Description
Autopsy – Severed Survival + Retribution For Dead – Compact Disc
Severed Survival is the debut studio album by the American death metal band Autopsy, released in 1989. It is widely regarded as a pioneering work in the death metal genre, known for its raw, brutal sound and dark, gore-themed lyrics. Retribution for the Dead is an EP released by Autopsy in 1991, featuring some of the band’s most iconic tracks and further solidifying their influence in the death metal scene.
Severed Survival (1989)
The album is characterized by its raw production, heavy riffs, aggressive drumming, and guttural vocals, setting a standard for the death metal genre. Incorporates doom metal elements, with slower, heavy passages adding to the album’s dark and oppressive atmosphere.
Track Highlights:
‘Charred Remains’: The opening track sets the tone with fast, brutal riffs and gory lyrics, establishing the band’s signature sound.
‘Disembowel’: Features intense drumming and visceral lyrics, showcasing the band’s ability to blend speed with brutality.
‘Ridden with Disease’: Combines heavy riffs with a slower tempo, creating a haunting and oppressive feel.
‘Severed Survival’: The title track offers a mix of fast-paced sections and slower, doom-laden passages, highlighting the band’s dynamic range.
The lyrics are heavily focused on themes of gore, horror, and death, reflecting the band’s fascination with macabre and visceral imagery. The themes are dark and brutal, aligning with the overall intensity and aggression of the music.
The production is intentionally raw and unpolished, capturing the intensity and aggression of the band’s sound. Features thick, heavy guitar tones, powerful drumming, and deep, guttural vocals, creating a dense and brutal auditory experience.
Retribution for the Dead (1991)
The EP continues the band’s exploration of death metal, with even more refined brutality and technicality. Further solidified Autopsy’s status as pioneers of death metal, influencing many subsequent bands in the genre.
Track Highlights:
‘Retribution for the Dead’: The title track is a standout, featuring crushing riffs, aggressive drumming, and dark, atmospheric sections.
‘Destined to Fester’: Combines heavy, slow doom influences with fast, brutal sections, showcasing the band’s versatility.
‘In the Grip of Winter’: A haunting and oppressive track with powerful guitar work and intense vocals, reflecting the band’s ability to create dark, atmospheric music.
The lyrics continue to explore themes of gore, horror, and death, maintaining the band’s signature style. The themes are delivered with a focus on creating a dark and haunting atmosphere, adding depth to the brutality.
The production on the EP is slightly more refined than the debut album, while still retaining the raw intensity. Features dense, heavy guitar tones, powerful drumming, and deep vocals, creating a brutal and immersive listening experience.
Severed Survival and Retribution for the Dead are seminal works in the death metal genre, showcasing Autopsy’s ability to blend raw brutality with dark, atmospheric elements. The band’s influence can be seen in countless death metal bands that followed, and these releases remain essential listening for fans of the genre.
Severed Survival and Retribution for the Dead are essential albums for fans of death metal and those interested in the evolution of the genre. The albums’ raw production, dark themes, and brutal sound offer a compelling and impactful listening experience. For those exploring the roots of death metal, these releases provide a rich and rewarding auditory journey that captures the essence of Autopsy’s groundbreaking style and enduring influence.
Futurist Records
2 Albums on 1 CD!
Track Listing
charred remains
service for a vacant coffin
disembowel
gasping for air
ridden with disease
pagan savior
impending dread
severed survival
critical madness
embalmed
stillborn
retribution for the dead
destined to fester
in the grip of winter
