Don't confuse Norma Jean with either the country star or disco pop-star of the same name or you'll be in for a rude surprise. Norma Jean is loud and hard, putting crunchy guitars at the forefront of their blaring Christian metal. Borrowing imagery more fitting for a horror film than a Christian band (their press photo includes the band illustrated as if they were a horde of the undead), you might be surprised to know there's a spiritual dimension to their music. If you can make out their lyrics through the screaming, though, you'll find a capable band with insights into the struggles of the soul.

The band has been shattering barriers since its inception. Forming in 1997 in Dougalasville, GA. Originally, the band formed as a rap-metal outfit, probably the only Christian equivalent of bands like Limp Bizkit or Korn anywhere in America. They released two records of rap-metal under the name Luti-Kriss before going in for a darker, heavier rock sound. Changing their name to Norma Jean (partly because people kept confusing them with Ludacris), they released their debut LP under the new moniker in 2002.

Bless the Martyr and Kiss the Child earned them a warm critical reception amongst Christian metal enthusiasts. The follow-up, 2005's O God, the Aftermath consisted of 11 tracks, each titled after a cryptic portmanteau ("Murderotica," "Vertebraille," "Charactarantula"). The band's passion came through its moody and bleak lyrics, with threats of suicide and damnation abounded.

2006's Redeemer, with its cover art featuring a little girl being attacked by a crow, proved the band's attitude hadn't changed. Produced by Rob Robinson, producer for Korn and Limp Bizkit, they shared a similar hard attack of sound. In 2008, the band released Norma Jean VS. the Anti-Mother.