Death: Symbolic (1995)

For those curious about death metal, Symbolic serves as an excellent entry point. While technically impressive, the album retains a strong sense of melody that makes it more accessible than harsher subgenres. It highlights the technical skill and thematic depth that death metal can offer, making it a great choice for fans wanting to explore a heavier sound.

Track Listing

Symbolic
Zero Tolerance
Empty Words
Sacred Serenity
1,000 Eyes
Without Judgement
Crystal Mountain
Misanthrope
Perennial Quest

Length: 50:37

Genre

Death metal, technical death metal

Release Date

March 21, 1995

Record Label

Roadrunner Records

The Lineup for the Album

Chuck Schuldiner: Vocals, Guitars
Bobby Koelble: Guitars
Kelly Conlon: Bass
Gene Hoglan: Drums

Recording Date

Late 1994 to early 1995

Recording Studio

Morrisound Recording (Tampa, Florida)

Produced by

Jim Morris and Chuck Schuldiner

Album Themes/Concept

Questioning societal norms and hypocrisy: Songs like “Zero Tolerance” and “Empty Words” challenge established systems and criticize blind conformity and shallow promises.

Spirituality and the search for meaning: “Symbolic” and “Sacred Serenity” delve into more philosophical questions about existence, purpose, and seeking something beyond the material world.

Morality and personal responsibility: Tracks like “Without Judgement” and “Crystal Mountain” grapple with the importance of individual thought and action rather than relying on external forces.

Isolation and humanity’s dark side: “Misanthrope” expresses feelings of alienation, while “1,000 Eyes” reflects on the potential for darkness and surveillance within society.

Album Mood

Driving force: The album is fueled by relentless energy, intricate riffs, and Gene Hoglan’s powerful drumming. You’ll feel a sense of urgency and power that doesn’t let up.

Thoughtful darkness: The lyrics and Schuldiner’s vocal delivery often possess a brooding quality. This isn’t simply aggression for the sake of it; there’s a contemplative element that explores societal ills and the complexities of the human condition.

Touches of melody: While firmly rooted in death metal, there are surprising moments of beautiful guitar harmonies and melodic passages woven throughout. These provide contrast to the intensity and give the album a sense of both depth and a subtle melancholic edge.

Album Trivia

Album Concept: “Symbolic” is often regarded as a concept album exploring existential themes, human consciousness, and the search for meaning in life. Chuck Schuldiner, Death’s founder, lyricist, and guitarist, delves into philosophical subjects with introspective and thought-provoking lyrics.

First full-length with Gene Hoglan: Hoglan’s drumming elevates the album with technical complexity and intensity. His distinctive style became integral to Death’s sound.

Original title: The title track was initially titled “Symbolic Acts,” which can be found on early demos from 1994.

Chuck’s production input: Chuck Schuldiner was more involved in the production side of Symbolic compared to previous Death albums, desiring a cleaner yet still powerful sound.

Legacy and Influence: “Symbolic” cemented Death as progressive death metal pioneers. The album’s intricate musicianship and thought-provoking lyrics continue to influence countless metal bands to this day.

Listen or Pass

This album might be for you if you…

Enjoy challenging music: Symbolic demands active listening due to its intricate riffs, tempo changes, and complex drumming.
Are intrigued by death metal: This is a great entry point for exploring the genre. It’s technical yet retains elements of melody.
Appreciate lyrics beyond gore: Death tackles societal questions, individuality, and spirituality, offering depth beyond shock value themes.
Love guitar-driven music: Schuldiner and Koelble’s guitar work is stellar and features both powerful riffing and melodic solos.
Have interest in progressive elements: The album subtly experiments with structure and incorporates acoustic passages unexpected in death metal.

You might want to pass this one if you…

Prefer simpler music: Symbolic is far from basic. Song structures are unconventional and the musicianship requires focus to appreciate.
Can’t handle extreme vocals: Schuldiner’s growls and high screams are an acquired taste and feature heavily throughout the album.
Demand exclusively clean singing: There are no purely clean vocal sections.
Want music to relax to: Symbolic’s intensity is meant to be engaging, not soothing background noise.
Dislike explorations of darker themes: While philosophical, lyrics address societal problems and human flaws, which can be heavy topics.

Release Date

March 21, 1995