Unraveling the Origins of Black Metal: The First Recorded Black Metal Song
Black metal, a genre that has captured the imaginations of many, traces its roots back to the early 1980s, with the English band Venom playing a pivotal role. This article delves into the historical context, key albums, and specific songs that paved the way for this unique and haunting genre.
Early Influences and the Formation of Venom
The origins of black metal are often attributed to the group Venom, formed in Newcastle, England, in 1979. Venom's music reflects a blend of multiple genres, including heavy metal and punk, which laid the groundwork for black metal. While the band's second album, Black Metal, is considered a cornerstone of the genre, the distinction between black metal and other subgenres like NWOBHM (New Wave of British Heavy Metal) remains subtle yet significant.
The Question of the First Black Metal Song
One pivotal question in the black metal community is which song can be considered the first recorded black metal song. While Venom's song Sons of Satan from their 1981 debut album Welcome to Hell is often mentioned, the validity of this claim is sometimes debated. Both Venom and Mercyful Fate, another groundbreaking band, released influential works that shaped the early black metal landscape.
Mercyful Fate and the Second Wave of Black Metal
Mercyful Fate, formed in 1981 in Copenhagen, Denmark, with the iconic Johnny Dio on vocals, is another critical band in the early black metal scene. Their debut EP, released in 1982, is seen as a precursor to the first wave of black metal. Songs like Time Lord and Sinner's Plea showcase the evocative and ominous tone that would become characteristic of the genre. While Mercyful Fate's music is darker and more malicious compared to Venom's, it still retains influences from classical rock, as evidenced by their usage of chromatic and flatted fifths.
The Evolution of Black Metal
By the 1990s, black metal had evolved into a distinct genre with the emergence of the second wave, which diverged significantly from its NWOBHM roots. Bands like Mayhem, Dimmu Borgir, and Burzum pushed the boundaries of black metal, incorporating more extreme elements and concepts. However, the connection to earlier genres, such as old-school rock and roll, punk, and even blues, remained present, albeit more indirectly.
The Role of Key Albums and Songs
Two seminal albums that further solidified black metal's musical identity are Venom's Black Metal (1986) and Bathory's Bathory (1988). Black Metal saw Venom moving towards a more extreme and experimental sound, abandoning some of their earlier punk influences. Similarly, Bathory led the way in crafting a dark, foreboding atmosphere with their individualistic compositions.
Famous Songs Contributing to the Genre
Some of the earliest and most influential black metal songs include:
Sons of Satan (Venom, 1981) - The enigmatic title track from Venom's Welcome to Hell. Time Lord (Mercyful Fate, 1982) - A powerful and atmospheric song that set the stage for later black metal. Sinister Strangers (Vein, 1985) - This track from Vein's album Combat Rock showcased the evolving nature of the genre.Legacy and Influence of Black Metal
The early works of Venom, Mercyful Fate, and other pioneers created a foundation for black metal that resonates to this day. These songs not only influenced the development of the genre but also left a lasting impact on heavy metal as a whole. The exploration of dark themes, the intricate musical structures, and the raw, unfiltered sound have all contributed to black metal's enduring appeal.