The Making of Clandestine by Entombed

Introduction

In the vibrant landscape of early 1990s death metal, few albums have left as indelible a mark as Entombed’s “Clandestine.” Released in the twilight of 1991, this sophomore effort from the Swedish outfit solidified their status as pioneers of the genre, crafting a sound that would reverberate through the metal community for decades. As the follow-up to their groundbreaking debut “Left Hand Path”, “Clandestine” represented both a continuation and evolution of Entombed’s sonic assault, offering a more refined yet no less ferocious take on death metal. This article delves into the genesis, recording, and legacy of “Clandestine,” exploring its place in music history and its enduring influence on the genre.

Throughout this article, we will journey through the album’s creation, dissect its recording process, and examine its commercial performance and critical reception. We’ll also explore the thematic depths of its tracks, the legacy it has forged, and the cultural milieu that surrounded its release. To begin, here is a comprehensive table summarizing key details about the album:

“Clandestine” was more than just an album; it was a statement of intent from a band that was unafraid to push boundaries. As Nicke Andersson, the band’s drummer and vocalist for the album, noted, “We wanted to make something that was both brutal and beautiful, something that could stand the test of time.” His sentiments were echoed by producer Tomas Skogsberg, who stated, “This album was about capturing the raw energy of Entombed and channeling it into something that could resonate with listeners long after the last note had faded.” Indeed, “Clandestine” has achieved just that, continuing to influence and inspire musicians across genres to this day.

The Genesis of “Clandestine”

As the 1980s drew to a close, the musical landscape was ripe for transformation. The burgeoning death metal scene was carving out its own niche, and Sweden was quickly becoming a hotspot for this raw and aggressive genre. It was in this fertile ground that Entombed emerged, having evolved from the ashes of Nihilist, a band that had already begun to explore the dark and visceral sounds that would come to define Swedish death metal.

Prior to “Clandestine,” Entombed had already made waves with their debut album, “Left Hand Path”. Released in 1990, it was a landmark record that set the stage for what was to come. The album’s distinctive “buzzsaw” guitar tone, courtesy of the Boss HM-2 pedal, became a defining feature of the Swedish death metal sound. However, as the band prepared to create their next opus, they faced a significant lineup change: original vocalist L.G. Petrov was dismissed due to personal disputes, leaving drummer Nicke Andersson to take over vocal duties.

With Andersson at the helm, Entombed embarked on the creation of “Clandestine,” bringing together a talented group of musicians who would each play a pivotal role in shaping the album’s sound. Alongside Andersson, guitarist Uffe Cederlund and Alex Hellid, and bassist Lars Rosenberg, all contributed to the album’s complex and layered compositions. Their collaborative efforts resulted in an album that was both a continuation of their previous work and a bold step forward into new musical territories.

Below is a table detailing the band members and their respective roles during the production of “Clandestine”:

The recording of “Clandestine” was financed by Earache Records, with a budget that, while modest, was sufficient to cover the essentials. Despite financial constraints, the band was able to collaborate with renowned producer Tomas Skogsberg, whose expertise and innovative approach to production were instrumental in bringing their vision to life. The album’s title, “Clandestine,” was chosen to reflect the hidden depths and darker themes explored within its tracks. The artwork, created by Dan Seagrave, further encapsulated this concept, depicting a surreal and otherworldly landscape that perfectly complemented the music within.

Recording Process

The recording of “Clandestine” was a pivotal moment for Entombed, a process that would cement their place in the pantheon of death metal legends. Capturing the essence of their sound was no small feat, and it required the expertise of producer Tomas Skogsberg, whose work at Sunlight Studios had already begun to shape the Swedish death metal soundscape. Though the exact studio location remains unspecified, the sessions are believed to have taken place in Stockholm in 1991.

Skogsberg, known for his ability to extract the raw, visceral energy from a band, was the ideal collaborator for Entombed. His production philosophy emphasized mood and atmosphere, which aligned perfectly with the band’s vision for “Clandestine.” With a background steeped in the burgeoning Swedish metal scene, Skogsberg had honed his craft on numerous projects, bringing a wealth of experience to the table. His unique approach to recording, utilizing both analogue and digital techniques, allowed Entombed to achieve the desired sound.

The following table outlines the likely hardware and equipment used during the recording of “Clandestine,” based on the known setup at Sunlight Studios during that era:

The recording sessions were not without their challenges. With Nicke Andersson stepping in as the lead vocalist, the band had to adjust their dynamic and approach to the material. Yet, this change ultimately contributed to the album’s unique sound, as Andersson’s vocals added a new layer of intensity and urgency to the music. Despite the hurdles, the band and Skogsberg were able to capture the raw energy and intricate compositions that defined “Clandestine.”

Below is a table showcasing other notable albums produced by Tomas Skogsberg:

Commercial Performance and Reception

Upon its release, “Clandestine” quickly garnered attention for its intense and intricate compositions, cementing Entombed’s reputation as a force within the death metal genre. Despite its niche appeal, the album achieved moderate commercial success, resonating with metal enthusiasts around the world. Its chart performance, however, did not mirror its critical acclaim, as it remained largely outside mainstream recognition.

While specific sales figures for “Clandestine” are not readily available, its impact is best measured by its influence on the genre and the accolades it received. In October 2016, “Clandestine” was inducted into the Decibel magazine Hall of Fame, a testament to its enduring legacy and influence within the metal community.

The competitive landscape of 1991 was fierce, with several landmark albums being released by other notable artists. Despite this, “Clandestine” managed to carve out its own niche, standing alongside these releases as a testament to the creativity and innovation of the early ’90s metal scene.

