De Profundis cover

De Profundis

Vader · 1995

38 min · 10 tracks · death metal

Ferocious riffs intertwine with atmospheric melodies, creating a haunting yet aggressive soundscape that defines Vader's death metal prowess.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Blood of Kingu — This track stands out due to its intricate guitar work and dynamic shifts between brutal aggression and melodic passages, exemplifying the band's signature style.
  • →
    Reborn in Flames — The closing track offers an expansive sound journey with its epic structure and emotional depth, leaving a lasting impression that encapsulates the album's themes.
  • →
    Silent Empire — Opening with a haunting melody, this track sets a chilling tone for the album while showcasing Vader's ability to blend atmosphere with intensity.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

59 /100
Treeline
Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album combines aggressive riffs with melodic elements, showcasing strong craftsmanship and solid composition.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a fast-paced track that features rapid-fire drumming and intricate guitar work, setting a relentless tone.
  • Several tracks incorporate melodic interludes that contrast with the aggressive riffs, creating dynamic shifts in intensity.
  • The final track features an extended outro that gradually fades out, allowing for a reflective conclusion after the preceding aggression.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. 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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady intensity throughout listening
  • immersive experience for focused sessions
  • relentless energy for workout motivation
  • intricate riffs for detail-oriented listeners

Maybe skip if you

  • seekers of soft melodies
  • prefer quick, catchy tracks

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in January 1995, De Profundis marked Vader's third studio album, following their breakthrough record, The Ultimate Incantation. At this point in their career, the band was solidifying their presence in the European death metal scene, showcasing a mature sound and complex compositions that would influence many subsequent acts.
Stylistic neighbors
Behemoth· Decapitated· Cryptopsy

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Of Moon, Blood, Dream and Me

    A pivotal moment features a stark shift from vivid imagery to introspective reflection that connects cosmic themes with personal experience.

    This lyrical turn breaks away from typical death metal tropes, revealing a contemplative side that enhances the album's depth.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Silent Empire 4:02
  • 2 An Act of Darkness 1:55
  • 3 Blood of Kingu 4:38
  • 4 Incarnation 3:07
  • 5 Sothis 3:42
  • 6 Revolt 3:35
  • 7 Of Moon, Blood, Dream and Me 3:51
  • 8 Vision and the Voice 3:28
  • 9 Reborn in Flames 5:39
  • 10 I Feel You 4:23

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata