Progression towards Evil (1998) - Skinless


Released in 1998, Progression Towards Evil is the debut album by Skinless, a brutal death metal band from New York. Known for their blend of intense riffs, guttural vocals, and a touch of humor, Skinless delivers a raw and unrelenting experience with this release. The album is characterized by its heavy grooves, memorable hooks, and the incorporation of humorous samples that set it apart within the death metal genre.

Tracklist:

  1. Confines of Human Flesh – 4:12
  2. Extermination of My Filthy Species – 4:04
  3. Tampon Lollipops – 4:19
  4. Milk and Innards - 4:41
  5. Cuntaminated - 3:12
  6. Scum Cookie – 3:06
  7. Fetus Goulash – 3:12
  8. Bobbing for Heads – 3:46
  9. Fetus Goulash – 3:23
  10. Crispy Kids – 3:17 

Progression Towards Evil opens with "Confines of Human Flesh," immediately showcasing Skinless's penchant for heavy, groove-laden riffs and brutal vocals. The track sets the tone for the album, combining relentless aggression with technical proficiency. "Extermination of My Filthy Species" follows, featuring intense riffing and fast-paced drumming that create a brutal atmosphere, complemented by deep, guttural vocals.

"Tampon Lollipops" stands out with its over-the-top and humorous lyrics, a theme that recurs throughout the album. The song's heavy riffs and pounding rhythms are both memorable and mosh-inducing. "Leech Enthroned" and "Crispy Kids" continue the onslaught with their chugging guitars and relentless pace, maintaining the album's intensity.

"Scum Cookie" is notable for its grotesque and absurd lyrical content, showcasing the band's willingness to embrace humor within their brutal sound. The track's infectious grooves and brutal breakdowns make it a standout. "Fetus Goulash" and "Milk and Innards" offer no respite, delivering crushing riffs and guttural vocals that keep the listener engaged.

"Bobbing for Heads" features prominent bass lines that add depth to the track, while the closing song, "Cuntaminated," encapsulates the album's essence with its brutal instrumentation and tongue-in-cheek approach. The use of humorous samples throughout the album adds a unique flavor, distinguishing Skinless from their peers in the death metal scene.

Progression Towards Evil is a standout debut that showcases Skinless's ability to blend brutality with humor, creating a memorable and engaging listening experience. The album's raw production and relentless energy capture the essence of late '90s death metal, while the band's incorporation of absurd and grotesque themes adds a distinctive touch.

Personal favorites include "Confines of Human Flesh" for its crushing riffs and "Scum Cookie" for its infectious groove and outrageous lyrics. The album's concise runtime ensures that it remains engaging throughout, with each track offering something unique.

While some listeners might find the humorous samples and lyrical content off-putting, they contribute to the album's charm and set it apart within the genre. Progression Towards Evil is a testament to Skinless's ability to craft brutal death metal that doesn't take itself too seriously, making it a refreshing listen for fans of the genre.

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