Today, we meet to discuss a topic that I find very interesting: What makes a good rock/metal song?

A few days before, I was on YouTube and I came across the video of Nik Nocturnal whose title is ” How to write the best metal riffs in 8 minutes“

Following this video, I asked myself the question above.

So I decided to take my computer, and share my thoughts with you! Or rather try to arrange my ideas on this subject and present them to you.

So let’s go

MUSIC

You know that when your head or your foot moves by itself to the rhythm of the music you are listening to, there is something gained. Let’s call it physics or whatever, but the fact is : something in this music, whether it be the cadence? or the chords used have an effect (unconscious or not) on your body when you listen to it.

Speaking of which, are you one of the people (like me) who get chills listening to certain songs? That too, is an indication that the music you are listening to is causing something in you, evoking some kind of emotion.

Besides, we call it the skin orgasm ! (which is more fun than the French version that we can translate as musical shiver)

Anyway, the physical side, whether it is by moving his body or feeling this now famous skin orgasm, is for me a beginning of the answer on what makes a rock/metal song good.

LYRICS

Ah lyrics! There are those who don’t care, and those who attach importance to them.

I agree that lyrics have an effect on the success of a song. I like to know what the artist expresses through it, even if it is by devious ways such as poetry or metaphors. Let’s take a typical example: Bob Dylan doesn’t have what we call hyper-dancing songs, etc. But there is a certain emotion and a real message behind his songs that engages people to appreciate his work.

But I can also understand, at the other end, that you just want to be able to have fun listening to a song without getting bogged down in understanding the lyrics. If you don’t speak the language and everything, it’s a double puzzle. For example, the few times I listened to BabyMetal, I didn’t understand anything they were saying but, actually, I didn’t care.

So, there’s always been this debate and, for me, it always comes down to the same thing: it depends on the people.

But one thing is certain: music has no language!

which brings me to the last point…

CONNECTION TO THE SONG / AUTHENTICITY

This third point is for me the MOST IMPORTANT!

Everything I mentioned above brings us back to this point. The connection you have with the song and the artist’s authenticity in his work.

I could ask you, who is reading this article right now, what are your favorite songs (why do you have to choose only one? it’s atrocious!) and there will be a great chance that they will be different from your friends, close people, etc. because they speak to you personally.

Whether it’s the theme, the way the chords go together or the way the singer sings. All this is deeper than you think. An artist will be adored by some while others do not recognize themselves in the values, themes associated with the song or artist.

So what makes a good rock / metal song ?

In my opinion, there’s not one answer to this question, there are billions. In the end, it all depends on what everyone decides is good or bad, their reaction to it.

It will result in you agreeing with a group of people who more or less share the same ideas. And this is what the media and other statistics base themselves on to find out what the public likes or doesn’t like.

This is my view on the subject! If you have comments or see things differently, I invite you to express yourself (with respect) . I don’t pretend to know everything, and maybe I’m wrong. I just tried to be objective, and this is what came out.

You can also like and share the article if you liked it.

Before leaving, I officially announce that if you like the caricatures on the blog, you can now order your OWN DRAWINGS on the Claire Abe Company website!

If you want to watch, you can click on the button below!

See you soon !

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The post What makes a good rock / metal song ? appeared first on Rock N' Roll World.

I’m coming back for a new post!

I had to stop things for a while because of a hand injury (the pain spread to my elbow). All this was on the right side and, of course, I am right-handed!

Anyway, I’m back !

We are here today, a few days from Halloween (I am more Samhain than Halloween but nevermind) to talk about a genre that perfectly matches the dark and gloomy surrounding spirit: Black Metal

I must admit that it’s a musical genre that I rarely listen to. I respect it and find some aspects of black metal super interesting but the sensitive soul in me has a hard time, at times, to get along. At least, at the time I’m writing this post. Things can change.

So, while researching for this post, I learned a lot of things at the same time. It’s a win-win!

That being said, let’s explore what Black Metal is together!

WHAT IS BLACK METAL ?

It is a subgenre from heavy metal that has emerged everywhere in Europe and the world since its appearance. It started in the 1980s and grew in the 1990s.

It’s a genre with a dark, raw, aggressive, and nihilistic musical atmosphere.

BLACK METAL’S ORIGINS

We can say that black metal is derived from death metal and thrash metal.

They are also artists of these genres who are pioneers of black metal. They are part of what we can call the first wave.

In the artists who forged this style, we can find:

• Venom (UK): who gave the genre a name, also influenced with anti-Christian texts, relatively terrifying pseudonyms, and with their «raw» and rudimentary sound.

• Bathory (Sweden): whose influence is also marked by rudimentary means of production, but the scorched cries in the high-pitched register are added.

• Celtic Frost (Switzerland): Influence the genre with covers and texts of infernal connotation

• Mercyful Fate (Denmark) + King Diamond: inspires with black and white makeup as well as occult themes.

BLACK METAL CHARACTERISTICS

Music and instrumentation

We keep many of the same principles as death metal, with some additions and nuances.

Guitars:

We use guitars in the treble, with fast plans, a lot of distortion, using tremolo or alternate picking, and widespread use of harmonic minor scales. We also change the tuning of the instruments.

Drums :

It’s the same layout as death metal, but the bass drum and snare are usually bigger to get a more fat sound. We practice the blast beat and use the double pedal.

The rhythm on the drums is very fast which requires expertise and stamina!

Keyboard :

The keyboard moves back to the foreground. This helps to put in the gloomy atmosphere and evoke dark, cavernous, or inhospitable spaces.

It can also be noted that the artists practice the suppression of the medium frequencies in order to keep only the high and/or low frequencies.

Singing

For the singing, the voice is sharp, high, with lots of screams. Generally, artists use a relatively sharp false chord scream in the high register (in opposition to the low growls). Reverb is often used to highlight the voice.

Lyrics

The most well-known themes are anti-Christian, occult, death, satanism, and all that goes with it.

However, other bands touch on the themes of mythology/ folklore (rather Nordic), paganism, etc.

Appearances

Appearance plays a major role in the black metal universe.

We can recognize people who are fans of the genre thanks to the black and white corpse painting. And when they want a little color, we add red paint or (fake?) blood. All this to look like a corpse in decomposition!

Shows

Black metal shows can be considered as sacred rituals. All this, with the help of their appearances as well as the staging.

Art

The black metal album covers reflect the atmosphere of the genre. Colorimetry level we stay on black and white mostly. As for the images, there may be satanic illustrations, dark and gloomy landscapes, other occult, or forests.

On the other hand, an example of a cover that struck me is The Dawn of the Black Hearts by the band Mayhem, which is one of the most illegally downloaded black metal albums. We find a photo taken of the corpse of the singer by one of the members of the group who found him…

CHURCH BURNINGS AND NEWS ITEMS

Unfortunately, we can’t talk about black metal without talking about the various events that are associated with it and that have put the spotlight on the genre all over the world.

Church burnings :

This is the most well-known.

In the early 1990s, Norway became the epicenter of a series of (voluntary) church burnings. These were made by members of the Norwegian black metal scene. Varg Vikernes, Euronymous, and other members of Mayhem were said to have been involved in these fires. It contributed to the feeling of darkness and controversy that black metal artists are often associated.

These church burnings have attracted the attention of international media by describing the scene as dangerous and extremist.

Ultimately, as a result of these burnings, the black metal scene around the world has been under legal surveillance to ensure that no such event ever happens again.

The controversy of church burnings has divided the black metal community.

On one hand, we have those who condemned these actions by finding them stupid. And on the other, we have those who thought these actions were necessary in order to rebel against societal norms.

Nevertheless, the church burnings were a pivotal moment, highlighting this genre. Above all, it continues to influence what people think of black metal, which is a genre that defies conventions and dark.

Other news items 

Other events have marked thegnere history, such as:

• The suicide of Mayhem’singer (the body on the cover I told you about a few seconds ago. Remember?)

or

• The murder of Euronymous (Mayhem) by Vark Vikernes (Burzum)

SATANISM IN BLACK METAL

Some time ago, I told you about the satanism in metal and everything related to it. And I told you that there were still Satanists in the metal. And here we are!

That being said, I am not saying there are none in other styles. But if there is one genre that we think of when we say “satanism”, it’s black metal.

The events mentioned above prove this. Now are all black metalhead is satanists?

The answer is (drum roll) NO! Not everyone has this ideology. Again, it’s a question of personality. Nevertheless, this satanic image is an integral part of black metal and is used by both Satanists and non-Satanists.

BLACK METAL ARTISTS

There are two waves in black metal. Some will say that there are more. However, I’ll stay on two waves.

1^e wave

The first one, which sounds more like thrash, is composed of artists such as:

Venom, Bathory, Celtic Frost, Hellhammer, Sodom, Mercyful Fate or Sarcofago.

2^e wave

The second wave is dominated mediatically speaking by the Norwegian scene with: Mayhem, Burzum, Darkthrone, Emperor, Immortal, Dimmu Borgir, among others.

• Despite this, groups from different countries can be found:
• Rotting Christ, Necromantia, Varathron, and Thou Art Lord in Greece;
• Master’s Hammer, Root, Tormentor in the East of Europe;
• Abigor, and Samael in central Europe;
• Blasphemy, and Order From Chaos in Canada;
• Mystifier in Brazil;
• Beherit, Archgoat, and Impaled Nazarene in Finland;

or

• Dissection in Sweden

Influential black metal artists

 Among all these artists, some have helped to shape the sound of black metal.

Euronymous (Mayhem) :

He pushed the boundaries of the genre with his aggressive and raw guitar playing.

Euronymous also created the label Deathlike Silent Production. The latter has revolutionized the world of black metal by being involved in the release of several groundbreaking works of the genre. However, it disappeared at the same time as its creator died.

Varg Vikernes (Burzum) :

He’s one of the most influential and controversial in the scene.

Varg Vikernes has created a unique and atmospheric sound that mixes elements of black metal, dark ambient, and Nordic mythology.

He is also known for his involvement in the events mentioned above.

Quorton (Bathory) :

He is widely recognized as one of the genre’s pioneers. His work has played a crucial role in creating the sound and aesthetics of black metal.

Quorton merged elements of black metal, trash metal, and Viking mythology.

This gave raw, aggressive albums. In addition, his influence in songwriting, and his singular voice continue to influence today’s artists.

EVOLUTION

 Over time, different sub-genres of black metal have appeared such as the Symphonic black metal, the blackened death metal, the death doom, or the technical melodic black.

Bands like Behemoth, Nocrophobic or Belphegor have mixed black with death to create an even more aggressive sound.

These different associations allow the genre to reinvent itself and thus persist again and again.

Here is who closes this post on this genre so much criticized but so little understood (and I do confess that I was part of it).

You can find the dedicated playlist below:

Feel free to like and share this post!

See you soon !

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Sources :

Une Histoire Musicale du Rock – Christophe Pirenne

Metalheadcommunity – Burak Gundogdu – Aug 13, 2019 – Black Metal History – Origins, Influences, and the Path of Darkness : https://metalheadcommunity.com/history-of-black-metal/

Regainrecords – History Of The Black Metal Genre Music : https://www.regainrecords.com/history-of-the-black-metal/

My Dark Lifestyle – Sombrons dans les ténèbres du Black Metal : histoire et groupes – 05 mai 2024 : https://www.mydarklifestyle.com/blog/43-Sombrons-dans-les-tenebres-du-Black-Metal—histoire-et-groupes

Reddit : https://www.reddit.com/r/Metal101/comments/1wvldz/eli5_the_waves_of_black_metal/?tl=fr

Claire Abe

The post Black Metal : When the danger became real… appeared first on Rock N' Roll World.

Today we’re gonna talk about STEREOTYPES!

We’ll see that Rock and Metal are full of them. And all rockers and metalheads are faced with it one day or another (or several in fact).

To do this, I saw the top prejudices/ stereotypes most common on other blogs and websites. Below, I have put them together and give you my opinion on the matter.

So, let’s examine together these clichés a little (a lot?) exasperating and/or funny!

What is a stereotype?

Let’s start with the basics and remember what a stereotype is.

In the Cambridge Dictionary, it’s “a set idea that people have about what someone or something is like, especially an idea that is wrong”

So we agree on what a stereotype is and we can move on. And get ready because there are MANY! But here, I only give you 10.

Rock and Metal stereotypes

1. “Metal is all noise and screaming!”

So, yes there are songs or bands that can be defined this way, but it is a generality. And besides, we can bring this stereotype closer to metal than to rock (except maybe hard rock). I see it that way.

In addition, we find ballads or songs «more soft» or songs with a «clean» vocal technique in most rock and metal genres.

I’ll put a little playlist right here.

Afterward, it’s also a question of what do you mean by noise? Because I can tell you the same thing when I listen to a techno song…

2. «Rockers and metalheads are satanists! Vade retro Satanas!»

I think I’ve heard it all over the place. Whether it’s on TV, in newspapers, or people on the street. To be honest, I don’t know if I should laugh or cry when I hear that.

I will not dwell on this point in this post. If you want to know all about it, I made one about it that you can read by clicking on this link.

3. “Those who listen to this kind of music are depressed!”

According to several surveys, people listening to metal… are less depressed than average.

We can listen to extreme music to empty ourselves of all the aggression and anger that we have in order to be calmer. Also, you can listen to it to express/release feelings you can’t put words on.

The subjects addressed in these genres of music are often heavy, painful, even taboo. They don’t sell you rainbows, sequins, and “all is well in the best of the world”. They tell you, yes, there are situations that are more than shitty, but that you can get away with it, as they did.

So yes, I’m not going to lie to you, people with depression can turn to metal and start liking this genre. We respect them, and we support them in their fight, but not everyone is depressed. And if extreme music does them well, then it’s great!

4. «Rock and metal bands incite to suicide»

We all know the phenomenon where several people in the media have said that, when we play the songs of rock and metal bands backwards, we hear incentives to satanism or suicide. I talked a bit about it during the satanic panic in this post.

But it can’t be any more wrong (except for black metal, but in this case, you don’t even have to hear it backwards). The topics of suicide and even mental illness (depression, bipolar disorder, etc.) are at the heart of some lyrics or the artists talk about it in interviews. In fact, some have faced it themselves.

This subject is even more present in recent years, after the suicides of well known artists such as Chris Cornell (Soundgarden/Audioslave/Temple Of The Dog), Chester Bennington (Linkin Park) and more.

After that, death is definitely a recurring subject in rock and metal.

5.”Rock and metal are macho movements!”

So on that point, I’m going to be more divided than some people who will say, “No, rock and metal is a big community that includes everybody, including women and so on.”

And this for several points:

1. At the beginning of certain genres, very dominated by men, songs had machist lyrics, especially in heavy metal or glam metal. It calmed down with time and the group appearance with women, but I still wanted to note it.
2. Female members of rock/metal bands had to fight to prove that they are as good as men. I think particularly of an interview of Lzzy Hale (singer and guitarist of Halestorm) with Maria Brink (singer of In This Moment) and Ashley Costello (singer of New Years Day) where the first one told that she was taken either for the girlfriend of a member of the band, or for a groupie. Maria Brink, for her part, recounted the time, when in front of hundreds of men began to shout to her «show us your breasts!» Charming, don’t you think!
3. Finally, a few years ago (+/- 5 years), a venue was in controversy because they refused to let a band with a woman on its stage because «women are not as good at rock and metal as men».

So yes, a lot of mentality changed, and for the better! A large proportion of men (I hope) understood that a person’s gender mattered little, compared to his talent. But there will always be people who have a backward, macho, patriarchal way of thinking.

6. «Rockers and metalheads are violent»

If you have read the article carefully so far, you already know the answer.

Extreme music actually has the opposite effect. The energy and “violence” of the songs helps to relieve tension, anger or other negative emotions. A study has also shown that those who listen to this kind of music are generally calmer.

So instead of trying to beat up your neighbor because he put music to the max at 7:00 am (yes, I speak from experience), listen to Lorna Shore (or another metal band) and:

• 1, you avoid prison,
• 2, you’ll feel better and
• 3, you can listen to it thoroughly to annoy him in return! 😉

Now, that doesn’t stop us from having assholes and violent people in every community.

7. “Rockers and metalheads all look alike! They wear black, skulls, tattoos, guys have long hair, etc.”

LOL

It ‘s true that some people take their look very seriously and you can see it if you type «rock look», «gothic look», etc. on the internet. And as long as they like it, it’s cool! No judgements here. I even admire the work and the details that some people bring to their appearance.

 But to say that all rockers or metalheads are alike, is to (re)make a generality.

