HYPOCRISY and Nuclear Blast Records will start the first, and definitely not final chapter of a catalogue campaign bringing back all of HYPOCRISY's legendary past records, some of which are much sought-after rarities.
"Chapter One" begins with classy vinyl and CD editions of "Penetralia" (1992), "Osculum Obscenum" (1993), "The Fourth Dimension" (1994), and "Abducted" (1996) on May 5th, 2023. Documenting the evolution from the violent and utterly morbid Masse Broberg fronted first two records, the much revered opus "The Fourth Dimension" that showed a darker and more melodic approach until "Abducted" which includes live staple 'Roswell 47,' this first phase of HYPOCRISY's career laid down the groundwork for the Swedes trademark sound.
The 2023 reissues feature all original art with a few, careful touchups - the band logo on "Penetralia" was for example never meant to be pink/purple – and preserve true death metal classics in astonishing form that have been unavailable especially on LP for far too long. Get ready to revisit one of the most consistent and dynamic discographies in the genre!
"Penetralia," the debut full-length from Hypocrisy, released in October 1992, stands as a significant milestone for the Swedish death metal band. Serving as the only time the band functioned as a five-piece, it reflects strong influences from American death metal, attributed to Peter Tägtgren's time living in the States and playing with Malevolent Creation. While the album bears some characteristics common to the era, it showcases interesting riffs, dynamic thrash elements, and early hints of black metal, establishing a dark atmosphere.
Despite the initial generic feel, "Penetralia" gains momentum as it progresses. Noteworthy tracks like "Jesus Fall" and "Left To Rot" reveal the band's evolving style, featuring doom-laden riffs and unique song arrangements. Masse Broberg's distinctive raw vocals set Hypocrisy apart from their peers, providing a rough and visceral edge. The production, while not groundbreaking, complements the album's rougher tone.
The second half of the album shines with tracks like "Burn By the Cross" and "Take the Throne," showcasing memorable riffs and dynamic tempo changes. The arrangement, though front-loaded, strategically intensifies the listening experience, culminating in the intense and atmospheric title track, "Penetralia."
This debut laid the foundation for Hypocrisy's future success, with their subsequent albums refining and perfecting the dark and intense style introduced in "Penetralia." For fans of early '90s death metal and those interested in the band's early works, this album remains a highly recommended piece of the genre's history.
