Hammer Smashed Face - Brutal Death Metal Anthems That Will Leave You In A State Of Euphoric Headbanging

“Hammer Smashed Face”, a track from Cannibal Corpse’s 1993 album “Tomb of the Mutilated”, is not for the faint of heart. This sonic onslaught, categorized as brutal death metal, is a testament to the genre’s extremity and sheer power. If you’re looking for melodic hooks and sing-along choruses, turn away now. But if you crave an aural assault that will leave your skull rattling and your adrenaline pumping, then strap in for this brutal ride.

The history of Cannibal Corpse is intertwined with the evolution of death metal itself. Formed in Buffalo, New York, in 1988 by guitarist Jack Owen and vocalist Chris Barnes, the band quickly gained notoriety for their extreme musical approach and macabre lyrical themes. Their debut album, “Eaten Alive” (1990), established them as pioneers in the brutal death metal scene.

“Hammer Smashed Face,” however, took Cannibal Corpse’s brutality to new heights. The song opens with a bone-crushing riff that immediately grabs your attention and refuses to let go. The guitars are tuned down to an extremely low pitch, creating a heavy, guttural sound that’s both menacing and captivating. The drums are a relentless barrage of blast beats and double bass kicks, driving the song forward with ferocious intensity.

Barnes’ vocals are a highlight of the track. His deep growl is delivered with a primal fury that perfectly complements the music’s aggression. The lyrics, unsurprisingly, deal with gruesome subject matter – in this case, graphic descriptions of blunt-force trauma and bodily dismemberment. But there’s something darkly poetic about the way Barnes delivers these lines, almost as if he’s reciting a macabre incantation.

The song structure is deceptively simple: a series of crushing riffs punctuated by intense breakdowns and blistering solos. Yet, within this framework, Cannibal Corpse manages to create a sense of dynamic tension and release. The tempo shifts subtly throughout the song, building towards climactic moments where all hell breaks loose.

One of the most memorable elements of “Hammer Smashed Face” is its iconic breakdown. This section, characterized by its slow, grinding riff and Barnes’ guttural screams, has become a staple in metal music. It’s a moment of pure, unadulterated brutality that continues to inspire headbangers around the world.

The impact of “Hammer Smashed Face” on the death metal genre is undeniable. The song helped to solidify Cannibal Corpse’s status as one of the leading bands in the scene and inspired countless other musicians to push the boundaries of extremity. Its influence can still be heard today in the music of numerous death metal acts, who continue to explore the dark and brutal soundscapes pioneered by Cannibal Corpse.

Here’s a closer look at some of the key elements that make “Hammer Smashed Face” such a powerful track:

Beyond its musical impact, “Hammer Smashed Face” also sparked controversy due to its graphic lyrics. The song was banned from radio airplay and faced criticism from moral watchdog groups who labeled it as dangerous and offensive. However, this controversy only served to fuel the band’s notoriety and solidify their place in the underground metal scene.

“Hammer Smashed Face” remains a classic of extreme metal music. It’s a brutal, unrelenting song that pushes the boundaries of what’s considered acceptable in terms of lyrical content and musical intensity. While it may not be for everyone, it’s undeniably a powerful and influential track that has left its mark on the history of heavy metal.

For those looking to explore the darker side of music, “Hammer Smashed Face” is a must-listen. Just be prepared for a sonic assault that will leave you breathless and craving more.