“Legion,” the second studio album by Deicide, released in 1992 by Roadrunner Records, is a seminal work in the death metal genre, noted for its technical complexity and raw production. Recorded at Morrisound Recording in Tampa, Florida, and produced by Scott Burns, the album features Glen Benton on bass and vocals, the Hoffman brothers on guitars, and Steve Asheim on drums. Known for its intricate riffing, abrupt tempo changes, and dark lyrical themes centered on Satanism and anti-religion, “Legion” stands out with its aggressive sound and chaotic structure, making it a distinctive entry in Deicide’s discography and a touchstone for extreme metal enthusiasts.
Album length: 29:04
Death metal
June 9, 1992
Roadrunner Records
March - April 1992
Morrisound Recording (Tampa, Florida)
Scott Burns and Deicide
Anti-Religious Sentiment: The album “Legion” prominently features anti-religious and blasphemous themes. Deicide’s lyrics are notorious for their intense criticism of Christianity, often expressing disdain for religious dogma and institutions. Songs like “Behead the Prophet (No Lord Shall Live)” and “Holy Deception” exemplify this stance with their provocative and confrontational lyrics.
Satanism: Satanic themes are central to “Legion.” The album delves into satanic imagery and ideologies, celebrating rebellion against divine authority. Tracks such as “Satan Spawn, the Caco-Daemon” explore the glorification of demonic entities and the rejection of religious morality.
Death and Destruction: The lyrics also focus on themes of death, violence, and destruction. Songs like “Repent to Die” and “In Hell I Burn” depict apocalyptic visions and macabre scenes, emphasizing the brutal and nihilistic aspects of life and afterlife.
Anti-Hypocrisy: Deicide addresses the hypocrisy they perceive within religious institutions. The band criticizes the moral and ethical contradictions of religious leaders and followers, as heard in “Dead but Dreaming” and “Revocate the Agitator.”
Intense and Aggressive: The mood of “Legion” is overwhelmingly intense and aggressive. The album delivers a relentless onslaught of fast-paced, brutal riffs, rapid drumming, and guttural vocals. This creates an atmosphere of sheer ferocity that metalheads will find both exhilarating and unyielding.
Dark and Menacing: “Legion” exudes a dark and menacing aura throughout. The satanic and anti-religious themes, coupled with the sinister musical composition, evoke a feeling of dread and ominousness. The album’s atmosphere is thick with a sense of impending doom and malevolence.
Blasphemous and Provocative: The album’s mood is unapologetically blasphemous and provocative. The lyrical content challenges religious conventions and authority, adding a layer of defiance and rebelliousness. This mood appeals to metalheads who appreciate music that pushes boundaries and confronts societal norms.
Relentless and Uncompromising: “Legion” maintains a relentless and uncompromising mood from start to finish. There are no moments of respite; instead, the album continuously bombards the listener with unyielding energy and aggression. This makes for a thrilling and adrenaline-pumping experience.
Backward Message: The first track, “Satan Spawn, the Caco-Daemon,” includes a backward message. At about twenty seconds into the song, a voice can be heard repeating the song’s title backwards.
Innovative Guitar Work: The Hoffman brothers, Eric and Brian, were praised for their innovative guitar solos on “Legion.” Their style was heavily influenced by bands like Slayer and Morbid Angel, focusing on creating chaotic and intense solos rather than melodic ones. This approach set Deicide apart from other death metal bands at the time.
Influence on Death Metal: “Legion” is considered a classic in the death metal genre. Its technical riffing and unrelenting brutality have influenced many bands that followed. Despite some criticisms of its chaotic structure, the album’s impact on the genre is undeniable, often being cited as essential listening for death metal enthusiasts.
Controversial Lyrics: The album’s lyrics delve deep into anti-religious and satanic themes, which was a significant point of controversy and fascination. Songs like “Satan Spawn, the Caco-Daemon” and “Behead the Prophet (No Lord Shall Live)” exemplify this, with Glen Benton’s vocals delivering these themes in a genuinely menacing manner.
Deicide’s 1990 self-titled debut album is a seminal death metal release known for its speed, aggressive vocals, and anti-religious themes. It was recorded at Morrisound Recording and became a controversial but influential work in the genre.
Deicide’s second album, “Legion” (1992), is a death metal album recorded at Morrisound Recording and produced by Scott Burns. The album features complex riffs, abrupt tempo changes, and anti-religious themes.
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