About this album
Where they were
Released on January 23, 2001, 'Carnival Diablos' is Annihilator's sixth studio album, following the commercially successful 'Criteria for a Black Widow'. At this point in their career, the band was experimenting with a more diverse sound while maintaining their signature thrash metal roots. This album marked a period of renewed creativity for Annihilator after facing lineup changes in the late 1990s.
Why it matters
'Carnival Diablos' received significant attention for its complex arrangements and lyrical themes, peaking at number 66 on the Canadian Albums Chart. Critics praised the album for showcasing the band's technical prowess and songwriting depth, solidifying Annihilator’s position as a leading act in the heavy metal scene during the early 2000s.
Essential tracks
- "Denied" — The opening track sets a furious pace with its aggressive riffs and powerful vocals, encapsulating the album's intensity right from the start.
- "The Perfect Virus" — This track features intricate guitar work and thought-provoking lyrics reflecting societal issues, highlighting Annihilator's knack for combining technicality with substance.
- "Carnival Diablos" — The title track blends melodic elements with thrash aggression, showcasing the band's ability to create memorable hooks within heavy music.
- "Epic of War" — 'Epic of War' stands out with its narrative style and dynamic shifts, demonstrating the band's storytelling prowess through music.
Release Date
January 23, 2001
Artist Origin
Canada
Tracklist
- 1 Denied 5:24
- 2 The Perfect Virus 4:44
- 3 Battered 5:22
- 4 Carnival Diablos 5:08
- 5 Shallow Grave 4:22
- 6 Time Bomb 4:49
- 7 The Rush 4:50
- 8 Insomniac 6:15
- 9 Liquid Oval 3:51
- 10 Epic of War 5:47
- 11 Hunter Killer / Chicken & Corn 9:10
