CANNIBAL CORPSE - The Bleeding (Icarus Music) (DIGIPAK CD)

"The Bleeding" by Cannibal Corpse stands as a hallmark in the realm of death metal, showcasing the band's unapologetic dedication to extreme music and lyrical themes that push the boundaries of brutality. Released during the peak of their creative prowess, this album offers a relentless onslaught of intense riffing, guttural vocals, and disturbing lyrical content that caters to fans of the genre's most extreme facets.

The album opens with "Staring Through the Eyes of the Dead," setting the tone with its furious blast beats, intricate guitar work, and guttural growls that envelop the listener in an atmosphere of dread. This track establishes the sonic template that continues throughout the album – a fusion of technical precision and aggressive intensity. "Fucked with a Knife" takes this intensity even further, with its relentless assault of riffs and rhythm, making it a standout track for its sheer ferocity.

As the album delves deeper, tracks like "Stripped, Raped, and Strangled" and "Pulverized" continue the barrage with unrelenting brutality. The musicianship on display is impressive, showcasing the band's technical prowess and tight cohesion as they navigate the complex structures of these songs. "Return to Flesh" adds a bit of variation, featuring more mid-paced sections that allow the listener to catch their breath before plunging back into the abyss.

Flipping to Side B, "The Pick Axe Murders" keeps the momentum alive, offering a blend of groove-laden riffs and aggressive drumming. "She Was Asking for It" pushes the envelope lyrically, as is the norm for Cannibal Corpse, while also delivering a barrage of crushing riffs that resonate with the band's signature sound. The title track, "The Bleeding," stands out as a cornerstone of the album, showcasing their ability to balance melody and aggression, creating an eerie atmosphere that is both haunting and captivating.

The latter half of the album continues with tracks like "Force Fed Broken Glass" and "An Experiment in Homicide," which further demonstrate the band's knack for crafting intricate and devastating death metal compositions. The relentless intensity and lyrical themes might not be for everyone, but for fans of extreme music, these tracks are a testament to Cannibal Corpse's mastery of their craft.

"The Bleeding" is not an album for the faint of heart, but for those who revel in the visceral and aggressive nature of death metal, it's a must-listen. While the unrelenting brutality might become overwhelming for some, the technical proficiency, tight musicianship, and the band's unwavering commitment to their style make this album a significant entry in Cannibal Corpse's discography. It stands as a representation of a band at the height of their creative power, unapologetically pushing the boundaries of extreme music.