The Black Girl Into Heavy Metal

Flavor of The Week: Last Years Tragedy

2012-01-30T08:41:00.000-08:00

I know this isn't succinct with the list of the next blog post topic but I wanted to do a little flavor of the week about them.

Hailing from the budding Nairobi, Kenya metal/rock scene, LYT is a metalcore band who's influences include Underoath, Born of Osiris, and As I Lay Dying. You can clearly hear these in their song, "Walking Through Walls". Many of LYT's songs deal with the unstable political environment of the present and past in Kenya.

This band has been through the grind the past couple years (I believe since 07'), playing tons of local shows to the rock audience in Nairobi and are finally getting some good press. I hope one day we can see these guys in a North American tour someday as they would fit in just swell with the metal core scene here.

Currently they are unsigned.

As you all know, I'm not a huge metal core person but if YOU are, you may definitely take to them.

(Am I the only one who actually wanst to see more of this Tribal Metal like D-FE?-sort of the equivalent of European Folk Metal- I did a post about a while ago)

Also, check out their debut video, "How to Kill a Daredevil"

Yay or Nay? I want your opinion

Teenagers: The Future of Heavy Metal?

2011-12-21T20:30:00.000-08:00

Do you all remember a band that came out a couple years ago with these teenage kids who played 80s type thrash metal named Black Tide? They made quite a buzz in 2008 with that single "Shockwave"? Well...look at and hear em now...

(Before)

(After)

My my. How things have changed.

If you think the image is bad try listening to one of their latest singles posted in the link above. Clearly they've been hanging out in LA for too long.

It's really interesting to spot the different trends throughout the years in metal music and how they affect the industry as a whole. I think for any band that wants to become successful, while (Mind you, I said successful not famous or even mainstream) it will be difficult holding on to your integrity as an artist and keeping the original intent of the band pure.

There have been plenty of disbanded bands and "Hiatuses" popping up recently in the metal world that include Cathedral (Seriously, not that much of a loss IMO), The Human Abstract, Oceano, Ludicra, Dismember, and Carnal Forge (loved em').

As famous metal/hard rock icons like Dio, Nevermore's Loomis and Williams quit, Arch Enemy releasing the fucking godawful Khaos Legions (I freaking hate when people misspell something to make it sound cooler, like "kvlt.")and even Killswitch Engage's Howard Jones walks, I'm sure fans are wondering what the sordid and unknown future is headed for metal.

I just heard this Dubstep/Djent/Prog Metal Fusion band or I'm sorry, "project" that made me scratch my head.

I don't have a problem with Djent or experimenting but I'm pretty much DONE with dub step. I never really took to it so I hope that it doesn't bleed too much into metal. *shudders at the thought of a dub step black metal/jazz fusion album*

I'm all for experimentation but I think it certainly comes to a point when your losing a sense of your original and organic sound to the need to be unique and different.

I like my metal traditional, straight to the point, hard, fast, guttural and mean.

To get back on topic, I think teenage metal heads have the right idea. Take the example of Black Tide I have above. They are seemingly influenced by bands like Death, Metallica, and I even hear Testament in there. They clearly had a set style that they started out with.

As you all know, metalcore/deathcore is this looming black cloud that seemingly is engulfing the mainstream music of the genre (anyone still remember nu metal?) and and has clearly seeped into the once virginal ears of Black Tide. That new single that I linked you to sounds like some Attack Attack BS with better guitar work.

Metalcore/Deathcore/all the other cores is where I'm seeing a lot of young people get into metal from and THAT scares me. If a band like the Black Veil Brides is the first band that got you into any kind of metal then you may be doomed for all of eternity.

And here here! That's not to say that there aren't great bands in which young people play in....but for the life of me I can't think of any at the moment that formed RECENTLY who impress me enough to consider mentioning in the blog. I could go on about new releases from excellent bands (Vildhjarta, Across The Sun-thanks Israel-, Arkona, etc) but none formed by younger metal heads.

I honestly think there is a good interesting future for metal, you just have to wade through all the shit to get to it.

What say you?

Side note/P.S: I was walking through Target the other day and saw a black kid around 11 or 12 wearing a Venom T-shirt. I wanted to take a subtle picture but I couldn't because his mum was hanging around. But it made me really happy to see someone so young and black (yeah, I said it) listening to it. True metal knows no age, color or boundaries. I would have been just as happy to see some white kid that age wear the shirt as well. Maybe there is hope.

Ego and Loner- ism In The Metal Scene

2011-12-18T13:05:00.000-08:00

"Why do you listen to that stuff?"

The common metal head-no matter what genre of metal you listen to-has constantly been berated with similar inquiries from various people in their lives asking this question.

In a sense, metal music goes against our basic human instincts of what 'classically' is considered music. Granted, now that metal has branched off into multiple genres that statement could lose some of its accountability, what with Symphonic and Operatic metal, etc.

But I'm sure when metal first began to develop around the late 1960s, the general consensus was that it was just 'noisy'.

Its a type of music that from the very beginning was never fully accepted.

As a result of this, I've noticed that generally speaking, those that do listen to metal have certain loner tendencies.

I'm definitely not saying the culture as a whole is isolated since when metal heads do come together-they can most surely be just as social as other groups. And also as susceptible to peer pressure and conformity.

But to really accept this sort of music, I've learned that a person has to cultivate and learn their 'darker' side, a side that not many people willingly accept.

I know that sounds lame but hear me out.

I believe there is something innately savage and vicious about this type of music that scares people because of its honesty. It's raw-its not manufactured or wrapped into a pretty package (well, perhaps lets forget about hair metal). In essence-its real. That's what attracted me to it all those years ago and what continues to.

Personally, metal helped me get through a lot of strife in my life. I had always turned to music before when I was distraught but when I started listening to metal I got out a much needed amount of aggression from my system. Every time there was a scream or growl in the song, I felt like the artist was venting everything out for me that I was too scared or embarrassed to do myself. I still feel that way-its a great outlet.

NOW, that being said, within the metal scene certain genres add to this theory and take away from it.

I mean, your average Metalcore/Deathcore/Screamo/Symphonic female fronted bands are extremely targeted to younger mainstream types of people. These genre's are considered to cater to the more casual and social metalhead.

As for Thrash, Death, Black/Grindcore bands are usually listened to by far older, extreme metalheads who are less prone to be into the social aspect of metal.

There. I said it.

If you take a look at Black Metal, for example, being a loner is not only accepted but encouraged to an extent. It's considered a more introspective type of genre. And it is PURPOSELY not intended to be meant for a mainstream type of mind.

Fans of extreme metal also tend to have ample sized egos as well as arrogance to match. The reason of this I'm not so sure but I believe it stems from the fact that metalheads generally think of themselves as reaching a higher state of consciousness somehow because of the fact that they do listen to the genre-and thus-have evolved more-so than the average music fan. (Especially true for fans who are also musicians)

Mind you all, I'm generalizing but this is what I've found to be the case.

The bottom line is metal is very attractive to individuals who consider themselves or were pariahs in their early youth, people who like to deviate from the norm, and anyone who is in tune their more animalistic and essentially human side.

What's interesting about this is that with most shootings of any kind, the culprit is always found by the media to listen to metal and be some type of loner. Such is the case with Columbine, Jared Loughner, and the more recent Norwegian gunman. Mainstream media will use any excuse to condemn metal music. Blame it on the mental state of the individuals and not what they listen to.

But that's just what I think, what about you?

*BTW you guys, pick between Finding (Good) Christian Metal and The Future of Heavy Metal: Teenagers in the comment section. These two were tied so I want you to pick the next post.

Thanks for continuing to read and I hope to hear from you all soon.

Off Topic-ish: BM Is Not For Niggers

2011-10-03T10:17:00.000-07:00

(Off Topic)

"bm is not for niggers stupid bitch. now listen jay -z ." -anon

Awww, Varg is that you? Just kidding, hehe.

Just thought you all would like to read this anon comment I received on the Varg post in case you didn't see it. Clearly, punctuation is not strong with this one.

That stuff isn't discouraging but it definitely is a sign that some metal heads are not as progressive in their thinking as others. Not that they should be either because we all are entitled to our opinions. But it is provocative.

Oh, by the way. I'm still alive. And I really want to continue the blog its just I'm really backlogged at the moment. Ego and Lonerism in Metal was the clear winner of the poll so look forward to a post soon.

Thats all folks'

Topic Vote And Update (Off Topic-..ish)

2011-06-26T14:56:00.000-07:00

So, sorry for the absence, in case your wondering why I've been gone so long. Oodles of drama is going on in my personal life that I would rather not get into online.

Don't fret though. I actually have time in July to really get back into the swing of things with the blog. I've been thinking about a bunch of new topics I want to blog about and i've concocted a list. Remember last time how anyone could vote on what they wanted me to post about and I would write about each starting with the highest rated? Well, thats going to be the case this time as well.

Here is the list of available topics:

Female Musicians in Metal?

I'm not Impressed by Lady Gaga: Shock Jocks

You Assimilator!
Teenagers:The Future of Heavy Metal

Flavor of the Week: Last Years Tragedy

Ego and Lonerism in the Metal Scene

Sex in Metal Music

Sexism in the Videogame Industry

(Good) Christian Metal

Vote Using the link Below
Vote!

If you have any suggestions/requests/concerns, leave them in the comment section or email me.
*BTW, you can vote more than once if you wish

Thats all folks'

Flavor of the Week:Tetrarch

2011-06-20T09:34:00.001-07:00

*shyly waves* Hello. I know, I know. Before you jump down my throat about not posting for a while, I plan on writing an off topic blog post about why I've been gone for so long. Don't worry, I'm not quitting the blog especially since everytime I come back to check on it the number of followers keeps on increasing. Thats actually pretty amazing. But you know what else is?

Tetrarch!

You know, unlike some metalheads, I don't look down on a band that wants to make it big and even, *gasp* wants to played on mainstream radio. But these guys may actually deserve it. Hey, we all have got to make a living.

Formed out of Atlanta, GA in 2007, Tetrarch is an unsigned young thrash metal band with a hint of the melodic, looking for the right break. I really like this group (Not only because they feature a black girl on lead guitar, which is pretty groovy to me), but they really have a passion for the music and are not trying to be like a lot of the deathcore bands that are popping up out of the Atlanta region.

I hope someone snatches these kids up quick.

Check out some tunes from myspace and some live footage:

http://www.myspace.com/tetrarchlive

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ol916Ll0LHs <-"Violation"

Yay or Nay? I want your opinion

The Akira Issue

2011-04-08T14:32:00.000-07:00

If your any fan of anime/manga, I'm sure you have heard about this upcoming Akira american adaptation of the 1988 Katshiro Otomo classic...and the controversy surrounding it.

First off, for those who don't know, Akira is this psychological thriller that encompasses many themes that include corruption of power, super-human abilities, bildungsroman , and tons of other issues that I can't even began to cover and won't. Basically, if you haven't seen it, SEE IT. Before this new film completely butchers it.

Its among anime staples (some may argue) such as Ghost In The Shell, Vampire Hunter D, Grave of Fireflies, Millennium Actress, Princess Mononoke, etc

Phew. So, a few months ago I heard that Leonard Di Caprio (of all people), bought the rights for the movie. Immediately, I was weary but then I read that Otomo himself was going to be one of the producers (as well as Di Caprio) for the movie-so it can't be all that horrible right?

So currently, Warner Bro's is negotiating with the Hughes bro's to remake a live action version of the movie.

Thats great and all but the question is-who will be cast?

I'm a HARDCORE advocate for Asian men getting more roles in Hollywood (And not just that martial arts crap). Why does it matter to me? I'm not really sure but I think they have gotten nearly as bad a rep as black women have in Hollywood (same roles much?). And Ninja Assassin was disappointing, no matter how hot Rain was (That's Jung Jihoon to you!)

Anyway, I saw who they were honestly thinking of casting as leads and I'm not going to lie to you guys, I'm starting to sweat bullets about this one.

I mean, this could potentially be a BREAKOUT role for anyone if casted.

James McAvoy?

Andrew Garfield?

ROBERT PATTINSON!!?

I flew into nerd rage.

And apparently, the only Asians they MAY cast will be extras and/or just Asian girls in various roles. -_-

(And am I the only one pissed off that its going to be in 'New Manhattan?' and not freaking 'Ne0 Tokyo?' like in the actual story)

I realize, they are JUST in the beginning stages, so I shouldn't be freaking out that much. I hope the Japanese are just as furious about this as I am and ARE NOT pandering to Western sensibilities just because they like it. Have a voice and really complain about this you guys.

Just look this up and see the other fans enraged by this. I know I'm not the only one.

For the love of God, Otomo, say something!

Flavor of The Week-Animals as Leaders

2011-03-27T15:25:00.000-07:00

So I found this little metal gem of a band the other day. Their name is Animals as Leaders, a prog metal outfit found by Tosin Abasi (Clearly an African name which set my interest even more on high, plus he is kind of a guitar genius) formed in 2007 in Washington D.C. Their first self titled album came out in 2009. Wave of Babies is a single released in 2010 by them as well.

They are extremely underrated (I think) but the reviews that I have read proves that these guys will have to be watched in the coming years.

If you like Periphery, Messhuggah, and Born of Osiris (Who just came out with a new album), you will enjoy these guys.

Check out these songs and see if you like them:

Yay or Nay. I want your opinion.

(Sorry for the shoddy description. I'm kinda in a hurry)

Vargi-Kins on the cover of Decibal Magazine

2011-03-20T15:07:00.000-07:00

Okay guys. While perusing the magazine rack at the local bookstore I came across the image of Varg Vikernes on the cover of Decibal magazine.
Ugh.
I know I'm going to get a shitload of flack for this post but I've got to comment on this.

I read the interview. Mainly about the music-which is good.
Okay, the problem I have with this is that anyone who is remotely interested in black metal and its history knows about Varg and his past. He says he is not a neo-nazi anymore or NSBM (but I'm sure some of the old ideologies/beliefs he had has still got some grip on him) . Oh yeah, and he is a murderer.

Why are we putting him on the cover as if he is to be idolized? But then I feel like a hyporcrite for saying that because wasn't I the one saying that it should be all about the music in my other post?

I know, I know. A lot of you say that lyrics/ideologies don't matter to you anymore and that you solely listen to music just for the music. >_>

And anyone that says metal is not political in anyway is a fucking liar.
However, as I've said before in the past, I simply will not/could not buy any of his records, even if I liked some of the songs. Knowing that I support someone who compared black metallers to black and homosexuals...and he tried to re-explain himself but it did not come out as an apology or sincere. Its was very brazen and matter of fact.
I don't think he should apologize for his views, per se. Lets be honest, me and about maybe a handful of other black people may know of him. And the rest of his fans are mostly whites-who when perusing the Internet don't seem as offended as I am by his statement. I guess it doesn't effect them in that way.
I know black militants who are just as racist as he is and they don't want to apologize for it either. Freedom of Speech and all. However, I'm not supporting him and his ridiculous radical ideologies in any way. I'm sure he is not lamenting over the loss either.

(From Metal Crypt magazine)
You once stated that "metal is nigger music", do you still believe this to be true? "Yes and no. I think the metal culture is nigger culture, in the sense that the traditional metal people look like, behave like and think like a bunch of "white niggers". It's (at least often) an extremely primitive, unintelligent and pointless subculture, like all rock 'n roll subcultures are. I too listened to metal music, but I never behaved like a nigger just because of that, and I don't understand what the point with this metal subculture is. Smoking pot or getting drunk, sleeping around and giving each other venereal diseases, partying all the time, going to concerts to meet other vacuum-heads, and so forth. What's the point? Even bush-niggers can be more sensible and constructive, and deeper than that. ‘The true attraction people have to this particular subculture is probably something else, like contempt for the modern world, fascination for death and the Gothic, romanticism and even Pagan values, but it all becomes so very wrong when mixed with traditional rock 'n roll or heavy metal culture."

I'm not supposed to be offended by that?
Yeah, right.
So, I want your opinion on this one, guys. Maybe I should just mind my own freaking business.
I'm anticipating some interesting comments from the Scandinavian readers, however.

Why Women In Metal Are Not Taken Seriously Pt. 2

2011-03-10T14:15:00.000-08:00

I have been meaning to do a part 2 about this topic and today I just saw this ad for the Hottest Chicks In Metal-excuse me-Hard Rock: Hall Hath No Fury Tour with In This Moment (ick) headlining. Other bands on the bill include Sister Sin (eek), Straight Line Stitch (Meh, but I respectfully applaud), and System Divide. (Ugh)
Whenever I see the Hottest Chicks In Metal anything I receive a mixture of emotions that consist of anger, shame, and frustration. Why is this?
This kind of promotion is a double edged sword.
The Hottest Chicks In Metal title, I believe, does abso-fucking-lutely nothing for women who sing or listen to heavy metal. Its not empowering and its not honorable. Some may disagree but I believe this sort of title is setting us back.
First off, by creating this (be it man or woman) we have essentially separated ourselves from the metal community by gender first and not anything else. That's the first red flag.
The second, of course, would be the blatant hyper-sexualized photo/promotion for it. I think in my last post about this I said that men are not going to take a women seriously who dresses like one of the above ladies as showed (I'm thinking you can guess which one). Women who make it a point to dress provocatively in an industry that is ruled by men will not be regarded as a serious band. The only angle they may have is 'Uh, well she's hot so I'll watch them anyway'. An anon commenter left this comment in Pt.1:
"...If women are gendered into the beauty complex and use this to their advantage, I take my hat off to them.
Judge musicians based on the music they make, not their clothing.
It's not about the way women dress. It's about the normalisation of belittling women for the way they dress, rather than judging their talent."

You should go back and read the whole comment. Very interesting.
However, I disagree.
Again, that's taking leaps back. Specifically the first sentence. That's the exact reason why we should not take that angle because its expected and its very easy to gain notoriety for beauty rather than talent. People will be so blinded by the lead singers tits to really notice that the music may actually be great...or terrible. Its also different depending on the type of metal we are talking about as well. Women in symphonic metal bands may dress different than women in metalcore or black metal.
The Hottest Chicks In Metal title may give a lot of bands great promo but I also notice that this tends to shift the focus from not only the actual music but the other members of said band.

I actually have tons of respect for Angela Gossow (as I said before pt.1, she may be one of the few who successfully separated herself from 'lead female singer' and band to just Arch Enemy. She has really proven that she is in it for the music. Whether or not you dislike Arch Enemy, you have to respect that.)
Gossow did an interview for KNAC.com and the interviewer asked if she had basically ever wanted to be involved with the Hottest Chicks of Metal.
Angela said: " It's funny that you mentioned that because I just had a huge clash with the editor of Revolver. He's put me into the 2010 "Hottest Chicks in Metal" calendar with that picture in of 2004, so they keep kind of recycling that one. And, I've explained several times I don't want to be featured in that — in that corner. If they want a picture of the band and it's about the music, all cool. No problem. But if it's about me being a woman… I don't like the "Hottest Chicks in Metal" movement at all. I think it's very counterproductive and kind of retro, you know?...
I hate the "Hottest Chicks in Metal!" It's an embarrassment for women, I think (laughs). It's an embarrassment for female musicians, who actually are musicians.

You can read the whole thing in it's entirety here:
I have to say I agree with her.
I understand why some do it though. For promotion and all. But I honestly think that its a path that doesn't have to be taken if your serious about being in this business. I really do.
I literally had to do my research in order to find out that its for the Keep a Breast foundation. ( I was too focused on Maria Brinks to notice any other breast anything. As I'm sure most men who look at this are).

I dunno, maybe its just me.
I'm not saying a woman has to growl or act like a guy in order to gain respect in metal music. But ladies, show a little respect for yourself and then maybe you can gain respect from everyone else.
I want your opinion, guys.

(By the way ladies, Who would your nominees be for the Hottest Guys in Metal? Post some below!...I know how hypocritical. But I couldn't help myself)

Flavor of The Week-Orisha Shakpana

2011-03-06T16:19:00.000-08:00

Who knew that Jamaica would be the next promising area for the metal scene?
Found this gem thanks to one of the followers (Thanks Navlos!-I know its kind of late)
Since then, I have been researching a good bit of bands from Jamaica as well as other emerging African bands. (I have lots of fuel for flavor of the week for this month)

Formed in 2004, Orisha Shakpana is a one man black metal project originating in St. Catharine, Jamaica that was originally a three piece band. What I find really interesting are the themes in the music. There are both satanic and African paganism within the content. (He even has a song title called Ancient Ghana 1265...I had to mention that because of that's where my family is from. I know, I'm a dork but I'm really excited about this guy...doesn't hurt that he's attractive). Orisha Shakpana has three full length albums that have been released since 2006 and one demo as well as LP.
At least in my case, I will be ordering any music I can get my music geek hands on.

Okay, Okay, I know I made that recent post about "The next blog will be a topic you all pick". Which is still true for the next real post. However, I just could not resist sharing this with you guys. Especially you obscure music lovers.

Check out some of these song links as well as the myspace:

Orisha Shakpana Myspace

Youtube songs:
"Priestess Patricia"
"Satanic Powers in Jamaican Hills"
"The Offspring of Gashanami"

Yay or nay? I want your opinion

Your Pretty Cool...For a Black Chick: The Backhanded Compliment

2011-01-31T10:28:00.001-08:00

(Warning: This Is A Whiny Rant)

Any black girl into this scene has gotten this comment. I guarantee it.
Or the Oreo reference. (If you don't know what that is-look it up).

I've also received:
"Wow, your really pretty for a black girl".
"I've never met a black girl like you"
"Your skinny for a black girl."
"Your the nicest black girl I've ever met"
"I never considered dating a black girl until I met you "

Yadda yadda, these weird pseudo-compliments.

Apparently they come from a good place but if anyone ever seriously gave you a "compliment" like this, would you be pleased or mortified?

You can guess which one I am.

I'd say 75 % if this dribble comes from guys and the other 25% from girls.

Although I'm not a fan of the band Straight line Stitch I like to keep up with them because they are the biggest upcoming metal band fronted by a black girl...ever. At least that I know of.
Sometimes it frustrates the hell out of me reading the comments people write about them...and by them I mean her. Just peruse the Metal Sucks topics on SLS, as well as YouTube comments. on their videos.

It literally makes me sick. It must drive the lead singer crazy.

I don't know how many comments I've seen about her being a heavy metal Beyonce (of course, the only black singer they could come up with) or her 'whipping her hair back and forth' better than Will Smiths' daughter. All of these references are irrelevant because the girl has a heavy metal soul. I don't have an issue with them comparing her to Jada Pinketts' band Wicked Wisdom so much because I can understand that.

This issue is obviously due to her race. Plain and simple. No tip-toeing around it. And she's a female.

I think the issue with blacks in metal-the core issue-is that we want to be treated just like every other metal head and not bombarded with these tags and labels that confine us to the place we are trying desperately to escape.

I know, that equality shtick is such an overused motif for the black race but in this case it is extremely important. I hate harping on this crap but every time I see a glimmer of hope in humanity I read a few comments on YouTube and am thrusted abruptly back into the ignorant mass consciousness that we live in today.

I guess I should say unconscious rather than ignorant. They don't think its a bad thing to say but its not necessarily good either. And, I realize its a "free" country-anyone can say what they want (behind the safe glow of a computer screen-much like myself) but, call me crazy, I always try to think about what I write or type before I commit it.

To black people (and the other enlightened handful) into the scene, the lead singer is just a pretty girl who fronts a mediocre metal band. That is all.

To everyone else she is a surprisingly pretty black girl that fronts a nu metal band that isn't that good but that's okay because she's fuckable.

And for the record if the girl is pretty, she MUST be mixed with something for the person to have found her attractive let alone human.
I even weep for females in general when I read the comments comparing her to bands that don't even share the same genre within metal but because they are both female fronted-we have to compare and decide who is better. As if females don't compare themselves to each other enough already.

A few more points I want to make:

*I realize that not everyone thinks this way. Most of the time when I generalize in the blog, I really mean what I believe the mass (as a whole) of metal heads are thinking. There are exceptions in every minority and majority.

*Not to call black folks out but like I've said before-we don't help our own situation. I'm definitely not saying anyone should contour to anyone elses' sense of standards. However, I believe if most people are stereotyping us a certain way-that may be an incentive to change a bit, yes? I know that's a hard pill to swallow but just think about it.

So, any black girls that read this blog, post your own ridiculous back handed compliments you've received and lets compare. I'm positive that you have gotten your fair share.

I will close by saying if at any point you have thought of saying any of these "compliments" to a girl/guy-regardless of race or have said them; perhaps you should edit either black, white, brown, yellow or girl/guy out of the sentence and rather put person, woman/man, or human being.

"I am not an elephant! I am not an animal! I am a human being! I am a man! "

Flavor of The Week: Vale of Amonition

2011-01-31T09:40:00.000-08:00

I had forgot about this band until one of the followers (Thanks Kelly!), reminded me in a post about them.

Hailing from Kampala, Uganda- VoA is an unsigned prog/doom metal band. They released their first demo this past year called Curtain of Doom and The Broken Shield. There also may be a complete first album coming out this year.

It is very exciting slowly seeing all black heavy metal bands in the homeland start to pop up every now and then. It makes me feel like in the coming years metal will become even more diverse and interesting. We need to get these bands noticed in the metal world!

Unfortunately, it is very difficult hearing more of their music as I can't find other singles besides the one on their myspace.
If anyone has better sources, please list them below.

Yay or Nay? I want your opinion.

*I know, kinda hard to give your opinion with just those two songs on their myspace but, try to at least give a first impression. Besides, anything is better than Lord Toph.

http://www.myspace.com/valeofamonition (Myspace)

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Vale-of-Amonition/335056031250 (Facebook)

The "Non"-Conformist Metalhead

2011-01-25T08:42:00.000-08:00

Have you ever heard anyone say this?:

"I'm so metal, I shit steel!"

or this?

"I'm so metal, I shit studs!"

Or perhaps my favorite,

"I'm so metal I listen to troo underground metal like Lamb of God, Slipknot and Disturbed."

Perhaps you have seen individuals dressed mostly in black wearing a studded belt, faded t-shirt with some obscure (or not so obscure) band, tattoos, with dyed tresses?

Would it be safe to naturally assume such individuals listen to or partake in the metal or even rock culture? I would even say that the metal/rock culture decrees a certain 'look' to ascertain that such individuals are practically wearing a name tag stating 'Hello my name is___, and I'm into metal."

(Mind you, I said assuming. I suppose it could be interpreted as stereotyping)

I also believe that these individuals wouldn't be caught dead at, say, a Lil Wayne concert? And, on the flip side, I'm sure you would not witness a Timberland/BabyPhat donning, gold chain swinging, corn rowed person at a Cradle of Filth show, yes?

(Hopefully no one is at that show-but that's just my opinion. Sorry to the CoF fans out there)

I know many a folk who proudly explain to me why they are non-conformist and give me a 25 page dissertation on their reasons. And you know what I usually say?

"YOU LOSE! GOOD DAY SIR!" (*cue dramatic finger pointing)

...I really don't. But I should. Usually I listen to the self fulfilling dribble while in my mind I make my own list of reasons why this is absolute bullshit.

I rarely meet anyone who are non-conformist in the true sense of the word. That doesn't make them better or worse. Of course they never know that they are.

I'm not saying I'm innocent. Far from it. When Pokemon was huge in my youth, I flocked to see the show, movies and even got a gold plated Mew Two card complete with a pokeball stand from Mc. Donald's in my happy meal. Didn't you?

But most people generally have a 'follow the flock' mentally because to be outside of the flock is considered bad.

When examining the metal culture there are three main facts that remain true. Metal is male dominated. It is mostly straight and inherently white. Again, not a problem.

The issue is for the people outside of that.

The female metal head.

The gay metal head.

The non-white metal head. (Not only blacks, but Asians, Latinos, etc)

All minorities who have been persecuted in one way or another.

I received an email from Micheal Zinkowski, a lecturer at UNC Greensboro, who is writing a paper related to this topic called "Discarding Macho Posturing, Maintaining Sonic Devastation: Disidentification in Extreme Metal Subculture." I read the bit that he presented and was amazed because he illustrates exactly what I wanted to say in this post but couldn't find the right way to put it. Thankfully, he does:

"...The majority of the metal community remains white, straight, and male, who by and large live normative lives and whose identities are hegemonically powerful already. Rallying against the powers that be while refusing to acknowledge the inherent privilege already granted to many of its members leaves metal looking like a space of contradiction. Within this contradiction women, people of color, and queer folks may and do situate themselves as metal fans in order to access and reshape the power the genre promises, sonically and hegemonically."

"How do those in the extreme metal community who are not white, male, cis-gendered, straight, or able-bodied negotiate their identities within and against an individualist culture that effectively re-presents and re-affirms Western normative standards of masculinity, whiteness and heteronormativity and simultaneously performs as a counterpublic? How can the minoritarian subject claim a metal identity, thus “be metal,” without completely conforming to majoritarian standards of identity formation enacted by the metal community?"

The metal community is, lets be honest, a boys club. The controversial issues in metal generally focus around the female, gay, or ethnic presence in metal that is scene as the 'un norm'. How can a community that prides itself on being different alienate those who flock to it for that reason? Or even, abide by such rules as what the listener should wear/look like.

The individuality in this scene should be celebrated-not scorned.

(Again, not everyone does but many do)

I believe the answer is because metal was intended for one audience only. But now that globally its this huge subculture-it cannot be restrained to the normalcy that it once was contained by.

What that means is that all types of people are now enjoying metal music and are not necessarily bowing to its creed of what metal looks like, acts like, or even performs like.

I believe I've said something to the similar effect in a different post. Metal is already a minority so the community really doesn't have a choice to be picky in who is included or not.

(Thank you Mr. Zinkowski for letting me use your words/thoughts.)

Black Men in Heavy Metal

2010-11-28T14:16:00.000-08:00

Thank you all for being extremely patient in waiting for new posts. And also, thanks to those of you who emailed me about the blog with various concerns, comments, praises, and critiques. I appreciate the support. Trust me, it only fuels the heavy metal fire.

Now, I'm sure some of you are wondering who the dudes in that epic picture above are. (although you might already know)

Their name is Black Death (Not to be confused with the Russian band as well as the band from California). Formed in the 70s (77') from Ohio of all places. They are hailed as the 'first all black metal band'.

My experience as a black female metal head, I realized, is most likely completely different than my male counterparts.I have been blogging this whole time sharing my views on metal without taking into account the men who really paved the way.

I realize to many, black guys being into metal is not exactly anything new. (black women on the other hand...)

Metal heads may not be able to name too many all black metal bands but I'm sure you can name bands that have at least one black member. (Now think to yourself how many you can name off the top of your head and post them in the comment section).

I mean, I'm sure it took guts! Just like how being the first to do anything always is. But in such a conformists community (yeah, I said conformist), its not only courageous but possibly dangerous. From not only the metal community but the black one.

And now, this led me to think of even more alienating brands of metal and bands that have black members in them.

I think of Blasphemy (had two black members) and the back lash they experienced with their family and friends. Like I said in an older post-the black community can be very religious and downright superstitious at times. Were they accepted or bashed? I guess its interesting to me because I know that people like that made it just a little bit easier for me to be able to listen to the music I do, go to concerts in rooms filled with faces that look nothing like my own, and write this blog while saying with conviction that at least there are SOME others who are just like myself who play the music and look the part. And it only makes it easier to say I'm a metal head when I can show other groups of people who would think other wise that I'm not strange or the first/last of my kind.

I realize that for the white folks who read this blog, its probably strange to relate this feeling to you. I suppose its kinda like going to your first metal concert and seeing hundreds of people who have similar interests like you do ready to enjoy their time together. That feeling of reckless elation.

I get quite a jolt of pride whenever I go to shows and see another black metal heads (even if they are a bit stand offish) or even performers on stage. I guess its reaffirmation that your not weird or crazy and that you do belong somewhere.

(At least in America) its slowly starting to get into everybody's heads that not all black people have to listen to 'black music' or even can enjoy metal, opera, ska, punk, classical, hell country.

I do believe that it had to take a man to do this though. (I know ladies, it sucks but its true). Since metal is so masculine as a whole, black guys had to be the first to gain respect in the community in order to be taken seriously.

I really hope in the future even more all black bands emerge so that we can have a huge community for our young to look up to and be inspired by-just like I was. I hear about more and more everyday. Just think when we get to the level where we have black men and women together in symphonic metal bands. Should be interesting with our vocal range, eh?

But it takes baby steps.

So if any black men are reading this, no matter what age, tell me your experiences as a black male metal head?

And if your not a black dude-leave a comment anyway. Tell me your opinions and bands with black male members.

Questions? Concerns? Complaints?

2010-10-09T14:08:00.001-07:00

(Off-Topic)

I realize some people may be trying to contact me but due to the reason that I have not posted an email they can contact me by-they haven't. So this is it. Thought I'd make a mini post about it as well as put this in my profile.
So-if you have any questions or critiques just email me at:

Theblackgirlintoheavymetal@gmail.com
(I know, how original)

I will get back to you and thanks for visiting!
I will start posting regularly soon and sorry for the hiatus.
Watch out for the next post: Black Men In Heavy Metal.
-BGIHM

Flavor of The Week: The Objex

2010-08-18T09:04:00.000-07:00

Another band that is not metal but I think you guys should know about. The Objex is a punk band based out of Las Vegas with the coolest looking lead singer (nicely named Felony Melony) I have ever seen with the most epic rack...and by rack I mean boobs. The Mohawk isn't bad either. Released in 07', Attack of the Objex is the name of their first official record but they did release a demo called 'Bound and Gagged' earlier that I can't seem to get a hold of.

If your into sort of fun-non committal punk with a bit of alternative flare than I suggest them. (Plus they have a female bassist. Who doesn't love a female bassist?) Here are some links to some vids and the myspace. Take a listen and see if you like.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=_6kaGZe_0Bc (Eat This)

http://youtube.com/watch?v=FyjMcYXKwS4 (The Reaction)

www.myspace.com/theobjex (Their Myspace-incase your too lazy to look it up)

Yay or Nay? Or perhaps Yanay. You decide.

Wee Bit ot of a Hiatus...NEW POST:Check out Metal:Then and Now

2010-06-18T12:22:00.000-07:00

(OFF TOPIC)

If you haven't noticed, few but hopefully faithful readers, I haven't posted in a while. I have tons of ideas for posts but something has gotten in the way: LIFE.

The freaking cold, tender reality of living.

These past few months I've been away, I've been trying to prepare for a move. I'm moving somewhere...alot better. Lets just say that. So thats what I've been consumed by and haven't had the energy to post.

But be patient and I will continue this blog because I love it and I think I'm doing something good here. Small but good.
So sorry and I will get back to you all....
-BGIHM

Metal:Then and Now

2010-03-01T18:46:00.000-08:00

How did metal get from this: Nazareth 70's metal band

To this: Poison 80's hair metal band
Then finally to this: Five Finger Death Punch -Modern day douche bags in a band. DEATH TO FALSE METAL! Your guess is as good as mine.

(Sorry any FiveFingerDeathPunch fans who read my blog)

First off, I just want to thank everyone who is old and new to the blog, who posted their opinions of which I have yet to respond. I value it all-be it praise or critique. I'm glad that people feel comfortable enough to really say what they mean to say and not feel awkward or tense about it. Keep it up-yes that even goes to the Lord Toph fans (*read earlier post) I love interesting conversations even if we both don't necessarily agree. But really, thanks for coming back and checking up to see if I'm still there and for being very patient. Now back to the main topic:

I think having an understanding of how modern metal has come to be formed is important for any metal head. Quite honestly I still am not really sure how it has all come to be. I call myself a metal head yet when faced with this post I found myself doing research and realized that I really don't know shit about it. Or perhaps, rather, that I had only skimmed the surface of a genre that has alot of depth. Far more than a self proclaimed music geek like myself even thought there was.

Recently, I have been into alot of music history and such and I had always wondered how and why the metal that I've become so familiar with (from radio friendly to underground) came to have that certain modern sound I just can't quite place but know by ear. Or even if a metal purest could even consider the hair/glam metal bands of the 80's pure 'metal'. What really is the heavy metal sound? Or what makes a song classified into heavy metal? Drop D tuning? Heavy fast drum work? Or gut wrenching vocals?

If you look at when heavy metal was in its first pure form-its alot different than what we would even consider metal today. I was browsing Youtube the other day and had an argument in the comments section (I know, pathetic) with some being who thought that a song was only metal if there was screaming in it. Of course, my nerdrage kicked in and I argued about various classic bands being metal w/ out the whole pig squeal, growling, etc vocals. And alot of people agreed with the plebeian. So I had to ask them if they thought Black Sabbath wasn't metal to which they responded 'Whats Black Sabbath'? That's when I realized I was dealing with children and logged off. I mean, Black Sabbath, Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple didn't scream-and they are famous metal bands. Had they come out today? They would be considered at most, hard rock.

Lets fast forward to the 80's. Hair metal has arrived. But what I find very interesting is that also during this time, the first wave of black metal arrived that progressed from thrash metal. So at this time bands like Celtic Frost, Venom, Mercyful Fate, and Bathory came to play. Which is probably a result of wanting to be apart from the commercial metal that was emerging in America with the bands like Poison, Stryper, Ratt, etc. This sort of L.A brand of dare I say, pop metal? It's just amusing to me that Europe was like 'Fuck that' and went all black metal. (Not to say there aren't European hair bands. *coughDefLeppard*)

Let me make a point that during all this time, Underground metal (thrash, speed, death, power, doom, etc) is alive and kicking. I suppose I should now go into the awkward 90's fusion metal brand that emerged where it all just sort of got scrambled into many things. Metal fused with rap. Metal fused with rock and punk. Cross over thrash. Metalcore. Prog.You name it. That "nu-metal" sound.

And now? There is so many metal sub genres that it starts to hurt my brain when I think about it. I still don't even feel like I have a definitive grasp on metal as a whole. I wanted to go into more of how it came to be with the history of what was going on around the time but that is another post. This is just the skim of the milk. I can say that it has definitely evolved musically into many things. So much that if you don't like a certain type then maybe you could like another. That is what is great about metal. There could be an audience for anyone and everyone.

So I have to ask:what is metal to you? Or even, what does it do for you? Perhaps then we can fully grasp how and why it became what it is today.

Blacks In Videogames/Anime

2010-01-25T14:22:00.000-08:00

I'm sure most of you know that I have a geek side to me but I'm not sure if you guys realize the extent of my geekdom. I like alot of geeky things. I collected D.C and Marvel cards when I was younger, read comic books and manga, watched anime, and most of all play videogames. I'm sad to say I haven't changed much (but I don't collect cards anymore). Most people are shocked when they find out how much of a nerd I am because I guess I don't really exude that vibe but I am.

Now because of my nerdyness I feel like I have a pretty good handle on the next topic. But first I am going to share a story with you.

I was recently playing a video game called Mass Effect (It's a sci fi rpg on the 360 that is freaking awesome. If you haven't played it you should and if you have, get the 2nd one too!) and my little cousin was watching me play. In the game, you can create your own specific character design. I created a character that was a black female (naturally since I am one). My little cousin took one look and asked me, "Can you make your own person in this game?" I replied 'yes'. He nods and responds "I thought so because there is no way they'd have a black girl as the main person"

I was shocked by how astute his observation was. This led me to think of black people in videogames/anime and they're existence in the virtual reality world.

I always wondered why in anime, specifically the ones in the 80's-early 90's (Think Sailor Moon, Revolutionary Girl Utena, The Roses of Versaille,etc) ,featured people with very Caucasian features as major characters and yet these cartoons where created by Asians? Or even video games. If you've ever played any of the games in the Final Fantasy franchise, (specially final fantasy 12), most characters have fair hair and fair eyes.Now, there is nothing wrong with that but I've always noticed it. Perhaps its because popular media from the Western world (which admittedly is dominated by whites) would be a huge influence on these people. So add that on top of the fact that most of the media I indulge in is produced by Asian/white developers and the representations can get sort of screwed.

But I'm not just blaming them-I'm blaming us too. We allow ourselves to be portrayed stupidly on television (example-watch an hour of VH1 reality television or Maury). Sure, we can blame the media for only showing this side of us and not the affluent African Americans we never hear about, but there comes a point when maybe we have to put the blame on ourselves to allow these images to be circulated through out the world then be surprised when a foreigner depicts us in such a way. Also-unfortunately, (I can say this because I'm black), a lot of black people have a stick up their butt for no reason. I'm not saying other races don't but if my boss, who's a black woman, tells me that she loves black people but sometimes we can be just plain mean to others as well as each other-something is bat shit wrong.

I'm so afraid now that these stereotypes and depictions are so far ingrained in our culture that we can't even dig ourselves out of it. It's a double edged sword. Because if we act ghetto, mean, and uneducated it's expected but if we act normal, educated, nice, then we are being weird and assimilators. But I digress.

In the typical video game and/or anime we are usually either portrayed like Mr. Popo in DBZ (completely black, featureless besides for bright red/pink lips and white eyes ala black face) or some jive turkey cool cat gangster type. *sigh*. And its considered okay and not offensive.

We mainly fit into these roles:

*Tough, big, slightly imposing, but loveable black guy (Think Barret In FF7)

*Funny, comic relief sidekick

*Hyper sexualized, tough, power bitch (Afro Diva-Cowboy Bebop)

*Dark skinned, light haired, not really sure if they are black but we'll just throw them in there so we can have someone ethnic looking-girl.

*Jive turkey Villain

I mean, Nadia The Secret of the Blue Water, the main characters (who's name is central African) is black and the writers/developers originally drew her with kinky hair but they instead made it wavy because they didn't think Japanese people would take her as a main character.

In the upcoming FF13, one of the sidekicks-who is a black guy-carries around a little bird in his 'bird nest' hair and is the comic relief. Maybe I'm taking it all too seriously but c'mon!

I attribute all of this to plain simple lack of exposure. But it IS getting better. I've started to notice a lot of newer anime/manga has a more positive representation of blacks which makes me think we are going in the right direction. (Which may make future cosplaying easier. Although I haven't had the guts to cosplay yet...might be too nerdy).

I'm definitely going to make a pt. 2, probably regarding the Princess and The Frog and other animations I wanted to cover but I ended up not getting to. This was really just skimming the topic but I would like to go more in depth. Anyways, I want your opinion. White or Black, offensive or not. Talk to me.

(BTW-if any of you have a 360 you should totally give me your GT and I'll message you)

I'm No Racist, I'm a Nationalist!

