Flattening of Emotions: Top 10 Death Metal Albums
May 3rd, 2009 |I’ve made a lot of purchases and acquisitions lately, far too many to give each a few-fledged review, so I’ll compile some recent highlights into a themed list. If you like this, be sure to check out my old black and viking metal lists. And of course, this list is far from definitive so leave your suggestions in the comments below.
10. Grave. Into the Grave . 1991.
An underwritten genre classic from Sweden featuring some of the most guttural vocals imaginable.
9. Dismember. Like an Ever Flowing Stream . 1991.
As the title suggests, the riffs on this album flow on and on with incredible force. Mind-melting musicianship.
8. Entombed. Left Hand Path . 1990.
One of the most well known albums from Sweden’s early DM scene. Infectious riffs abound on this influential record.
7. Cryptopsy. None So Vile . 1996.
A fine release from this Montreal band. The vocals are unique, garbled and sinister. The guitar riffs are dense and brutal. Suffocating in its power.
6. Cynic. Traced in Air . 2008.
Cynic is well know for their highly technical progressive death metal that incorporates jazz and experimental elements. Like its predecessor Focus , Traced in Air has a heady science-fiction atmosphere to flesh out its other-worldly sound.
5. Nile. In Their Darkened Shrines . 2002.
A fascinating progressive death metal album that uses ancient Egypt as its thematic backdrop. Not only are the riffs highly technical, layered and brutal, they also lead into Eastern traditions, making this a worldy tour de force.
4. Uncanny. Spendium For Nyktophobia . 1991.
Fantastic Swedish death metal that incorporated heavy-hitting industrial flourishes into its complex compositions. Sounding like a cross between Entombed and Godflesh, Uncanny’s rhythmic guitars are colossal.
3. Lykathea Aflame. Elvenfris . 2000.
A beautifully executed progressive death album from the Czech Republic. The riffs are incredibly fast, intricate and boost an almost mystical flavor to them. A highly refined and detailed work.
2. Edge of Sanity. Crimson . 1996.
Another classic with progressive touches, Crimson boasts a single 45 minute track that runs through an elaborate post-apocalyptic narrative. Weaving between clean vocals and metal growls, grinding riffs and soaring solos, this song boasts enough variety and intensity to keep you engaged.
1. Death. Human . 1991.
The greatest death metal band is one that shares the genre’s name. From it’s intelligent and scathing lyrics to its winding solos, fretless bass work and pummeling production, Human has it all. Chuck Schuldinger left us far too soon. A masterpiece that still stands as a towering milestone.









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