The history of Death Metal began in the mid-1980s, evolving from the speed and complexity of Thrash Metal. Influenced by bands like Slayer, Kreator, and Celtic Frost, Death Metal emphasized heaviness, speed, and aggressive, distorted vocals. The genre was solidified by pioneers such as Death, Morbid Angel, and Obituary, gaining prominence through releases on labels like Earache Records and Roadrunner Records.
Death Metal is characterized by extreme intensity, speed, and heaviness, often featuring irregular tempo changes, fast and complex guitar playing, double bass drumming, and blast beats. Guitars are typically downtuned and distorted, with two guitars playing lead and rhythm simultaneously. Vocals range from deep, guttural growls (grunting) to high-pitched, hysterical screams. Lyrical themes often explore dark aspects of life, horror, and morbidity.
The genre has evolved into various subgenres, including Brutal Death Metal (focusing on speed and aggression), Melodic Death Metal (incorporating more melody and clean vocals), Technical Death Metal (emphasizing complex compositions), Death/Doom Metal (combining Death Metal with slow, oppressive Doom Metal elements), and Death ‘n’ Roll (infusing elements of Punk, Hard Rock, and Rock ‘n’ Roll). Modern Death Metal has also emerged, blending Death Metal with Metalcore and Alternative Metal influences.
While the genre originated in the United States with bands like Possessed and Death, it quickly spread to Europe, particularly in England, Sweden, and the Netherlands. Death Metal continues to evolve and push boundaries, with its influence extending to various other metal subgenres.
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