Death
"The Philosopher" is a renowned song by the American death metal band Death. It appears on their fifth studio album, Individual Thought Patterns, released in 1993. Written by the band's founder and primary songwriter Chuck Schuldiner, the track showcases Death’s progression into more technical and progressive metal territory.
Key Facts
- Artist: Death
- Album: Individual Thought Patterns (1993)
- Songwriter: Chuck Schuldiner
- Lineup:
- Chuck Schuldiner – vocals, guitar
- Andy LaRocque – guitar
- Steve DiGiorgio – bass
- Gene Hoglan – drums
- Track length: Approximately 4:10 (varies with mixes and live versions)
Musical Style
- Genre: Technical death metal, progressive death metal
- Features intricate guitar work, shifting time signatures, and complex rhythms
- Notable for melodic, memorable guitar solos and intense, precise drumming
Lyrical Themes
The lyrics of "The Philosopher" address hypocrisy and self-righteousness, criticizing those who judge others without self-awareness. Notably, the chorus delivers the pointed line:
"The philosopher
You know so much about nothing at all"
Other lines explore illusions versus reality and the difference between intellectual thought and genuine understanding, continuing the album’s focus on introspection and social commentary.
Notable Performances and Releases
- Featured as the closing track on Individual Thought Patterns
- Included in live performances, notably at Eindhoven '98
- Official music video was produced and featured on programs like MTV's Beavis and Butt-Head, helping to expand Death’s exposure to a broader audience.
Influence and Legacy
- "The Philosopher" is iconic in metal circles for its memorable riffs and reflective lyrics
- Helped establish Death’s legacy as innovators of technical death metal
- Remains a favorite both in studio and live renditions
Sample Lyrics
Do you feel what I feel, see what I see, hear what I hear
There is a line you must draw between your dream world and reality
…
Lies feed your judgment of others
Behold how the blind lead each other
The philosopher
You know so much about nothing at all.
Summary Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | The Philosopher |
| Artist | Death |
| Album | Individual Thought Patterns (1993) |
| Genre | Technical/progressive death metal |
| Songwriter | Chuck Schuldiner |
| Lead Guitar | Andy LaRocque |
| Bass | Steve DiGiorgio |
| Drums | Gene Hoglan |
| Official Video | Yesyoutube |
"The Philosopher" is celebrated as a technical and philosophical milestone in Death’s discography, blending complex musicianship with pointed social critique.
