What is Black metal music? Exploring the Genre's Creativity 2023

What is Black metal music? A haunting query that lingers in the air, evoking images of darkness, mystique, and an unyielding sense of rebellion. Like a shadowy specter lurking in the depths of the music world, Black metal emerges as a formidable force that defies the norms of sound and challenges the very essence of traditional melodies.

Black metal is a genre of extreme metal music that originated in the early 1980s, primarily in Norway. It is characterized by its aggressive and dark sound, often featuring fast tempos, tremolo-picked guitar riffs, blast beats, and shrieking vocals.

The lyrics of black metal typically revolve around themes of darkness, occultism, anti-Christianity, nihilism, nature, and sometimes even folklore and mythology. The genre is known for its raw and lo-fi production style, which often adds to the atmospheric and eerie feeling of the music.

Many black metal bands incorporate elements of traditional folk music or incorporate symphonic elements to create a unique and atmospheric sound. The early black metal scene was closely tied to the Norwegian black metal movement, which gained notoriety in the early 1990s due to its association with church burning, violence, and the murder of a few musicians.

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What is Black metal music?

Black metal is a subgenre of heavy metal music that emerged in the early 1980s. It is characterized by its fast tempos, shrieking vocals, heavily distorted guitars, raw (lo-fi) recording, unconventional song structures, and an emphasis on atmosphere. Artists often appear in corpse paint and adopt pseudonyms.

The lyrical themes of black metal are often dark and misanthropic, with a focus on anti-Christian, satanic, and paganistic themes. Some black metal bands also explore themes of death, destruction, and the occult.

The origins of black metal can be traced back to the early 1980s, when bands such as Venom, Bathory, and Hellhammer began to experiment with a more extreme and aggressive sound. These bands were influenced by the early heavy metal bands of the 1970s, as well as by punk rock and thrash metal.

The first wave of black metal peaked in the late 1980s and early 1990s, with the release of albums such as Darkthrone’s “A Blaze in the Northern Sky” and Mayhem’s “De Mysteriis Dom Sathanas.” This period was also marked by a number of controversies, including church burnings and the suicide of Mayhem vocalist Dead.

The second wave of black metal emerged in the mid-1990s, with bands such as Burzum, Immortal, and Emperor. This period saw a further development of the black metal sound, with bands experimenting with more atmospheric and ambient elements.

Black metal has continued to evolve in the 21st century, with new bands emerging from all over the world. The genre has also influenced other genres of music, such as death metal, industrial metal, and even electronic music.

How would you define Black metal?

Black metal is an extreme subgenre of heavy metal music that is characterized by its fast tempos, shrieking vocals, heavily distorted guitars, raw (lo-fi) recording, unconventional song structures, and an emphasis on atmosphere. Artists often appear in corpse paint and adopt pseudonyms.

Here are some of the defining characteristics of black metal:

Fast tempos: Black metal songs typically have fast tempos, often exceeding 200 beats per minute. This creates a sense of urgency and intensity that is often associated with the genre.
Shrieking vocals: Black metal vocals are typically high-pitched and shrieking. This vocal style is often used to create a sense of anger, aggression, or despair.
Heavily distorted guitars: Black metal guitars are typically heavily distorted. This distortion creates a dark and menacing sound that is often associated with the genre.
Raw (lo-fi) recording: Black metal albums are often recorded with a raw (lo-fi) sound. This gives the music a more primitive and underground feel.
Unconventional song structures: Black metal songs often have unconventional song structures. This means that they may not follow the traditional verse-chorus-verse format. Instead, black metal songs may feature long, repetitive instrumental sections or sudden changes in tempo or mood.
Emphasis on atmosphere: Black metal places a strong emphasis on atmosphere. This is achieved through the use of slow tempos, heavy distortion, and dark lyrics. The goal is to create a sense of dread or unease in the listener.

Black metal is a controversial genre, but it is also one of the most influential and innovative genres of heavy metal music. It has inspired a wide range of musicians and artists, and it continues to evolve and grow today.

What are the origins of Black metal music?

The origins of black metal music can be traced back to the early 1980s, when bands such as Venom, Bathory, and Hellhammer began to experiment with a more extreme and aggressive sound. These bands were influenced by the early heavy metal bands of the 1970s, as well as by punk rock and thrash metal.

The term “black metal” was first used by Venom on their 1982 album of the same name. The album’s cover art featured a black metal cross, which became an iconic symbol of the genre.

What are the key characteristics of Black metal?

Black metal is a subgenre of heavy metal music that is characterized by its fast tempos, shrieking vocals, heavily distorted guitars, raw (lo-fi) recording, unconventional song structures, and an emphasis on atmosphere. Artists often appear in corpse paint and adopt pseudonyms.

Here are some of the key characteristics of black metal:

Fast tempos: Black metal songs typically have fast tempos, often exceeding 200 beats per minute. This creates a sense of urgency and intensity that is often associated with the genre.
Shrieking vocals: Black metal vocals are typically high-pitched and shrieking. This vocal style is often used to create a sense of anger, aggression, or despair.
Heavily distorted guitars: Black metal guitars are typically heavily distorted. This distortion creates a dark and menacing sound that is often associated with the genre.
Raw (lo-fi) recording: Black metal albums are often recorded with a raw (lo-fi) sound. This gives the music a more primitive and underground feel.
Unconventional song structures: Black metal songs often have unconventional song structures. This means that they may not follow the traditional verse-chorus-verse format. Instead, black metal songs may feature long, repetitive instrumental sections or sudden changes in tempo or mood.
Emphasis on atmosphere: Black metal places a strong emphasis on atmosphere. This is achieved through the use of slow tempos, heavy distortion, and dark lyrics. The goal is to create a sense of dread or unease in the listener.

How does Black metal differ from other metal genres?

Here are some of the well-known Black metal bands:

Mayhem: One of the pioneers of the Norwegian Black metal scene, formed in 1984. They are known for their influential and controversial history.
Burzum: A solo project by Varg Vikernes, also from Norway. Burzum played a significant role in shaping the early Norwegian Black metal sound.
Darkthrone: Another Norwegian band, formed in 1986, known for their early Black metal releases and later experimentation with other subgenres.
Emperor: Hailing from Norway, Emperor is renowned for their symphonic and epic Black metal sound.
Gorgoroth: Founded in Norway in 1992, Gorgoroth is famous for their intense and dark approach to Black metal.
Immortal: A Norwegian band known for their fast and aggressive style, often inspired by winter and cold landscapes.
Watain: A Swedish Black metal band formed in 1998, known for their Satanic themes and powerful live performances.
Behemoth: Hailing from Poland, Behemoth started as a Black metal band and evolved into a mixture of Blackened Death metal.
Satyricon: A Norwegian band formed in 1991, blending Black metal with other elements to create their distinctive sound.
Marduk: Originating from Sweden, Marduk is known for their relentless and ferocious Black metal.
Enslaved: A Norwegian band combining elements of Black metal with progressive and Viking metal.
Dark Funeral: A Swedish band known for their fast and aggressive style, heavily influenced by Satanic themes.

Remember that Black metal is a diverse genre with bands from various countries and subgenres, and this list represents just a small fraction of the influential bands in the scene.

Who are some prominent Black metal bands?

Here are some of the well-known Black metal bands:

Mayhem: One of the pioneers of the Norwegian Black metal scene, formed in 1984. They are known for their influential and controversial history.
Burzum: A solo project by Varg Vikernes, also from Norway. Burzum played a significant role in shaping the early Norwegian Black metal sound.
Darkthrone: Another Norwegian band, formed in 1986, known for their early Black metal releases and later experimentation with other subgenres.
Emperor: Hailing from Norway, Emperor is renowned for their symphonic and epic Black metal sound.
Gorgoroth: Founded in Norway in 1992, Gorgoroth is famous for their intense and dark approach to Black metal.
Immortal: A Norwegian band known for their fast and aggressive style, often inspired by winter and cold landscapes.
Watain: A Swedish Black metal band formed in 1998, known for their Satanic themes and powerful live performances.
Behemoth: Hailing from Poland, Behemoth started as a Black metal band and evolved into a mixture of Blackened Death metal.
Satyricon: A Norwegian band formed in 1991, blending Black metal with other elements to create their distinctive sound.
Marduk: Originating from Sweden, Marduk is known for their relentless and ferocious Black metal.
Enslaved: A Norwegian band combining elements of Black metal with progressive and Viking metal.
Dark Funeral: A Swedish band known for their fast and aggressive style, heavily influenced by Satanic themes.

