Human cover

Human

Death · 1991

34 min · 8 tracks · death metal

Technical precision and intricate compositions merge with dark, philosophical themes in a relentless display of death metal mastery.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Flattening of Emotions — The opening track sets the tone for the album with its aggressive riffs and thought-provoking lyrics, introducing listeners to the band's thematic exploration of human consciousness.
  • →
    Cosmic Sea — This track showcases intricate guitar work and shifts in tempo, highlighting Death's technical prowess while delving into existential themes, making it a fan favorite.
  • →
    Lack of Comprehension — A standout example of lyrical introspection, this song combines brutal instrumentation with thought-provoking lyrics about the limitations of human understanding.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

77 /100
Summit
Higher than 99% of albums we've rated

Human exemplifies intricate songwriting and technical skill, solidifying its place in death metal history.

What we noticed

  • Lyrical themes delve into existential and philosophical topics, with each song presenting a distinct narrative or concept.
Composition 25% of the score
8/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
9/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
7/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
8/10

running order, pacing, length

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • relentless intensity for focused listening
  • dark themes for introspective moments
  • technical precision that demands attention
  • short tracks for quick engagement

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking lighthearted or upbeat vibes
  • dislikes complex, intricate compositions

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1991, Human marked Death's fourth studio album, following the pivotal Spiritual Healing. It signified a shift towards more complex song structures and lyrical depth, showcasing frontman Chuck Schuldiner's evolution as a songwriter and musician during the band's ascent in the death metal scene.
Stylistic neighbors
Obituary· Cannibal Corpse· Atheist

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Flattening of Emotions 4:29
  • 2 Suicide Machine 4:22
  • 3 Together as One 4:08
  • 4 Secret Face 4:35
  • 5 Lack of Comprehension 3:43
  • 6 See Through Dreams 4:24
  • 7 Cosmic Sea 4:27
  • 8 Vacant Planets 3:48

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata