Death (2) – Individual Thought Patterns

Continuing the Death reissue series, this reissue of 'Individual Thought Patterns' does not dissapoint in the least. Coming hot off the heels of their magnum opus 'Human', Death continued to expand and push the boundries of 'death metal' on this 1993 masterpiece, and would continue this trend for the last two albums. This album however always seemed to get somewhat overlooked in a way, in between the genre-defining 'Human' and the arguably best known 'Symbolic'. But in no ways whatsover does it make it less of an album. First off, the line up is incredible for this album, returning bass protege Steve DiGiorgio, King Diamond's Andy LaRocque and the legendary thrash giant behind the kit, the one and only Gene Hoglan. If that doesn't excite you, well just listen to the songs! Every song is the highest quality, every musician at the top of their game, with some even more personal and insightful lyrics from Chuck.

Now for more insight on the 2011 remix, like 'Human;, it is absolutely amazing. One of the reasons I personally think this album was somewhat overlooked was due to the production job on the original. It always seemed the lowest sounding, very thin and weak-ish. This new remix breathes a whole new life into it. First off, the drums may be an acquirred taste at first, but once you get used to it they really kill. Secondly, the rhythm guitars really come out of their shell, just listen and compare the original to the beginning of 'In Human Form'. Steve's bass was well heard on the original, but just really lacked the punch, this remix fixes that and it sounds incredible. The only slight issue is that to me, Chuck's vocals seemed to be somewhat pushed to back, but not so much as to ruin it, it just may take time to get used to an album many have been listening since '93. As for the second disc, the live show from in 1993 is a true gem. Having Gene on the kit, plus a varied set list from songs off of each album thus far, it is an excellent show and the quality is amazing. The third disc is probably a Death fan's holy covenant, which includes demos of the entire album, plus the original riff tape Chuck sent to Gene when offering him the spot to play. A true gem nonetheless. If your a Death fan and you already have the first two reissues, you know by now they are definately worth it, so this is a must. If you still have your old copy and/or don't want the remix, the live show alone is worth it. Relapse and Eric, thank you for the time and effort put into these, it really shows and I for one can't wait for the Spiritual Healing reissue next!