In the vast universe of music, there’s a genre that stands out for its raw power and intensity – metal music. It’s a world where the guitars roar, the drums thunder, and the vocals often veer into the realm of the guttural and primal. But what exactly is metal music?
Born from the fiery heart of rock ‘n’ roll, metal music took the intensity up a notch. It’s an art form that’s as diverse as it is misunderstood, and it’s time to clear up some misconceptions. This article aims to shed light on the origins, characteristics, and sub-genres of metal music. So, buckle up, as we dive headfirst into understanding what is metal music
What is Metal Music
Tracing Its Evolution
Metal music saw its dawn in the late 1960s, springing from the roots embedded in blues rock and psychedelic rock. Bands like Black Sabbath, Led Zeppelin and Deep Purple pioneered the terrain. They infused their music with darker tones and heavier sounds, creating a distinct auditory landscape. By the 70s, the genre had birthed a myriad of sub-genres, each with unique characteristics, expanding the musical landscape of metal.
The inception of metal music didn’t come by chance. It’s accompanying heavier and darker tones were largely influenced by both societal unrest and musical innovation. Elements of blues, psychedelic rock, and the rise of amplified instruments provided the launchpad. Discernible among the influencers are pioneering bands such as Black Sabbath and Deep Purple, who played significant roles in shaping and defining the genre’s style and identity.
Subgenres of Metal Music
Highlighting Heavy Metal
As the foundational sub-genre, heavy metal, popularized by bands such as Iron Maiden and Judas Priest, showcases intense riffs and drums. Its often-epic lyrics draw from mythology, fantasy, and societal issues. Moreover, it maintains a strong harmonic connection with blues, yet distinguishes itself through amplified distortion and electrifying showmanship.
Born from thrash metal and early black metal, death metal opts for brutal speed and complexity. Bands like Death and Morbid Angel characterize this sub-genre, using atonal guitar solos, thunderous double-bass drumming, and growling lyrics, often touching on gore, death, and nihilism. Unflinchingly aggressive, it’s recognized for its intricate musical structures and relentless intensity.
Discussing Black Metal
Black Metal, pioneered by bands such as Mayhem and Emperor, exudes raw power and atmospheric tones. Its hallmark lies in high-pitched tremolo picking, blast beat drumming, and shrieking vocals, often exploring themes of Satanism and anti-religion. With a lo-fi production aesthetic, it creates chilling atmospheres that capture the listener’s imagination.
Crucial Bands in Metal History
The Alliance of Black Sabbath
Nothing says “what is metal music” unlike Black Sabbath. An instrumental band in the metal genre, surfaced in the late 1960s. The group, led by frontman Ozzy Osbourne, became renowned for its dark, heavy sound—an impressive divergence from the psychedelic rock and blues common in the era. Black Sabbath’s sheer volume, power-driven riffs, and mystical lyrics carved out metal’s auditory niche, setting the stage for future bands. This seismic impact echoes in notable songs like “War Pigs” and “Paranoid,” easily identifiable as significant steps towards what metal music is today.
Judas Priest’s Influence
Judas Priest, another influential British metal band, came of age in the early ’70s. Unlike their contemporaries, Judas Priest embraced a simpler, harder style, gashing away at high-speed guitar solos and utilizing a more aggressive rhythm section.
Their music, marked by Rob Halford’s soaring vocals and Glenn Tipton’s guitar virtuosity, added novel textures to metal. Songs such as “Breaking the Law” and “You’ve Got Another Thing Coming” remain quintessential examples of Judas Priest’s revolutionary style.
Thriving Community
The influence of iconic bands like Black Sabbath, Iron Maiden, and Judas Priest on the genre help define “what is metal music”. Their groundbreaking sounds and styles have left an indelible mark on the genre, inspiring countless musicians and fans alike. Metal music’s impact extends beyond the music scene, influencing global culture and youth, serving as a platform for self-expression and rebellion. Despite facing controversies and misunderstandings, the genre continues to thrive, debunking stereotypes and fostering a sense of community among its fans.