Deadache cover

Released 18 years ago this October

Deadache

Lordi · 2008

47 min · 13 tracks · hard rock

A thrilling blend of horror-themed theatrics and catchy hard rock hooks that defy the norms of heavy metal.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Girls Go Chopping Start here — This track exemplifies Lordi's signature blend of humor and horror through its playful lyrics and high-energy instrumentation, making it an anthem for their brand of theatrical rock.
  • →
    Monsters Keep Me Company — With an infectious chorus and relatable theme of companionship among outcasts, this song captures the album's essence while showcasing Lordi's knack for memorable hooks.
  • →
    Raise Hell in Heaven — This track stands out with its anthemic chorus and powerful riffs, representing the band's ability to merge heavy metal aggression with melodic sensibility.
  • →
    Devil Hides Behind Her Smile — The song features a darker narrative that highlights Lordi's storytelling prowess, offering a glimpse into their lyrical depth beyond monster-themed antics.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

53 /100
Foothills
Higher than 40% of albums we've rated

The album combines catchy hooks with horror themes, showcasing Lordi's unique style within hard rock.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a brief instrumental track that sets a theatrical tone before launching into high-energy songs with driving guitar riffs.
  • Several tracks feature call-and-response vocals, enhancing the sense of engagement and theatricality in the performance.
  • The final three tracks slow down the tempo, creating a contrast that allows for a more reflective mood before concluding.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

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

  • theatrical narratives with humor
  • dynamic energy shifts throughout
  • for lively gatherings
  • engaging hooks for sing-alongs
  • playful horror-themed storytelling

Maybe skip if you

  • dislike theatrical performance styles
  • prefer consistent energy levels

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — This album followed a major win at Eurovision, solidifying Lordi's recognition.
Themes
Halloween horror· theatrical macabre· playful violence
Career context
Released on Halloween 2008, Deadache marked Lordi's fourth studio album, following their triumphant win at the Eurovision Song Contest in 2006. At this point in their career, they were solidifying their identity as a unique force in the shock rock genre, maintaining a distinct mix of theatrical performance and heavy metal sound.
Stylistic neighbors
Ghost· Alice Cooper· Rob Zombie

Tracklist

  • 1 SCG IV 0:44
  • 2 Girls Go Chopping Start here 4:04
  • 3 Bite It Like a Bulldog 3:31
  • 4 Monsters Keep Me Company 5:30
  • 5 Man Skin Boots 3:44
  • 6 Dr. Sin Is In 3:49
  • 7 The Ghosts of the Heceta Head 3:42
  • 8 Evilyn 4:02
  • 9 The Rebirth of the Countess 2:01
  • 10 Raise Hell in Heaven 3:34
  • 11 Deadache 3:31
  • 12 Devil Hides Behind Her Smile 4:14
  • 13 Missing Miss Charlene 5:10

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata