Mafia cover

Mafia

Fleshgod Apocalypse · 2009

23 min · 5 tracks · symphonic metal

A symphonic maelstrom of orchestral grandeur and ferocious technical death metal intricacies that demand attention.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Abyssal — The track features intricate guitar work paired with lush orchestration, exemplifying the synergy between extreme metal and classical music that defines the album.
  • →
    Conspiracy of Silence — This song stands out for its dynamic shifts in tempo and mood, showcasing the band's ability to blend brutality with melodic elements seamlessly.
  • →
    Mafia — The title track encapsulates the album's themes through its aggressive yet sophisticated composition, making it a quintessential representation of Fleshgod Apocalypse's sound.

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

Mafia showcases intricate compositions and dynamic shifts, solidifying its place in symphonic metal.

What we noticed

  • The opening track features a rapid tempo with orchestral elements layered over aggressive guitar riffs, establishing a dramatic tone.
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
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

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

  • dramatic soundscapes of chaos
  • short bursts of intensity
  • immersive orchestral arrangements
  • cathartic energy release

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer longer, drawn-out pieces
  • seek lighthearted, upbeat vibes

Where this album fits

Career context
Mafia was Fleshgod Apocalypse's second studio album, released in 2009 after their debut, Oracles. By this point, the band had honed their unique blend of symphonic elements with extreme metal, establishing themselves within the burgeoning Italian metal scene and gaining international recognition.
Stylistic neighbors
Dimmu Borgir· Epica· Nightwish

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Thru Our Scars 5:30
  • 2 Abyssal 6:45
  • 3 Conspiracy of Silence 5:30
  • 4 Blinded by Fear 3:10
  • 5 Mafia 3:00

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata