Deicide

Deicide, an undisputed titan of American death metal, proudly hails from the infamous Tampa, Florida scene, a legendary incubator for extreme metal. Formed in 1987, the band`s ferocious genesis saw the powerful rhythm section of drummer Steve Asheim converge with the iconic, shredding guitar wizardry of brothers Eric and Brian Hoffman. Initially operating under the moniker Carnage, the lineup solidified with the recruitment of formidable bassist and vocalist Glen Benton, leading to a swift rebranding as Amon. By 1989, the definitive, unholy name Deicide was officially adopted, signaling the dawn of a relentless, blasphemous sonic assault.

Their breakthrough arrived with volcanic force in 1992 through their sophomore masterpiece, Legion. This seminal album not only solidified Deicide`s status but also catapulted them to wider mainstream recognition, cementing their position as a dominant force in the death metal landscape. Deicide stands as the second-best-selling death metal band of the Soundscan Era, a formidable achievement surpassed only by fellow extreme metal legends Cannibal Corpse. Further underscoring their commercial impact, in November 2003, their groundbreaking self-titled debut, Deicide, and the critically acclaimed Legion were ranked as the second and third best-selling death metal albums, respectively, in SoundScan history.

Since their blistering 1990 debut, Deicide has unleashed an extensive and uncompromising discography, boasting thirteen studio albums, one punishing live album, two comprehensive compilation albums, and two visceral live DVDs. This prolific output showcases their enduring commitment to raw, unadulterated death metal.

Deicide has undeniably earned its reputation as "Floridas most notorious and despised death metal export." Their first three studio albums—*Deicide*, *Legion*, and *Once Upon the Cross*—are universally revered as cornerstones and essential listening within the death metal genre, forming an unholy trinity of sonic devastation. The bands unflinching lyrical themes, explicitly exploring Satanism, anti-Christianity, and blasphemy, have made them a magnet for relentless controversy. This confrontational stance, coupled with the notorious personal lives and outspoken defiance of its members, has repeatedly ignited widespread public outrage. Their career has been marked by numerous concert bans, legal battles, and vehement criticism from religious organizations, political groups, animal rights activists, and the general public. Adding to their legendary infamy, multiple band members have had well-documented run-ins with the law, further cementing Deicides status as one of extreme metals most rebellious and uncompromising acts.