Definition:

“Aggressive and heavily amplified rock music, commonly performed by groups that wear spectacular or bizarre costumes”

Often referred to as simply Metal

 

History of Heavy Metal:

            Heavy Metal was first introduced in the late-1960s. This genre is identifiable through its emphasis on guitar solos, distortion, and loudness. Metal developed throughout the UK and US when musicians wished to exemplify more masculinity and aggression than the Rock ‘n’ Roll of the time would allow. This genre originated form Blues and Psychedelic Rock and eventually lead to the development of Grunge music as well as a plethora of subgenres. In a way metal has turned into a large musical melting pot, you can find influences from many other genres, blues and punk mainly. The first Metal bands were Led Zeppelin, Black Sabbath, and Deep Purple. As time went on the number of Metal bands grew exponentially, leading to the many branching subgenres.      

 

Distinguishing Features:

            Metal is usually identified by its overall loudness, in order to get this volume they employ a multitude of tactics. Distorted guitars is a common sound to hear in this genre, it is often most noticeable in the guitar solos which are another trait that is common in this genre. Bands also utilize the naturally loud and steady sound of the drum kit to emphasize their volume as well as set the pace for the rest of the band. Instruments that are common to hear in Metal music: guitar, bass, drums, and on occasion a keyboard.

 

Other Heavy Metal Bands:

• In This Moment

• Pantera

• Slayer

• Judas Priest

• Black Sabbath

• Korn

• Godsmack