Everyone dresses and adopts the appearance they want! So yes, you can see perfectos, artist merchs, or patch jackets, among others, but it’s not mandatory.

And for guys, long hair is not mandatory either. It’s a matter of preference. Also:

• We find men with long hair out of the rock and metal fields,
• And many male rock/metal artists have short hair. That doesn’t stop them from headbanging 😉

I’ll take my case (because it’s the one I know best lol).

I’ve been told several times that I don’t look like a rocker/metalhead.
And that suits me! Better yet, I like the idea of not conforming to preconceived ideas. I like the saying «not to judge a book on its cover». So yes, I have pieces that look rock/metal, yes, I often dress in black (because I LOVE black) and I have tattoos, but it’s not written on my face either that I like these musical genres. (Unless you meet me and read the blog then, you know 😉)

So be yourself, this is the most important thing. And those who tell you otherwise, throw them away.

By the way, I’m sure you can find CEOs and other people you wouldn’t believe rockers/metalheads about their appearance at this kind of concert.

8.«They have orgies, etc.”

So I saw this point several times, and at first, I didn’t understand why. And then I had the click:

• First, I repeat, a majority of rockers and metal players are not satanists! So no night orgies for any reason.
• Second, the mediatized setbacks of certain celebrities of these genres, do not represent the practices of those who listen to them!

All right, that is said. In addition, people who do not listen at all to these musical genres participate in orgies, so it is more a matter of preferences than anything else.

Everything that has to do with the intimate life of a person, concerns only that person. In no case do we or his musical preferences. So everyone does what they want, whatever they want, but it has nothing to do with music.

Then I see you coming up with “Yes, but what do you do with Sex, Drugs and Rock n’ Roll” or “Yes, but there are videos that can approve this kind of practice”, etc. 

I would say that, since it makes people react, they will necessarily rush into the breach and provoke. Because rock and metal LOVE to provoke, to make people think. So, they will use it as an artistic base.

Then, if you really want to know what artists have in mind for this or that, I suggest you go and ask them directly 😊.

9. «Rockers and metalheads only listen to rock and metal!»

Some yes, some no. As with most things, it depends on the person.

Some people only listen to one style of metal or rock, others only to several or all styles of rock and metal, and others listen to a bit of everything.

Personally, I also listen to jazz, blues, soul, musicals, classical music/opera, variety, pop, folk, indie, and country. But I always come back to rock and metal because they are my favorite genres.

10. “We don’t understand anything they say!”

I have to admit that sometimes I myself don’t understand what some groups are saying (without having the lyrics in front of me). But, it is in relation to the techniques that singers use.

For extreme songs, articulation is key, but distortion plays on the comprehension of words. However, if you listen to rock/metal songs with «clean» vocals, you will understand all the lyrics. I’ll explain to you everything about those singing technics in a next post!

Here we are at the end of this list! Tell me as a comment if you have ever faced these prejudices/stereotypes or if you have faced others.

Feel free to share the post a maximum in order to «educate» a good number of people.

See you soon for a new post!

Uncategorized

Speed Metal : the beginning of speed

Posted on April 25, 2025 by Claire Abe

Hey ! We meet today to talk about a genre that marked a turning point in the world of metal when it …

Various theme

What makes a good rock / metal song ?

Posted on February 28, 2025 by Claire Abe

Hey ! Today, we meet to discuss a topic that I find very interesting: What makes a good rock/metal s…

Uncategorized

Blues rock : Back to the roots

Posted on January 24, 2025 by Claire Abe

Hey there ! Today we meet for a recognizable and inevitable genre! I’ll get you in the mood. Imagine…

Sources :

Larousse – définition préjugé : https://www.larousse.fr/dictionnaires/francais/pr%C3%A9jug%C3%A9/63519

Crane Faction – top 20 des clichés sur les metalleux : https://crane-faction.com/blogs/blog-tete-de-mort/cliches-metalleux

Topito – top 8 des idées reçues sur le metal, ils sont tous satanistes les mecs – tomasg : https://www.topito.com/top-idees-recues-metal

Bravo les (contre) clichés : http://rock-metal-luxiferum.over-blog.com/pages/Bravo_les_contre_cliches-7210353.html

France Inter – Quand la science se penche sur la musique metal : https://www.radiofrance.fr/franceinter/podcasts/l-edito-carre/quand-la-science-se-penche-sur-la-musique-metal-4242980

Urbania – Pourquoi écouter du metal améliore ma santé mentale – Sébastien Jean : https://urbania.ca/article/pourquoi-ecouter-du-metal-aide-ma-sante-mentale

La musique métal vous rend plus calme ? – Beth Roar (EN) : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fPL6SxdgYEs

Claire Abe

The post Rock and Metal stereotypes appeared first on Rock N' Roll World.

If you like to party, or you want to get a foot in the world of metal, you, who have never listened to this kind of music, glam metal is for YOU

So put your make-up on and put on your best leopard leggings (and that, whether you’re a girl or a boy), we’re heading for GLAM METAL.

GLAM METAL : WHAT IS IT ?

Glam metal appeared in Los Angeles, near Sunset Strip, in the late 70s/ early 80s.

It is also known as hair metal (you will quickly understand why 😉) or sleaze metal.

It’s a genre that’s very accessible because it’s very pop-oriented. It was, by the way, one of the most popular genres in the 1980s. I would add that it’s the style of metal that surely comes first to your mind when we talk about rock/metal of this period.

We can strongly see the influence of glam rock, heavy metal, and punk.

We recognize this style to the look of the artists who are part of it: androgenic look, make-up (excessive or not), wedge soles, outfits very, VERY close to the body, and hairstyles where they probably emptied at least a bottle of lacquer on their heads (hence the hair metal).

GLAM METAL FEATURES

Rhythm and melody

These songs hook. And even stay in the head.
The way the song is formed remains «basic». It is a 4/4 measure, and we find the format intro-verse-refrain-verse-refrain-solo-verse-refrain.

In addition, the solo is usually technical (use of shred, etc.) because Eddie Van Halen has been there in the meantime and has influenced a lot of guitarists.

The whole is marked by very saturated guitars, drums, bass and sometimes a synthesizer.

This genre is also known for its Power Ballads. These are songs that start very quietly and “grow” as the song progresses. A typical example is I Remember You from Skid Row.

Also, the fact that the songs have a collective side, where we sing the chorus or a part of the song with the band, contributes to its popularity.

Singing

The vocals are melodic and clear. That is to say, there are no or few distortions apart from the basic ones of hard rock. They usually sing in their higher range. Sometimes it’s even close to screaming.

Lyrics

I will start this point with one of the «first bands of glam metal»: Quiet Riot. This band was successful with their metal health album, one of which (a cover) is Cum On Feel The Noise. Just with that, you can see where the whole genre is going.

So if you don’t understand, lyrics of glam metal are usually about parties (with lots of drugs?), girls, sex, and alcohol.

But they also talk about love, despair, and everything related to it. These themes are privileged in the power ballads.

Some will, moreover, match their lives to their words and will be ultra-mediatized for their escapades. Interviews in a bed surrounded by several girls more or less naked, different problems with justice (drugs and alcohol). This is what we could see or read from members of glam metal bands.

Moreover, these behaviors will lead to a very sexist and macho image of gender. They will be a kind of caricature of the hedonism of the time.

However, thanks (or because, it depends on the point of view) to this kind, the economy of strip clubs, bars, and tattoo shops took off.

GLAM METAL BANDS

There’s a lot of debate about which bands are in or out of glam metal. So the bands I’m going to quote as glam metal is in relation to my point of view. Everybody has their own.

The origins

We can see the influence of groups and artists such as : AC/DC, Aerosmith, Alice Cooper, David Bowie, Led Zeppelin, Kiss, Queen, Sex Pistols, Sweet, Van Halen, T.Rex ou Judas Priest

Then there are two waves of glam metal:

The first wave:

This one starts with a more hard rock/ heavy metal sound than their friends. But soon, the album appearance of bands such as Quiet Riot, Mötley Crüe, WASP, Ratt, Dokken, Autograph, Def Leppard ,or Bon Jovi will delimit the genre

In addition, some hard rock/ heavy metal bands already well installed (and have also inspired the genre) started to make songs very influenced glam metal. Examples include KISS, Alice Cooper, Whitesnake, Aerosmith, or Judas Priest.

The second wave:

The latter will have a separation within it.
On the one hand, there will be ultra mainstream bands like Poison, Europe, Cinderella, Twisted Sister ,or Stryper.
On the other, we find bands that continue to have a sound similar to the first wave of glam metal.

EVOLUTION

Glam metal stops with the appearance of grunge, alternative metal and trash metal. So it corresponds to the 90s.

However, a revival of interest in the 2000s allowed the genre to come back a little in the spotlight with bands like The Darkness or Steel Panthere. Although, these bands are not really considered to be glam bands but more heavy metal bands.

Conclusion

Although this genre is best known for its misfortunes and not very sought-after songs, glam metal has influenced current music (both through its positive and negative influence that has led to the creation of other genres).

Even if they are often mocked for their appearances, some singers and musicians were (and still are) very good in their fields.

If you want to remember that time (or just listen if you weren’t born in the 80s), you can find the dedicated playlist right here.

Feel free to share the article a maximum if you liked it or if you think it might interest someone.

Also, you can see all the drawings / caricatures right here !

See you soon !

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Speed Metal : the beginning of speed

Posted on April 25, 2025 by Claire Abe

Hey ! We meet today to talk about a genre that marked a turning point in the world of metal when it …

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What makes a good rock / metal song ?

Posted on February 28, 2025 by Claire Abe

Hey ! Today, we meet to discuss a topic that I find very interesting: What makes a good rock/metal s…

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Blues rock : Back to the roots

Posted on January 24, 2025 by Claire Abe

Hey there ! Today we meet for a recognizable and inevitable genre! I’ll get you in the mood. Imagine…

Sources :

Une histoire musicale du rock – Christophe Pirenne

Wikipedia

Urbania – Détecteur de metal : Le Glam Metal – Sebatien Jean : https://urbania.ca/article/detecteur-de-metal-glam-metal

Metal wiki – Glam metal : https://metal.fandom.com/wiki/Glam_metal

Map of metal : http://mapofmetal.com/#/home

Liveaboutdotcom – What is Hair Metal – Chad Bowar : https://www.liveabout.com/what-is-hair-metal-1756185

Claire Abe

The post Glam metal : when heavier music meet glitter and hairspray appeared first on Rock N' Roll World.

Blood, paranormal, spiders and other zombies. In a word: HALLOWEEN!

And it must be said that the themes addressed during this festivity are closely related to rock and metal!

So prepare to shudder with fear by finding out what’s in this post.

Rock/ metal and horror movie: where does the link start?

First, both are niche/underground genres at the beginning.

But it’s important to note that when Black Sabbath becomes Black Sabbath the link is made between rock/metal music and horror. And this, for various points:

• The band’s name is directly inspired by Mario Bava’s 1962 horror movie… Black Sabbath!
• The eponym song of the eponym album is considered as one of the first scary songs (the use of the triton, in addition, makes its effect). Moreover, it is to Geezer Buttler that we owe the inspiration for this song. It comes from a demonic vision that the latter had during the night.
• The group’s words have a dark and terrifying atmosphere.

So, with this information, we can see that rock/ metal and horror have been connected since the beginning of metal.

This is consistent with the words of Dani Filth (singer of Cradle of Filth) who says that metal has always had a dark atmosphere with the use of minor chords. An atmosphere that is also reflected in the horror.

Rock/metal artists horror movie fans?

Many bands and artists of these genres are horror films fans. They draw inspiration from the gore, horror etc. for their lyrics or their videos.

But not only that!

Let’s take the example of Alice Cooper. His legendary look is inspired by Bette Davis and his terrifying look of madness in the 1962 movie What Happened To Baby Jane? But one can also notice the taste for horror of Alice Cooper during his concerts. In his shows, we could see:

• Live snakes,
• Alice Cooper forced to wear a straitjacket
• Or guillotine run simulations.

He will influence the Kiss group. They will propel make-up, disguises, pyrotechnics and blood spitting to millions of people.

We can’t miss Slipknot, either. Nine guys arriving on stage with masks (made by a professional in the horror world). Guys who could appear in a movie of the genre.

There is also Cradle of Filth who pays tribute to the horror writer Lovecraft with their black metal both gothic and romantic.

In addition, some artists organize conventions on horror. I am thinking of Kirk Hammett and the band Ice Nine Kills.

Some of these factors lead us to the next point:

Elements of horror in rock/metal music

Body and face painting

First, with Alice Cooper, Kiss and Cradle of Filth, we touched face and body painting. The latter was first very popular in Black Metal. White face and black eye contour, the goal was to look like living corpses (like zombies before zombies). Then the face and corpse painting made its way into the music in general. Today bands like Motionless In White, Black Veil Bride, or New Years Day keep the tradition of this make-up going.

Note

As long as we mention Black Metal. I will make a whole post about it, but when it comes to horror, they did not go in for half measures.

Terrifying show and violent lifestyle, this is the daily life of artists of the first wave of Black Metal. During the shows, one could find self-mutilation and dead animal heads. Off-shows, burning churches, and murder could be on the front page of the mainstream press. Very joyful, isn’t it!

Masks

Then, with Slipknot, the subject of masks was raised. Masks allow for keeping secret the identity of people (well for Slipknot, it’s missed) and also to add an element of entertainment compared to the horror. Other groups using masks include Mushroomhead, Ghost, or Slaughter to Prevail.

Also, a small mention of Gwar disguised with masks of monsters/demons, costumes covering only the bare minimum of their bodies, and scenography with acts of violence and fake blood and other fluids projected on the audience.

On the other hand, some artists’ videos are entirely based on cult scenes from horror films. I put here the link to an article that brings together a selection of these videos.

Other

On another note, to evoke horror, rock and metal artists are inspired by more psychological elements or real facts for their works.

• Avenged Sevenfold in Nightmare, the singer goes for an operation and then is taken to places where the battery of the former drummer (RIP) is torn apart as well as the other members of the group acting as mentally ill.
• Slipknot in The Devil In I stages the death of the band members according to their greatest fears for them to face.
• Rammstein for their title Mein Teil used a shocking fact (a really shocking one) and turned it into a song.

I must also (re)mention Ice Nine Kills. The band has specialized and is known for writing their songs from horror movies and novels, collaborating with people in the field (or related to it) and making videos resembling mini horror films. I can also confirm that the scenography of the band is in the same vein (Yes! Me and some friends attended one of their show while I am absolutely not into horror – you may have understood it – and I had a great time! I talk about it in more detail in the dedicated article right there).

Metalsploitation : what is it?

Before telling you exactly what the term metalsploitation is (because yes it exists), rock/metal and horror films got closer together thanks to:

• The appearance of rock/metal artists in certain films or series,
• The use of songs or even the creation of B.O. written and composed by artists of these genres in horror films.

And this link between rock/metal and horror is completely intertwined when rock/metal music is exploited, satirized, etc. in a specific category of film. This is METALSPLOITATION.

Finally, I can’t write an article about horror and rock/metal music, without mentioning the metal singer and horror director. I have designated the one and only… ROB ZOMBIE. He has released as many albums as horror films, including the House of a 1000 corpses or Halloween revisits.

Also, how to do an article about Halloween without talking about the band Helloween, whose name was inspired by the band’s first tour on Halloween night.

So much for this article! Tell me if you are a fan of horror movies in addition to being a fan of rock and metal music.

I’ll leave you with a special Halloween playlist, and I’ll see you soon for a new post!

Also, you can see all the drawings / caricatures right here !

See you soon !

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Speed Metal : the beginning of speed

Posted on April 25, 2025 by Claire Abe

Hey ! We meet today to talk about a genre that marked a turning point in the world of metal when it …

Various theme

What makes a good rock / metal song ?

Posted on February 28, 2025 by Claire Abe

Hey ! Today, we meet to discuss a topic that I find very interesting: What makes a good rock/metal s…

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Blues rock : Back to the roots

Posted on January 24, 2025 by Claire Abe

Hey there ! Today we meet for a recognizable and inevitable genre! I’ll get you in the mood. Imagine…

Sources :

Bloody Dissgusting – Metalsploitation : The History of Heavy Metal in the Horror Film –   Julieann Stipidis : https://bloody-disgusting.com/editorials/3612109/headbangers-cinematic-ball-history-heavy-metal-horror-film/

Metal Hammer – Louder sound – Metal and horror: a match made in hell –  Jason Arnopp : https://www.loudersound.com/features/metal-and-horror-a-match-made-in-hell

Halloween, horror and heavy metal music – The Ragamuffins : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mk80A8YWqUE

Boowiki – Helloween : https://boowiki.info/art/groupes-musicaux-allemands/helloween.html

Wikipédia

Claire Abe

The post Rock, metal and Horror : Halloween special appeared first on Rock N' Roll World.

