HUMAN

Human is the transition point for Death. Up to this point, Chuck Schuldiner had essentially inked the blueprint for death metal in blood and brain matter. His bloody lyrics had inspired a host of bands hailing from Death's native Florida as well as the frozen countries comprising what is known as Scandanavia. Bands like Carcass stuck to Death's formula while up and comers like Morbid Angel were adding high levels of musicianship and experimentation to the sonic bludgeoning. Not to be outdone, Chuck gave his one-man show another overhaul and added the formidable rythm section of ex-Sadus bassist Steve DiGiorgio and Cynic drummer Sean Reinert. He also hired another guitarist, Paul Masvidal, to augment his own growing technical abilities. He also switched his lyrical preoccupation from schlock horror to the filth of the mind. Fans of Opeth, this is where Mikael Akerfeldt took his cues.

Human is Death's first technical triumph. Scream Bloody Gore is a metal classic, but you'd be committed to an asylum if you dubbed the group progressive. I can't say that Death ever became truly progressive (remember, technical does not equal progressive ). However, I was thrilled to learn they were on PA and wouldn't see them removed for anything. Fans of technical bass and drums should buy this album as soon as you have the funds. Prog metallers who enjoy the heavier and darker end of that sub-genre (Mesuggah, Opeth, Evergrey, etc.) should also pick this up.

There is no filler on this album; Cosmic Sea near jazz-fusion and Vacant Planet standout as extraordinary. Chuck brazenly forges ahead with his musical vision, and the result is another essential slice of underground metal. The production is medicore at best, but it is to be expected for an underground album in the early 90s. I can't call this a prog masterpiece, however, as it is not truly progressive.

PA Grade: B

Metal Grade: A