2010-01-08T15:31:00.000-08:00

I apologize for the hiatus. I've just been super busy as of late and admittedly lazy. I've noticed a bit of new comments and I'm sorry I haven't gotten to you guys yet. The clear winning topic of from the poll was the difference between racism and nationalism so that's the one I'll start with.

I think tons of folks' LOVE to throw the whole racist crap askew(yes black people I'm talking about you-although we aren't the only ones to do it)-but instead of just whimsically throwing this very serious ideology as well as accusation around, lets separate racism from prejudice as well as nationalism.

I'm going to be honest with you all because I dislike sugarcoating.

WE ARE ALL A LITTLE PREJUDICE.

I think in a post before I said that everyone was a little racist but I take that back. I don't believe that the black race, or any race, is better or superior to the others.

But I am a very prejudice person. I openly admit I judge some individuals based on not necessarily their race but how they dress, talk, what they listen to, and yes-race sometimes is a factor in this.I'm sorry but if I'm at a red light, its 2am, I'm alone in my car and a big dangerous looking guy starts walking up to my car-I'm going to lock my door. I would do so if he was any race. My point is that I shouldn't feel any guilt for it if he was black. Prejudice can keep you alive but being politically correct can leave you dead. Prejudice is, at least to me, normal. It's instinct. Call bully on me all you wish.

But sometimes I wonder to myself-how can I be asking society not to judge a person like me when I myself am contributing to the very cause I'm fighting against? That's another post though.

Racism, as we all should know, is the belief that your own race (or maybe perhaps a race other than your own-in that case you have some serious issues) is superior to another or all others.

Nationalism- how I interpret it-is a fierce sense of pride in ones own homeland or country. Basically Patriotism. In the non political sense, Ethnic Nationalism would be the collective pride of an ethnic race. Let me stress PRIDE. Not a superiority complex.

For example, I'm proud to be black. I love African, specifically West African, culture and heritage. I am proud to be a part of it. But I don't think I'm better than anyone because of this.

The problem with these three terms is that the line continually seems to be blurred when the line, at least from my point of view, is pretty clear cut.

I think historically, people have always seemed to put their own interpretation on a belief to fit their own intent. Nowadays, if someone hears Nationalism they have a negative and nearly hostile reaction to to the word. We've become so conditioned to associated pride with racism that we can't even differentiate between the two.

Then if you put ideals of Nationalism and cultural pride into a extreme state of mind-the line can definitely be blurred into something very ugly. I believe these bad seeds are the ones that create this sense of sensationalism as well as danger in the term.

In terms of metal, I'm not very bothered by a band with nationalistic lyrics. Although I've had black and white people tell me that I should be-as if the thought of me listening to music that they are not listening to would offend them. As I've mentioned before I'm a rather large fan of Folk/Viking metal. I can easily rock out to Ensiferum, Finntroll, Tyr, Windir, etc and sleep soundly at night.

But what pisses me off is National Socialist Black Metal uses the term Nationalism as a sort of nicer/politically friendly way of defining themselves as Racist. But, as I said before, a clear line should be forged between the two. Of course, there is more to NSBM as a genre and their ideologies that include Paganism, Odinism, Nazism, etc. I'd like just make sure everyone knows that NSBM is practically a minority in Black Metal despite popular belief. Black Metal, or Satanism, touches on individualism and thinking for yourself rather than the collectivist mentality that NSBM shares that includes their beliefs of race.

What I'm trying to say is that NO ONE should feel ashamed to be a part of an amazing culture as well as heritage. Nor should anyone feel the need to not to keep the heritage homogeneous. I know tons of folks' shout 'mixing races is beautiful' yadda yadda. And it is. But I can understand why a lot of people would like to marry within their own race and keep that line strong. Not out of racism but out of pride and love of your own people to keep the differences that make us all interesting the same for years to come.

A comment was left by Nonworshipper T-zine (sorry to call you out but the comment was too good-welcome to the blog btw) that seemed to sum all this up fairly well:

"I've discussed the difference between racism and nationalism to many people, even speaking outside of metal terms. Oftentimes, the two are used interchangeably and it's because many enter a nationalistic viewpoint with racism on the mind. It's like how a lot of Viking metal fans become Odinists, some getting entrenched in that subtle/not-so-subtle racial superiority brainwashing. Nationalism is being proud of your country and heritage, racism is thinking your race and likely your country and heritage along with it, are the elite. This automatically oppresses others due to them instantly becoming sub-par (or sub-human) in your eyes, since you'd view yourself as superior, the cream of the crop. Yet, when nationalists get too out of control with their politics, nationalism can easily turn into racism."

Oh, humanity...

Merry Christmas, X-Mas, Happy Holidays, etc.

2009-12-25T10:01:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays you guys!

Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Ramadan, Kwanzaa etc. No matter your religious or non religious beliefs.

Be safe, happy, eat well, enjoy yourselves and I hope the new year brings you everything you hoped for.

-BGIHM

(image from http://www.internationaldesigns.biz/images/LasVegasHolidays.jpg)

Help Me Choose and Vote!

2009-12-10T22:58:00.000-08:00

So I'm toying with different topics I would like to post within the next few days/weeks and I need your help in choosing. The next few blogs will be in order according to the rank in votes starting from the highest.
Since I apparantly don't have Javascript I can't embed the poll so just click on the link real quick and vote on the follwing topics:

Blacks In Anime/Videogames
The Difference Between Nationalism/Racism in Metal
Flavor of The Week-The Objex
Why Women In Metal Aren't Taken Seriously pt. 2
Youtube Video:Black People Can Listen to Metal
Metal: Then and Now

Here's the link:

http://www.neomyz.com/poll/poll.aspx?1bc2e586e93cae64

If you have any suggestions that you personally want to put forth if you didn't like any of these, please comment and I'll get back to you!

Thats all folks'!

Dating In The Metal Scene Pt. 2: Race Issues

2009-12-07T21:32:00.000-08:00

It was inevitable that my choice in music would affect what kind of person I would date. I had the formula and code for what type of guy I would like (*see King Ov Hell in pt. 1)...but then here comes the awkward part. Finding someone who would like me. Let's not beat around the bush here, my choices were (and to an extent still are) extremely limited. I've dating out of my race a lot, not purposely. I have no secret agenda or past rue against black men. I do find them physically appealing. But realistically-how many black guys do you personally know that listen to Folk/Black Metal, or hell, even metal? I've met a few in the past-but they were already dating someone else or I was dating someone else at the time. In fact, a good bit of black guys usually think I'm either a weirdo or an 'assimilator'. But, that's a whole other post.

To this day, I've dated one black guy who had similar interests but it didn't work out.

Anyways, around 14 or 15, I went out to local concerts and parties with friends. I was usually the only black anything there and I would SWOON over these guys that were there but they didn't pay any attention to me. I was always just 'the black girl' that was there, adorned but insignificant. I could know so much more about music in general than my girl friends, have probably more in common with these guys, make jokes with them but still none of them were ever interested. I liked a particular boy, who looked like a mini version of Bartek Borweic. I didn't just like him-I convinced myself that I loved him. He was a friend of a friend and we got along really well the few times we hung out. So one day, we were talking outside of a venue and a group of his friends were snickering behind him. They wanted him to come back so they could enter the place, he waved good bye but I heard one of his friends say, "Why do you talk to her? You don't even like black girls. " and my crush replied, "I'm just being nice". My world was crushed. After that, I just assumed all the guys I liked didn't like me because I was black.

But, it seemed like as soon as I stopped looking for someone, they came to me. My first boyfriend, J, I met at a friends house. It was her cousin. I thought he initially was attractive, but believed he wouldn't like me, then a month after meeting he asked me out.

J was an anime nerd ( he also got me into anime. Shh-don't tell anyone-but I'm a secret anime/video game geek. You wouldn't know by looking at me!) but also liked heavy metal and could play bass very well. That lasted a year-then I broke up with him because I was bored (ah, youth!).

Then as I got older, I found that if I didn't try so hard to search, it just happened. I met more people, got a job, went to all types of shows. I accumulated more guy friends and in that way, men have become so much easier to talk to/deal with.

My current boyfriend is my ideal package. He's smart, compassionate, not a skinny little waif like I've dated in the past but actually has muscle, sarcastic like me, has plans/goals, sweet, hard working, long hair, hairy, is open minded, loves his folk metal and loves me...

But he hates anime.

Oh well, no ones perfect.

The point I'm trying to make is that for a black girl who likes this type of music exclusively, dating can be challenging. I personally didn't have a problem with the whole race thing, but some guys in the past were just damn uncomfortable with the idea. As if dating a black girl wasn't very "metal". Because, lets face it, when most people (society) think of black women-its mostly a negative representations.

And in my experience, its not so much me that makes them uncomfortable, but the ever present thought 'What will everyone think?'.

I learned a long time ago that If I became what everyone wanted me to be, I'd be freakin' miserable. Quite honestly, speaking of race issues gets super tiring and frustrating-especially in this community-but it's there. I can't pretend its not and turn a blind eye like everyone ( mass media) else has been doing. I don't have an issue with it but everyone else seems to.

Issues with race and dating still is a huge deal to a lot of people-rightfully so! It's dangerous not to be cautious.

But its not dangerous to be open minded.

Flavor of The Week-D-FE

2009-12-01T12:29:00.000-08:00

Thanks to one of the followers of this blog, (Thanks Luke!) I discovered this awesome band called D-FE. Get this-It's a tribal metal band. It's super interesting and dare I say-refreshing? I like the idea of mixing traditional African tribal music (mostly heavy percussion) and even some Afro-Caribbean instruments with heavy metal. It's so metal because it goes against everything metal is supposed to be. The unfortunate thing is that I can barely find any info on them yet apparently they've been on the scene since 1997! I'm not too sure but on their myspace it say they disbanded with their last LP that was out in 2008-which saddens me. Check em' out though. It's a shame that they are unsigned...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8agfU7pcSog <-The single 'Kermite'. http://www.myspace.com/dfeband <-D-FE myspace

Yay or Nay? I want your opinion.

Heavy Metal Snobbery? (Europe vs. Everyone Else)

2009-10-07T11:06:00.000-07:00

I apologize for the lack of posts-I haven't been on the Internet for a while but I really wanted to bring this to your attention. (I'll continue the Dating In The Metal Scene pt. 2 after this)

Recently, I've noticed a bit of a...debate going on in the metal scene that I think has been there for a while now. I sometimes look over the comments on YouTube for different metal bands with blacks in them just to read the support or lack thereof for the band.

More than anything, it seems that a lot of European metal heads are emphatic that European metal is the best kind of metal and any other type of attempt at metal is considered less or even perhaps bizarre and futile.

And even on this blog I've noticed that the comments I get from the Europeans (specifically around the Baltic region or Scandinavian) all sort of revolve around the same issue. It's not even so much race as it there is an emphasis on 'culture'. The main argument being that metal music in general (now correct me Scandinavian readers if I'm wrong)-is for a certain 'culture'. Now let me stress culture. It seems to perplex them the most not that a black person would be into metal per se but the fact that black culture as a whole is the complete antithesis of metal culture...if that makes sense? I'm not pointing fingers at anyone-it's just an observation. But it's not just the whole black thing.

