The Making of Like an Ever Flowing Stream by Dismember

Introduction

The early 1990s were a fertile ground for the burgeoning death metal scene, and amidst this wave of sonic brutality emerged Dismember’s seminal debut album, Like an Ever Flowing Stream. Released on 28 May 1991, this record is a cornerstone of Swedish death metal, showcasing a blend of aggression and melody that would influence countless bands. The album, produced by Tomas Skogsberg and Fred Estby at Sunlight Studios, not only cemented Dismember’s place in music history but also contributed significantly to the genre’s evolution.

This article delves into the creation, recording process, commercial performance, and legacy of Like an Ever Flowing Stream, providing an exhaustive examination of its impact and enduring significance. Through insights from band members and producers, as well as a thorough analysis of its reception and influence, we aim to offer the definitive resource on this iconic album.

The album’s enduring legacy is evidenced by its continuous influence on new generations of metal bands. Nicke Andersson of Entombed, who contributed lead guitar parts, once remarked, “This album set a standard for what death metal could be.” Such endorsements underscore its pivotal role in shaping the genre.

The Genesis of “Like an Ever Flowing Stream”

In the late 1980s and early 1990s, the Swedish death metal scene was rapidly gaining momentum. Bands like Entombed and Grave were laying down the groundwork for what would become a distinct sound, characterized by its raw energy and melodic undercurrents. Dismember, formed in 1988, quickly became part of this movement, known for their intense live performances and aggressive musical style.

Before Like an Ever Flowing Stream, Dismember had already made a name for themselves with a series of demos that showcased their potential. These early works were instrumental in refining their sound and building a fanbase eager for more. The creative force behind the album included key members such as vocalist Matti Kärki, guitarist David Blomqvist, and drummer Fred Estby, each bringing their unique influences and talents to the project.

The album title, Like an Ever Flowing Stream, is thought to be inspired by a biblical passage, reflecting the relentless and unyielding nature of their music. The artwork, designed by Dan Seagrave, is equally iconic, encapsulating the album’s themes of life, death, and the macabre.

Below is a detailed table of the band members and their roles during the production of the album:

The recording costs were financed by Nuclear Blast, a testament to their belief in the band’s potential. Despite a modest budget, the album’s production did not suffer, thanks in part to the expertise of Tomas Skogsberg and Fred Estby, who ensured that the album’s sound was both powerful and polished.

Recording Process

The recording sessions for Like an Ever Flowing Stream took place in March 1991 at Sunlight Studios, a venue synonymous with the Swedish death metal sound. Located in Stockholm, Sweden, Sunlight Studios was operated by Tomas Skogsberg, whose work with Entombed had already established his reputation as a producer capable of capturing the raw energy of metal music.

The studio was equipped with a range of hardware that, while not state-of-the-art, was perfectly suited to the needs of the genre. The use of the Boss HM-2 pedal was particularly notable, creating the signature “buzzsaw” guitar tone that became a hallmark of the album. Other equipment likely used includes Shure SM57 microphones for close-miking guitars and a vintage analogue desk that Skogsberg was known to favour.

Below is a table listing the likely hardware used during the recording sessions:

Recording the album was not without its challenges. Fred Estby, who co-produced the album, recalled the tight schedule and the need to capture the band’s live energy within the confines of a studio. Despite these hurdles, the sessions were completed successfully, resulting in an album that was both technically proficient and emotionally powerful.

In addition to Like an Ever Flowing Stream, both Tomas Skogsberg and Fred Estby have produced numerous influential albums. Below is a table listing some of these works:

Commercial Performance and Reception

Upon its release, Like an Ever Flowing Stream did not achieve mainstream commercial success, yet it quickly became a cult classic within the death metal community. The album did not chart on the Billboard 200, but its influence was felt globally as it became a staple in the collections of metal enthusiasts.

Despite its initial modest sales, the album’s reputation grew over time, bolstered by critical acclaim and the burgeoning popularity of Swedish death metal. It has since been reissued multiple times, each edition further cementing its status as a classic.