Remember that Black metal is a diverse genre with bands from various countries and subgenres, and this list represents just a small fraction of the influential bands in the scene.

What themes are commonly explored in Black metal lyrics?

Black metal lyrics often delve into dark and often controversial themes, reflecting the genre’s focus on rebellion, individualism, and a rejection of societal norms. While not all Black metal bands explore the same themes, here are some common themes found in Black metal lyrics:

Satanism and Occultism: Many Black metal bands incorporate Satanic imagery and themes into their lyrics. This often includes references to Satan, demons, occult practices, and anti-Christian sentiments.
Nature and Misanthropy: Black metal frequently expresses a deep connection with nature and a disdain for humanity. Lyrics might portray the beauty and power of natural landscapes while condemning human actions and civilization.
Anti-Religious and Anti-Christianity: Black metal bands often criticize organized religion, particularly Christianity, for its perceived hypocrisy, repression, and historical atrocities.
Darkness and Death: Themes of death, despair, and darkness are prevalent in Black metal lyrics. This could include exploring the human condition, mortality, and existential questions.
Mythology and Folklore: Some Black metal bands draw inspiration from mythology and folklore, incorporating ancient tales and legends into their lyrics.
War and Battle: Some bands focus on themes of warfare, battles, and historical conflicts, often portraying violent and chaotic scenarios.
Depression and Isolation: Black metal can be introspective, exploring feelings of loneliness, depression, and alienation.
Anti-Globalization: Certain Black metal bands critique globalization, modern society, and the loss of cultural identity.
Anti-Modernization: Some bands reject modern technology and industrialization, advocating for a return to simpler, more primal ways of life.
Philosophy and Existentialism: Black metal can delve into philosophical themes, contemplating existence, the nature of reality, and the search for meaning.

It’s important to note that not all Black metal bands adhere to these themes, and the genre is diverse with various subgenres that may explore different lyrical topics. Additionally, some bands may use these themes to shock and provoke, while others may have a more sincere and personal connection to the subjects they address.

How has Black metal evolved over the years?

Black metal has undergone significant evolution since its inception in the early 1980s. The genre’s journey has been marked by various subgenres, stylistic changes, and shifts in thematic content. Here are some key aspects of Black metal’s evolution over the years:

First Wave: The early Black metal bands, such as Venom, Bathory, and Hellhammer, laid the foundation for the genre in the 1980s. Their music was raw, primitive, and heavily influenced by thrash and speed metal.
Second Wave: The early 1990s saw the explosion of the Norwegian Black metal scene, commonly referred to as the “Second Wave.” Bands like Mayhem, Burzum, Darkthrone, and Emperor pioneered this movement, emphasizing a lo-fi, atmospheric, and more aggressive sound. The Second Wave also brought a surge in church burnings, violence, and controversies within the scene.
Symphonic and Melodic Black metal: As the ’90s progressed, some bands began incorporating symphonic elements, such as orchestras and keyboards, into their music. Emperor and Dimmu Borgir are notable examples of this trend. Melodic Black metal also emerged, with bands like Dissection, adding harmonies and melodic guitar lines to their music.
Blackened Death metal: Some bands started blending Black metal with Death metal, resulting in a subgenre known as Blackened Death metal. Behemoth is a prominent example of a band that successfully fused these two styles.
Post-Black metal and Atmospheric Black metal: In the 2000s and 2010s, Black metal began to diversify further. Post-Black metal, also known as Blackgaze, incorporated elements of shoegaze and post-rock, creating a more atmospheric and emotive sound. Bands like Alcest and Deafheaven gained popularity in this subgenre. Atmospheric Black metal, on the other hand, emphasized ambiance, texture, and lengthy compositions, with bands like Agalloch and Wolves in the Throne Room pushing the boundaries of the genre.
Experimental and Avant-Garde Black metal: Some artists started experimenting with unconventional structures, instrumentation, and progressive elements. Bands like Ulver and Deathspell Omega challenged traditional Black metal norms and boundaries, pushing the genre into new territories.
Incorporation of Folk and Pagan themes: Bands like Enslaved and Primordial began incorporating elements of folk music and pagan themes into their Black metal, creating a distinct subgenre known as Folk Black metal or Pagan Black metal.
Modern Revivalism: In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in the raw and primal sound of the early Black metal era. New bands have emerged, paying homage to the traditional Black metal style while adding their own modern twist.

