|
Official reissue of the debut album by Centinex, originally recorded and mixed in July 1992 at the legendary Sunlight Studios in Stockholm, under the direction of Tomas Skogsberg and Fred Estby. Released by Xtreem Music, this reissue faithfully restores the original cover art, celebrating the Swedish death metal classic that embodies the ferocity and atmosphere of its time.
For fans of SORCERY, NECROPHOBIC, DISMEMBER, and MORPHEUS, Subconscious Lobotomy stands as a milestone, delivering relentless riffs, eerie melodies, and crushing rhythms that defined the early '90s Swedish death metal sound.
Centinex's debut album, Subconscious Lobotomy, is a quintessential example of early Swedish death metal, delivering an impressive blend of aggression, atmosphere, and creativity that stands the test of time. Recorded at the legendary Sunlight Studios, this album radiates the classic Stockholm sound with its buzzsaw guitars, throaty growls, and pounding rhythms. Yet, it’s not just another entry in the Swedish death metal canon; Subconscious Lobotomy has its own distinctive flair that makes it a standout.
From the opening track, “Blood on My Skin,” Centinex sets the tone with ferocious riffs and an undeniable energy that rivals the likes of Entombed and Dismember. The track perfectly balances raw brutality with moments of eerie atmosphere, courtesy of subtle keyboard flourishes that add a haunting depth to the mix. This is a theme that runs throughout the album, with tracks like “Shadows Are Astray” and “Bells of Misery” demonstrating the band’s knack for weaving melodic elements into their relentless assault.
One of the album’s most memorable moments comes with “Orgy in Flesh.” This track defies expectations, introducing haunting female vocals and ritualistic tones that elevate it into uncharted territory for the genre. The song’s dynamic structure, shifting from groovy headbanging riffs to slow, doom-laden passages, showcases Centinex’s willingness to push boundaries while remaining firmly rooted in their death metal ethos.
The production, while raw and unpolished, adds to the album’s charm. The fat, cutting guitar tone slices through the mix with razor-sharp precision, while the atmospheric use of keyboards creates an oppressive yet captivating sonic landscape. Tracks like “The Aspiration” and the closing piece “Until Death Tear Us Apart” highlight this interplay between aggression and atmosphere, with the latter offering a darkly majestic conclusion to the album.
What truly sets Subconscious Lobotomy apart is its ability to blend the traditional with the unexpected. The album captures the raw energy and fury of the Swedish death metal scene while infusing it with experimental touches that keep it fresh and engaging. For fans of the genre, it’s a reminder of why the early '90s were such a fertile period for death metal innovation.
Even decades after its release, Subconscious Lobotomy remains a vital listen, earning its place as a hidden gem in Swedish death metal history. Whether you’re a seasoned fan of the scene or exploring its depths for the first time, this album is an essential addition to any collection. The forthcoming vinyl reissue will undoubtedly be a must-have for collectors, preserving this masterpiece for future generations of metal enthusiasts.
|
