Metal genre: history and development of metal music
Rock music is very popular nowadays, the modern variety of rock bands allows you to find in every listener his own fan. Despite the fact that the term “rock” itself appeared less than a century ago, there are already several directions of this style of music. In this article, we will look at perhaps the heaviest trend – the genre of metal.
History of origin
Metal itself emerged in the mid-1970s in the United States under the influence of relatively “not heavy” rock and roll bands. Many fans of this kind of music saw the prospect of heavier guitar riffs and breaking of restrictions in the lyrics, because the frameworks of blues, jazz and country did not suit everyone. And so it happened – soon bands started to get heavier coloring in their songs: overloaded guitars, marching rhythm section, aggressive vocals. The fashion on heavy progressive sound grew up, and already today we can observe representatives of metal genre in all its manifestations practically in any part of the world. Every year in many countries metal festivals and concerts of metal bands take place, and the number of fans of such music is growing very fast.
Features of the genre
As previously stated, this genre requires distorted aggressive parts, creating pressure and intimidation, as well as unique and tough vocals (scream, growl, for example). On stage, it became popular to exert an informal atmosphere through all kinds of costumes, props, posters and dark tones in the interior. The metal genre developed exponentially, and with it more and more sub-genres.
Metal subgenres
Heavy Metal. Actually, the ancestor of heavy music. The metal genre is built from heavy metal in all its manifestations. The most famous representatives are Black Sabbath and
Progressive Metal. Technically, the most difficult genre of rock music because of the complex guitar parts. More often, the term “progressive” is mistaken for some kind of alternative heavy music which does not fit in the framework of other metal styles. Opeth and Dream Theater are the most popular among the progressive bands.
Speed Metal. This is a very interesting genre, which is characterized by the high-speed and crushing rhythm technique. Representatives – Metallica and Haloween, for example.
Thrash Metal. This genre reminds some of the speed metal, but has a more dissonant and angry sound, and the lyrics are often protest, reminiscent of punk rock. Havok and Slayer are the place to start listening to thrash metal.
Groove Metal. A more melodic and formal offshoot of thrash, nevertheless an independent metal genre with its own atmosphere and intensity. Machine Head or Pantera show it very well.
Power Metal. Fast, complex and popular genre of metal music. A characteristic feature is the very high (often male) vocals and medieval lyrics. Also, often there are quite frequent complex guitar solos. From the popular representatives, we can recommend Dragonforce and Strotovarius.
Death Metal. Very rough in lyrics and parts, the closest to the heavy metal genre, but which has such a brutal atmosphere, that many concerts of death metal bands are canceled in several countries. Obituary, Deicide and Death are the ancestors of the genre.
Doom Metal. Perhaps the slowest of the heavy genres represented. So slow and monotonous, that the music rhythm and pattern can never change during the whole song. Representatives are many bands, among which Candlemass and Anathema.
Black Metal. The most scandalous and ideological genre. Songs of the metal genre have little to do with religion, if we are not talking about black metal. The monotony, quickness and inverted crosses on the stages ensure increasing popularity every day. Mayhem or Burzum knows every fan of this trend.
Viking Metal. The name speaks for itself, it is not difficult to guess what the lyrics of most of the songs of this genre are written about. This genre can be often recognized by live performances of the bands, because the main thing in Viking Metal is Scandinavian show, which conveys the call of the ancestors. Notable representatives are Bathory and Amon Amarth.
Hybrid Styles
There are also many “hybrid” styles of metal, which include the use of several ambiguous subgenres. For example, melodic death metal is not a separate genre – it is a hybrid style, which combines classic death metal with a touch of keyboards and other instruments. Symphonic black metal, by analogy, includes parts of symphonic instruments (sometimes even entire orchestras), but it would be incorrect to call it a separate genre, too.
Conclusion
Heavy metal genres have a myriad variety: in tempo and speed of playing, song lyrics, stage image, ideology, or degree of importance in a particular subculture. Like any genre, metal evolves and opens up new horizons for a wide variety of musicians who want to experiment. Individual bands often change the genre of their music writing from one album to the next, so you can enjoy the variety and innovation of new compositions. Love music and develop your creativity!
What is considered a metal music?
Metal music is considered to be any type of rock music that is heavier and darker than regular rock. It often features double-bass drums, distorted guitars, and harsh vocals. Some of the earliest metal bands include Black Sabbath, Judas Priest, and Iron Maiden.
What does it mean if you listen to metal music?
There are a lot of misconceptions about metal music out there. People think it’s all just screaming and noise, but there’s so much more to it than that. Yes, metal can be aggressive and intense, but it can also be beautiful and emotional. And at its core, metal is all about feeling.
For people who love metal music, it’s a way to connect with others who understand them. It’s a way to express themselves and feel something visceral and real. When you listen to metal, you’re not just listening to the music – you’re feeling it in your heart and soul.
Why is metal music called metal?
Metal music is called metal because it often incorporates heavy guitar riffing and fast tempos. Metal songs are usually about five to six minutes long, with shorter ones called “shorterform metal” or “mini-metal.” The earliest artists credited with creating heavy metal include Black Sabbath, Iron Maiden, Metallica, and Slayer. These bands were all influential in shaping the sound of metal music.
Heavy metal is often associated with dark subject matter and aggressive lyrics. Metal bands often sing about topics like war, violence, death, and dungeons & dragons. Some people find the music to be dark and depressing, while others find it empowering and cathartic.
What is the difference between rock and metal music?
Rock music is typically based on the blues, while metal music is heavier and includes elements of classical and jazz music.
Rock music tends to be more melodic and radio-friendly, while metal music is more aggressive with a driving beat. The lyrics are also different, with rock lyrics tending to be about love and relationships, while metal lyrics often explore darker themes such as death, violence, and evil.
