Known for jaw-dropping live performances that’ll make you feel terrible about your own instrumental abilities, Meshuggah has brought many of their mind-bending compositions to the stage. Still, despite their deep discography and cult-like following, some tracks have never been unleashed live. This list explores the Meshuggah songs that, for reasons unknown, have remained confined to studio recordings – unheard in the live setting.
And before anyone mentions it, Catch Thirtythree was left off this list because Meshuggah generally performs a medley of some of those songs live.
Unperformed Tracks by Meshuggah
From “Immutable” (2022)
- “Phantoms”
- “They Move Below”
- “Black Cathedral”
- “I Am That Thirst”
- “The Faultless”
- “Armies of the Preposterous”
From “The Violent Sleep of Reason” (2016)
- “MonstroCity”
- “Ivory Tower”
- “Our Rage Won’t Die”
- “Into Decay”
From “Pitch Black” (2013)
- “Pitch Black”
From “Koloss” (2012)
- “The Demon’s Name Is Surveillance”
- “Marrow”
From “obZen” (2008)
- “This Spiteful Snake”
- “Pineal Gland Optics”
From “I” (2004)
- “I”
From “Nothing” (2002)
- “Spasm”
From “Rare Trax” (2001)
- “War”
- “By Emptyness Abducted”
- “Don’t Speak”
From “Chaosphere” (1998)
- “The Exquisite Machinery of Torture”
From “Destroy Erase Improve” (1995)
- “Acrid Placidity”
- “Sublevels”
From “None” (1994)
- “Aztec Two-Step”
From “Contradictions Collapse” (1991)
- “Erroneous Manipulation”
- “Abnegating Cecity”
- “We’ll Never See the Day”
Conclusion
Despite their extensive catalog, Meshuggah has left some tracks unperformed live, creating an air of mystery and anticipation among fans. Each song carries its own weight and complexity that continues to resonate through studio recordings. As the band evolves and potentially explores new avenues in their music, it begs the question: will these tracks ever see the light of a live performance? For now, they remain gems waiting to be unearthed by the band, leaving fans eagerly hoping for a chance to experience them in a live setting.
FAQs
Why doesn’t Meshuggah play certain songs live?
There could be various reasons, including the complexity of the songs, the band’s evolving setlist choices, or simply the desire to keep certain tracks exclusive to studio recordings.
Are there any plans for Meshuggah to perform these songs live in the future?
While the band hasn’t explicitly stated plans to perform these songs live, fans remain hopeful, especially with new tours and album releases on the horizon.
How does Meshuggah choose their live setlist?
The band typically selects songs that showcase their versatility and highlight different aspects of their discography, often favoring tracks that resonate well with live audiences.
Will these unperformed songs ever be recorded live?
It remains uncertain, but live recordings of previously unperformed tracks would be a significant event for fans and could potentially happen during special shows or anniversaries.
