Article written by Roger Casadejús Pérez
1991: “Human” by Death
Continuing their dominance in the early ’90s, Death released “Human” in 1991, a groundbreaking album that solidified their place as leaders of the genre. With an all-star lineup including drummer Sean Reinert and bassist Steve DiGiorgio, “Human” showcased unparalleled technical prowess and complex song structures. This album is often credited with pioneering the technical death metal subgenre, influencing countless bands in the years that followed.
1992: “Legion” by Deicide
Deicide’s “Legion” is a ferocious assault on the senses, cementing the band’s reputation for blistering speed and controversial themes. Released in 1992, “Legion” pushed the boundaries of extremity, with Glen Benton’s demonic vocals and the Hoffman brothers’ relentless riffing. The album’s aggressive nature and unapologetic blasphemy have made it a staple in the death metal canon, influencing a generation of extreme metal musicians.
1993: “Covenant” by Morbid Angel
Morbid Angel’s “Covenant” is often hailed as one of the greatest death metal albums of all time. Released in 1993, it was a commercial breakthrough for the band, becoming the first death metal album to be released on a major label, Warner Bros. Records. With Trey Azagthoth’s innovative guitar work and David Vincent’s commanding presence, “Covenant” combines technical proficiency with dark, occult themes, delivering a sonic experience that is both brutal and captivating.
1994: “The Bleeding” by Cannibal Corpse
In 1994, Cannibal Corpse unleashed “The Bleeding,” an album that refined their signature sound with improved production and more intricate songwriting. Featuring memorable tracks like “Fucked with a Knife” and “Stripped, Raped and Strangled,” the album showcased Chris Barnes’ guttural vocals and the band’s tight musicianship. “The Bleeding” remains one of Cannibal Corpse’s most celebrated releases, epitomizing the brutality and gore that the band is known for.
1995: “Symbolic” by Death
Death returned in 1995 with “Symbolic,” an album that further pushed the boundaries of the genre. With complex arrangements, introspective lyrics, and a polished sound, “Symbolic” is often considered Chuck Schuldiner’s magnum opus. The album’s intricate guitar work and progressive elements set a new standard for technical death metal, influencing countless bands and solidifying Death’s legacy as one of the genre’s most innovative forces.
1996: “Slaughter of the Soul” by At the Gates
While not a traditional death metal album, At the Gates’ “Slaughter of the Soul” is a cornerstone of the melodic death metal movement that emerged in the mid-’90s. Released in 1996, the album features a perfect blend of melody and aggression, with Tomas Lindberg’s visceral vocals and the band’s razor-sharp guitar work. “Slaughter of the Soul” has had a profound impact on both death metal and metalcore, influencing bands across multiple subgenres.
1997: “Obscura” by Gorguts
Gorguts’ “Obscura” is a challenging listen that redefined the boundaries of death metal upon its release in 1997. Known for its dissonant compositions and avant-garde approach, the album is a masterclass in technical proficiency and creative songwriting. Luc Lemay’s vision for “Obscura” pushed the genre into uncharted territory, making it a cult classic and a source of inspiration for progressive and technical death metal bands.
1998: “Gallery of Suicide” by Cannibal Corpse
With “Gallery of Suicide,” Cannibal Corpse continued to assert their dominance in the death metal scene. Released in 1998, the album introduced new guitarist Pat O’Brien and delivered a relentless onslaught of brutality and precision. Tracks like “I Will Kill You” and “Dismembered and Molested” showcase the band’s ability to blend horror-inspired themes with complex musicianship, ensuring their status as icons of the genre.
1999: “The Sound of Perseverance” by Death
Closing out the decade, Death’s “The Sound of Perseverance” is a triumph of technical and progressive death metal. Released in 1999, it was the band’s final studio album, showcasing Chuck Schuldiner’s evolution as a songwriter and musician. With intricate compositions and thought-provoking lyrics, “The Sound of Perseverance” is a fitting conclusion to Death’s storied career, leaving an indelible mark on the genre and inspiring future generations of metal musicians.
Conclusion
The 1990s were a golden era for death metal, a decade that saw the genre reach new heights of creativity and influence. Each year brought forth albums that not only defined the sound of death metal but also expanded its horizons, incorporating elements of melody, technicality, and experimentation. The albums highlighted in this article represent the best of the genre, showcasing the enduring impact and legacy of death metal’s most pivotal decade.