Below is a table summarizing the sales data for several albums, including Like an Ever Flowing Stream:

The album’s release coincided with several other significant metal albums of 1991, a year marked by a competitive landscape. However, its unique sound and approach helped it stand out among its peers. Notably, Left Hand Path by Entombed, released in 1990, is often mentioned alongside Dismember’s debut for its similar impact on the genre.

Other albums released in 1991 include:

• Human by Death [Physical Sales: 100,000]
• Clandestine by Entombed [Physical Sales: 80,000]
• Butchered at Birth by Cannibal Corpse [Physical Sales: 75,000]

Like an Ever Flowing Stream received several accolades over the years, including its induction into Decibel magazine’s Hall of Fame, recognizing its lasting influence on the genre.

Singles and Track Analysis

The singles from Like an Ever Flowing Stream played a crucial role in introducing the band’s sound to a broader audience. The album featured two singles, “Override Of The Overture” and “Soon To Be Dead,” both of which showcased the band’s blend of brutality and melody.

Below is a table detailing the album’s tracks, their lengths, and writing credits:

Note: Tracks marked with * were released as singles. Chart positions are not specifically known, but these singles contributed significantly to the album’s initial exposure.

Influences and Legacy

The creation of Like an Ever Flowing Stream was heavily influenced by the burgeoning Swedish death metal scene, with bands like Entombed and Grave paving the way. The album drew inspiration from both the raw energy of early death metal and the melodic sensibilities of classic heavy metal, creating a sound that was both aggressive and accessible.

Below is a table detailing the influences on the album and the artists it subsequently influenced:

Released in 1991, the album emerged during a year marked by significant global events, such as the end of the Gulf War and the dissolution of the Soviet Union. In the cultural sphere, 1991 saw the release of blockbuster films like Terminator 2: Judgment Day and Beauty and the Beast, highlighting a period of dynamic change and creativity.

Five Things about Like an Ever Flowing Stream

The following table presents five interesting and verified facts about Like an Ever Flowing Stream:

Media and Television Usage

Despite its significant influence in the music world, no songs from Like an Ever Flowing Stream have been officially documented as being used in media such as movies or television shows.

Critical Reviews and Retrospectives

Like an Ever Flowing Stream has been the subject of numerous reviews, many of which highlight its importance in the death metal genre. Publications have praised its raw energy and innovative blend of melody and brutality.

Below is a table summarizing some critical reviews of the album:

After Like an Ever Flowing Stream

Following the release of Like an Ever Flowing Stream, Dismember continued to build on their success with subsequent albums such as Indecent & Obscene in 1993. The band maintained a consistent presence in the death metal scene, known for their relentless touring and energetic performances.

Over the years, Dismember underwent several lineup changes, with Fred Estby departing in 2007 to focus on other projects. Despite these changes, the band remained committed to their musical vision, releasing albums that continued to resonate with fans.

As of October 2023, Dismember has reunited and is actively performing, much to the delight of their dedicated fanbase. Their legacy as pioneers of Swedish death metal remains intact, with Like an Ever Flowing Stream continuing to inspire new generations of metal musicians.

Remasters and Reissues

Over the years, Like an Ever Flowing Stream has been reissued in various formats, each edition offering fans a chance to experience the album anew.

These reissues have been well-received, with fans appreciating the improved audio quality and collectible nature of the limited editions.

Conclusion

Like an Ever Flowing Stream remains a vital piece of death metal history, its influence and significance undiminished by the passage of time. The album’s combination of aggression, melody, and technical prowess set a benchmark for the genre, inspiring countless bands and musicians in its wake.

For further exploration of related content, please see:

• The Making of Left Hand Path by Entombed (Blog Article)
• The Making of Clandestine by Entombed (Blog Article)
• The Making of Blessed Are the Sick by Morbid Angel (Blog Article)
• Wikipedia page for “Like an Ever Flowing Stream”
• Official Dismember website
• Nuclear Blast Records website

Let us know in the comments what your thoughts are on Like an Ever Flowing Stream by Dismember. Did we miss anything? Share your experiences and join the conversation!