Review Summary: ...
In the past, nothing about Fit for an Autopsy could catch my attention. I found the music generic and uninteresting and I just could not get past the feeling that they recycled the same ideas over and over again. However, this album changed my opinion on this band and is indeed a stellar release. Not only has the sound of the band matured but they have also brought a consistent feel to the album that does not grow tiresome or boring.
The musicianship throughout the album is excellent. The guitar work is not overbearingly flashy but does sparingly display advanced technical ability. The open chug sections are more staccato and precise and the tremolo death metal riffing brings an unbridled sense of energy. At times the guitar work has a djent while the leads bring an airy sense of doom and disdain that compliments the lyrical themes of the album. The drumming is top notch, very interesting and full of unique approaches to transitions as well as great use of dynamic building. Blast beats are used throughout the album, but they are used tastefully and in various patterns. The bass lines come out throughout the album in various places but are primarily used to add to the sound rather than a new musical element. Nate Johnson’s vocal deliverer on this album is top notch. His phrasing, lyrical content, and monstrous sound really put the icing on the cake so as to speak.
All in all, the songwriting on this album is much better than previous efforts. It is clear that the band consciously structured the songs rather than haphazardly melding various non adjacent segments together as so many bands seem to do. Specific moments are emphasized without detracting from the rest of the tracks in a way that sounds musically proficient and compositionally sound; “Children of the Corn Syrup,” and “Still We Destroy,” are clear examples of this.
Fit for an Autopsy manages to create a death metal album that has a very “real” quality to it. There are no lyrics about hacking up women or doing violent offensive things. Instead you will find allegories pertaining to mankind and political schemes. Even the guest spots are notably both lyrical and vocally bolster the music to a greater good (Vincent Bennett of The Acacia Strain on Children of the Corn Syrup is a standout).
With pummeling slams and lyrics that you can’t help but chant Fit for an Autopsy has released a truly great album. It might not be for everyone, and it might not change everyone’s opinions on them, but those that sit down and listen to this album with an open mind will find it a rewarding and enjoyable listen.
