez – bass
- Kimberly Ann Huff – drums
Early Foundation and Song Origins
“My Window” plays a foundational role in Cannibalistic’s story, not only musically but spiritually. Guitarist Alex Garza shared how the band began forming around that song and how it marked the true starting point of Cannibalistic:
“Working on my window that was actually the first cannibalistic song that we had written and so at that point… I kind of like stepped away from a little bit for it, but then I kind of started this thing again.”
Originally released as a single in 2020, “My Window” was later included on Ascension in 2024, tying the band’s beginnings directly to their present mission.
Track Impressions
“Daniel”
“Sick riffs from the beginning” describes how the EP opens without hesitation. The guitar work comes in hard and confident, establishing intensity right away. There is a great mixture of vocal styles that work extremely well for this hard hitting song, paired with fantastic breakdowns that feel purposeful and well placed.
Lyrically, the song reframes the biblical account of Daniel in the lion’s den as a modern spiritual reality. Fred explained the heart of the message during the interview:
“The world is the lion’s den. If you are one with Christ, there’s no way this world can touch you. All you have to do is remain faithful.”
“From the Ashes”
This track is driven strongly by the drums, which come in and immediately push the song forward. The rhythm section gives the song momentum and urgency, while the balance between harsh and clean vocals adds emotional depth.
Drummer Kimberly Ann Huff shared her heart behind playing in Cannibalistic:
“If I could do one thing, it would be to glorify God in a Christian band. That’s what I know how to do.”
“My Window”
“My Window” delivers bone crushing, powerful music with great guitar work and strong harmonies. The ending slows down and lands on the line “love will find a way,” giving the song a reflective close that contrasts beautifully with its earlier intensity. Its inclusion on Ascension underscores the band’s journey and commitment to their calling.
“Crucifixion”
“Crucifixion” opens with an ominous spoken word declaration of “crucify Him,” immediately setting a sobering tone. The band’s theatrical elements come through here not for spectacle, but to reinforce the gravity of the subject matter.
The song builds toward a powerful climax, ending with the declaration that nothing can save us but Jesus. Fred was explicit about the intent:
“I don’t want anybody to get anything wrong. This song is about the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.”
The moment where he screams “Father forgive them for they know not what they do” lands with conviction and weight.
The Meaning Behind the Name Cannibalistic
The name Cannibalistic is intentionally provocative, but its meaning is deeply biblical, rooted in Christ’s words regarding communion. Rather than avoiding the tension the name creates, the band embraces it as a way to invite conversation and point listeners toward truth.
Bassist Joshua Sanchez explained it clearly:
“If this name gets people to ask questions, then that opens the door for truth. That’s what matters.”
Mission and Ministry
Cannibalistic repeatedly emphasized that their primary request from listeners is prayer. The band views their work as spiritual warfare rather than performance. Fred stated this plainly:
“If there’s anything the fans can help us with, it’s prayer. We’re soldiers at war. We’re going into the front lines doing exactly what God is asking us to do.”
Guitarist Jerry Dee Ryan III also spoke to the spiritual reality behind the music:
“I’ve seen both sides, and they’re very real. Feeling the Lord’s presence and being sealed with the Holy Spirit is everything.”
Closing Summary
Ascension is a focused and uncompromising EP that reflects Cannibalistic’s faith, growth, and mission. From the visceral artwork to the intentional songwriting and unapologetic lyrics, everything about this release feels purposeful. Including “My Window” alongside newer material highlights the band’s journey without compromising their foundation.
For listeners seeking heavy music that is unapologetically Christ centered, mission driven, and grounded in Scripture, Ascension delivers with clarity, conviction, and purpose.
Official band link:
https://hypeddit.com/cannibalistic
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