HELLS HEADBANGERS is proud to reissue MORTICIAN’s cult-classic first live full-length album Zombie Massacre Live, on jewel case CD, featuring a red disc and an 8-page booklet with a refreshed layout overseen by the band.

Comprising a staggering 37 tracks in 66 gore-soaked minutes, Zombie Massacre Live captures these legendary death metallers on the live front in the early 2000s, spanning shows in the United States as well as Europe. As expected of a long-running band with a deep discography, this extensive live collection encompasses countless 90s classics as well as then-new cuts from Domain of Death from 2001 and Darkest Day of Horror from 2002, all presented in their rawest and bloodiest form. Originally issued in 2004 on CD by the band on their own label, Zombie Massacre Live remains long overdue for broader recognition.
One of the most compelling aspects of this release is the lineup captured in these performances. Roger J. Beaujard moves from guitar to drums for the live setting, bringing a fierce and explosive human element to the percussion. His presence gives the songs a different pulse from the studio originals, adding spontaneity and fire that suit the atmosphere perfectly. To fill the guitar role, MORTICIAN enlisted Ron Kachnic, another musician deeply rooted in MALIGNANCY. His playing locks in with the crushing low end and preserves the thick, chainsaw-like tone that fans associate with the band. Together, this configuration brings a unique character to the material and demonstrates MORTICIAN’s ability to adapt their monstrous sound for the stage.

The setlist erupts with fan favorites. “Chainsaw Dismemberment,” “Domain of Death,” “Slaughtered,” “Blown to Pieces,” and countless more come alive with blistering intensity. Each track rushes forward with almost no pause, creating a nonstop assault that mirrors the chaos of MORTICIAN’s shows from this era. Even the shortest bursts of violence feel larger and more electrifying in this setting. Samples continue to appear at the perfect moments, enhancing the horror-soaked atmosphere and maintaining the cinematic essence that has always defined the band.

The soundboard mix retains a gritty authenticity that fits MORTICIAN’s identity flawlessly. Instead of smoothing over the ferocity, the production preserves the overwhelming density of the instruments and the cavernous growl of Will Rahmer’s vocals. Everything feels immediate and enveloping, as though the listener has been transported directly into the pit.

In its totality, Zombie Massacre Live stands as a powerful snapshot of MORTICIAN performing at full strength. It showcases a lineup that brought fresh dynamics to the live experience while staying true to the primal heaviness that made the band a legend. For fans seeking an unfiltered representation of MORTICIAN’s brutality, this release delivers everything expected and more.