Today, we meet to talk about alternative metal!

If you like to discover new sounds, if you have an open mind, this style is perfect for you!

Let’s discover together what’s hidden in this genre!

WHAT IS ALTERNATIVE METAL ?

This is a «movement» that starts in the mid 80’s. It’s part of both heavy metal and alternative rock. It is in opposition to «mainstream» metal. We talk about mainstream metal for bands that are well known «off the metal scene».

Even if there’s a debate right now, I’ll take as an example Metallica which is known by all. Or relatively, because some people think it’s just a clothing brand (Hopeless? Yes. Does it really surprise me? No).

Their goal is to go away as far as possible from this kind of «mainstream» metal. For this, they will test and innovate so that their sound is unique.

ORIGINS OF THIS GENRE

The genre started with bands like Faith No More or Red Hot Chili Peppers who mixed metal with funk and rap.

However, a band will really influence the movement and trigger a wave of alternative metal in the 90s: Tool.

This first wave will come from all styles:

• Hardcore punk
• Noise rock
• Grunge
• Stoner rock
• Sludge metal
• Post-hardcore
• Gothic metal

The latter will be more accepted by the public with the simultaneous appearance of another well-known «cousin» genre: grunge

In fact, alternative metal will be the most popular style of metal in the 90s, and it will even become more popular than alternative rock (a genre that influences it greatly and of which it is relatively part, remember it)!

Following these first mixes, a genre totally derived from alternative metal and a more aggressive one will see the light of day: Nu-metal.

The latter will experience ups and downs in contrast to alternative metal, which will remain present in a much more constant way.

ALTERNATIVE METAL FEATURES

Well, you understand it, which says a lot of different influences, says a lot of different characteristics. We can still say two or three things about this genre.

Singing and melody

Different singing techniques are applied. We can hear the use of 2 techniques. Clear singing, but also, together or separately, “harsh” singing techniques.

I’ll write a dedicated post on these techniques in the future.

Instrumental and rhythmic

We can say that in alternative metal, we hear:

• Using guitar riffs (sometimes with or close to experimentation)
• Unusual sounds to metal
• A more syncopated rhythm
• Unusual techniques for metal
• Using sounds influenced by heavy metal, progressive rock, and other genres outside of metal (e.g., jazz or classical music)

Group formation

We find:

• The singer,
• One or more guitarists,
• The drummer,
• A bass player
• And sometimes a keyboard or piano

Alternative metal is one of those genres where there is something for everyone, as with progressive metal.

ALTERNATIVE METAL BANDS

Some consider Faith No More, Jane’s Addiction, and Soundgarden to be the first alternative metal bands.

Of course, many groups are also part of the genre. We mentioned Tool earlier, but we can also talk about Rage Against The Machine, Alice In Chains, and many others.

Artists categorized as «nu-metal» can also find their way there. I’m thinking of bands like Disturbed, System Of a Down, Deftones, Godsmack or even Slipknot.

Conclusion

It is a very open genre that wants to break codes and whose artists do not really want labels on their music.

Anyone can find a band (or at least a song) that they like in this ocean of different ideas. Even those who don’t call themselves metalhead.

If you’re curious, you can listen to the playlist dedicated to the post below!

Feel free to share a maximum if you liked the post or if you think it might interest someone you know.

Also, you can see all the drawings / caricatures right here !

See you soon !

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Speed Metal : the beginning of speed

Posted on April 25, 2025 by Claire Abe

Hey ! We meet today to talk about a genre that marked a turning point in the world of metal when it …

Various theme

What makes a good rock / metal song ?

Posted on February 28, 2025 by Claire Abe

Hey ! Today, we meet to discuss a topic that I find very interesting: What makes a good rock/metal s…

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Blues rock : Back to the roots

Posted on January 24, 2025 by Claire Abe

Hey there ! Today we meet for a recognizable and inevitable genre! I’ll get you in the mood. Imagine…

Sources:

Une Histoire Musicale du Rock – Christophe Pirenne

Music Hub – Alternative metal : https://music.fandom.com/wiki/Alternative_metal

Wikipedia

Urbania – Détecteur de metal : metal alternatif – Sebastien Jean : https://urbania.ca/article/detecteur-de-metal-le-metalcore

Claire Abe

The post Alternative metal: surprising and daring genre! appeared first on Rock N' Roll World.

Loved and hated at the same time, this genre is nevertheless important for the rest of the history of metal.

Let’s dive back together into the genre I grew up with 😉

NU-METAL, WHAT IS IT ?

Nu metal, also known as new metal or neo-metal in French, is a kind of metal (no joke!) derived from alternative metal. I would even say that it is part of alternative metal. It appeared in 1994 and is characterized by a fusion of genres. We find in particular hip-hop, alternative rock, funk, or grunge.

It will make it possible to put heavy metal back in the spotlight in the years 1990-2000. It is also one of the key elements of the new wave of American heavy metal.

Moreover, many artists “put” in this category hated to be named as a nu-metal band. Over time, some have gotten used to it, others still do not understand the why of how. It must be said that, I have a bit of the impression that bands that appeared and that were starting to be successful by bringing their influences of different genres, etc. were directly classified in nu-metal and no more in alternative metal.

NU-METAL CREATION

We can see different “events” that led to the creation of nu-metal.

The first mix

In 1986, Aerosmith and Run-DMC took over the song Walk This Way. This will be the first time a rock band will collaborate with a rap group.

Groups influencing nu-metal

The artists cited as influences of the genre include:

Red hot Chilli Peppers, Machine Head, Faith No More, Jane’s Addiction, Rage Against the Machine, Helmet, Primus, or Nine inch Nails.

But we can also mention, as an influence, the duet made by Anthrax and Public Ennemy on Bring The Noise in 1991.

The first nu-metal band

It is with Korn, that appears the nu metal! Their first eponymous album lays the foundations of the genre. However, it is with their 3rd album Follow The Leader that they become «known». (It’s on this one that appears the Freak on the Leash, All In The Familly, or Got The Life tracks).

Other groups will follow their path like Slipknot, Limp Bizkit, Linkin’ Park, P.O.D, Deftones, Kittie, Mudvayne, Incubus, Evanescence, Drowing Pool, System of a Down, Papa Roach, Pleymo, Disturbed and more.

PS: Many bands did not consider themselves to be part of nu-metal. Over time, some have “appropriated” it and others still don’t understand the connection.

NU-METAL FEATURES

Instruments

The 7-string guitar spread and became the norm in nu-metal. Moreover, these are mostly tuned in Drop D to have a heavier sound. Also, it is common to use 5-6 string bass.

Rhythmics and melodies

The rhythm presents syncopated riffs, the measure is still in 4/4, and we can also see the omnipresence of power chords with distortion.
Bands generally use Dorian, Phrygian, and Aeolien modes.

Also, there are not many guitar solos, bands prefer the use of breakdowns.

Sometimes a DJ is present in the band and integrates sampling and scratch on platinum.

Lyrics

Lyrics are often direct and explicit. Themes are often very dark. It includes pain, anxiety, intimidation, emotional problems, abandonment, betrayal, hatred, and everything related to it.

EVOLUTION

Nu metal began to fade out in the mid-2000s. However, many such groups still occur today because they have renewed and changed their trajectories.

In fact, many of them are now considered alternative metal or modern metal bands

Conclusion

Even though the movement has been off for some time, there is a renewed interest in nu-metal at the moment. That’s to say, how HUGE its impact is! And it’s not exaggerated. I would to say that all the current metal bands and even some rappers have been inspired by this genre.

So if you want to remember what that style was, you can listen to the post playlist right here.

Feel free to share as much a maximum if you liked it or think it might interest someone you know.

Also, you can see all the drawings / caricatures right here !

See you soon !

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Speed Metal : the beginning of speed

Posted on April 25, 2025 by Claire Abe

Hey ! We meet today to talk about a genre that marked a turning point in the world of metal when it …

Various theme

What makes a good rock / metal song ?

