What makes As I Die by Paradise Lost notable?

This album marked a significant moment for Paradise Lost, as it helped further establish them within the heavy metal scene, particularly influencing the emerging gothic metal movement. It received positive reviews and contributed to the band's growing cult following, paving the way for their future success. As I Die is Paradise Lost's third studio album, following their breakthrough with Gothic in 1991. By this point, they were solidifying their reputation as pioneers within the death-doom genre, experimenting with darker themes and expanding their sound.

How many songs are on As I Die?

As I Die has 4 tracks, running approximately 19 minutes.

As I Die

Paradise Lost · 1992

19 min · 4 tracks · doom metal

A haunting blend of despairing melodies and crushing heaviness, embodying the essence of early gothic and death-doom metal.

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Top tracks — play these first

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As I Die — The title track encapsulates the album's blend of melodic sorrow and heavy riffs, showcasing the band's signature sound while reflecting on themes of mortality.
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Rape of Virtue — This track stands out for its aggressive instrumentation paired with introspective lyrics, demonstrating Paradise Lost's ability to merge brutality with emotional depth.
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Death Walks Behind You — Featuring an eerie atmosphere and crushing guitar work, this song exemplifies the bleakness that characterizes much of the album while pushing the boundaries of doom metal.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

48 /100

Foothills

Higher than 19% of albums we've rated

The EP showcases strong songwriting within its genre but lacks cohesion due to the live track's inclusion.

What we noticed

The first three tracks feature a consistent tempo that hovers between mid and slow, creating a heavy atmosphere throughout.
Each song employs layered guitar harmonies that intertwine with deep growls and clean vocals, enhancing the emotional weight.
The final track is a live recording, which shifts the overall sound quality and energy compared to the studio tracks.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 4/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — It solidified Paradise Lost's reputation and influence in the gothic metal scene.
Themes: mortality reflections· gothic despair
Career context: As I Die is Paradise Lost's third studio album, following their breakthrough with Gothic in 1991. By this point, they were solidifying their reputation as pioneers within the death-doom genre, experimenting with darker themes and expanding their sound.
Stylistic neighbors: My Dying Bride· Anathema· Cathedral

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Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

As I Die

The climax where the vocal delivery shifts from a mournful tone to a more anguished cry showcases deep emotional conflict.

This transition amplifies the sense of despair and urgency in the narrative, marking a pivotal moment in the song's emotional trajectory.