Six Feet Under (often abbreviated as SFU) was formed initially as a side project of lead singer Chris Barnes (then of Cannibal Corpse). Six Feet Under lyrics are apocalyptic and brutal, though Chris Barnes' lyrics are somewhat less brutal than that of his past.
While their lyrical themes revolve around concepts of violence, gore and death, many Six Feet Under songs are politically keen and advocate, among other things, legalization of marijuana, overthrow of capitalism, and even anti-war sentiments. Many believe that his newer lyrical material are metaphors for the state of humanity.
Six Feet Under has also released two covers albums. The first, Graveyard Classics, is an album of cover songs ranging from Dead Kennedys' California Über Alles, to Black Sabbath's Sweet Leaf, to Jimi Hendrix's Purple Haze, whilst the second, Graveyard Classics II, is an entire remake of the classic AC/DC album Back in Black.
Six Feet Under has a strong following in Europe especially in Germany. In fact, the band also released a special german language version of the song "bringer of blood". Six Feet Under have met moderate commercial success, with Maximum Violence being their best selling record and figure among one the top 5 selling death metal bands.
The bands line up has remained stable since 1997 when Allen West quit to be replaced by Steve Swanson formerly of massacre.
Chris Barnes - Vocals Steve Swanson - Guitars (1999 - present) Terry Butler - Bass Greg Gall - Drums
Allen West - Guitars (1995 - 1998)