"World Demise" is the fourth studio album by the American death metal band Obituary. It was released on September 6, 1994, through Roadrunner Records. "World Demise" represented a significant change in Obituary's musical direction, featuring more complex song structures, slower tempo, and a more industrial-tinged sound.
As one of the pioneering bands of the death metal genre, Obituary has a style featuring heavily distorted guitars, growling vocals, and relentless drumming. "World Demise" built upon this established style but integrated more elements of hardcore punk, thrash metal, and traditional heavy metal for a deeply atmospheric, brooding effect.
"World Demise" was also distinguished by its lyrical themes. Unlike previous releases, the album tackled real-world issues like drug abuse, overpopulation, and environmental destruction, marking a departure from their earlier work's more fantastical, horror-themed content. Despite its marked departure stylistically and thematically, the album received largely positive critical responses and has since become a beloved entry in Obituary's discography.
Prominent tracks in the album include "Don't Care," "Final Thoughts," and title track "World Demise." The album's atmosphere and sound exemplify Obituary's innovation within the death metal genre, combining their unique musical stylings with potent, thought-provoking lyricism.
