The Somatic Defilement cover

The Somatic Defilement

Whitechapel

Album 2007

About this album

Sound: "Aggressive riffs and guttural vocals intertwine in a relentless exploration of horror-themed narratives."

Where they were

Released on January 1, 2007, 'The Somatic Defilement' was Whitechapel's debut album, launching them into the deathcore scene. At this time, the band was establishing its identity within a genre that was rapidly gaining popularity yet faced criticism from traditional metal purists.

Why it matters

This album significantly impacted the deathcore genre, marking Whitechapel as a key player alongside contemporaries like Suicide Silence and All Shall Perish. It received positive reviews from various outlets and helped solidify the band's presence in the metal community, leading to further successful releases.

Essential tracks

  • "The Somatic Defilement" — The title track encapsulates the album's themes of grotesque imagery and showcases the band's signature sound with intense breakdowns and haunting melodies.
  • "Devirgination Studies" — This track exemplifies Whitechapel's technical prowess, blending intricate guitar work with brutal vocal delivery that defines their style.
  • "Prostatic Fluid Asphyxiation" — With its relentless pace and visceral lyrics, this track demonstrates the band’s commitment to pushing boundaries within extreme music.
  • "Ear to Ear" — A standout example of lyrical horror combined with musical aggression, it highlights the band's thematic focus on grotesque storytelling.

Release Date

January 1, 2007

Artist Origin

United States

Tracklist

  1. 1 Necrotizing 0:35
  2. 2 The Somatic Defilement 5:19
  3. 3 Devirgination Studies 3:12
  4. 4 Prostatic Fluid Asphyxiation 3:33
  5. 5 Fairy Fay 3:32
  6. 6 Ear to Ear 3:30
  7. 7 Alone in the Morgue 2:53
  8. 8 Festering Fiesta 2:29
  9. 9 Vicer Exciser 2:52
  10. 10 Articulo Mortis 4:03