Pieces

Released in 1992, Pieces is a seminal EP in the Swedish death metal canon. Recorded at the legendary Sunlight Studios under the guidance of Tomas Skogsberg, the release is famous for its 'chainsaw' guitar tone, a hallmark of the Stockholm sound achieved through the specific settings of the Boss HM-2 pedal. The EP was tracked during a brief hiatus from the band's touring schedule, leading to a production style that is notably more raw and urgent than their debut, Like an Ever Flowing Stream. While short in duration, it is highly regarded for its consistency and the inclusion of the title track, which remains a staple of the band's live sets. The lyrical themes on this specific release lean toward a more personal, existential form of aggression compared to the gore-focused tropes of their peers. It stands as a bridge between the raw beginnings of the genre and the more melodic directions the band would later explore.