Metal music, with its intense energy and diverse subgenres, can be a thrilling discovery. However, its vastness can also be intimidating for newcomers. This guide aims to provide a starting point for anyone curious about exploring the world of metal.
What is Metal? A Brief History
Metal is generally defined by its heavy distortion, powerful drumming, and often aggressive vocals. The electric guitar and bass are the main instruments, usually played with considerable amplification and distortion.
The genre’s origins are often attributed to Tony Iommi of Black Sabbath. Following a workplace accident where Iommi damaged the fingers on his fretting hand, Iommi experimented with down-tuning his guitar to ease the discomfort, while also crafting prosthetic fingertips to aid in his playing. This resulted in the heavy, dark sound that would become a signature of metal, creating a foundation for the genre. The band’s bleak lyrical themes, rooted in occultism and horror, became another influential characteristic.
Following in Black Sabbath’s wake came Judas Priest, also from Britain, who embraced and expanded upon Sabbath’s sound. Meanwhile, across the Atlantic, bands like Van Halen and Metallica added their own distinctive flavors, shaping the evolution of metal in the United States.
Navigating Metal’s Subgenres: Where to Start
The sheer number of metal subgenres can seem overwhelming. While exploring the more niche styles can be rewarding, beginners are best served by starting with the most well-known.
Some popular subgenres include thrash metal (known for its speed and aggression), glam metal (characterized by its flamboyant image and catchy hooks), death metal (an extreme form of metal with guttural vocals and dark themes), nu metal (a fusion of metal with elements of hip-hop and alternative), metalcore (a blend of metal and hardcore punk), and black metal (known for its raw sound, dark imagery, and often anti-religious themes). Other notable subgenres include doom metal, stoner metal, gothic metal, symphonic metal, industrial metal, and power metal. Genres like punk, grunge, and hard rock often share similarities and influences with metal.
A good starting point for new listeners is to begin with bands that aren’t overly extreme. Black Sabbath, Dio, and Iron Maiden are excellent choices, offering a blend of melody and power that’s accessible to newcomers.
Jumping into very heavy bands too quickly, such as Cannibal Corpse, can sometimes discourage new listeners, preventing them from appreciating the artistry within the genre. However, after you’ve familiarized yourself with more mainstream metal, experimenting with heavier subgenres can be a rewarding experience.
Other great beginner-friendly bands include Metallica, Megadeth, Korn, and many popular hard rock and metal acts from the 80s and 90s. For those who enjoy emo, exploring metalcore bands like Avenged Sevenfold, Killswitch Engage, and early Bring Me The Horizon can be a natural transition.
Overcoming Challenges: Gatekeeping and Genre Purity
One of the challenges some newcomers face is gatekeeping, where individuals attempt to define who is “truly” a metal fan. This can be particularly prevalent towards those who don’t conform to traditional masculine stereotypes. Some might face the “name three songs” challenge to prove their metal credentials.
Additionally, debates often arise about which bands qualify as “true” metal. Nu-metal, for example, is a particularly divisive subgenre.
The best advice is to ignore the gatekeepers and focus on enjoying the music. If you like nu-metal, then embrace it. There’s no need to let others dictate your taste.
Ultimately, there’s no “right” or “wrong” way to get into metal. Whether you start with slam metal or ease your way in with Deftones and Alice In Chains, the most important thing is that you enjoy the music. If you enjoy it, you’re a metalhead.
In Conclusion
Exploring metal is a journey of discovery. Start with the basics, explore different subgenres, and don’t let anyone tell you what you should or shouldn’t like. Embrace the music and find what resonates with you. The world of metal is vast and diverse, offering something for everyone willing to explore its depths.