Posted on February 28, 2025 by Claire Abe

Hey ! Today, we meet to discuss a topic that I find very interesting: What makes a good rock/metal s…

Uncategorized

Blues rock : Back to the roots

Posted on January 24, 2025 by Claire Abe

Hey there ! Today we meet for a recognizable and inevitable genre! I’ll get you in the mood. Imagine…

Sources :

Une Histoire Musicale du Rock – Christophe Pirenne

Wikipédia

Stringfixer : https://stringfixer.com/fr/Nu_metal

Before Korn: How Nu Metal Became Nu Metal – thrash theory: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ltU17V-YXQ

Encyclopédie.fr : https://www.encyclopedie.fr/definition/Drop_D

Composer sa musique- Les modes en musique (1/4): Qu’est ce qu’un mode et à quoi ça sert ? : https://composer-sa-musique.fr/les-modes-en-musique-1-4-quest-ce-quun-mode-et-a-quoi-ca-sert/ 

Batteur sans limite – 2 changements rythmiques pour faire exploser une chanson (Breakdown) – Aurélien : https://batteursanslimite.com/breakdown/

Le Parisien : https://dictionnaire.sensagent.leparisien.fr/%c3%89chantillonnage%20(musique)/fr-fr/

Bax Music – blog : https://www.bax-shop.fr/blog/studio-enregistrement/le-sampling-cest-quoi/

Larousse – scratching : https://www.larousse.fr/dictionnaires/francais/scratch/71617 

Claire Abe

The post Nu-metal : everything you need to know about it appeared first on Rock N' Roll World.

LOL. It’s sarcasm if you didn’t understand.

And if you really think like that, my dear, I’ll explain to you what really is going on.

So, are we all making big fires and orgies with the devil? Is satanism really present in rock and metal music? Spoiler allert: you’ll soon be disappointed.

WHAT IS SATANISM?

When you take a look at the Cambridge Dictionary definition, Satanism is:

• the worship of Satan

And when you look at Satanist :

• a person who worships Satan

So is this really the case for all fans and bands of hard rock and heavy metal? Are rock and metal music really about satanism ?

THE ROLE OF THE DEVIL IN ROCK AND METAL

Devil and music

The link between the devil and music goes back a long time. And it’s not only related to rock/metal, nor even to music. For centuries, he has inspired great artists. Whether they are writers (Dante’s Hell, Paradise Lost, etc.), painters (like Michelangelo), or classical composers (like Faust, Verdi, Tartini, Paganini, or Stravinsky). But let’s focus more on the music.

To put it in context, Satan, before he was a fallen angel, was a great musician famous throughout paradise. That is what caused his loss. Since then, it would be through humans that he expresses himself.

The deal with the devil

But the most famous link is of course the deal with the devil! Legend has it that some have sold their souls to the devil to become brilliant musicians. The one who will popularize the myth in music (and who interests us particularly since it is related to the history of blues AND rock n’ roll), is Robert Johnson.

The latter would have sold his soul to become a genius of the guitar. Besides, this legend would be transmitted by big names such as Jimi Hendrix, Jimmy page or Keith Richards.

The devil, rock and metal

The truth is: you can’t separate metal/rock from the devil. But not the way you might think.

Tritone

With Black Sabbath, tritone is back in the spotlight. The latter, also called Diabolus En Musica, is a dissonant interval with a lot of tension. Therefore, it will be associated with the devil. It is for this reason that its use has become more and more common in rock and metal music.

The imagery

It is important to differentiate between the imagery of the devil and worship/worship of the devil.

And that’s where the confusion happens most generally.

The use of symbols, the image, and everything related to the devil has only aesthetic and provocation purposes! In fact, it works quite well. And it has been for decades. Managers and co. have and continue to benefit from it!

Whether it’s with Elvis’ hip sway or the Beatles’ “long hair”, everyone has played that card. It must be said that this image of the devil goes hand in hand with the rebellious spirit of teens and young adults.

Then came the images of the devil with bands like Judas Priest, Iron Maiden and then Slayer.

Came after, looks also inspired by these images with Alice Cooper or KISS. As for the lyrics, artists change their point of view and choose to put themselves in the skin of the beast.

But, another truth: none of these groups is satanist!

Again, they were just having fun with the symbolism of the devil without any ulterior motives other than aesthetics (which goes well to genres) and provocation. Some are Catholic themselves and others are atheists and oppose only the church as a dogma. In no case do they take satanism seriously. Moreover, some people do it with humor.

It’s true that one kind of metal corresponds to all the codes: black metal. But we will talk about it in a dedicated post.

Now let’s be serious, there are satanic bands in rock and metal. That’s a fact. But these bands represent a minority.

So to summarize rock and metal as satanic genres is a bit like saying that you can only make a chocolate cake with chocolate (well, you know what I mean).

One event also greatly helped to categorize rock and metal in Satanism:

THE SATANIC PANIC OF THE EIGHTIES

If you were already born in the 80s, you must have heard about it. (Not like me who was born the following decade and just heard about it for this article 😆). If you don’t know what it is, relax, I’ll give you a little summary. But know that if you really want to have everything in hand about this period, more complete books and videos have been made.

Context and Facts

The «satanic panic» began to happen in the USA in the 70s, but became “democratized” in the 80s around the world. It begins with the appearance (and tragic end) of sects and a wave of well-known serial killers. Parents are starting to fear for their children.

In addition, by the 1980s, women were increasingly leaving their homes to work. This leads to the opening of hundreds of daycare centers and mothers who feel guilty.

Also, during this period, some events emerge:

• 1966: The Church of Satan appears. Satanism is now a religion.
• 1973: The Exorcist came out. One of the first graphic movie where a person (in this case a very Catholic little girl) is possessed by the devil.
• 1980: Release of the book Michelle Remembers by Lawrence Pazder and his patient (who became his wife) Michelle Smith. Book where she tells that she supposedly lived in a satanic sect and where she tells all the traumas that she kept. Although the book came out as “true story”, it will be proven to be totally invented.

That’s how the satanic panic started. There will be many unfortunate events, but I’ll keep a cultural point of view here.

In fact, people were convinced that the forces of evil (not only the devil) were everywhere around them. Parents feared that deranged people would attack their children under the guise of the devil. Or even worse, that they influence and manipulate their kids to join their ranks.

It has been said that rock music was the devil’s music and that you have to keep your children away from that kind of thing. The same goes for some games (Dungeons and Dragons, even the Smurfs had some for themselves).

It was during this period that famous videos with the hidden meaning of Led Zeppelin songs played backwards etc., were born.

Parental Advisory (Explicit Content)

But in those days, young people listened just as well to Iron Maiden, Def Leppard, Judas Priest, Madonna, Prince, or Cyndi Lauper. The list of «Filthy Fifteen» therefore appeared. (Poor parents were not ready for what followed, lol)

And it is also in this context that the Parental Advisory (Explicit Content) was created. It’s the Conservative Parents Association called the Parents Music Resource Center that is responsible for it. In 1985, the latter forced the Recording Industry Association of America to comply, thanks to its media weight, which had greatly helped. The RIAA will then impose the famous «Parental Advisory: Explicit Content» for all records with lyrics a little too much focused on violence, sex, drugs, or occult practices.

In the process, Frank Zappa and Dee Snyder (singer of Twisted Sister) will have to justify their songs to the Senate.

However, this small label will promote the purchase of works with this small rectangle. To the delight of the artists and a little less of the parents.

Conclusion about satanism in rock and metal music

Artists and fans of rock and metal ARE NOT ALL SATANISTS! That’s it. (well, it was logical)

Besides, I didn’t specify it before, but there are Christian rock and metal bands. Well, they have also been talked about and have also been judged a lot, but they have the merit of existing. I will come back to that later.

Of course, there are exceptions, as everywhere. But a large majority of us are quite normal beings (or pretty much 😉). We (yes I included myself in it) just play with what society has stuck to us as an image.

But it also has an impact in the rock and metal community. The fact that a person who loves rock and metal does not (systematically) wear the symbols related to these genres, can be considered a «fake» by some rockers or metalheads. This is another debate, which will also be entitled to its own article: the stereotypes of rock and metal.

There you go! I have tackled down some of your stereotypes today (and I’m proud of it).

Feel free to share if you liked this post or if someone you know might be interested in it.

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Speed Metal : the beginning of speed

Posted on April 25, 2025 by Claire Abe

Hey ! We meet today to talk about a genre that marked a turning point in the world of metal when it …

Various theme

What makes a good rock / metal song ?