I believe that American metal bands just aren't taken as seriously as European metal bands...at least in Europe. Now, you may ask me, but BGIHM-what's wrong with that? Absolutely nothing. It's this elitist attitude that I dislike.

Granted, metal sort of was molded/perfected in Europe with bands like Cream, Black Sabbath, and Led Zeppelin I think we can all attribute its roots to blues and American Rock n Roll. I think different forms of metal were obviously created in different areas. Thrash metal is so purely American with bands like Metallica and Anthrax while Black metal is purely a European and specifically Norwegian form of metal. I'm not saying that there are no bands from either Europe or America that aren't either-but the base of where that brand of metal comes from is there. Now I'm not going to go into the semantics and hierarchy of the different types of metal because its just too damn much to get into. I guess what I'm mainly miffed about is the unwillingness, hell-on both sides, to admit that Heavy Metal at best was and is a joint effort on all fronts. There are some AMAZING South American metal bands, as well as Japanese (well truthfully, I only like Gallhammer), and the sparse but good metal that's being released out of Africa.

This didn't come out as eloquently as I had hoped but the basis of what I'm trying to say is that Metal music is such a minority in music that there should be no snobbery of who's balls are bigger than the other. Europe has amazing metal bands such as Gorgoroth, Iron Maiden, Opeth, Carcass, etc. America has amazing metal bands such as Death, Slayer, Iron Butterfly, Dream Theater,etc (Yes, I like Dream Theater, so what). And there are so many more.

I dunno, maybe I'm still ignorant on the topic. Please comment, I want your ever intriguing thoughts.

Who cares, its good music right?

Dating In The Metal Scene pt. 1: The Start

2009-09-14T18:23:00.000-07:00

Not that I have tons of experience, but I thought I would touch on this topic.

Bottom line is-I've always had a 'thing' for guys in this brand of music. From a young age, I was always attracted to men my peers and sisters deemed as ugly. All my friends liked short cropped hair, polo shirts, and abercrombie or south pole wearing guys. Which was a turn off for me.

I was more attracted to men who looked like they should work at a Renaissance fair or at least be an extra in brave heart. Long hair, sweaty and lean with tons of body hair. (I like hairy men. I know it's strange. I just think it's so masculine...delicious)

It didn't necessarily matter what race the guy was as long as he fit the short list of requirements.

I've always had a fascination for finding beauty in the grotesque. I liked that my friends thought these guys were unkempt and not worthy. I liked the juxtaposition of a long haired man having a feminine quality yet maintaining a masculine edge. (long hair usually a beauty trait resigned for women) It just turned me on-the thought of a guy like that made me tingle between my legs and excited me.

It just so happens that the music I started to fall in love with at a young age usually had something to do with men that fit this desciption. The aggression, the hair flying everywhere, the shirt strewn across the stage revealing a chest soaked in perspiration, hands moving lovingly across the strings of a guitar or bass, and a deep and evil growl that made something inside me quench. When every one's first celebrity crush was Will Smith or Tom Cruise-mine was King Ov Hell from Gorgoroth (pictured above *droolll*) and Mikael Akerfeldt's from Opeth.

Yeah-it's an acquired taste.

Naturally-all this would affect my dating choices. I had to date someone with as much passion for music as I contained and nothing less would satisfy me. But as I reached about 15-I started to wonder if the types of guys I like would in anyway be interested in me. Luckily, I never had a problem finding boys....

(Dating in The Metal Scene pt. 2: Race Issues coming soon...)

Sorry for the lack of postage.

Flavor of The Week-Daybreak Medusa

2009-09-03T11:39:00.000-07:00

If you have the time, check out this band called Daybreak Medusa. It slightly reminds of Killswitch Engage but with out the screaming and hard edge. I'd call them more hard rock with melodic influence but they call themselves 'alternative metal'. Not my type of music (I like it a bit harder and aggressive) But I figured you all may or may not dig them. They almost sound like a pop rock band sometimes, but I think they have a chance to appeal to that demographic. I wish them luck. Here are some links to explore this band's sound.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qQ_1tM1y2Y4 (feat. the song 'Obligation'-catchy hook)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XEZpMAU_ie0&feature=related (feat. song 'With You')

http://www.myspace.com/daybreakmedusa

yay or nay? Or maybe meh.

Passion...less? (Off topic)

2009-08-20T12:33:00.001-07:00

I've been feeling a bit lethargic about a lot of things lately. I don't know if I've finally become cynical or senile (probably a mixture of both) but things that seemed important to me not too long ago suddenly aren't so important.

My hobbies and the passion I had for them are wilting. For example, I love art. I can paint, sketch, sculpture, photograph, write, etc anything. And not to toot my own horn but I'm pretty good at it. But I do it because I LOVE it. Recently-I haven't been doing it as much. I can't even remember the last home project I had just for fun. My canvas' are in storage, my paints are starting to dry up, and I've lost a good bit of my brushes. Someone stole my memory stick at school for my camera and I've just been too nonchalant to replace it (it's fairly cheap to replace).

I also love music. When I was fourteen I received my first acoustic guitar which I cherished. I still have it but ever since my older brother thought he should get one too and practically copied all the songs I was doing, started listening to the music I listen to, etc I lost passion for that as well. I guess, I used to be so artistically inclined as well as productive and now I just feel so...apathetic.

It's not even just my past hobbies anymore that's being infected. College just seems like an annoying bug on my windshield. If I don't go I cannot get a decent paying job or support myself in the future (at least not without struggling) . Not going is not an option according to my family-more specifically my parents who already have a doctor son and lawyer daughter. Things are going well with my boyfriend but I don't feel like putting 100% in the relationship like I originally planned. What do I need a boyfriend for anyway? I'm only 18-but I can't imagine myself with out him.

Sometimes I honestly want to pack up and move. Out of the country. Anywhere.

Not necessarily running away from my problems but just relocating to find myself again. I have a rebel sister who basically went against everything my parents said she should do. And she seems so happy. She's lived all over America. Has this amazing jet setting lifestyle and it works for her. She was my age when she ran away. But I'm too chicken shit to do that.

It's like all the teen angst I never had in my early teens to middle teens is coming back to haunt me in my late teens. I should be so ecstatic and excited right now because the world is my oyster, so to speak. Right now should be the best time of my life but I just feel empty.

Or is restless more the word?

Advice?

Heavy Metal In Africa...Black Africa!?

2009-07-24T13:57:00.000-07:00

I had come across this article maybe a year ago and had since lost it but recently I found it again. It's the best article I've come across that perfectly describes the fledgling metal scene in Black Africa. What I mean by Black Africa is Sub-Saharan (I don't like that word but it is what it is) and not South Africa. I mean, Africa where there are black Africans. This article especially hit home since although I was born in America, my father is West African and my mother is Black American. I knew the few readers I had would find this article interesting. Here is the link to the whole article (which I suggest you read, its very interesting. There are two pics as well) but I will post two paragraphs in this blog that stuck out to me:

http://kkahnharris.typepad.com/weblog/2007/09/metal-in-africa.html

[...The third thing that struck me was the attitude among the metal heads in Gaberone toward race. It is often assumed that “whiteness” plays an important role in heavy metal subcultures. In Botswana this is, however, not the case, since all metalheads (at least the ones I encountered) are black. And as if this was not enough, all the metal fans I talked to thought that it was strange that I, a white man, liked heavy metal...
Gaborone, I believe that these observations all have one thing in common: they bring to the fore a mismatch between, on the one hand, the theoretical framework through which heavy metal is understood, and, on the other hand, the heterogeneous character of the contemporary, globalized heavy metal culture. Why did I find the metal scene in Gabarone strange? Because my understanding of heavy metal was ethnocentric - i.e. based on the idea that European and/or North American heavy metal represents 'normality', while african metal is characterized as an exotic 'deviation' from this norm.]

I have some subjects to tap into on this subject. I think first, we need to break down Africa as a whole. Most people are extremely ignorant of the continent, the countries, the culture, etc. And I can't blame them when all you see of Africa is mostly the poor desolate wasteland that its always portrayed as. Simply not true. I know because I've been there to visit family-hell my cousin there listens to the Coors and I saw a versace store while there. But if all you see is the stereotypical portrayal of Africa-how is the metal industry going to believe that there is any sort of market for that music there of all places? This leads me to one of the points I bolded:

Do we think of music as ethnocentric?

Meaning that we associate different types of music with different types of groups, races, minorities, etc. What was the most interesting aspect of the article was that the black metal heads thought HE was strange to enjoy metal.

How interesting, eh?

This again only makes me think of one of my past posts on subculture adaptation and how black people will always be viewed as a whole and never individuals with their own tastes, mindsets, and ways of life. We are a race but we are separate as people and just because someone can know one or two or perhaps even 20 black people does not mean they all are into the same things. I want to delve more into the article in later post but first I want to know what you think of it.

B.E.T: Ignoring the 'Others'. Who's at fault?

2009-07-18T11:35:00.000-07:00

It's obvious that there seems to be a lack of acknowledgement by popular media culture of blacks in any form of alternative music, art, profession, etc. My question is, why? And even more specifically, a lack of acknowledgement from black people themselves. I've contemplated this for a while now and I've come up with these few conclusions:

Is it just ignorance of the scene in general? (as in it's so rare/unique that it doesn't deserve attention yet?)

Is the media (both black and corporate white) wanting to portray black people a certain way for ratings/money reasons?

Is it easier to label black people, as a whole, into one category rather then defining them by individual traits.

But then I started to think of the socioeconomic part of all this, especially when considering the black media. I got to thinking of the different options kids in low income homes have in regards to branching out of what they know and getting exposed to a different lifestyle. I've grown up quite differently from a lotof black people that I personally know and they point that out to me by the way I dress, talk, act, who I'm friends with, what I listen to, what school I went to, etc. And I'm starting to realize that a lot of the black people I'm friends with and/or meet at concerts have grown up similar to me-which is middle class maybe upper middle class. So from a young age I've been exposed to different ideas/cultures that perhaps my counterparts have yet to be. How can they be consciously aware of a movement or idea that they have never been a part of or exposed to? Should they be expected to be actively involved?

Could the reasons why the black media is shunning this certain small community be because its not massively relatable on a national sense?

B.E.T., as most of you may know, is the black entertainment channel. A few weeks (or a month)ago, B.E.T had their annual awards show and all I could think about was 'Why don't they have a best black male/female in metal, opera, rock, etc'. I think I now know so I'm going to narrow it down to three things:

1.) There aren't many musicians/entertainers to choose from in that category. It's rare that a black person be into those scenes-I get it.

