The Thing That Should Not Be; Brutal Vocals and Orchestral Flourishes Unite for Unforgettable Sonic Experience

 The Thing That Should Not Be;  Brutal Vocals and Orchestral Flourishes Unite for Unforgettable Sonic Experience

Deep within the abyss of extreme metal lies “The Thing That Should Not Be,” a monumental track by the legendary American death metal band Death. This 1990 masterpiece, appearing on their seminal album Spiritual Healing, transcends the boundaries of traditional heavy music. It’s not simply brutality for brutality’s sake; “The Thing That Should Not Be” is a symphony of aggression and technical prowess, weaving together monstrous vocals with hauntingly beautiful orchestral interludes.

Chuck Schuldiner, Death’s visionary frontman and guitarist, was a true innovator in the death metal scene. His revolutionary approach to song structure, complex time signatures, and incorporation of melodic elements challenged the established norms of the genre. While Schuldiner’s riffs were undoubtedly heavy and punishing, his music also possessed an unexpected sense of beauty and sophistication.

“The Thing That Should Not Be” perfectly encapsulates this duality. The song opens with a chilling acoustic guitar intro, immediately setting an unsettling tone. As the drums kick in, the listener is plunged into a maelstrom of guttural vocals, relentless blast beats, and Schuldiner’s signature shredding solos.

However, what truly sets “The Thing That Should Not Be” apart are its unique orchestral interludes. These sections, featuring synthesized strings and horns, provide a brief respite from the sonic onslaught, adding an element of haunting beauty and atmospheric tension. The interplay between these contrasting elements creates a dynamic listening experience that keeps the listener constantly engaged and surprised.

Dissecting the Structure:

To fully appreciate “The Thing That Should Not Be,” it’s worth delving into its intricate structure:

Section Description Tempo
Intro Acoustic guitar, creating a chilling and ominous atmosphere Slow
Verse 1 Aggressive riffs, blast beats, guttural vocals Fast
Chorus Melodic yet heavy riff, Schuldiner’s signature vocal style Medium
Bridge Orchestral interlude with synthesized strings and horns Slow
Verse 2 Similar to verse 1 but with slight variations in riff structure Fast
Chorus Repeat of chorus melody Medium
Solo Virtuoso guitar solo showcasing Schuldiner’s technical mastery Fast
Breakdown Heavy rhythmic section with downtuned guitars and blast beats Slow
Outro Orchestral interlude fading into silence Slow

A Legacy of Innovation:

“The Thing That Should Not Be” is more than just a song; it’s a testament to Chuck Schuldiner’s groundbreaking musical vision. His willingness to experiment and push boundaries paved the way for countless other death metal bands, inspiring generations of musicians with his technical proficiency and melodic sensibility.

While Death tragically disbanded following Schuldiner’s passing in 2001, their legacy continues to inspire and influence heavy metal artists worldwide. “The Thing That Should Not Be” remains a staple of the genre, a chilling and captivating masterpiece that showcases the true power and potential of extreme metal music.

For those unfamiliar with Death’s discography, “The Thing That Should Not Be” serves as an excellent introduction to their unique sound. It’s a track that will stay with you long after the final note fades away, a haunting reminder of Chuck Schuldiner’s genius and the enduring power of heavy metal music.