Posted on February 28, 2025 by Claire Abe

Hey ! Today, we meet to discuss a topic that I find very interesting: What makes a good rock/metal s…

Uncategorized

Blues rock : Back to the roots

Posted on January 24, 2025 by Claire Abe

Hey there ! Today we meet for a recognizable and inevitable genre! I’ll get you in the mood. Imagine…

sources :

Cambridge Dictionary – Satanism : https://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/english/satanism?q=Satanism

Cambridge Dictionary – Satanist : https://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/english/satanist

Comment la « panique satanique » a envahi l’Amérique dans les années 80 – Vice : https://www.vice.com/fr/article/rmem8v/panique-satanique-interview-spectacular-optical

Metal Zone: https://www.metalzone.fr/chroniques/164373-musique-metal-rock-satan/

Cairn -Les mythologies hard rock et métal : bricolage identitaire ou récit original ? Nicolas Bénard : https://www.cairn.info/revue-societes-2009-2-page-65.htm

Crane faction https://crane-faction.com/blogs/musique-rock-metal-tout-savoir/metalleux-satanistes

Loudwire – The Truth About Satanism in Metal: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_k38IXV6upU&list=PLG7tBOM3CtVICAKcMomOtfxwPhlFU-cUt&index=16

Metalliquoi ? – Episode 10 : Le Satanisme : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=urLDfo0aDZE&t=19s

LA PANIQUE SATANIQUE, C’EST QUOI? – Victoria Charlton : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5mE_udsh-RA

Le diable et la musique : une histoire fusionnelle – Sourdoreille : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8oOCfllMHd4

Télérama – “Parental Advisory : Explicit Content” : la petite histoire derrière le fameux rectangle – Romain Capelle : https://www.telerama.fr/musique/parental-advisory-explicit-content-la-petite-histoire-derriere-le-fameaux-rectangle,143337.php

Claire Abe

The post Satanism In Rock And Metal Music : The Horrific Truth About It appeared first on Rock N' Roll World.

And maybe you’re thinking it’s not for you, it’s too violent for your little ears, but I’m sure you know at least one band from that genre without knowing it. Read on to find out which 😉.

WHAT IS THRASH METAL ?

Thrash metal is a more extreme subgenre of heavy metal. When we listen to it, we can see that it is more violent and faster. It appeared in the 80s in contradiction with glam metal and everything it represents. 

Also, the term ‘thrash metal’ is said to have been coined by journalist Malcolm Dome, who referred to Anthrax’s ‘Metal Thrashing Mad’ in Kerrang magazine.

It can be considered as a mixture of NWOBHM and punk (hardcore).

THE ORIGINS

Queen with her title Stone Cold Crazy as well as Black Sabbath with Symptom of The Universe and Led Zeppelin with Communication Breakdown are beginning to set the tone for what will be Thrash metal in the future.

THE CHARACTERISTICS OF THRASH METAL

Speed

The tempos are fast or even very fast, even more than before! Songs can go up to 180 bpm like Motorbreath from Metallica, but it’s exceptional. Most often, groups use the sixteenth note to induce a sense of speed and urgency. However, we usually stay at more than 100 bpm like Whiplash, a title on the same Metallica album.

Technique

Instrumental techniques are adapted to the tempos of the genre.

In solos, lead guitarists (guitarists doing solos) usually use shredding. It consists in juxtaposing a set of techniques such as sweeping, tremolo picking, or tapping with several fingers in the same solo. 

• Tremolo picking = scratching or hitting a single string repeatedly in a regular rhythm, especially the fastest rhythm that the player can maintain. It has nothing to do with the hand tremolo or the whammy bar.
• Sweeping = Sweeping is a guitar-specific playing technique that consists of sweeping the strings from top to bottom using a mediator. This technique allows obtaining a much faster speed of play and a more fluid sound while producing less muscular efforts.

Shredding has existed since the mid-1970s and has won almost every genre of rock but it is the metal guitarists who systematize it.

The techniques offer a continuous flow of eighth notes that make it possible to inflate the rhythm section.

They allow abrupt rhythmic changes. Shank-beat is an example. It consists of playing on 2 beats a rhythmic phrase that is usually played on 4 beats. It gives the illusion of a doubling of the tempo while the bpm is the same. Moreover, the drummer reverses the usual distribution of the keystrokes. The snare drum comes on time and the bass drum is on delay.

As for bass players, they usually use mediators. However, some famous ones use their fingers like Frank Bello, Greg Christian, Steve DiGiorgio or Cliff Burton.

A dark harmonic color

This one comes from 2 point:

• The intervals used

Thrash metal groups use modes with diminished intervals, including second or fifth (also called triton). Its destabilizing harmonic power is considered the diabolus in musica (or more simply the devil’s music). They, therefore, do not deprive themselves of using it with minor modes (including the Locrian mode), diminished as well as chromatic riffs (which are followed by a halftone).

ex: Master of Puppets, Creeping Death, or Enter Sandman

• The range

Instruments are often in a lower register than usual. The voices are lower (like James Hetfield) and the guitars are usually tuned in a lower halftone.

Lyrics

They are there to denounce what is happening, whether in relation to society (the system or the environment) or religion. They are often direct and more or less violent.

We can find in the subjects/ themes covered: occultism, horror, rebellion, death, witchcraft, satanism, religion, war, destruction, tyranny, anti-religion, violence, serial killers, drugs, and more.

Bands

Virtuosity is generalized throughout the band. This has the effect that all musicians are on the same pedestal. 

THRASH METAL BROADCAST

This whole scene was partially revealed by compilations called Metal Massacre. These were published by Brian Slagel on his Metal Blade Records label. They combine traditional heavy metal and more trendy genres, including thash. We will discover bands like Metallica, Steeler (band where Yngwie Malmsteen will play), Overkill, or Slayer.

In the fifth compilation, we will see the internationalization of the genre with Voivod (Canada) or Hellhammer (Switzerland).

Other bands will impose themselves outside this label such as Testament, Exodus, Sepultura, Sodom, Kreator, Destruction, and Tankard.

BIG FOUR OF THRASH METAL

But the genre is known to have 4 big bands that share the headliner: Metallica, Megadeth, Anthrax, and Slayer. All except Anthrax are from the Baye Area (California).

The metal thrash will decline at the end of the 80s and will experience a new revival of interest in the 2000s.

This genre, like its predecessor, heavy metal, will continue to pave the way for other genres always heavier, stronger, and more violent.

If you dare, you can listen to the playlist dedicated to this article right here. And feel free to share if you liked it or think it could interest someone you know.

Also, you can see all the drawings / caricatures right here !

See you soon !

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sources : 

Une histoire musicale du rock – Christophe Pirenne

Wikipedia

Liveaboutdotcom – What is Thrash Metal : https://www.liveabout.com/what-is-thrash-metal-1756180

Acadezik –  :https://www.acadezik.com/definition-sweeping/

Wikibook – Tremolo picking : https://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Guitar/Tremolo_Picking

Claire Abe

The post THRASH metal: everything to know about it appeared first on Rock N' Roll World.

Today, I’m gonna start with a question for you. What comes to your mind when you hear heavy metal?

Noises? Screams? The Devil?

A lot stereotyped, never equaled, heavy metal has been there in force for more than 50 years!

Let’s dive together inside what is the beginning of extreme music!

What is Heavy Metal ?

Heavy metal is a kind of rock that appeared in England in the late 1960s. The origin of the term is uncertain. What we know is that it appeared for the first time in music, in the song titled Born to Be Wild by Steppenwolf.

Hard rock and Heavy metal : what’s the difference ?

It should be noted that the term heavy metal can be confusing, as it can have different meanings depending on the context.

1/ it can be used as a synonym for hard rock.

2/ the term refers to traditional heavy metal: a more radical aesthetic trend that, during the 1970s and 1980s, distinguished itself from hard rock by moving away from blues roots.

3/ in a more general sense, heavy metal or metal means all the kinds of music that derive from heavy metal (from point 2) and hard rock.

We’ll take a closer look at point n°2 if you don’t mind.

The boundary between hard rock and heavy metal is thin but really present. Heavy metal is distinguished by a set of specific codes and rules that we will see below.

Heavy Metal : the essentials elements

The sound

Or rather its intensity! You have to play strong, very strong, and brag about it!

According to the motto of the time, « Loudness equals greatness ». From there, the question of the loudest group becomes crucial. Competition is tough: between Deep Purple, Iron Maiden, The Rolling Stones, Mötörhead, Manowar, My Bloody Valentine or KISS (a majority of hard rock/heavy metal bands), all of them gave concerts that far exceeded 120 decibels.

