Revolution DNA cover

Revolution DNA

Septicflesh · 1999

70 min · 15 tracks · black metal

Orchestral arrangements entwine with heavy riffs and guttural vocals, creating a darkly cinematic atmosphere that defines Septicflesh's unique sound.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Science — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its haunting orchestral introduction, merging symphonic elements with powerful vocals that encapsulate the thematic depth of Revolution DNA.
  • →
    Revolution — The title track exemplifies the band's ability to blend melodic death metal with orchestral arrangements, presenting a compelling narrative that resonates throughout the record.
  • →
    Nephilim Sons — This track features intricate guitar work paired with choral backing, showcasing the band's innovative approach to songwriting and their commitment to blending genres seamlessly.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

63 /100
Treeline
Higher than 74% of albums we've rated

The album features intricate compositions and a unique blend of orchestral and metal elements, marking a significant evolution in the band's sound.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a powerful orchestral introduction that sets a dramatic tone, followed by heavy guitar riffs that intertwine with symphonic elements.
  • Tracks often feature complex arrangements, with layered instrumentation that includes strings and choirs alongside guttural vocals.
  • Several tracks utilize tempo shifts, moving from fast-paced sections to slower, more atmospheric passages, enhancing the cinematic quality of the music.
  • The last three tracks maintain a consistent thematic and musical intensity, culminating in an epic finale that reinforces the album's 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
6/10

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

  • steady pacing with haunting atmosphere
  • immersive soundscapes for deep focus
  • narrative progression with resolution
  • thought-provoking themes and concepts
  • for late-night introspection

Maybe skip if you

  • seekers of instant gratification
  • prefer short, standalone tracks

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1999, Revolution DNA was Septicflesh's fourth studio album and marked a pivotal moment as the band transitioned into a more symphonic style. Following their previous album, The Ophidian Wheel, this record showcased a refined blend of orchestration and metal that established their signature sound within the genre.
Stylistic neighbors
Fleshgod Apocalypse· Dimmu Borgir· Behemoth

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Science 4:23
  • 2 Chaostar 5:11
  • 3 Radioactive 3:07
  • 4 Little Music Box 5:30
  • 5 Revolution 4:07
  • 6 Nephilim Sons 5:16
  • 7 DNA 3:19
  • 8 Telescope 4:19
  • 9 Last Stop to Nowhere 5:38
  • 10 Dictatorship of the Mediocre 4:16
  • 11 Android 5:52
  • 12 Arctic Circle 4:33
  • 13 Age of New Messiahs 4:17
  • 14 Woman of the Rings (Remastered) 6:40
  • 15 The Eldest Cosmonaut (Video Remix) 4:21

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata