SYMBOLIC

Symbolic is another step forward for extreme metal visionaries Death. The complexity of Individual Though Patterns has been married to a new level of heavy, much of which is thanks to returning drummer Gene Hoglan. Jim Morris finally learned to produce and this record is Death's second best sounding, next to their swan song. Symbolic marks the change from Chuck's growls to a bit higher voice, though it's not as apparent as it is on The Sound of Perserverance. Bassist Kelly Conlon and guitarist Bobby Koelble join the ranks and, though not as good as the lineup before and after, they pull their own weight. TSoP is Death's greatest work, but this album is the best for individual songs.

There are quite a few highlights here. "Symbolic" opens the album with high technicality and amazing solos. "Zero Tolerance," arguably the band's finest song, slows things down to really wreak havoc on your ears. "1000 Eyes" features some of Gene's best drumming and it revs things up. "Without Judgement" has a killer Schuldiner solo. "Crytal Mountain" is another Death classic with some great lyrics. If Zero Tolerance isn't Death's best song, then "Perennial Quest" is, with its acoustic passages and smooth progression.

Schuldiner and general death metal fans must own this album. It's tight, proggy, and full of suprises. Highly recommended.

Grade: B+