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Black metal, with its eerie soundscapes, shrieking vocals, and atmospheric
compositions, stands as one of the most misunderstood yet deeply intriguing
subgenres of heavy metal. Emerging from the depths of the underground in the
1980s, it has carved out its own niche in the metal scene. But there's much more to
this genre than what meets the eye (or ear). In this article, we’ll explore eight
surprising and captivating facts about black metal that highlight its unique
history, culture, and influence. Let's dive into the abyss!
1. Black Metal's Origins: A Rebellious Evolution
Many people associate the birth of black metal with the infamous Norwegian scene
of the early 1990s, but the genre’s roots trace back further. The first wave of black
metal began in the early 1980s, with bands like Venom (UK), Bathory (Sweden),
and Hellhammer (Switzerland). These bands helped lay the foundation for what
would become black metal by incorporating satanic themes, lo-fi production, and
abrasive musical elements.
However, it was Venom’s album Black Metal (1982) that inadvertently gave the
genre its name. While their sound was more akin to thrash metal, their dark, occult
imagery and rebellious stance against societal norms resonated with what would
later be called black metal.
Did you know? Bathory’s early works, particularly albums like Under the Sign of the
Black Mark (1987), were pivotal in defining black metal’s characteristic sound and
themes: raw production, tremolo-picked guitar riffs, and lyrics centered on Norse
mythology and anti-Christianity.
2. The Norwegian Explosion: Church Burnings and Controversy
Black metal gained significant notoriety in the early 1990s, particularly in Norway.
Bands like Mayhem, Burzum, and Emperor not only pushed the genre’s musical
boundaries but also sparked significant controversy due to their actions outside of
music. This period was marked by a series of church burnings, murders, and
criminal activity involving members of the scene, particularly Varg Vikernes of
Burzum and Euronymous of Mayhem.
These acts were fueled by anti-Christian sentiment and a desire to make a
statement against the mainstream culture of the time. The events became so
infamous that they attracted widespread media attention, casting a dark shadow
over the genre.
Did you know? The Norwegian church burnings weren’t just about shock value;
they were tied to an ideological resistance against Christianity, which many black
metal musicians saw as an oppressive force that replaced ancient Norse traditions.
3. Raw Production: Aesthetic or Necessity?
One of the most defining features of early black metal was its raw, low-fi
production. This was not just a matter of taste; it was often due to limited access
to professional recording equipment. Many black metal albums, especially in the
early 90s, were recorded in basements or using minimalistic setups, giving them a
deliberately harsh and cold sound.
However, over time, the lo-fi production quality became an aesthetic choice,
representing the genre’s rejection of the polished, mainstream metal sound. This
approach created a cold, distant atmosphere that complemented the music's
themes of nihilism, misanthropy, and isolation.
Did you know? Mayhem’s classic album De Mysteriis Dom Sathanas (1994) is often
cited as one of the most influential black metal albums ever, and its raw
production enhances its eerie and foreboding aura.
4. Corpse Paint: A Symbol of Anonymity and the Macabre
One of black metal’s most recognizable elements is the use of corpse paint—the
white and black face makeup worn by many black metal musicians. This makeup
often features exaggerated black lines around the eyes and mouth, resembling a
skull or decayed corpse. Corpse paint is intended to dehumanize the performer
and create a sense of otherworldliness, adding to the genre's macabre, ghostly
imagery.
The tradition of wearing corpse paint can be traced back to early black metal acts
like King Diamond of Mercyful Fate and Dead from Mayhem, who both used it to
enhance their stage personas. Over time, corpse paint became almost
synonymous with the genre, as it reinforced the idea that black metal musicians
were channels for the dark forces they sang about, not regular people.
Did you know? Dead (Per Yngve Ohlin) of Mayhem was so committed to his image
of death that he would bury his clothes before performances to make them appear
as if they were rotting.
5. Nature and Paganism: More Than Just Darkness
While black metal is often associated with satanic imagery and themes of anti-
Christianity, many black metal bands draw heavy inspiration from nature and
ancient paganism. This is particularly evident in subgenres like atmospheric black
metal and folk black metal, which incorporate traditional instruments and
melodies to evoke the grandeur and majesty of nature.
Bands like Drudkh, Wolves in the Throne Room, and Agalloch have made a name for
themselves by blending black metal with themes of environmentalism, paganism,
and spirituality. These bands often feature expansive, melancholic soundscapes
that reflect their reverence for nature and its cycles of life, death, and rebirth.
Did you know? Wolves in the Throne Room have stated that their music is a form of
“environmental activism,” meant to inspire listeners to reconnect with nature and
resist modern industrialization.
6. The DIY Ethos: Black Metal’s Independent Spirit
Black metal has always embraced a do-it-yourself (DIY) approach, with bands
often self-releasing their music on small, independent labels, or even creating
their own. This DIY ethos is tied to black metal’s anti-commercial stance, as many
musicians view the music industry as a corrupt and inauthentic force.
In the early days, bands would distribute their albums via underground tape-
trading networks, fanzines, and hand-drawn flyers. This grassroots approach
allowed black metal to grow organically and maintain its underground status, even
as its influence spread globally.
Did you know? The infamous Norwegian black metal record shop Helvete, owned
by Euronymous of Mayhem, became a hub for the local scene. It was not only a
store but also a gathering place for musicians, artists, and fans, fostering the
genre’s growth in Norway.
7. Black Metal and Philosophy: Exploring Nihilism and Existentialism
Many black metal musicians and fans are deeply influenced by philosophical ideas,
particularly those related to nihilism, existentialism, and misanthropy. Black metal
often reflects a worldview that embraces chaos, rejects societal norms, and
contemplates the darker aspects of human existence.
Bands like Deathspell Omega, Darkthrone, and Leviathan explore themes of
existential dread, the futility of life, and the rejection of conventional morality. For
many, black metal isn’t just music—it’s a philosophical journey that seeks to
confront the abyss and grapple with the meaning (or meaninglessness) of life.
Did you know? Varg Vikernes, the controversial figure behind Burzum, incorporated
pagan and nihilistic philosophies into his music, and he later became an
outspoken advocate of his own brand of radical paganism and anti-modernism.
8. The Global Reach of Black Metal: A Worldwide Subculture
While Norway is often seen as the birthplace of black metal’s second wave, the
genre has since spread across the globe, inspiring bands and fans from all corners
of the world. From the frozen tundras of Scandinavia to the jungles of South
America and the forests of Eastern Europe, black metal has taken root in diverse
cultural landscapes.
Countries like Poland (with bands like Behemoth and Mgła), France (home to Alcest
and Peste Noire), and even China and Indonesia have developed their own vibrant
black metal scenes. Each of these regions brings a unique flavor to the genre,
incorporating local myths, histories, and landscapes into their music.
Did you know? The rise of the internet has played a significant role in spreading
black metal’s influence worldwide, allowing bands from remote regions to share
their music with a global audience and connect with like-minded individuals.
Conclusion
Black metal, with its raw sound, dark themes, and underground ethos, continues to
fascinate and perplex listeners around the world. From its chaotic beginnings in
the 1980s to its transformation into a global cultural phenomenon, the genre has
remained steadfast in its commitment to rebellion, nonconformity, and the
exploration of life’s darkest corners. Whether you’re drawn to its philosophical
depth, raw aesthetics, or unrelenting soundscapes, black metal offers a rich and
complex world for those willing to explore it. And now, knowing these eight
fascinating facts, you’ve taken your first steps into the abyss. Welcome to the
realm of black metal.
