Unveiling the Dark Side: Metal Music From Contestation To Occultism

Over the years, metal music has emerged as more than just a genre. It has become a cultural movement, weaving its way through societies with a mix of rebellion, contestation, and even occultism. From its humble beginnings in the late 1960s to its current status as a global phenomenon, metal music has fascinated and captivated countless fans worldwide.

With its hard-hitting guitar riffs, thunderous drum beats, and guttural vocals, metal music speaks not only to the disenchanted youth but also to a larger audience seeking an outlet for their emotions. It has often been associated with themes of darkness, defiance, and a rejection of societal norms.

But how did metal music evolve from its roots in counterculture to incorporate elements of occultism? Let's dive deep into this fascinating journey of music, rebellion, and the occult.

Wave Of The Rock 2: Metal Music, From contestation to Occultism

by Salvatore Bellassai (Kindle Edition)

4.1 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	856 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	44 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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The Birth of Metal Music

Metal music was born in the late 1960s, with bands like Black Sabbath, Led Zeppelin, and Deep Purple paving the way for a new sound. Taking inspiration from blues, classical music, and even horror movies, these musicians crafted a unique style that resonated with a generation looking for something different.

One of the core characteristics of metal music is its heavy sound, characterized by distorted guitars, rapid drumming, and aggressive vocals. This raw energy brought with it an air of rebellion and contestation, challenging the status quo and existing musical norms.

The Rise of Contestation

As metal music gained popularity throughout the 1970s and 1980s, it became a voice for the disillusioned and disempowered. Bands like Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, and Slayer became synonymous with the genre and its rebellious spirit.

With their lyrics often exploring themes of war, social injustice, and political corruption, metal musicians were not afraid to tackle controversial topics. Their music became a platform for protest, shedding light on issues that often went unnoticed by the mainstream media.

Metal music became the anthem of the outcast, the misunderstood, and the marginalized. It provided a sense of community and belonging for those who felt alienated by society, creating a space where their voices could be heard.

The Dark Turn: Exploring Occultism in Metal

While the foundational themes of rebellion and contestation still hold strong in metal music, an intriguing shift towards occultism emerged in the 1980s. Bands like Venom and Bathory started exploring dark and mystical concepts, incorporating occult symbols and lyrical themes into their music.

This exploration of the occult opened the door for a new dimension in metal music. Influenced by cultural phenomena like Satanism and paganism, bands began incorporating these themes into their music, lyrics, and stage performances.

The use of occult imagery became a powerful tool for self-expression and shock value. It allowed metal musicians to push boundaries and challenge societal norms even further. With their elaborate stage shows, extravagant costumes, and lyrical content delving into the supernatural, bands like Black Metal pioneers Mayhem and Emperor mesmerized their audiences and shocked the mainstream.

The Impact of Occultism on Metal Culture

As metal music embraced occult themes, it sparked a wave of fascination and controversy. The media often sensationalized these connections, associating metal music with devil worship and moral corruption. This only served to fuel the flames of curiosity and intrigue amongst fans and outsiders alike.

While not every metal musician or fan practices or believes in occultism, the incorporation of occult themes in metal music has undoubtedly influenced its culture. From the black attire and band logos adorned with sigils to the intense live performances, metal fans have embraced the allure of the occult.

The occult essence of metal music has created a spiritual and mystical connection among its followers. For some, it provides an escape into a world beyond the mundane, allowing them to explore their own spirituality on their terms.

The Modern Metal Movement

Today, metal music continues to evolve and adapt, with various sub-genres catering to diverse tastes. From the aggressive thrash metal of bands like Metallica and Slayer to the atmospheric black metal of Dimmu Borgir and Behemoth, the genre thrives on its ability to reinvent itself.

The influence of occultism remains strong within the modern metal movement, although it has taken different forms. Some bands embrace occult symbols as a means of artistic expression, while others delve deeper into the philosophical and esoteric aspects of the occult.

Metal music remains a powerful force, captivating and engaging fans around the world. Its ability to blend contestation, rebellion, and occultism has made it a unique and captivating genre that continues to push artistic boundaries.

Metal music has come a long way since its inception, carving a distinct path from contestation to occultism. It has provided a voice for the disempowered and a sanctuary for the misunderstood. Through its exploration of dark themes and incorporation of occult elements, metal music has created a cultural movement that stands out from other genres.

As the genre continues to evolve, it will be fascinating to witness how metal music embraces and incorporates new influences, remaining at the forefront of contestation, rebellion, and the occult.

Wave Of The Rock 2: Metal Music, From contestation to Occultism

by Salvatore Bellassai (Kindle Edition)

4.1 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	856 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	44 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

The subtitle of "Wave Of The Rock 2" is "Metal Music, from contestation to occultism".

Many of the songs mentioned are played with truly impressive power and energy, now all this: was it the desire for justice, the effect of drugs or the use of occult forces?

Also in this second chapter we will leave out the biographical aspect and we will dedicate all the technical-instrumental aspect of the type of sound used to express all that previously said and the type of texts. We will do all this as always by citing the most important protagonists of each Metal genre, the most famous songs and suggestive images.

A fairly discussed musical genre much more than rock in which in the end we will make considerations.