Patrick Bateman, assiduous reader and fan of Hessian Firm, contacted us expressing his interest in writing about some albums that are special to him. Honoured as we were, we couldn’t decline a proposal from such an illustrious guest. Thus, what follows are Mr. Bateman’s succinct but surgically precise verdicts on important albums of the metal underground (and beyond).
Darkthrone – Transilvanian Hunger
In ’94, Darkthrone released this, “Transilvanian Hunger”, their most accomplished album. I think their undisputed masterpiece is the title track, a song so catchy most people probably don’t listen to the lyrics. But they should, because it’s not just about snowy forests and Satan, it’s also a personal statement about what it means to be trve.
At the Gates – Slaughter of the Soul
I’ve been a big At the Gates fan ever since the release of their 1995 album “Slaughter of the Soul”. Before that, I really didn’t understand any of their work. Too artsy, too intellectual. Way too many riffs per song. It was on “Slaughter” where they hit a new peak of professionalism. “Cold” is the most rocking speed metal song of the 1990s, about affirmation and the quest for truth. With all certainty one of the best they ever did, and one of my favorites.
Manowar – Kings of Metal
I think this was their undisputed masterpiece. Their lyrics are as positive and affirmative as anything I’ve heard in metal (or elsewhere). Take the lyrics to “Heart of Steel”. In this song, Joey DeMaio sings with intoxicating enthusiasm about the warrior spirit and answering the call to adventure. The song is extremely uplifting.
Pantera – Cowboys from Hell
Their early work was a little too glam for my tastes, but when this album came out in ’93, I think they really came into their own, commercially and artistically. The whole album has a clear, crisp sound, and a new sheen of consummate professionalism that gives the songs a big boost. They’ve been compared to Exhorder, but I think Pantera has a much more masculine and virile presence thanks to frontman Phil Anselmo.
Ozzy Osbourne’s solo career seems to be more commercial and therefore more satisfying in a narrower way, specially songs like “Crazy Train” or “Mamma, I’m Coming Home”. But I also think he ultimately works best within the confines of this group than as a solo artist (and I stress the word artist). “War Pigs”, for example, is a great, great song, a personal favorite.
Napalm Death – Scum
It’s hard to choose a favorite among so many great tracks, but “You Suffer” is one of the best, most powerful songs ever written about human suffering. Its universal message crosses all boundaries: since it’s impossible to find meaning in this world we live in, we can always crank out angry, 30-seconds long grind thrashers with our buddies. It’s an important message, crucial really. And it’s beautifully stated on the album.
Suffocation – Breeding the Spawn
With this album, Suffocation set a new bar for the genre, and I think no one else has managed to surpass it ever since. Just listen to the brilliant and vigorous drumming of Mike Smith or Terrence Hobbs’ intricate lead guitar playing. In terms of technical prowess and sheer songwriting, this album reveals a new standard of quality for death metal.
And that’s it for today, hessians! Remember to keep fighting the good fight: we have to provide food and shelter for the homeless, oppose racial discrimination, promote civil rights, while also promoting equal rights for women… and rock out to kickass underground metal! Slay the posers!
