Six Feet Under

Six Feet Under is an American death metal band formed in 1993 by vocalist Chris Barnes, who was previously a member of Cannibal Corpse. The band's formation occurred in Tampa, Florida, a city known for its vibrant death metal scene. The band's debut album, 'Haunted,' was released in 1995 and showcased their signature sound, characterized by heavy guitar riffs and guttural vocals. Over the years, the band underwent various lineup changes, but Barnes remained a constant presence. They have released numerous albums, with their music often featuring themes of horror and death. In 2001, the band launched their own record label, Metal Blade Records, which helped them maintain creative control over their music.

Six Feet Under draws inspiration from various genres and bands, primarily within the death metal and extreme metal spectrum. Key influences include early death metal pioneers like Death, Obituary, and Morbid Angel, as well as thrash metal bands such as Slayer and Metallica. Their music also displays elements of groove metal, which can be traced back to bands like Pantera. The lyrical content often reflects horror movies, literature, and themes of mortality, further solidifying their identity within the death metal genre.

Six Feet Under is known for their unique approach to death metal, incorporating elements of groove and melody into their sound. The band has released over a dozen studio albums, with their discography showcasing an evolution of style while maintaining their core identity. Chris Barnes' distinctive growl and the band's heavy instrumentation are hallmarks of their music. They have a reputation for their energetic live performances and have toured extensively across the globe. The band's name is a reference to burial customs and serves as a metaphor for death and decay.

Six Feet Under is considered a significant act within the death metal genre, contributing to its growth and popularity. They have played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of American death metal in the 1990s and beyond. Their influence extends to numerous bands within the genre, and they are often credited with helping to popularize the 'groove' aspect of death metal. The band's dedication to horror themes and visuals has also impacted the aesthetic of the genre, making them a staple in death metal culture.