You might not be able to relate to the content of the song, but you may have an event in your past that fills you with the same primitive feeling expressed by the vocalist. Making this association may help you connect with the emotional message behind the music. [3] X Research source
The English Speed Metal band, Venom, is largely credited for contributing this characteristic to the Black Metal genre. By listening to Venom and other Speed Metal bands, you may gain a better understanding of and appreciation for Black Metal.
Many Black Metal bands also utilize the mythic imaginings of writers, such as J. R. R. Tolkien, writer of The Lord of the Rings. It’s likely you’ll find that some of the names used in your favorite Black Metal songs allude to characters or places in Tolkien’s books. The writings of Anton LaVey, founder of the Church of Satan, are also prominently featured in Black Metal. [5] X Research source You’ll find the basic tenets of Satanism widespread through Black Metal culture. Another theme you’ll want to be on the look out for is the use of language that yearns for a return to times long since past. This may manifest in the form of medieval clothing, practices, or anachronistic actions, like the sacrifice of animals. [6] X Research source
The purists. You’ll find that these fans revere the genre in its original, underground form. If you find yourself more drawn to the raw, straightforward style of non-mainstream Black Metal, you may be a member of this group. The inclusives. These kinds of fans use a much broader definition for Black Metal. If you enjoy the raw underground but think it’s just as Black Metal as the more technical work produced by mainstream bands, you’re likely an inclusive. [7] X Research source
Shedding your normal, hum-drum clothing can help you transform your mindset from the everyday mentality to one that is darker and edgier. This can also help you feel more at place when attending Black Metal events.
Taking part in the Black Metal community can help you better understand and internalize many of the feelings of the culture at large. However, as individualism is a noted feature of Black Metal, you may also want to think about the culture in terms of what it means to you. [9] X Research source
If violence to animals or the representation of blood and gore upset you, you may want to avoid a live Black Metal performance. However, you can still enjoy the Black Metal sound on CD or by downloading your favorite albums. The volume at live performances can be quite loud, so you’ll want to take steps to protect your hearing. In many cases, you can buy a pair of suitable earplugs at your local drug store for this purpose.
Due to the heavy Satanic influences, you may want to delve into the writings of Anton LaVey. However, the anti-Christian elements of Black Metal also make Nietzsche’s famous work, The Antichrist, useful to know. To gain a fuller understanding of medieval allusions in Black Metal, you may want to read Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings, Beowulf, Dante’s The Divine Comedy, the Elder Edda, and more. These books give you a better perspective of the olden days to which many Black Metal artists desire to return. [11] X Research source
There are many bands you might choose to listen to while investigating the first wave of Black Metal. Some bands to consider include Bathory, Hellhammer, and Celtic Frost. [12] X Research source
Some notable second wave Black Metal groups include Carpathian Forest, Darkthrone, Emperor, Gorgoroth, Immortal, Mayhem, and Satyricon. You may find the second wave most suitable for your Black Metal taste.
Ambient Black Metal. This sub-genre can be less abrasive than other varieties. In many cases, it incorporates strong atmospheric sounds to give a dreamlike sensation to its music. Two artists prominent in this sub-genre are Agalloch and Wolves in the Throne Room. [13] X Research source Black ’n Roll. This version of Black Metal combines the styles of hard rock, glam rock, and adds a dash of rock ’n roll. Some examples of Black ’n Roll include Kvelertak, Vreid, and Khold. [14] X Research source Symphonic Black Metal. You’ll find that this style uses more symphonic and instrumental sounds in its production. Some examples of instruments that might be used include the piano, violin, and cello.
