Dismember -- Massive Killing Capacity (review)

Band: Dismember
Album: Massive Killing Capacity
Genre: death metal
Year: 1995
Label: Nuclear Blast

One of the pillars of the old school Swedish death metal scene, Dismember released a monster of an album in 1995.  While their contemporaries shifted from pure death metal into death 'n' roll and melo-death, Dismember managed to fuse the three styles together seamlessly.  Some people seem to claim that this album marked the beginning of their decline; I would argue otherwise.  Now let's break into this masterpiece, shall we?
Massive Killing Capacity is somewhat of a variety show.  Tracks like "To the Bone" and the title track stick to the classic Swedish death metal tropes.  Razor-sharp riffs chug over kängpunk drum beats.  The vocals deviate slightly from the standard growling and are delivered as more of a shout.  Other tracks are more of a violent stomping-ground, like the opener "I Saw Them Die" and "Casket Garden."  Crushing grooves propel these numbers through the killing fields that the band personifies.  The band also displays a 'softer' side on "Collection by Blood" and "Nenia."  These songs showcase riffs that are focused on melody rather than speed or brutality.
Elements of death 'n' roll permeate the album.  Songs like "Casket Garden" and "Crime Divine" employ rock-ish grooves that differ significantly from the pure death metal riffs of, say, "On Frozen Fields."  The album's sixth track, "Wardead," combines both styles, employing pummeling death metal riffage in the verses and a catchy, groove-based chorus.
On this album, Blomqvist and Sennebäck prove that they are masters of their instruments.  Every single track is filled to the brim with intense, memorable riffs and absolutely crushing breakdowns.  Blomqvist's leads are stirring and prevent the songs from becoming stale.  The guitar-work is at its peak on "Nenia."  I typically do not enjoy instrumental tracks, particularly in death metal, but "Nenia" is an exception.  This track showcases a number of guitar solos and beautiful melodies which set up the album closer perfectly.
"Life - Another Shape of Sorrow" is a roller coaster of a closing track.  The opening funeral dirge is powerful and backed by a mournful organ.  This is followed by a more up-beat riff and some melodic leads before charging into brutal buzzsaw riffage.  About halfway through the song, an intense breakdown interrupts the chorus and pummels the listener.  The frenzy ends as the organ riff from the start of the track brings things to a close.
Easily one of the greatest death metal albums of all time; Massive Killing Capacity is the ultimate package of old-school Swedish riffage.  Give this masterpiece a listen for yourself here.


Rating: 5 / 5
Top Tracks:
Hallucigenia
Life - Another Shape of Sorrow
On Frozen Fields
I Saw Them Die