Skinless is known for its consistently intense performances,[citation needed] as well as for its lyrical mix of end-of-the-world cynicism and comedy, which at times satirizes well known death metal lyrics from bands such as Carcass and Cannibal Corpse, and death metal in general. These lyrical themes are demonstrated in songs such as "The Optimist", about a crumbling human society, and "Tug of War Intestines", which depicts children playing schoolyard games with a surgery patient's internal organs. The band has occasionally brought the "Skinless Girl" on stage and let her be roughed up, covered in fake blood, while the band performed[clarification needed]. Earlier in the band's career, Skinless handed out long tubes of foam for the audience to beat each other while the band played. These tubes were nicknamed "The Logs of Brutality".[citation needed]
Skinless's 1998 debut album, Progression Towards Evil, was an independent release which garnered the band high praise by fans and critics.[4] In June 2010, Skinless played a reunion show with the line-up from the first 2 full-length albums.[5] Guitarist Noah Carpenter wanted Skinless to continue in this formation but the band's "fire" was not there anymore.[3] In April 2011, Skinless officially split up,[3] but soon after announced a farewell performance at Maryland Deathfest 2011. All the members are continuing as musicians in other bands.[3][6]
Skinless reformed in 2013 with the original line up from Progression Towards Evil.[1] The band then added a second guitarist, Dave Matthews.[7]
