Grindcrusher

The art of the compilation is a tricky one to nail down. Most of the time they serve as a great intro for bands at their demo level to get some exposure or as early releases for labels trying to generate some interest in their offerings. Once in a generation though a compilation sneaks through that is so fukking classic and vital that it can practically define an era. Metal Massacre may have been notable for its early appearances by a young Metallica.. Wine of Satan for exposing some old black metal bands. But without a doubt the greatest compilation in metal history was Earache's Grindcrusher.
Most compilations have their studs and duds, but it's hard to compare with the track record of early talent that became legends here. Morbid Angel, Repulsion, Carcass, Godflesh, Carnage, Napalm Death, Entombed, Nocturnus, Bolt Thrower.. Then a tier below you had Terrorizer, Old Lady Drivers, Cadaver, Naked City, Hell Bastard, Unseen Terror, Lawnmower Deth, Heresy... For fukk sake how can this be denied as THE most important metal compilation of all time? While some bands floundered, others went on to define what death metal would be. The true mark of excellence from a label that used to be considered essential.

THE PERFECT EARACHE