2.) There isn't a great knowledge of any of it. Most people don't even know what Afropunk is or the BRC (Black Rock Coalition), and I can understand that.

3.) It's not very relatable to most black folks.

So, I think it boils down to that. I just wish there would be some mass media recognition of it though. Black people can be so much more than what we are CONSTANTLY portrayed as-wouldn't it just mix things up a bit if we weren't so categorized?

Anyway, I want your thoughts/opinions.

(BTW, sorry for lack of updates. Been preparing for college and sorting out all other assorted drama.)

I Will Say One Thing About It...(off topic)

2009-06-27T15:18:00.000-07:00

I know you all are probably tired of hearing about the death of MJ and having it shoved down your throats but I just wanted to say one thing about it.
All this adoration of him is complete bullshit because just last week they were calling him 'wacko jacko' and hating him. I just despise dishonesty and I think its interesting how suddenly when someone dies they become important or even respected when in life they were regarded as a joke. Yeah, I get it. He was the king of pop...okay. What else?

People die-get over it.

Treat him like how you were just a couple of days ago rather than pay reverence for someone you didn't even really respect in the first place.

It happened with Anna Nicole and now with MJ and I'm sick of it.

Okay, my mini rant is over.
Opinions?

Gay Metalheads?

2009-06-05T10:30:00.000-07:00

Male dominated. Sweaty. In your face. Brutal. Head Banging. Mosh Pits. Screaming. Aggression.

Where would gay fit into any of this?

One of my best friends is gay and plays bass in a metal band (Well, he says metal- I say metal core). He hasn't told a soul that he's gay, besides me and the few others he's come out to. What saddens me the most is that he hasn't told his best friends/band members that he is. I wondered about this for a while. Why would he feel that he couldn't tell his best friends, some of which he's known since kindergarten?

This made me think that being a gay metal head is almost comparable to being a female metal head or a black metal head but it just might be worse. Metal is generally super machismo (not including hair metal which I don't consider real metal) as well as aggressive and doesn't really allow for a homosexual male to feel comfortable declaring that he is indeed homosexual. I bet there are a good bit of gay famous heavy metal musicians but only a few are brave enough to out themselves, like the one in the picture above. Gaahl of black metal band, Gorgoroth. He practically screams 'gay'.

Or the most famous outed gay metalhead Rob Halford of Judas Priest. Those are the only two that I could think of off the top of my head. And out of all the metal bands and fans out there I'm positive there are more. I might go as far as to say that heavy metal is slightly homophobic. It's almost like being a gay rapper. Have you heard of any famous gay male rappers? I didn't think so.

I always found it humorous that metal is so testosterone fueled yet the fans are okay with growing their hair long, wearing make up and tight leather pants yet be so standoff-ish when it comes to the possibility of gay men in their scene.
What say you?

"Your Not Like The Rest of Them..."

2009-06-01T13:42:00.000-07:00

Tell me what the hell this means?

I was at my brother's apartment meeting some of his friends and one guy (a friend of a friend) in particular (who had a confederate flag bedspread mind you)-got to talking to me about music, political views, yadda yadda. Then rather abruptly he says "You and your brother aren't like the rest of them". I sort of was dumbfounded then a fiery rage starts to bubble in me and I ask "What does that mean?" He sort of shrugs and goes off on this explanation that my brother and I aren't like regular black people. We don't dress or speak like most black people. In his words he says "You dress like us and that's a good thing". I decide to quiet my inner rage and diplomatically have a conversation with him about how that sounded to me and why its a tad offensive. He got super offended and said 'Ah, now your pulling the black card on me. I was just complimenting you.' he said this sort of jokingly but by that time I had enough so I choose to go tell my brother I'm leaving.

First of all-I'm confused on how this was a compliment. Your not like the rest of them...as opposed to what? Meaning that the rest of them (other black folks) are synonymous with something negative. I'm always so flustered when people say this or something similar to me and the countless other black folks that 'aren't like the rest of them'. There are SO many different types of black people out there yet because of media reinforcement and a few negative encounters-others have formed a false opinion of us. I hate feeling like I've already posted about this but its true and it happens all the time. Why are people surprised that I should talk a certain way, dress, be interested in certain things? What it really comes down to is a lack of exposure to each other. There are many people who don't venture out-racially-in terms of making relationships with people. And its not their fault. If they've never been exposed to anything outside of their circle then why would they ever really need to? And this goes for all races of people but I honestly believe that in order to let go of prejudices and false representations we need to try and get to know people of different cultures and lifestyles apart from the media or the few moments of contact we've had with said races.

I absolutely hate that where I live its so segregated (unconsciously mind you). There's the Hispanic, white and black areas of town and there are stigmas in all the areas. I have friends that live all over my town and yet they still will say some pretty nasty things about areas they've never even been in because of what they have HEARD and not what they have EXPERIENCED themselves.

Now mind you, I've met plenty of vile people that have come from all races yet I know that one person does not represent a culture, ethnicity, or an entire race.

*shrug* Maybe its just like that where I live. All I know is that I need to get the hell out of this city-but does it ever really change wherever you go?

Tardy...

2009-06-01T13:25:00.000-07:00

I do apoligize for the lack of updates. I've been super busy graduating. Not to mention all the personal family/relationship drama I've been having but I promise to continue posting when I have the time. Keep checking back and if you have any questions/comments post them here. Thanks!

Flavor of The Week:Earl Greyhound

2009-04-15T16:57:00.001-07:00

Not a metal band but good non the less. I was thoroughly surprised when my bf took me to see this band in January. They were amazing and really nice people. I had meant to blog about it but I had forgotten w/ my computer crashing and all. It's hard rock with a 70's influence that makes you want to head bang. Check em' out-(the other songs besides this one are a bit poppish but if you just want cruisin' music this is it)

Here's their single 'S.O.S'

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K4HEXWLZJ_U

And 'Monkey' (audio's sort of shitty)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oQao6S5wjBM&feature=related

What say you?

Help: List of Bands w/ Blacks in Them.

2009-04-13T10:16:00.000-07:00

I really wanted to formulate a list of bands that have black folk's in them and put it in a side bar or something just in case someone wanted to know. I wanted your help in finding some bands-this would include metal (of course), rock, indie, etc. Just any type of music that isn't what you'd expect w/ blacks. I first wanted to get some bands from you guys then add on the ones that I know of to make the list.

(BTW: I might make a list of female fronted metal bands too so if you know any really good ones add that below your bands w/ blacks listing)

So please post some bands!
Thanks!

What does it matter to you? (Off topic)

2009-04-12T10:26:00.000-07:00

I guess I haven't really written about many aspects of my personal life so I'll just rant about something that happened yesterday night with my boyfriend and friends.

Many people-I'm guessing- have different friends for different reasons right? Maybe you feel more comfortable around one group of friends than the other or a certain group makes you feel a different way than the other. Well, I have my group of friends who are very socially conscience-meaning they are into socializing and have the 'who knows who' mentality that I thought at one time I liked and was accepted in but now I feel as though I'm kidding myself. I don't consider myself a fake person and a while ago I really cared about knowing as many people as I could, going to tons of parties, etc. Call it maturity or growing up but now I find those same 'friends' unbearable and have started to go back to the group of friends I had been neglecting for some time and realized for the first time last week that I've never been more myself around anyone before than around my boyfriend and the neglected friends.

Anyways-my boyfriend isn't necessarily socially awkward but it takes a long time for him to warm up to people so I hadn't introduced him to the snobby friends for obvious reasons. He loves hanging out with the other group though. I was invited to a party and decided to go with him so they all could finally meet him (actually they kept on nagging me to bring him a long just so that they could really judge him). We arrive and immediately we get smirks, whispers, etc. My friends meet him but I can tell their greedy buggy eyes are looking him up and down and are surprised. I could visibily see him freeze up and become uncomfortable. One of them pulls me aside and says, "Wow, I didn't know your boyfriend was..." She left the last bit hanging. Immediately I get defensive and say "Was what?" She sort of blushes and says, "You know...white. You never told us! So he's really your boyfriend or is he just your friend? I didn't know guys like him dated...girls like you."

I kid you not ladies and gentlemen. This is what she said. At that moment more than anything I wanted to be back with my other friends-away from Suburbia.

"Girls like me?" I asked? She scoffs and begins to say " I wasn't being...I just-" I then decided to cross the room and go to my bf saying 'Lets go' and left. I felt so bad bringing him but I thought they wouldn't be so blatantly shocked by it. Really? Is this the world we live in?

Friends my ass. I wipe my hands clean of them.

I hadn't told them his race because I honestly didn't think it was an important aspect of him. That's just not the first thing that comes to mind when I think of him because there are sooo many other ways to describe him. And anyways-what does it matter? I've never declared to prefer any type of guy because I've dated different types of races-so why is it such a big freakin' deal in 2009? And it insulted me even more that she would still question if he is really my boyfriend.

We ended up going to my other friend's house and having good conversations with like minded cool people-the kind of conversation amongst good company that I'd been craving for so long I hadn't realized. I can't believe I'd been so conceited for so long and knew that I'd been missing out for a long while.

This post may lead to a separate one-maybe something to do with dating in the metal scene. It's not really important anyways but I felt like I should write about it and see what what you guys thought.

*sigh* I guess sometimes I'm really disappointed in humanity because we have the potential to be better. My bf jokes that I'm a misanthrope and I'm starting to think I am. Or maybe that night is why I hardly hang out with my girl friends anymore.

Turn that Devil Worshipping music down!

2009-04-07T19:11:00.000-07:00

I want to delve into something completely different right now so-lets talk about Satan!

Well-more specifically black metal.

I had a friend that recently came up to me and said " You do know most metal is about Satanism. Your worshipping the Devil by listening to it". I thought this was a tad unfair to say number one because I don't really believe the devil exist. Two because there are soooo many different types of metal so its unfair to label all of it as devil worshipping. I mean-can you imagine the hair metal bands of the 80's spatting satanic rituals while wearing pink leopard print leotards? I didn't think so.

A lot of these same comments came from black folks and I think I said before that in terms of metal as a whole-many black people feel turned off from it just from the principal that they feel it to be sacrilegious of sorts.

I personally used to be absolutely terrified of metal in general-like I used to be scared to watch Marilyn Manson and NIN music videos on MTV late at night and I thought THAT was metal. It wasn't really up until my Freshman year that I finally formed my own opinion and really delved into different genres of music. Now I'm very comfortable watching music videos for bands like Gorgoroth or Carpathian Forest. Quite honestly-I think its amusing. But I can understand that for most black and white people-it looks and sounds disturbing.

