The Translator

Tech-Death

BY Denise FalzonPublished Apr 24, 2011

What is it?
Tech-death is short for technical death metal, which features intricate song structures and instrumental complexity. It originated in the late '80s and early '90s as a way to experiment with the traditional death metal formula and has evolved to feature progressive and avant-garde styles, including jazz fusion.

Why is it called that?
The challenging songwriting, which requires intense instrumental skill, comprises the technical aspect; complicated and fast-paced guitar work is the primary focus. Experimental and unorthodox time signatures, song structures and tempos are also utilized, while maintaining heavy rhythms and dark concepts.

Who's doing it?
Neuraxis, Decrepit Birth (pictured), Origin, Beneath the Massacre, Cynic, Obscura, Suffocation, Trigger the Bloodshed, Fleshgod Apocalypse, Pestilence, Anomalous and more.

Where should I start?
Gorguts Obscura (Olympic), Decrepit Birth ...And Time Begins (Unique Leader), Cryptopsy None So Vile (Century Media), Atheist Unquestionable Presence (Relapse), Decapitated The Negation (Earache)

What's next?
Origin's Entity, out June 7 on Nuclear Blast.

Listen to the Exclaim! Tech-Death playlist at rdio.

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