Hailing from Raleigh, North Carolina, Kinsley emerges as a force to be reckoned with in the heavy music scene, blending raw intensity with haunting storytelling. The duo, comprised of longtime friends Adam Staley and Christopher Jones, have carved out a niche for themselves, combining their cow-punk roots with their newfound affinity for heavy, dark, and atmospheric soundscapes. Their latest EP, DEMONS, released on January 6, 2025, is a powerful testament to their evolution as artists and their ability to confront deeply unsettling themes with unflinching honesty.
DEMONS is a tightly constructed three-track journey that explores humanity’s inner struggles, drawing inspiration from horror movie scores, William Blake’s poetry, and even Biblical passages like Psalm 34. Each track serves as a chapter in a harrowing narrative, tackling themes ranging from philosophical musings on evil to deeply personal battles with addiction. Staley and Jones handle every aspect of the music with a DIY ethos, recording and mastering the EP at Staley’s homes in Hillsborough and Raleigh. The result is a visceral and immersive experience that is as technically impressive as it is emotionally charged.
The EP opens with “Ruin,” a sonic descent into chaos that sets the tone for what’s to come. Heavy, oppressive guitar riffs layered with dynamic vocals create an atmosphere of impending doom. The track draws listeners into a philosophical exploration of the nature of Satan—a theme that is both provocative and thought-provoking. Staley’s drumming and production skills shine here, establishing a relentless rhythm that feels both oppressive and hypnotic.
“Possession,” the second track, delves deeper into the EP’s unsettling narrative. This song feels like the soundtrack to a psychological horror film, its oppressive atmospheres and eerie guitar work conjuring images of unseen forces at play. Jones’s vocals add an anguished quality, pulling the listener into the emotional turmoil of the piece. The interplay between the guitar and vocal dynamics builds a sense of tension that remains unresolved, leaving the listener on edge.
The EP closes with “Exorcism,” a cathartic exploration of the battle against addiction. The track combines raw emotion with a sense of urgency, blending heavy textures with moments of haunting vulnerability. Staley and Jones pour their souls into this track, delivering a performance that is as emotionally raw as it is musically intricate. It’s a fitting end to an EP that doesn’t shy away from exploring the darkest corners of the human experience.
What sets DEMONS apart is Kinsley’s ability to create a sound that feels both timeless and contemporary. Their influences—ranging from horror scores to philosophical and religious texts—are seamlessly woven into the fabric of their music, creating a cohesive and immersive experience. The DIY production approach, handled entirely by Staley, adds an intimate and authentic layer to the project, allowing every detail to shine through without losing the raw energy that defines the duo’s sound.
Kinsley’s journey to this point has been one of evolution and reinvention. From their beginnings as members of the cow-punk group Eno Mountain Boys to their current heavy music project, Staley and Jones have consistently pushed the boundaries of their artistry. DEMONS represents the culmination of years of collaboration, experimentation, and a shared passion for music that challenges both themselves and their listeners.
As the EP’s title suggests, DEMONS is a work that confronts the internal and external struggles we all face. It’s an unflinching look at the darker aspects of the human condition, delivered with a level of craftsmanship and emotional depth that is rare in today’s music landscape. For fans of heavy music that doesn’t just demand to be heard but also felt, Kinsley’s DEMONS is an essential listen.
With DEMONS, Kinsley has created more than just an EP—they’ve crafted an experience. Available now on all major streaming platforms, this three-track odyssey is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone brave enough to take the plunge.
