About this album
Where they were
Released in 1995, 'Slaughter of the Soul' was At the Gates' fourth studio album, marking a pivotal moment in their career as they transitioned from underground pioneers to influential figures in the melodic death metal scene. This album followed their critically acclaimed record 'Terminal Spirit Disease' and showcased a more refined sound that would later influence countless bands within the genre.
Why it matters
'Slaughter of the Soul' is often regarded as a seminal work in melodic death metal, influencing a generation of musicians and contributing to the genre's rise in popularity during the late 1990s. It achieved significant critical acclaim, featuring prominently in lists of essential metal albums and solidifying At the Gates' legacy with its inclusion in many retrospective analyses of heavy music.
Essential tracks
- "Blinded by Fear" — This opening track encapsulates the album's furious energy with its aggressive riffs and raw intensity, setting the stage for the entire experience.
- "Slaughter of the Soul" — The title track serves as a powerful anthem, showcasing both lyrical depth and technical musicianship, embodying the album's themes of despair and conflict.
- "Cold" — 'Cold' stands out with its haunting melodies and poignant lyrics, reflecting on emotional desolation while maintaining an aggressive edge.
- "Under a Serpent Sun" — This track features intricate guitar work combined with a driving rhythm, illustrating At the Gates' ability to balance melody with brutality.
Release Date
January 1, 1995
Artist Origin
Sweden
Tracklist
Disc 1
- 1 Blinded by Fear 3:12
- 3 Cold 3:28
- 4 Under a Serpent Sun 3:59
- 5 Into the Dead Sky 2:13
- 6 Suicide Nation 3:36
- 8 Unto Others 3:11
- 9 Nausea 2:23
- 10 Need 2:37
- 11 The Flames of the End 2:58
Disc 2
- 1 Cursed to Crawl 3:25
- 2 Take the Strain 4:09
- 3 Food Chain 3:14
- 4 Politics of Common Sense 2:59
- 5 Slaughter of the Soul 3:02
- 6 World of Lies 3:34
- 7 Legion 3:54
- 8 The Dying 3:17
