Death metal music is renowned for its extreme violence and violent themes. Yet it also employs complex song structures and polyrhythms, making it an intricately technical style with intricate song structures.
Let’s celebrate some of the incredible bands that use this style of music! Check out some of the most iconic music videos in this genre!
Anthrax – “Madhouse” (1986)
The video for “Madhouse,” from Anthrax’s 1985 album Spreading the Disease, depicts them performing in an insane asylum with several mental patients moving along to their music. Released as a single, this song has since become beloved among Anthrax’s fans.
Anthrax are an American thrash metal band from New York City that have been one of the pioneers of their genre since the 1980s. They belong to what’s referred to as “The Big Four” of thrash metal, alongside Metallica, Megadeth and Slayer.
They are renowned for their electrifying live performances. To date, the group has released ten studio albums, multiple singles and an EP with American hip hop group Public Enemy.
This band, featuring a rotating lineup of singers and lead guitarists, has had an illustrious career. Currently composed of guitarist Scott Ian, drummer Charlie Benante, bassist Frank Bello, and vocalist Joey Belladonna, they continue to bring their unique sound to audiences worldwide.
Although Anthrax have undergone several lineup changes over the years, their sound and style remain constant. This is especially evident on their 1987 LP, Among the Living. Many fans consider “I Am the Law” to be Anthrax’s finest work to date – a prime example of their unique take on metal music.
Thrash metal is typically known for its fast riffs and thunderous drums, but Anthrax took their sound in a more subdued direction with their 1993 album Sound of White Noise. This marked the debut of former Armored Saint vocalist John Bush and marked the first of five albums where they refocused their musical vision.
Black Sabbath – “Zeitgeist” (1986)
In the late 1980s, Black Sabbath reunited for this album. Singer Glenn Hughes left to tour with Spinal Tap, and new vocalist Ray Gillen took his place on this record.
Despite being one of their lowest points, this album still managed to produce some solid music, including rock radio staples “Iron Man” and “War Pigs.”
Another standout track from the band is “Hole in the Sky,” which showcases their classic sound. The lyrics are powerful, with unidentified second and third person focalization directly addressing listeners in an awe-inspiring yet terrifying way.
Tony Iommi wrote several of the album’s more delicate ballads, such as “Embryo” and “Orchid,” which showcase his signature guitar tone in a more relaxed setting. Additionally, the instrumental “Breakout” is truly remarkable.
Disc two of this release features live performances from the 1970s. While these tracks are all excellent, their recording and production quality could have been better.
This album’s music may not be what you expect from Sabbath, but that doesn’t make it any less interesting. The band successfully blends elements from prog rock and heavy metal on this record – the title track being an example – featuring great guitar riffs and an infectious chorus. Plus, Eric Singer (drummer for Kiss) contributes some percussion on the track! This makes this an intriguing addition for any fan’s collection.
Pantera – “Five Minutes Alone” (1986)
Pantera’s 1992 release Vulgar Display of Power revolutionized heavy music forever. The Texas band quickly rose to global fame thanks to its heavy groove metal sound that went viral. Soon enough, Pantera were joining Metallica, Slayer and Anthrax as main-stage acts at Ozzfest festivals worldwide.
With their newfound success, Slayer and Anthrax began to focus on a heavier sound that was heavily influenced by the thrash metal albums of 1986 and 1987. Notable albums include Slayer’s Reign in Blood, Anthrax’s Among the Living, and Megadeth’s Peace Sells… But Who’s Buying?
On this album, the glam metal style of the previous four albums was replaced with an even more intense soundscape featuring Phil Anselmo’s raspy vocals and Darrell’s guitar riffs that became increasingly complex and faster-paced. Paul’s drumming added yet another layer of intensity to the mix as well.
Anselmo also added a raspy growl to his voice, giving Pantera’s sound an uncompromising edge. This change resulted in the development of their “power groove” (groove metal) style – now one of their most beloved sounds.
Even with this shift in musical direction, vocalist Chris Hadfield had to contend with a series of issues which ultimately led to his departure from the group. This was due to an injury sustained from years of intense performances.
In the midst of all this, Anselmo had begun abusing drugs and alcohol to attempt to ease his discomfort. The Abbott brothers noticed his behavior becoming increasingly unpredictable and began to think he no longer belonged in the band.
Pantera needed a replacement singer and in 1986 recruited David Peacock from Forced Entry. Though an accomplished vocalist, Pantera found his glam metal style did not mesh well with their newer, heavier sound.
The Cure – “Lullaby” (1986)
Last summer, The Cure’s Glastonbury set was an acclaimed success and now they’ve released the first part of a three-part deluxe edition set. Containing 10 of their most popular songs plus a newly recorded single, Torn Down: Mixed Up Extras 2018 is an ideal way to commemorate their 40th anniversary and mark this momentous occasion.
Soundscape-oriented with unflinching lyricism, the band’s music offers a dark and haunting reflection of their times. The title track, “Lullaby,” serves as an ode to hopeless devotion and searing heartache that may leave you in tears.
This classic 1960s pop cover pays homage to The Chiffons and Dusty Springfield. It could have been written by any number of artists, yet The Cure take it and make it their own.
This song is an incredible testament to how artists can take hopeless devotion and searing heartache and turn them into timeless classics that you’ll want to listen to again and again. It’s one of the greatest hits to ever come out of the 80’s, proving its timeless quality.
The song is an iconic rock classic that continues to be heard on dance floors today. Any true Cure fan should have this timeless masterpiece in their collection – perfect for a cold winter night or warm sunny day.
Virgin Steele – “The Age Of Consent” (2011)
Established in 1981, Virgin Steele has been creating some of America’s best Power Metal music ever since. Their albums stand out among all others and can be credited as major influences on bands like Queensryche and Metallica.
Over the last few years, several Virgin Steele albums have been remastered and made accessible again. One such release, “The Age Of Consent”, is one such example – definitely worth checking out for fans!
This album took eight months to finish, unlike Noble Savage which was recorded within a few weeks and released in October 1988. If you’re into 80’s metal music from the band’s earlier incarnations, this re-release would make an excellent addition to your collection.
Musically, it is symphonic, romantic and bombastic with elements drawn from classical music as well as fantasy/mythological lyrics. Vocalist David DeFeis has an amazing voice that sounds similar to Uriah Heep front man Joe O’Reilly with its powerful rasp that fills the air around him.
Though the music on this album is certainly an improvement over earlier efforts, it still has its share of issues that make it less than perfect. While some songs may not be up to par with modern standards and production can be a bit rough around the ears, there are some excellent riffs and melodies that will leave a lasting impression on any fan of death metal.