Moreover, Tony Iommi (guitarist of Black Sabbath) is one example among many musicians who suffered from hearing problems related to the extreme volume of their own concerts. Ted Nugent and Pete Townshend (guitarist of the Who) are almost deaf because of this.

On the other hand, many artists like Edward Van Halen (guitarist of Van Halen) or Joey DeMaio (bassist and leader of Manowar) use earplugs to protect themselves.

The staging

Artists of the genre restore a sacred dimension to concerts. The lighting, the sets, and even the costumes are designed to give the image that the group wants to send back to the public.

The “uniform” of the heavy metal musician is composed of:

• A leather jacket,
• Necklaces and bracelets,
• Ultra-tight pants in jeans or Spandex.

Instruments

Guitar and drums are now dominant in music.

The drum becomes a real pillar of time. It now marks it equally with each time. As for the guitar, it becomes a symbol of virtuosity and power.

The bass, on the other hand, is usually used to double the bass of the guitar. In addition to his role as a lining, bassists sometimes add ornamental notes or passing notes to enrich their lines.
Then, some play bass chords so that it becomes a substitute for the rhythmic guitar (example: Lemmy Kilmister).

Groups formation

In hard rock, most of the time, the lineup consists of a keyboard quintet or quartet.

In heavy metal, the guitar quintet becomes the norm, even if there are still keyboard quintets.

This lineup, combined with extreme volumes and the generalization of distortion, will quickly become “the norm”.

Musical influences

Here again, we discover that they differ between the two genres:

• Hard rock has its roots in blues;
• Heavy metal, on the other hand, goes more towards baroque/ classical music while keeping blues elements.

For some artists, it is related to a sensitivity to the music of Bach or Vivaldi (for example Van Halen or Randy Rhoads).

They appropriate the techniques of writing, virtuosity, and vocabulary of classical music. They also borrow certain social values, such as:

• The glorification of technical dexterity,
• Value of work,
• The suffering caused by this total devotion to his instrument.

But in a general case, we can say that the spread of baroque codes is explained by accompanying practices. This one is so solid that lead guitarists are free to develop their virtuosity.

Edward Van Halen

He will influence and guide several generations of guitarists towards new horizons. Eruption has transformed the history of the guitar. He recorded a solo of 1’42 sec using all the techniques of the guitarists of his time:

• Bends (pull up one or more strings to increase their tension, this has the effect of slightly raising the height of the sound),
• Glissando (sliding the fingers along the guitar neck to go through as many notes as possible between two notes),
• Tremolo (either with a whammy bar or with the fingers, you «shake» the sound),
• Hammer on (play the notes by moving the fingers on the neck without touching the strings with the hand above the microphones),
• Pull off (same principle as the hammer on, but the pull off is made from high notes to low notes, while it is the opposite for the hammer on),
• etc.

But above all, he popularizes tapping, which he uses throughout the last part of the solo. Tapping consists of tapping a string, with the hand near the microphones, rather than scratching or pinching it.

To facilitate this technique, he reduced the tension of his strings by lowering the standard 1/2 tone tuning down. This practice will be a huge success in the later evolution of metal.

Lyrics

The lyricists of heavy metal also develop their particularities:

• On the one hand, they talk about everyday life, girls, alcohol, rock and sex.
• On the other side, we find heroic fantasy, horror or themes linked to the Middle Ages.

If a band were to represent this genre, it would be Judas Priest!

Heavy metal = machismo ?

The answer is yes AND no.

Yes, heavy metal was a macho genre in the beginning. With their lyrics and their attitudes on stage, it has inherited the nickname of cock rock.

Indeed, their clothes keep them too hot because of their movements and the heat of the spots makes them sweat a lot. Hair stuck to the face, flowing and bare torsos accentuate their masculinity. Associated with leathers, heavy symbolism between the neck of the guitar and the penis, and tight pants, it becomes the obvious expression of male sexuality.

However, with the rise of the genre in the 1980s, the situation is changing! More people have access to this music – including women. And they don’t just sit and listen! They first invade hard rock and spread in heavy metal as well as in the more extreme styles that will appear later.

Heart, Vixen, Runaway, Pat Benatar, Lita Ford, Joan Jett, Rock Godess, Girlschool and so many others pave the way for women in hard rock and heavy metal.

On this day, we can mention Maria Brink, Sharon Den Adel, Amy Lee, Simone Simons, Cristina Scabbia, Lzzy Hale, Taylor Momsen among so many other artists belonging to heavy metal (and subgenres of it).

We can say that things have evolved today. Though we can still find bands corresponding to the description above, they usually do it for the purpose of stereotyping thoroughly bands of those years.

But, like many things, mentalities struggle to change! Still, some people on this planet consider, today, that women cannot do hard rock and metal as well as men.

So machismo is still present nowadays, but it’s less than at the beginning.

The different generations of heavy metal

The genre can be categorized into 3 generations:

1st generation of heavy metal :

In the groups of this first wave, we can mention:

Black Sabbath, Deep Purple et Led Zeppelin

2e generation of heavy metal :

Hard rock and heavy bands such as:

Queen, AC/DC, Rush, Motörheard, Blue Öyster Cult, ZZ Top, Nazareth or Aerosmith

At the same time, the first explodes:

• Conflicts within Deep Purple led to the arrival of Rainbow, the Ian Gillian Band and Whitesnake;
• Led Zeppelin is weakened by Jimmy Page’s addiction to heroin and John Bonham’s addiction to alcohol;
• Black Sabbath, equally shaken by alcohol and drugs, separates from Ozzy Osbourne.

The New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) :

In 1979, a new wave of British heavy metal appeared, the leader of it was none other than the band Iron Maiden.

Other groups from all over England are helping to feed it: Venom, Def Leppard, Saxon, Diamond Head, , Samson, Tygers of Pan Tang or Girlschool.

All were revealed and promoted in the magazine Sounds, which in May 1979 grouped them under the name New Wave Of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM). Most come out of the shadows thanks to this and sign with majors.

Then comes a wave of releases of the first albums of this kind that we add to those of the bands of the previous generation. In those years, we can see that heavy metal is one of the most profitable rock genres. We can also see that, sometimes, the most popular heavy metal bands are those that also orient themselves towards pop music like Def Leppard, ZZ Top, or Whitesnake.

Heavy metal will obviously evolve over the years and give birth to many other genres, including a darker and noisier majority that we will soon see.

In the meantime, you can listen to the playlist dedicated to this article just below, and feel free to share if you liked it or if you think it could interest someone you know.

Also, you can see all the drawings / caricatures right here !

See you soon !

Uncategorized

Speed Metal : the beginning of speed

Posted on April 25, 2025 by Claire Abe

Hey ! We meet today to talk about a genre that marked a turning point in the world of metal when it …

Various theme

What makes a good rock / metal song ?

Posted on February 28, 2025 by Claire Abe

Hey ! Today, we meet to discuss a topic that I find very interesting: What makes a good rock/metal s…

Uncategorized

Blues rock : Back to the roots

Posted on January 24, 2025 by Claire Abe

Hey there ! Today we meet for a recognizable and inevitable genre! I’ll get you in the mood. Imagine…

Sources :

Une histoire musicale du rock – Christophe Pirenne

Wikipedia

Le heavy metal et son histoire, du sombre au transgressif – D. Lugert – Cadence Info : https://www.cadenceinfo.com/histoire-du-heavy-metal.htm

Apprendre le métal – Edouard de MyGuitare – MyGuitare : https://blog.myguitare.com/metal/histoire-heavy-metal

Histoire du rock – Heavy metal : https://histoiredurock.fr.gd/Heavy-Metal.htm

LE HARD ROCK, UNE AFFAIRE DE FEMMES…(AUSSI) – Bruce lit : http://www.brucetringale.com/le-hard-rock-une-affaire-de-femmes-aussi/

Puissance, force et musique metal. Quand les filles s’approprient les codes de la masculinité – Sophie Turbé – Ethnologie Française : https://www.cairn.info/journal-ethnologie-francaise-2016-1-page-93.htm#:~:text=d%20’acteurs%20locaux.-,C’est%20le%20cas%20de%20quelques%20musiciennes%20telles%20que%20Suzie,1976%20et%20Girlschool%20en%201978.

Claire Abe

The post HEAVY METAL, the beginning of the savagery appeared first on Rock N' Roll World.