Album Information Section

Album Title: The Sickness

Artist: Disturbed

Original Release Date: March 7, 2000

Label: Unknown Label

Genres: Nu Metal, Alternative Metal

Track Listing:

• 1. Voices (3:12)
• 2. The Game (3:47)
• 3. Stupify (4:34)
• 4. Down With the Sickness (4:39)
• 5. Violence Fetish (3:24)
• 6. Fear (3:47)
• 7. Numb (3:45)
• 8. Want (3:53)
• 9. Conflict (4:35)
• 10. Shout 2000 (4:18)
• 11. Droppin’ Plates (3:49)
• 12. Meaning of Life (4:03)

Recording Information

The Sickness was recorded at the famous 5th Street Studios located in Chicago, Illinois. The recording sessions took place in 1999 and early 2000, leading up to the album’s release. The album was produced by the band alongside the renowned producer Johnny K, who has worked with numerous artists in the rock and metal genres. The engineering was handled by Johnny K as well, ensuring a cohesive sound throughout the project.

One of the notable recording techniques employed during the sessions was the use of layered vocal tracks, particularly in the standout single “Down With the Sickness,” which features a distinctive call-and-response vocal style. The band also utilized a variety of guitar effects to create a heavier sound that became a defining characteristic of their music. During the production, the band experienced a significant creative burst, leading to a collection of tracks that encapsulated their raw energy and lyrical intensity.

Band Context

At the turn of the millennium, Disturbed was emerging as one of the prominent bands in the nu-metal scene. Formed in 1996, the band consisted of David Draiman (vocals), Dan Donegan (guitar), Steve “Fuzz” Kmak (bass), and Mike Wengren (drums). Prior to the release of The Sickness, the band had built a following in the Chicago area and had released a demo that garnered attention from major labels.

The Sickness marked Disturbed’s debut studio album, and its release came after years of hard work and lineup stability. It set the stage for their rise to fame, as the album quickly gained traction in the rock and metal communities. The band’s aggressive sound and Draiman’s distinct vocal style resonated with audiences, leading to significant airplay on rock radio and MTV. The album’s success was a pivotal moment for the band, solidifying their place in the heavy music landscape.

Track Commentary

The Sickness features a total of 12 tracks, each showcasing the band’s signature blend of aggressive riffs, melodic hooks, and introspective lyrics. “Voices,” the album opener, sets the tone with its haunting introduction and explosive chorus, presenting themes of inner turmoil and mental struggle. This track effectively introduces listeners to the band’s lyrical exploration of conflict and personal demons.

One of the most notable tracks, “Down With the Sickness,” became an anthem for the band and is often cited as a hallmark of the nu-metal genre. Its iconic opening, characterized by Draiman’s primal scream, captures the essence of the album’s raw energy. The track delves into themes of anger and rebellion, resonating with a generation of listeners. It was released as a single and received significant radio play, contributing to the album’s commercial success.

Other standout tracks include “Stupify,” which combines heavy guitar riffs with a catchy chorus, and “Numb,” a poignant exploration of emotional distress. The album also features the energetic “Shout 2000,” a cover of the classic song by Tears for Fears, which Disturbed infuses with their unique heavy sound. The track list culminates with “Meaning of Life,” a contemplative piece that encourages listeners to reflect on their existence and purpose.

Overall, The Sickness was critically acclaimed for its aggressive sound and lyrical depth, effectively establishing Disturbed as a leading force in the nu-metal movement. The album paved the way for future releases and solidified the band’s legacy within the genre, influencing countless artists in the years to come.