Band Line Up 2025
Starting their journey under the name Xecutioner in 1984, Obituary has solidified its place as one of the most influential and pioneering bands in the death metal genre—a genre they were instrumental in shaping. Emerging from the sunny state of Florida, a hub for some of the darkest and most intense metal acts, Obituary, alongside bands like Death, Morbid Angel, and Deicide, fused rapid guitar riffs, intricate arrangements, and guttural vocals to craft a bleak and aggressive soundscape that became synonymous with death metal. However, unlike many of their contemporaries, Obituary steered clear of the genre's more common tropes, such as Satanic themes and relentless dual-guitar speed attacks.
In 1989, Obituary released their debut album, Slowly We Rot, which quickly became a landmark in death metal. This album's complexity and brutality offered just a glimpse of what the band had in store. The following year, they released Cause of Death, featuring new guitarist James Murphy (formerly of Death, Cancer, Disincarnate) replacing Allen West, and Frank Watkins (Hellwitch) taking over bass duties from Daniel Tucker. Cause of Death further cemented Obituary’s reputation. By 1992, with the release of The End Complete, the band had reached the peak of their powers. Despite the departure of Murphy and the return of West, The End Complete was a tight, intense, and vicious record.
In 1994, Obituary delivered both Don’t Care and World Demise, further expanding their sonic arsenal. After a brief hiatus, the band roared back in 1997 with Back from the Dead, proving that they hadn't lost their edge. This album showcased their ability to remain as powerful and meticulously crafted as ever, reaffirming their position as a leading force in the genre.
With a career spanning decades, over half a million albums sold, and nearly 500 shows under their belt, Obituary’s legacy in death metal is undeniable. The band's retrospective release, Anthology, encapsulates over ten years of their dominance in the genre. Looking ahead, Obituary will return to the Bloodstock Open Air Metal Festival to headline the Sophie Lancaster stage on August 10th, 2025, promising to deliver another unforgettable performance.
