Is Deathcrush a good place to start with Mayhem?

Yes, Deathcrush is recommended as a starting point for new Mayhem listeners. An abrasive collision of raw production, primal energy, and chilling atmospheres that defines the early black metal sound. Released in 1987, Deathcrush marked Mayhem's debut EP, setting the stage for their influential role in the burgeoning black metal scene. At this point, the band was still solidifying its lineup, with only a few members coming together to create this groundbreaking recording.

Who is Deathcrush for?

Deathcrush works well if you're into short, intense listening bursts, chaotic energy release and raw, aggressive soundscapes.

How many songs are on Deathcrush?

Deathcrush has 7 tracks, running approximately 17 minutes.

Deathcrush

Mayhem · 1987

17 min · 7 tracks · black metal

An abrasive collision of raw production, primal energy, and chilling atmospheres that defines the early black metal sound.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Deathcrush Start here — The title track stands out for its aggressive riffs and chaotic structure, encapsulating the raw intensity that characterizes the entire EP.
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Chainsaw Gutsfuck — This track is notable for its relentless tempo and graphic lyrical imagery, pushing boundaries on both musical aggression and horror-themed content.
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Witching Hour — With its eerie atmosphere and haunting vocals, this song showcases Mayhem's ability to blend melody with extreme dissonance, highlighting their innovative approach to black metal.

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

Deathcrush's raw sound and aggressive themes define early black metal, influencing many bands that followed.

What we noticed

The opening track, 'Silvester Anfang', features a chaotic sound collage that sets an unsettling tone for the EP.
The final track, 'Pure Fucking Armageddon', extends over eight minutes, building tension with repetitive motifs and a gradual increase in intensity.

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: 9/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 8/10

Influence 8/10

Defined its genre or moment. 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

short, intense listening bursts
chaotic energy release
raw, aggressive soundscapes
dark, unsettling atmospheres

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Established Mayhem's reputation in the black metal scene.
Themes: Norwegian black metal· graphic horror imagery· chaotic aggression
Career context: Released in 1987, Deathcrush marked Mayhem's debut EP, setting the stage for their influential role in the burgeoning black metal scene. At this point, the band was still solidifying its lineup, with only a few members coming together to create this groundbreaking recording.
Stylistic neighbors: Burzum· Darkthrone· Emperor