The Fourth Dimension cover

The Fourth Dimension

Hypocrisy · 1994

52 min · 13 tracks · melodic death metal

A relentless blend of melodic death metal, characterized by intricate guitar work and dark, atmospheric themes that explore existential dread.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Apocalypse — Opening with an aggressive yet melodic riff, this track sets the tone for the album's exploration of dark themes and relentless energy.
  • →
    Mind Corruption — This song showcases intricate guitar harmonies and a dynamic structure, reflecting the band's ability to blend aggression with melody effectively.
  • →
    The Fourth Dimension — The title track encapsulates the album's themes of transcendence and despair through its epic composition and haunting atmospherics.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

60 /100
Treeline
Higher than 66% of albums we've rated

The album showcases intricate compositions and strong production, marking a significant point in melodic death metal's evolution.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a fast-paced track that features rapid guitar riffs and aggressive drumming, establishing a high energy level.
  • Several tracks incorporate melodic guitar harmonies layered over harsh vocals, creating a contrast that enhances the atmospheric quality.
  • The last three tracks slow down the tempo significantly, allowing for more introspective moments before concluding the album.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

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

  • long, immersive listening sessions
  • atmospheric background focus
  • dynamic emotional journeys
  • gradual builds and payoffs

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1994, The Fourth Dimension was Hypocrisy's third studio album, following their breakthrough with Abducted. At this point in their career, the band was solidifying their sound and gaining recognition in the emerging melodic death metal scene, especially within Sweden.
Stylistic neighbors
Dark Tranquillity· In Flames· Soilwork

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Apocalypse 5:56
  • 2 Mind Corruption 3:51
  • 3 Reincarnation 3:49
  • 4 Reborn 3:07
  • 5 Black Forest 4:23
  • 6 Never to Return 4:08
  • 7 Path to Babylon 3:43
  • 8 Slaughtered 5:39
  • 9 Orgy in Blood 3:20
  • 10 The North Wind 3:45
  • 11 T.E.M.P.T. 3:19
  • 12 The Fourth Dimension 5:51
  • 13 The Arrival of the Demons 1:50

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata