Suffocation are a legendary New York-based death metal band formed in 1988. Their most well known line-up consisted of vocalist Frank Mullen, lead guitarist Terrance Hobbs, rhythm guitarist Guy Marchais, bassist Derek Boyer, and drummer Mike Smith. Suffocation’s music features low-growled vocals, down-tuned guitars, complex leads and drums (with emphasis on blast beats and double bass), fast tempos, and breakdowns.

Suffocation are a pioneering figure in death metal, especially during the 90s. Their debut album, Effigy of the Forgotten, was highly influential to 90s death metal, and helped grow the technical death metal and, from a specific breakdown riff in the track “Liege of Inveracity”, slam death metal genres.

Suffocation are still active following a reformation in 2003, with the current lineup featuring long time members Terrance Hobbs and Derek Boyer with vocalist Ricky Meyers, rhythm guitarist Charlie Errigo, and drummer Eric Morotti. As of 2024, they have released nine studio albums.