Human Remains cover

Human Remains

Hell · 2011

66 min · 11 tracks · heavy metal

A theatrical blend of heavy metal and operatic elements explores dark themes with an intensity that feels both immersive and confrontational.

Top tracks — play these first

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    On Earth as It Is in Hell — This track encapsulates Hell's thematic focus on existential dread, featuring complex guitar work intertwined with haunting vocals that evoke a sense of despair.
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    Let Battle Commence — With its energetic riffs and war-themed lyrics, this song exemplifies the band's ability to fuse narrative with aggression, making it a highlight of the album.
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    The Devil’s Deadly Weapon — This track stands out for its epic structure and dramatic storytelling, reflecting Hell's penchant for theatricality while addressing moral complexities.
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    Save Us From Those Who Would Save Us — Featuring a dynamic range and thought-provoking lyrics, this song critiques societal norms through a lens of irony and darkness, showcasing the band's lyrical depth.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

65 /100
Treeline
Higher than 88% of albums we've rated

The album's intricate compositions and thematic depth create a distinctive heavy metal experience.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with an orchestral overture that sets a dramatic tone, followed by tracks that blend heavy riffs with operatic vocals.
  • Lyrically, the album explores dark themes through storytelling, with each song contributing to an overarching narrative.
Composition 25% of the score
8/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

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

  • immersive theatrical listening experience
  • confrontational intensity throughout tracks
  • dramatic narratives with dark themes
  • cathartic release of tension
  • engaging long-form musical journey

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer lighthearted or upbeat music
  • seek instant gratification in songs

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 2011, Human Remains marked Hell's first full-length album after reuniting nearly three decades since their formation in the early 1980s. The band had previously gained attention for their ambitious stage shows and was known for their innovative sound within the heavy metal scene, making this release a significant comeback.
Stylistic neighbors
Venom· Cradle of Filth· King Diamond

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Overture (Themes From Deathsquad) 1:14
  • 2 On Earth as It Is in Hell 5:09
  • 3 Plague and Fyre 5:10
  • 4 The Oppressors 5:54
  • 5 Blasphemy and the Master 8:11
  • 6 Let Battle Commence 4:23
  • 7 The Devil’s Deadly Weapon 10:14
  • 8 The Quest 4:22
  • 9 Macbeth 7:21
  • 10 Save Us From Those Who Would Save Us 5:06
  • 11 No Martyr’s Cage 9:00

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata