Formulas Fatal to the Flesh is the fifth studio album by American death metal band Morbid Angel, released on February 24, 1998, by Earache Records. The Satanic-themed lyrics of the band's previous albums had been replaced with lyrics about the Old Ones, which would become the primary source of Morbid Angel's lyrical content from this point on, with some lyrics written in Sumerian. This is the first album to feature singer/bassist Steve Tucker, who replaced David Vincent.
Music The tunings for this record as on Covenant and Domination remained E♭ on six string guitar songs, and B♭ on seven stringed guitar songs. The album saw considerable changes in tone from Domination. Whereas Domination was more melodic, Formulas is considered more brutal and powerful, characterized by very fast drum tempos, extremely fast blast beats, aggressive riffs, atmospheric solos, and a more demonic growl from Steve Tucker.
"Invocation of the Continual One" is made of unused music the band had composed in its early days in 1984, put together and re-recorded for this album. It is also the only Morbid Angel song Trey Azagthoth does all the vocals for.
Reception The album was met with mixed reviews from critics upon release, but retrospective reception has been very positive.
Track listing All songs written and arranged by Trey Azagthoth except "Ascent Through the Spheres" and "Hymnos Rituales de Guerra", written by Pete Sandoval.
Limited edition "Love of Lava" bonus disc This bonus CD contains all of the isolated guitar solos performed by Trey Azagthoth. A guitar pick is included which is signed by him.
Personnel Steve Tucker – bass, vocals Trey Azagthoth – guitars, keyboards, vocals on "Covenant of Death" and "Invocation of the Continual One" Pete Sandoval – drums
References