Below is a table listing albums released in 1991, highlighting “Clandestine” and its contemporaries:

Other albums released in 1991:

• Nevermind by Nirvana [Physical Sales: Over 30 million]
• Metallica by Metallica [Physical Sales: Over 30 million]
• Use Your Illusion I by Guns N’ Roses [Physical Sales: Over 7 million]
• Use Your Illusion II by Guns N’ Roses [Physical Sales: Over 7 million]

The awards and recognitions that “Clandestine” received, such as its inclusion in the Decibel Hall of Fame, underscore its significance within the metal genre. While it may not have achieved the commercial heights of some of its contemporaries, its artistic impact is undeniable.

Singles and Track Analysis

In the world of death metal, singles often serve as an introduction to the broader themes and sounds of an album. For “Clandestine,” the singles released offered a glimpse into the album’s complex and intense nature, each track showcasing the band’s ability to blend brutality with melody. These singles not only helped to define the album’s identity but also played a crucial role in its reception and legacy.

Entombed released a number of singles from “Clandestine,” each contributing to the album’s narrative and commercial presence. Notably, “Stranger Aeons” emerged as a standout track, capturing the attention of both fans and critics with its dynamic structure and memorable riffs. The songwriting credits for these tracks reflect the collaborative nature of the band’s creative process, with each member contributing to the album’s rich tapestry of sound.

Below is a detailed table of the tracks from “Clandestine,” including their lengths and writing credits:

Note: Tracks marked with * were released as singles. “Stranger Aeons” was particularly well-received and remains a staple in Entombed’s live performances.

The thematic exploration within “Clandestine” ranges from existential musings to visceral depictions of chaos and despair. Each track contributes to a cohesive narrative, inviting listeners to delve deeper into the album’s rich and layered compositions.

Influences and Legacy

The creation of “Clandestine” was deeply rooted in the musical influences that shaped Entombed’s sound. Drawing inspiration from a variety of sources, the band crafted an album that was both a homage to their predecessors and a bold step forward into uncharted territory. The legacy of “Clandestine” is evident in the countless artists and bands who have cited it as a major influence in their own musical journeys.

Entombed’s influences during the creation of “Clandestine” included pioneering acts such as Slayer and Morbid Angel, as well as the burgeoning Swedish death metal scene that they themselves were helping to define. These influences are reflected in the album’s aggressive yet melodic approach, as well as its complex and dynamic compositions.

Below is a table highlighting the influences on “Clandestine” and the artists who were subsequently influenced by the album:

The year 1991 was a significant one, both culturally and globally. In the world of music, it saw the release of several landmark albums that would go on to define the decade. Meanwhile, significant global events such as the dissolution of the Soviet Union and the emergence of the World Wide Web marked a period of profound change and transformation.

Five Things about Clandestine

The allure of “Clandestine” lies not only in its music but also in the stories and facts that surround its creation and legacy. Here are five intriguing facts about the album that highlight its unique place in music history:

Media and Television Usage

In the realm of music, the integration of tracks into media such as films and television can significantly amplify an album’s reach and impact. However, in the case of “Clandestine,” it appears that its tracks have not been featured prominently in mainstream media.

Despite its absence from major film and television soundtracks, “Clandestine” remains a beloved album within the metal community, celebrated for its raw energy and innovative compositions.

Critical Reviews and Retrospectives

Over the years, “Clandestine” has been the subject of numerous reviews and retrospectives, each offering a unique perspective on its significance and impact. Critics have lauded the album for its innovative approach to death metal, with many praising its complex compositions and intense performances.

The following table provides an overview of some notable reviews of “Clandestine,” including publication names, review scores, and notable quotes:

After Clandestine

Following the release of “Clandestine,” Entombed continued to evolve and experiment with their sound, further cementing their legacy as pioneers of death metal. The band’s subsequent album, “Wolverine Blues”, released in 1993, marked a shift towards a more rock-influenced style, often referred to as “death ‘n’ roll.”

Over the years, Entombed underwent several lineup changes, with original members departing and new musicians joining the fold. Despite these changes, the band maintained a dedicated fanbase and continued to release music that pushed the boundaries of the genre.

As of 2024, Entombed remains active, with their influence continuing to be felt across the metal landscape. Their enduring legacy is a testament to the impact of albums like “Clandestine,” which have left an indelible mark on the history of heavy music.

Remasters and Reissues

In the years since its original release, “Clandestine” has been reissued and remastered multiple times, allowing new generations of fans to experience its groundbreaking sound. These reissues have often included bonus content and enhanced audio quality, further enhancing the album’s appeal.

Below is a table detailing the various remasters and reissues of “Clandestine”:

These remasters and reissues have allowed “Clandestine” to reach a wider audience, ensuring its place in the annals of metal history. The inclusion of bonus tracks and enhanced audio has provided fans with a fresh perspective on this classic album.

Conclusion

“Clandestine” remains a vital and influential album, its legacy enduring in the hearts of metal fans worldwide. Its innovative approach to death metal, combined with its raw energy and complex compositions, has ensured its place as a seminal work within the genre. As we reflect on the impact of “Clandestine,” it is clear that its influence will continue to be felt for years to come.

Further Reading

• Our blog article on Entombed’s “Left Hand Path”
• Our blog article on Morbid Angel’s “Blessed Are the Sick”
• Our blog article on Morbid Angel’s “Altars of Madness”
• Wikipedia page for “Clandestine”
• Official Entombed website
• Earache Records’ website

Let us know in the comments what your thoughts are on Clandestine by Entombed. Did we miss anything? Share your experiences and join the conversation!