Throughout its history, Black metal has remained a genre that fosters individualism, rebellion, and artistic expression. As a result, bands continuously experiment with different sounds, themes, and aesthetics, allowing the genre to remain dynamic and relevant in the ever-changing landscape of metal music.

What role does imagery and aesthetics play in Black metal culture?

Imagery and aesthetics play a crucial role in Black metal culture and are integral to the genre’s identity. They not only complement the music but also contribute to the overall atmosphere and message conveyed by Black metal artists.

Here are some key aspects of the role of imagery and aesthetics in Black metal:

Corpse Paint: One of the most iconic and recognizable elements of Black metal aesthetics is “corpse paint.” This involves the use of elaborate and often sinister-looking face paint, typically in black and white, to create a ghostly or corpse-like appearance. Corpse paint serves to enhance the otherworldly and occult atmosphere associated with Black metal performances and imagery.
Dark and Occult Themes: Black metal imagery often revolves around dark, occult, and Satanic themes. Album covers, promotional photos, and stage designs frequently feature symbols associated with Satanism, anti-Christianity, esotericism, and ancient mythology. These visuals are meant to evoke a sense of rebellion against mainstream religious and societal norms.
Nature and Frost: Many Black metal bands incorporate nature-related imagery, particularly winter landscapes and frost-covered forests. These visuals align with the genre’s affinity for nature and often symbolize the harsh and raw aspects of Black metal music.
Band Logos: Black metal bands often have intricate and stylized logos that are difficult to read but visually striking. These logos add to the mystique of the band and can become instantly recognizable among fans.
Photography and Artwork: Black metal album covers and promotional materials frequently feature dark, atmospheric, and evocative artwork and photography. These visuals help convey the mood and theme of the music and can be an essential aspect of the overall experience for listeners.
Stage Performances: Live Black metal performances often incorporate theatrical elements, such as candles, incense, and atmospheric lighting, to enhance the mystical and otherworldly ambiance. Band members may also wear elaborate costumes or attire that align with the overall aesthetic.
DIY Ethos: Black metal has a strong DIY (do-it-yourself) ethos, which extends to its imagery and aesthetics. Many bands and artists create their own artwork, merchandise, and promotional materials, allowing them to maintain creative control over their visual presentation.
Identity and Individuality: Imagery and aesthetics in Black metal serve as a means for bands and artists to express their individuality and unique artistic vision. This is a genre that encourages self-expression and often rewards those who can create distinct and memorable visual identities.

Overall, the imagery and aesthetics in Black metal contribute to the genre’s mystique, creating a distinctive and immersive experience for fans and allowing artists to communicate their artistic and ideological messages in a visually powerful manner.

Is Black metal associated with any specific subcultures or movements?

Black metal is associated with several subcultures and movements, both within the music scene and beyond. These associations have played a significant role in shaping the identity and ethos of the genre. Some of the notable subcultures and movements linked to Black metal include:

Satanism and Occultism: Black metal has a longstanding association with Satanism and occult practices. Some bands embrace Satanic imagery, lyrics, and philosophies as a way to challenge mainstream religious beliefs and express individualism.
Nationalism and Paganism: In certain regions, particularly in some parts of Europe, Black metal has been linked to nationalist and pagan ideologies. Some bands incorporate themes of ethnic heritage, pre-Christian spirituality, and cultural identity into their music and imagery.
Anti-Christianity: Black metal is often critical of Christianity and organized religion, considering it oppressive and in opposition to their rebellious and individualistic ethos.
Nature and Environmentalism: Many Black metal artists draw inspiration from nature and express environmentalist sentiments, often using imagery related to winter landscapes, forests, and the power of the natural world.
DIY and Underground Culture: Black metal has a strong DIY ethos, emphasizing independence from mainstream music industry practices. This ethos extends to album production, artwork, and promotion, fostering a vibrant underground culture within the genre.
Viking and Norse Mythology: Certain bands explore themes related to Viking and Norse mythology, often referred to as Viking metal or Pagan Black metal. These bands draw inspiration from ancient folklore and historical narratives.
Anti-Modernism: Black metal is sometimes associated with a rejection of modernization, urbanization, and globalization, expressing a longing for a more primal and authentic existence.
Far-Right Controversies: Some factions within Black metal have been associated with far-right ideologies, leading to controversies and divisions within the scene. It’s important to note that this association is not representative of the entire genre, and many Black metal artists and fans distance themselves from such ideologies.

