Background: Six Feet Under and Cannibal Corpse Connection
Six Feet Under, a prominent name in the death metal scene, was formed in 1993 by Chris Barnes, who was the original vocalist for Cannibal Corpse. This connection has always intrigued fans, creating a bridge between the two bands. Cannibal Corpse, known for pioneering the genre with brutal lyrics and aggressive soundscapes, has had a significant influence on Six Feet Under’s music.
The decision to cover Cannibal Corpse songs is not just a nod to Chris Barnes’ roots but also a celebration of the death metal genre as a whole. Over the years, Six Feet Under has made a name for themselves with their distinctive groove-laden death metal, diverging from the technical brutality of Cannibal Corpse while still maintaining a loyal fan base.
The Songs: A Closer Look at the Covers
On their current tour, Six Feet Under has chosen to cover two iconic Cannibal Corpse tracks: “Hammer Smashed Face” and “Stripped, Raped and Strangled.” These songs are seminal works in the death metal genre, known for their uncompromising intensity and complex compositions.
“Hammer Smashed Face”
Originally released on Cannibal Corpse’s 1992 album, Tomb of the Mutilated, “Hammer Smashed Face” is perhaps one of the most recognizable tracks in the death metal repertoire. Its aggressive riffs and relentless pace have made it a staple in live performances. By covering this track, Six Feet Under taps into a deep well of nostalgia and brutality, allowing fans to relive the intensity of the original while experiencing the unique twist provided by Barnes’ current band.
“Stripped, Raped and Strangled”
This track, from the 1994 album The Bleeding, showcases Cannibal Corpse’s lyrical and musical evolution. Known for its intricate guitar work and dark thematic content, “Stripped, Raped and Strangled” offers a complex narrative delivered through a powerful sonic experience. Six Feet Under’s rendition retains the original’s intensity while infusing it with their own distinctive groove elements.
Tour Setlist and Performance Highlights
The inclusion of Cannibal Corpse covers in Six Feet Under’s setlist has been a standout feature of their current tour. Alongside these covers, the band performs a mix of classic tracks and new material, creating a dynamic and engaging live experience.
The setlist typically includes fan favorites such as “The Day the Dead Walked,” “Seed of Filth,” and “Victim of the Paranoid.” The Cannibal Corpse covers are strategically placed to maintain the energy and keep the audience engaged throughout the performance.
Performance Highlights
The live renditions of these covers have been met with enthusiastic responses from audiences. Chris Barnes’ vocal delivery, characterized by deep growls and guttural intensity, breathes new life into these classic tracks. The band’s tight instrumentation further enhances the overall impact, with guitarists delivering blistering solos and the rhythm section providing a thunderous backdrop.
Audience Reception and Critical Acclaim
Fans and critics alike have praised Six Feet Under’s decision to honor Cannibal Corpse with these covers. Audience members have expressed appreciation for the nostalgic element, while also commending the band’s ability to stay true to the original compositions. The covers have been described as respectful and well-executed, with many fans citing them as highlights of the live performances.
Critics have noted that the covers serve as a testament to the enduring influence of Cannibal Corpse on the death metal genre. They highlight Chris Barnes’ role in shaping the band’s legacy, acknowledging his contributions to both bands as pivotal to the development of death metal.
Conclusion: A Celebration of Death Metal Legacy
By covering these iconic Cannibal Corpse tracks, Six Feet Under not only pays tribute to a foundational band in death metal but also reaffirms their own place within the genre. The covers have allowed fans to experience the raw power and energy of these songs in a new light, showcasing the enduring appeal of death metal’s brutal aesthetics.
As Six Feet Under continues their tour, the inclusion of these covers promises to keep audiences engaged and provide a memorable live music experience. Whether you’re a longtime fan of either band or new to the genre, witnessing these performances is a unique opportunity to celebrate the legacy of death metal.