What makes Surgical Remission/Surplus Steel by Carcass notable?

This EP received critical acclaim for its technical prowess and was essential in re-establishing Carcass as a leading force in the extreme metal scene. It reached the UK charts, illustrating its commercial viability and resonating with both long-time fans and new listeners alike. By the release of Surgical Remission/Surplus Steel in 2014, Carcass had returned from a lengthy hiatus, marking their first album since 2007's Surgical Steel. This project further solidified their influence in the death metal genre while showcasing their ability to evolve without losing their signature sound.

Who is Surgical Remission/Surplus Steel for?

Surgical Remission/Surplus Steel works well if you're into short bursts of intensity, relentless auditory assault and energetic progression throughout.

How many songs are on Surgical Remission/Surplus Steel?

Surgical Remission/Surplus Steel has 5 tracks, running approximately 17 minutes.

Surgical Remission/Surplus Steel

Carcass · 2014

17 min · 5 tracks · death metal

A brutal blend of guttural vocals and intricate guitar work defines this relentless exploration of death metal's darkest themes.

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Top tracks — play these first

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A Wraith in the Apparatus — The opening track sets a frenetic pace with explosive riffs and complex rhythms, encapsulating the EP's blend of aggression and melodic undertones.
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Intensive Battery Brooding — Displaying Carcass's signature goregrind style, this track features intricate guitar work paired with relentless percussion that exemplifies their evolution within the genre.
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Livestock Marketplace — This track dives into socio-political commentary wrapped in visceral imagery, showcasing Carcass's lyrical depth alongside their musical intensity.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The EP showcases strong technical execution and distinct vocal dynamics, solidifying Carcass's place in death metal.

What we noticed

The first track features a rapid tempo with complex guitar riffs that set a relentless pace for the EP.
Vocals alternate between guttural growls and higher-pitched screams, creating a dynamic contrast throughout the tracks.
The last track is a reprise that revisits themes from earlier songs, providing a sense of closure to the EP.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. 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

short bursts of intensity
relentless auditory assault
energetic progression throughout
headbanging moments with friends

Maybe skip if you

prefer long, drawn-out pieces
seek calm and soothing sounds

Where this album fits

Career context: By the release of Surgical Remission/Surplus Steel in 2014, Carcass had returned from a lengthy hiatus, marking their first album since 2007's Surgical Steel. This project further solidified their influence in the death metal genre while showcasing their ability to evolve without losing their signature sound.
Stylistic neighbors: Entombed· At the Gates· Napalm Death