It’s crucial to recognize that Black metal is a diverse genre with various subgenres and artists holding differing beliefs and ideologies. While some subcultures and movements have shaped certain aspects of the genre, not all Black metal bands and fans subscribe to these associations.

What are some notable Black metal albums?

There are numerous notable Black metal albums that have left a lasting impact on the genre and the wider metal scene.

Here are some of the most influential and celebrated Black metal albums, spanning different eras and styles:

Mayhem – “De Mysteriis Dom Sathanas” (1994): Considered a landmark album in the Second Wave of Black metal, this Norwegian classic is dark, aggressive, and haunting, with iconic tracks like “Freezing Moon” and “Funeral Fog.”
Burzum – “Filosofem” (1996): Varg Vikernes’ solo project, Burzum, released this atmospheric and melancholic album, featuring lengthy, hypnotic compositions such as “Dunkelheit” and “Jesus’ Tod.”
Emperor – “In the Nightside Eclipse” (1994): An essential release in symphonic Black metal, this album showcases Emperor’s grandiose and epic sound, exemplified in tracks like “I Am the Black Wizards” and “Inno a Satana.”
Darkthrone – “Transilvanian Hunger” (1994): An influential Norwegian Black metal album, known for its raw and minimalist approach, featuring the title track “Transilvanian Hunger.”
Dissection – “Storm of the Light’s Bane” (1995): Blending Black and Death metal, Dissection crafted a masterpiece with this album, featuring melodic and aggressive tracks like “Where Dead Angels Lie” and “Thorns of Crimson Death.”
Enslaved – “Frost” (1994): This album marks a transition from pure Black metal to a more progressive and experimental sound for Enslaved, with standout tracks like “Fenris” and “Yggdrasil.”
Satyricon – “Nemesis Divina” (1996): Satyricon’s breakthrough album, which skillfully mixes traditional Black metal with melodic elements, evident in songs like “Mother North” and “Nemesis Divina.”
Immortal – “At the Heart of Winter” (1999): A defining moment for Immortal, showcasing their cold and majestic sound, with tracks like “Withstand the Fall of Time” and “Solarfall.”
Wolves in the Throne Room – “Diadem of 12 Stars” (2006): An influential release in the Atmospheric Black metal subgenre, this album weaves a mesmerizing and organic soundscape through tracks like “Queen of the Borrowed Light” and “Face in a Night Time Mirror.”
Deafheaven – “Sunbather” (2013): An exemplar of the Blackgaze subgenre, combining Black metal with shoegaze and post-rock elements, featuring tracks like “Dream House” and “Sunbather.”

These albums represent just a small selection of the wealth of Black metal music out there. The genre continues to evolve and inspire new artists and fans worldwide. Each album listed above offers a unique glimpse into the diverse and profound world of Black metal music.

How does Black metal music typically sound?

Black metal is a subgenre of heavy metal known for its distinctive sound, which is characterized by its raw, aggressive, and atmospheric qualities. Here are some typical elements of Black metal music:

Harsh Vocals: Black metal vocals often feature high-pitched screams or shrieks. These vocals are meant to convey a sense of anguish, despair, and sometimes even a demonic or otherworldly presence.
Fast and Tremolo-Picked Guitar Riffs: The guitar work in Black metal is often fast-paced and heavily relies on tremolo picking, which creates a buzzing, dissonant sound. The riffs are frequently repetitive and may evoke a trance-like atmosphere.
Blast Beats: Black metal drumming is known for its extensive use of blast beats, where the drummer plays rapid-fire alternating strokes on the snare and bass drum. This adds to the intense and aggressive nature of the music.
Atmospheric and Melodic Elements: Many Black metal bands incorporate atmospheric and melodic elements into their music. This can be achieved through the use of keyboards, synthesizers, or layered guitar textures, creating a haunting and ethereal ambiance.
Lo-Fi Production: Black metal often embraces a lo-fi or raw production style, intentionally making the music sound unpolished and gritty. This aesthetic is seen as a way to capture the primal and authentic essence of the genre.
Occult and Dark Themes: The lyrical themes in Black metal often revolve around occultism, mythology, nature, anti-religious sentiments, and existential reflections. These themes, combined with the music’s atmosphere, contribute to the genre’s dark and introspective nature.
Corpse Paint and Image: Black metal musicians are known for their distinctive appearance, including the use of corpse paint, which involves black and white makeup applied to the face, accentuating the dark and theatrical aspect of the genre’s image.

