Human is the fourth studio album by American death metal band Death, released on October 22, 1991, by Relativity Records. The album marked a major stylistic change for Death, being more technically complex and progressive than their previous efforts. The lyrics are more introspective when compared to the gore-based lyrics of Scream Bloody Gore and Leprosy or the social commentary on Spiritual Healing. This new style would continue to evolve on all following Death albums.
The album was produced by Scott Burns and Chuck Schuldiner. It features the band’s new lineup, which consisted of Schuldiner on vocals and guitar, Paul Masvidal on guitar, Steve DiGiorgio on bass, and Sean Reinert on drums.
Human was a critical and commercial success, helping to solidify Death’s status as one of the leading bands in death metal. The album was praised for its technical prowess, its progressive songwriting, and its introspective lyrics. It has been cited as an influence by many other death metal bands, and it is considered to be one of the most important albums in the genre.
The album’s opening track, “Flattening of Emotions,” sets the tone for the rest of the album with its complex guitar work, driving rhythm, and Schuldiner’s introspective lyrics. The song is about the loss of humanity in the modern world.
The second track, “Suicide Machine,” is a more aggressive song about the dangers of suicide. The song’s lyrics are a warning to those who are considering taking their own lives.
The third track, “Together as One,” is a more progressive song about the importance of unity. The song’s lyrics are a call for people to come together and work for a better future.
The fourth track, “Secret Face,” is a more personal song about Schuldiner’s own struggles with depression and anxiety. The song’s lyrics are a raw and honest look at the dark side of human nature.
The fifth track, “Lack of Comprehension,” is a technical masterpiece that showcases the band’s musicianship. The song’s complex guitar work and intricate drumming are a testament to the band’s skill and talent.
The sixth track, “See Through Dreams,” is a more atmospheric song about the power of dreams. The song’s lyrics are a reflection on the importance of imagination and creativity.
The seventh track, “Cosmic Sea,” is an instrumental track that provides a brief respite from the album’s heavier material. The song’s ethereal atmosphere is a perfect way to end the album.
Human is a landmark album that helped to define the sound of death metal. The album’s technical prowess, progressive songwriting, and introspective lyrics made it a critical and commercial success. Human is considered to be one of the most important albums in the genre, and it continues to influence new generations of death metal bands.
