What makes The Great Mass by Septicflesh notable?

The Great Mass received widespread acclaim from fans and critics alike, debuting at number one on the Greek charts. It also helped cement Septicflesh's status in the symphonic metal scene, influencing subsequent artists with its ambitious orchestration and thematic depth. The album was named one of the best metal albums of the year by several outlets. Released on April 18, 2011, The Great Mass marked Septicflesh's return after a five-year hiatus following their previous album, Communion. This album solidified their distinctive blend of symphonic elements and extreme metal, showcasing the band's evolution after their reformation in 2007. It was also the first album to feature a full orchestra and choir for added depth.

Who is The Great Mass for?

The Great Mass works well if you're into steady mid-tempo sonic journey, epic soundscapes with depth and haunting melodies for reflection.

How many songs are on The Great Mass?

The Great Mass has 10 tracks, running approximately 43 minutes.

The Great Mass

Septicflesh · 2011

43 min · 10 tracks · black metal

Epic orchestral arrangements intertwine with brutal metal riffs, creating a cinematic experience that is both grand and harrowing.

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Top tracks — play these first

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A Great Mass of Death — This title track encapsulates the album's themes of existential dread and cosmic horror, featuring haunting melodies intertwined with aggressive instrumentation.
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The Vampire From Nazareth — Opening with dramatic orchestral swells, this track sets the tone for the entire album with its mix of gothic imagery and powerful metal elements.
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Pyramid God — This track showcases the band’s technical prowess with intricate guitar work layered over a symphonic backdrop, highlighting their unique sound.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

67 /100

Alpine

Higher than 91% of albums we've rated

The album combines orchestral arrangements with brutal metal, creating a distinctive and cohesive sound.

What we noticed

The album opens with a cinematic orchestral introduction that sets a grand tone before transitioning into heavy guitar riffs.
Several tracks incorporate choral elements, enhancing the epic feel and creating a layered soundscape that supports the metal instrumentation.
The final track concludes with a slow, atmospheric outro that contrasts sharply with the intensity of the preceding songs.

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

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo sonic journey
epic soundscapes with depth
haunting melodies for reflection
immersive orchestral arrangements
thematic exploration of darkness

Maybe skip if you

prefer quick, catchy tracks
seek lighthearted, upbeat vibes

Where this album fits

Career context: Released on April 18, 2011, The Great Mass marked Septicflesh's return after a five-year hiatus following their previous album, Communion. This album solidified their distinctive blend of symphonic elements and extreme metal, showcasing the band's evolution after their reformation in 2007. It was also the first album to feature a full orchestra and choir for added depth.
Stylistic neighbors: Fleshgod Apocalypse· Dimmu Borgir· Behemoth