IMMOLATION – failures for gods – PICTURE LP

Death Metal – Picture Disc version – Hells Headbangers

Immolation’s Failures for Gods is a relentless display of death metal fury, but it’s also an album that thrives on subtle complexity beneath the surface. Released in 1999, this record blends raw aggression with an almost surgical precision, marking it as a standout in both the band’s catalog and the wider genre. The introduction of Alex Hernandez on drums brought a new dimension of speed and complexity, further enhancing the band’s already formidable sound.

From the chaotic energy of “No Jesus, No Beast” to the crushing weight of “Unsaved,” Failures for Gods never lets up in intensity. The riffs are dense, often veering into dissonant territory, yet there’s a methodical quality to their arrangement that elevates the music beyond mere brutality. Ross Dolan’s guttural vocals provide a dark, commanding presence throughout, perfectly complementing the album’s apocalyptic themes.

The production, while raw, adds to the overall ferocity of the album. The gritty sound gives the guitars a massive, oppressive quality that dominates the mix, while the drumming is a relentless force driving each track forward. While some may criticize the rough edges in the production, it ultimately enhances the visceral energy of the album.

Failures for Gods is an essential listen for anyone with a taste for intense, boundary-pushing death metal. Its unrelenting heaviness, combined with moments of intricate technicality, ensures its place as a staple in the genre’s history.