What makes Possessed by Fire by Exumer notable?

Upon its release, Possessed by Fire received critical acclaim for its fierce energy and musicianship, contributing to the global rise of thrash metal. It has influenced numerous bands within the genre and is often cited in discussions about essential thrash albums, helping to solidify Exumer's place in metal history. Possessed by Fire is Exumer's debut album, released in 1986 at a time when the thrash metal scene was rapidly gaining momentum. The band emerged from Germany's burgeoning metal scene, positioning themselves alongside contemporaries like Kreator and Destruction, while introducing their unique brand of aggressive sound.

How many songs are on Possessed by Fire?

Possessed by Fire has 13 tracks, running approximately 50 minutes.

Released 40 years ago

Possessed by Fire

Exumer · 1986

50 min · 13 tracks · thrash metal

A relentless barrage of sharp riffs and aggressive rhythms, embodying the raw energy of classic thrash metal.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Possessed by Fire — This title track encapsulates the album's fierce spirit with its rapid tempos and furious guitar work, making it a standout anthem for thrash enthusiasts.
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Destructive Solution — The song features intricate guitar harmonies paired with relentless drumming, showcasing Exumer's technical prowess while delivering an unyielding lyrical message against societal decay.
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Silent Death — With its slower, more brooding tempo contrasted by explosive dynamics, this track highlights the band's range within the thrash genre and remains a fan favorite.

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

Possessed by Fire showcases strong thrash metal elements with aggressive riffs and varied tempos, marking it as a notable debut in the genre.

What we noticed

The album opens with a brief instrumental intro that sets a dark tone before launching into high-energy tracks characterized by rapid tempos and aggressive guitar riffs.
Each song typically features multiple tempo changes, often alternating between fast-paced sections and slower, heavier breakdowns.
Vocals are delivered in a harsh, aggressive style that complements the intense instrumentation, with lyrics focusing on themes of darkness and despair.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

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.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Destructive Solution

The second verse shifts to an accusatory tone that directly addresses systemic failures in society.

This direct confrontation marks a departure from earlier themes in the song, intensifying its critique and enhancing its emotional impact.

Tracklist

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

1 Intro 0:59
2 Possessed by Fire 3:58
3 Destructive Solution 3:48
4 Fallen Saint 4:02
5 A Mortal in Black 4:05
6 Sorrows of the Judgement 3:11
7 Xiron Dark Star 3:12
8 Reign of Sadness 3:42
9 Journey to Oblivion 4:19
10 Silent Death 5:07
11 A Mortal in Black (demo) 4:26
12 Scanners (demo) 3:41
13 Silent Death (demo) 5:45

What to play next

Listen next

Rising from the Sea

1987

Full Exumer discography Artists like Exumer

thrash metal

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata