"From Beer to Eternity" is the thirteenth studio album by the American industrial metal band Ministry. Released on September 6, 2013, it marks the band's final album featuring longtime guitarist Mike Scaccia, who passed away in December 2012 due to a heart attack. The album was recorded in the wake of his sudden death, and the material was developed using guitar tracks Scaccia had recorded during jam sessions and demos prior to his passing.
The album emerged from what was initially an uncertain future for the band. After Scaccia’s death, Ministry's founder, Al Jourgensen, was hesitant to continue, but ultimately decided to proceed with the project as a tribute to Scaccia. The recording sessions took place at Jourgensen's home studio in El Paso, Texas, resulting in an album that blends elements of industrial metal, thrash, and experimental sounds.
Thematically, "From Beer to Eternity" addresses topics such as politics, societal issues, and Jourgensen’s personal reflections and experiences. Its sound maintains the aggressive and abrasive qualities typical of Ministry's music, coupled with lyrical content that critiques and challenges contemporary sociopolitical landscapes.
Critics generally received the album positively, celebrating its intensity and the emotional weight behind its creation, especially given the circumstances surrounding Scaccia's untimely death. Jourgensen later described it as a "very bittersweet record" for him and placed a strong focus on Scaccia's contributions, making it a lasting homage to his bandmate's talent and influence.
