Is Out from the Dark a good place to start with Mayhem?

Yes, Out from the Dark is recommended as a starting point for new Mayhem listeners. A relentless barrage of chaotic riffs and haunting atmospheres, encapsulating the raw essence of early black metal. Released in 1996, Out from the Dark is Mayhem's first full-length album after a tumultuous period marked by the death of vocalist Per 'Dead' Ohlin and the imprisonment of guitarist Euronymous. This album represents a significant return to form for the band, showcasing their signature sound while navigating the legacy of their controversial past.

Who is Out from the Dark for?

Out from the Dark works well if you're into steady, relentless sonic assault, haunting melodies for deep introspection and dark atmosphere for late nights.

How many songs are on Out from the Dark?

Out from the Dark has 7 tracks, running approximately 30 minutes.

Out from the Dark

Mayhem

30 min · 7 tracks · black metal

A relentless barrage of chaotic riffs and haunting atmospheres, encapsulating the raw essence of early black metal.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Funeral Fog Start here — This track exemplifies the atmospheric depth that defines Mayhem's sound, combining ominous melodies with a relentless pace that evokes a sense of dread.
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Freezing Moon — As one of Mayhem's most iconic tracks, it captures a haunting blend of aggression and melancholy, establishing a template for future black metal compositions.
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Chainsaw Gutsfuck — With its visceral title and brutal instrumentation, this song showcases Mayhem's unflinching approach to extreme music and their ability to provoke thought through shock value.

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's chaotic riffs and haunting atmospheres establish it as a notable entry in black metal.

What we noticed

The album opens with a chaotic track that sets a relentless pace, maintaining high energy through the first four songs before slowing slightly in the latter half.
Riffs are often layered with dissonant chords and tremolo picking, creating an atmosphere of unease and aggression throughout.
Vocals are delivered in a raw, raspy style that complements the chaotic instrumentation, often buried in the mix to enhance the overall 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: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

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

steady, relentless sonic assault
haunting melodies for deep introspection
dark atmosphere for late nights
short bursts of chaotic energy

Maybe skip if you

prefer lighthearted, upbeat sounds
seek instant gratification tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Solidified Mayhem's status in black metal after a tumultuous period.
Themes: Per 'Dead' Ohlin's legacy· funeral imagery· chaotic soundscapes
Career context: Released in 1996, Out from the Dark is Mayhem's first full-length album after a tumultuous period marked by the death of vocalist Per 'Dead' Ohlin and the imprisonment of guitarist Euronymous. This album represents a significant return to form for the band, showcasing their signature sound while navigating the legacy of their controversial past.
Stylistic neighbors: Burzum· Darkthrone· Emperor