It’s important to note that Black metal is a diverse genre with various substyles and influences, and not all bands adhere strictly to these characteristics. Some bands incorporate elements from other genres, such as folk or symphonic music, leading to further diversification within the Black metal spectrum.

What countries have a strong Black metal scene?

Some countries known for their vibrant Black metal scenes include:

Norway: Often considered the birthplace of Black metal, Norway has a rich history and continues to be a hub for the genre with influential bands like Mayhem, Burzum, and Emperor.
Sweden: Sweden has a thriving extreme metal scene, with many prominent Black metal bands such as Dissection, Watain, and Marduk.
Finland: Finland boasts a significant Black metal scene, with bands like Beherit, Satanic Warmaster, and Horna gaining international recognition.
France: France has a diverse and active Black metal scene, with bands like Deathspell Omega, Blut Aus Nord, and Alcest garnering worldwide acclaim.
United States: The US has a strong and diverse extreme metal scene, with some notable Black metal bands like Wolves in the Throne Room, Leviathan, and Agalloch.
Poland: Poland has seen a rise in Black metal bands, including Behemoth, Mgła, and Batushka, gaining popularity globally.
Greece: Greece has a thriving underground Black metal scene, with bands like Rotting Christ and Varathron being influential pioneers.
Iceland: Despite its small size, Iceland has made a significant impact on the Black metal scene with bands like Sólstafir and Misþyrming.

Keep in mind that this list is not exhaustive, and other countries may also have emerging or strong Black metal scenes.

Are there any controversies or misconceptions surrounding Black metal?

There are a number of controversies and misconceptions surrounding black metal. Some of the most common ones include:

That all black metal is satanic. This is not true. While some black metal bands do use satanic imagery and lyrics, many others do not. There is a wide range of lyrical themes in black metal, including anti-Christianity, paganism, nature, and misanthropy.
That black metal musicians are violent. Again, this is not true. While there have been some incidents of violence involving black metal musicians, these are isolated cases. The vast majority of black metal musicians are peaceful and law-abiding citizens.
That black metal is a hate genre. This is also not true. While some black metal bands do express hateful views, many others do not. There is a wide range of political and social views expressed in black metal, and it would be inaccurate to say that the genre is uniformly hateful.

It is important to remember that black metal is a complex and diverse genre. There is no single “correct” way to understand or experience black metal, and it is important to avoid making generalizations about the genre.

Here are some other controversies surrounding black metal:

The use of corpse paint, which is a type of makeup that is often used by black metal musicians. Some people believe that corpse paint is offensive or disrespectful, while others see it as a harmless way for black metal musicians to express themselves.
The burning of churches, which has been a controversial practice in the black metal scene. Some people believe that burning churches is a form of vandalism and hate speech, while others see it as a way to protest against Christianity or to express the dark and nihilistic themes of black metal.
The use of occult symbols and imagery, which can be seen as offensive or threatening by some people. However, black metal musicians often use occult symbols as a way to explore their own spirituality or to express their interest in the occult.

Conclusion

What is Black metal music? Black metal is a genre of extreme metal music characterized by its dark and raw sound, aggressive vocals, fast-paced instrumentation, and evocative imagery. Emerging in the early 1980s, it has evolved through various subgenres, including symphonic, atmospheric, and experimental elements.

Black metal often explores themes of Satanism, occultism, nature, and rebellion against societal norms. With its profound impact on the metal scene, Black metal continues to captivate audiences worldwide, both for its musical intensity and its ability to evoke a sense of mystery and other worldliness, making it a distinctive and influential force within the realm of heavy music.