About this album
Where they were
Released on June 1, 1996, 'Swansong' was Carcass's fifth studio album and their final release before a lengthy hiatus. At this point in their career, the band had transitioned from their earlier goregrind roots to a more melodic death metal sound, reflecting a broader evolution in extreme metal during the mid-1990s.
Why it matters
'Swansong' is significant for its commercial success, peaking at number 42 on the UK Albums Chart, which was a substantial achievement for a death metal band at the time. The album showcased a more accessible sound while maintaining the band's signature ferocity, influencing subsequent bands in the melodic death metal scene.
Essential tracks
- "Keep On Rotting in the Free World" — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its aggressive riffs and sharp social commentary, encapsulating Carcass's shift towards a more melodic style.
- "Child’s Play" — With its intricate guitar work and dynamic shifts, 'Child’s Play' exemplifies the band's ability to blend heaviness with melody, showcasing their matured sound.
- "Generation Hexed" — 'Generation Hexed' features a haunting atmosphere combined with relentless energy, making it a standout track that reflects both lyrical depth and musical complexity.
- "Don’t Believe a Word" — 'Don’t Believe a Word' serves as an anthem against societal norms with its catchy hooks and biting lyrics, highlighting Carcass's sharp wit and musical evolution.
Release Date
June 1, 1996
Artist Origin
United Kingdom
Tracklist
- 1 Keep On Rotting in the Free World 3:42
- 2 Tomorrow Belongs to Nobody 4:18
- 3 Black Star 3:29
- 4 Cross My Heart 3:34
- 5 Child’s Play 5:42
- 6 Room 101 4:36
- 7 Polarized 4:02
- 8 Generation Hexed 3:47
- 9 Firm Hand 5:22
- 10 R**k the Vote 3:53
- 11 Don’t Believe a Word 3:57
- 12 Go to Hell 3:22
