Possessed cover

Possessed

Venom · 1985

42 min · 13 tracks · heavy metal · thrash metal · speed metal

Raw aggression meets occult themes in a relentless barrage of speed metal riffs and haunting vocals.

Possessed is an album by Venom, released in 1985. Raw aggression meets occult themes in a relentless barrage of speed metal riffs and haunting vocals. 'Possessed' is significant for its role in shaping the black metal subgenre, influencing countless bands that followed. Its controversial themes and aggressive sound contributed to Venom's notoriety, helping the album reach No. 28 on the UK Albums Chart and solidifying their place in heavy metal history. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Possessed sound like?

Raw aggression meets occult themes in a relentless barrage of speed metal riffs and haunting vocals. Rooted in heavy metal and thrash metal.

What makes Possessed by Venom notable?

'Possessed' is significant for its role in shaping the black metal subgenre, influencing countless bands that followed. Its controversial themes and aggressive sound contributed to Venom's notoriety, helping the album reach No. 28 on the UK Albums Chart and solidifying their place in heavy metal history. In 1985, Venom was solidifying its status as pioneers of the black metal genre with 'Possessed,' their fourth studio album. Following the commercial success of 'At War with Satan,' this release showcased an evolution in their sound while maintaining the raw energy that defined their earlier work. This album came at a time when Venom was pushing the boundaries of heavy metal, further entrenching their legacy in the burgeoning extreme metal scene.

How many songs are on Possessed?

Possessed has 13 tracks, running approximately 42 minutes.

Tracklist

13 tracks·42:40

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

  • 1 Powerdrive 3:15
  • 2 Flytrap 3:49
  • 3 Satanachist Standout 2:43
  • 4 Burn This Place (To the Ground) Standout 2:40
  • 5 Harmony Dies 2:42
  • 6 Possessed Standout 4:50
  • 7 Hellchild 2:39
  • 8 Moonshine 3:17
  • 9 Wing and a Prayer 2:44
  • 10 Suffer Not the Children 3:06
  • 11 Voyeur 3:00
  • 12 Mystique 4:58
  • 13 Too Loud (For the Crowd) 2:57

Release Date

January 1, 1985

Artist Origin

United Kingdom

Runtime

42 min 40 sec