"Carcass: Pioneers of Extreme Metal's Evolution"

Carcass is an iconic English extreme metal band from Liverpool, formed in 1985. They are regarded as pioneers in several subgenres of metal, including grindcore, goregrind, death metal, and melodic death metal. Initially known as Disattack, the band was founded by guitarist Bill Steer and drummer Ken Owen. Jeff Walker joined as bassist and vocalist after a lineup change, and the band adopted the name Carcass. Their early work, characterized by grotesque lyrics and raw production, defined the grindcore and goregrind scenes.

Carcass' first album, Reek of Putrefaction (1988), became a favorite of influential BBC DJ John Peel despite its rough sound quality. With subsequent albums, such as Symphonies of Sickness (1989) and Necroticism – Descanting the Insalubrious (1991), Carcass refined their style, introducing more structured compositions and better production. Heartwork (1993), their fourth album, marked a shift towards a more melodic sound and is widely considered a landmark in melodic death metal.

The band broke up in 1996 following the release of Swansong, an album that saw them move towards a more rock-oriented sound. However, in 2007, Carcass reformed without original drummer Ken Owen, due to health reasons. Since their reunion, the band has released two albums: Surgical Steel (2013) and Torn Arteries (2021), both of which were well-received by fans and critics alike.

Carcass' influence spans across many metal genres, and they remain one of the most respected names in extreme metal.