MOST metal isn't even about religion/Satanism. I mean, people have to understand that there are sub genres such as power metal (the most fun kind to me), speed metal, NBSM (<-now that's National Socialist Black Metal which basically is metal that you don't want to listen to if your not racist-bands like Burzum, Infernum, or Graveland-this is only a very small percentage of the black metal community believe it or not), Hair metal, Death, Goth, Thrash, Symphonic, Progressive, Folk (another favorite of mine), Stoner, etc. And the only type that has themes of Satanism IS black metal. Now, I realize this is not everyones thing or type of music/metal they are interested in but I just wanted to get it out there that there are HUGE differences in all of the genres. I take most music with a grain of salt. Obviously, I won't support bands that are racist and crap but I like all kinds of different music and clean, pure, evil black metal is fine with me. I guess it doesn't really bother me or intimidate me.

...Yeah. I have alot of guy friends.

Now, I'm not saying black metal bands or music for that matter is for the faint of heart or the morally inclinded. Hell, some of these bands burned churches (luckily no one was inside I don't believe. Let me do a rain check on that) but I suppose this post was really about metal as a whole.

Anyways, this isn't all I wanted to cover on the subject but I hope that more and more people can explore metal as a whole genre rather than condemn it just as one stereotype. I may have to do another blog on the subject later. I guess the bottom line is you just gotta research and be smart about what your listening to and take it light heartily (clearly not if its NSBM or any other hate bands)-if not you might be missing out on music you'd never expect to fall in love with.

Black Metal sign by: Mefistoteles@deviantart.com

The Changing Face of Rock

2009-04-05T19:41:00.000-07:00

I thought you all would find this article interesting. It's old but its about Ozzfest 2008 and how metal is beginning to become more multiracial/diverse. I think its a good thing that music like metal or even rap is becoming more and more submerged with new faces that bring different sounds to it.

http://www.blurdigital.com/read-and-engage/detail/the-changing-face-of-rock/

Back to Square One. (Not Important but If You Want to Read Anyway...)

2009-04-04T19:58:00.000-07:00

WARNING: TEMPER TANTRUM/RANT

*sigh* I absolutely hate being childish and pointing a finger, but hey-I'm still a child anyway right? So I'm going on a mini-rant.

If you click on the post about Lord Toph (The post, in fact below this one) and read the comments you'll see what I'm talking about. First of all-this blog-the very one you are observing now is MINE. My own. My own to rant about race in the metal scene or my own to rant about non important junk that no one really cares about-its still mine.
I decided to post on the Internet to see if kindred souls would identify or not identify and give me their honest opinion on the subject and I had thought that I had gotten my reasoning behind the blog and its subject very clear in nearly all my posts. So a comment such as this:

"I guess this is what we can expect from a 17 yr old girl with no vision, somebody who only sees in black or white"

Or this:

"Agrees with Anonymous why does it have to do with race .. why does everything come down to the race card..."

This gets me thinking if people really even think about what they are reading in this blog at all and why I feel the need to identify the blog as 'The Black Girl Into Heavy Metal'. I feel like I'm being redundant but I'll rehash this again so the obvious newcomers to the blog don't get me misinterpreted. In my normal everyday life-I could care less about race-I have friends and family of other races. It's OTHER PEOPLE that seem to care so much for reasons beyond my knowledge. I wish I could say we live in a bubble gum world where we sing peace and love songs and don't notice race and stereotypes within the race but we do. I personally feel as though these comments are very naive and dangerous. I was going to do a different post about this but-what the hell- I'll just include it in the rant. In my opinion-bash me if you want, this is my blog and I can say whatever the hell I wish-I feel that humans aren't necessarily inherently racist but inherently prejudice. We are programmed from a young age to see in shades and are constantly barraged with false representations of a culture/race that we slowly are poisoned to believe. What do I mean? When people see black folks like Lord Toph, Grace Jones, Jada Pinkett, hell even Dennis Rodman they are either glorified for being 'different' and unique' aka 'not like the other ones' or are hated and are wretched for the very same reasons by somebody and usually it has to do with race. Example of this would be YouTube. Click on a video with a black person or an Asian, or a Latino doing something 'out of the ordinary' and read the comments. I also want to make it clear that its not white folks that are just doing it but EVERYONE is prejudging and berating each other.
And I'm being persecuted because I'm honest? Racism and prejudice exist-especially so with black artists in alternative forms of music. This blog is just me putting a light to it because we really don't have many voices in the community to attest to it.
It comes down to the race card because it usually does-if you don't believe me then look at the controversy surrounding the President.
I'm not saying black folks should receive a shiny medal or a pat on the back. I just want awareness-that's all and I enjoy the thoughts and opinions of others who think above a 5th grade level. So please, from now on lets all be a little more honest with ourselves when it comes to racial identity in music and within our own communities. I guess I just felt those post put me right back to square one and the point I was trying to make in the first place.

I realize this is the Internet and you as well can/will say anything you want in turn and I respect your opinion...just not your unfounded attacks.

That's all folks'!

Flavor of The Week: Lord Toph

2009-03-22T21:37:00.000-07:00

While perusing the world of Youtube I came across a video of interest. Namely because its a black guy doing goth alt. music. *sigh* So I enthusiastically click on the thumbnail and was disappointed. The song isn't the worst part about it-its the terrible unimaginative music video and the cheesiness almost makes it seem like some strange joke/parody of a goth song.

However, I do give him kudos for trying after reading some of comments (like one saying 'wtf. just go rap.' or something similar which pissed me off...clearly we haven't gotten pretty far in contradiction to the Afropunk post). It's clear that the video was low budget and the art director clearly thought he was doing something innovative.

Side note:The shoes the girl is wearing in the vid are really fab though.

Needless to say, I decided to rename this one the sour flavor of the week because it left a bitter taste in my mouth. I think sometimes black folks sort of exaggerated the dark quality of this type of music when they go into it (ex. Wicked Wisdom) but hell, they are paving the way for the rest of us.

Video for 'Mesmerized':

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KvA6ImD9Lc8&feature=related

Yay or Nay?I want your opinion. Comment Please.

Not Dead Yet!...In Other News, Afropunk!

2009-03-22T17:04:00.000-07:00

I'm sort of back-just in case anyone still visits this blog. I'm writing this on the temporary computer that I have now that I'm supposed to be using only for school work but-obviously I'm not. Yeah, I'm such a rebel.

Afropunk. I'm sure most of you that visit this blog know what that is even if you've never heard of it. To make a long story short its a documentary by James Spooner that sort of catalogues the experience of black people who dig rock music in all its forms and the social issues that still plague the scene today. Why do I suddenly bring this up? Well, I guess I just wanted to post something after so long a hiatus as well as that I wanted to emphasize the importance of the Afropunk movement for awkward kids of all colors around the world. Mind you, I think this film shouldn't only be viewed as just for black kids but for any one who's ever felt they don't belong anywhere and have needed some sort of identity. The joy that is felt in finding a similar interest and common hardship in another human being cannot be paralleled.

For black people into alternative types of music-this movie is a must. It's especially important for us because no other race of people seem to face as much adversity (from both sides) when they like music and go to shows other than the usual: Rap, R&B, Funk, Soul, etc. Just being honest. I'm happy that now it's becoming more of a normal occurrence and that even black people are starting to recognize/accept their own who have gone a separate route. And I'm also happy white people are starting to realize that they aren't the only ones who can go psycho at shows or bang their head to their favorite band. Music is freedom and now that the world is becoming more and more educated in the ways of each other-we can only hope that movements like Afropunk don't have to exist anymore.

(BTW: Super excited to go to an upcoming Opeth show with my boyfriend. Hopefully I can have pics up from it)

(Another BTW: Pic above is of musician Honeychild Coleman who is an Afropunk musician-check her out if you think she looks interesting)

Apology

2009-02-01T11:28:00.001-08:00

I'm really very sorry about the lack of updates. My computer crashed and it won't turn on at all-I mean it will but all I get is a black screen and my monitor just says 'not receiving information', etc. So I suppose this blog will go on a teeny bit of a hiatus until I get it fixed. (I'm typing this at a friends place right now) so stay subscribed or check it out the blog every once in a while for updates if they happen at all. I fully intend to maintain the blog-my computer just has to get fixed is all.

Love,

BGIHM

Just So You Know...

2009-01-20T17:07:00.000-08:00

We have a new President! 44th of the United States President Barack Obama. I just thought since it is a landmark in history that I have to post a short but sweet blog about it. We watched it at school today on a huge projector as he was sworn in and for the first time in a long time I felt proud to be an American. All day people were just saying that today was only a big deal because he is the first 'African American President' of America and that pissed me off.
Yeah, he is black. I've gotten over that but really-this is huge because he is President at a time when it is so prudent and important that we have a leader who can possibly make America as well as the rest of the world right again. There is a reason why so many countries are invested in this as well-and it's not because he is black. It also is because of the state of the economic world and healing the racial divide perhaps in more countries besides the U.S. It's so awesome that it happened in my lifetime and I honestly feel humbled and just hope that he lives up to his message and the hoopla surrounding him.
I don't think Obama should be viewed as someone to save us all as some are putting that type of pressure on him-but more so a fresh start to an amazing term.
Lets hope he does us all proud.

Why Women In Metal Aren't Taken Seriously Pt. I

2009-01-03T20:58:00.001-08:00

I feel as though I've been so focused on race issues in metal and I want to divert a bit-take a breather and focus on something else for the time being. Race stuff gets tiring sometimes right? Why not temporarily move to an even more exciting topic in metal music? Gender!

So, not only am I black but I'm also a chick *gasp* and believe it or not I have somewhat of a tiny feminist in me just waiting to be heard.

*sigh* I don't know where to begin. Let me start by saying that women in metal music have exceeded expectations and are fast on the way of being a huge marketing tool...which can be good or bad. It's just interesting how many of us (women) are so into the mentality, 'we can do it just as good as the boys', yadda yadda yet allow ourselves to come right back down and be demoted to shit like this (look at the above picture).

Now you may ask, but Black Girl Into Heavy Metal, those are just two attractive powerful women in metal bands posing for a 'prestigious' title that was granted to them. My response is fuck that. Why don't they have a sexiest men in metal issue. Why is this? Because its a male dominated, super machismo, who's balls are bigger type of music genre-lets just be honest. I would be the first to formulate a list of who I think could make the sexiest men in metal as well as have them pose in tight leather pants doused in baby oil-thats beside the point. The point is that-how can we want to be treated equal yet we still cater to that male driven bullshit theory that women are ONLY supposed to be these sexual, ethereal, nonthreatening divas? And if we are even a tad bit intimidating we scare the hell out of men. For example bands like The Agonist or Vision of Atlantis v.s bands like Otep and Darkened Nocturn Slaughtercult (Mind you, these bands all are different genres). I think generally there seems to be an appeal for a female presence in metal but many men cannot decide if they want women to sort of be these beautiful singing objects that are nice to look at but barely tolerable to listen to or if they want a tough women who can play an instrument and scream like the guys yet at the risk of their sexual appeal. Only one woman (in my opinion) has been able to be taken seriously as well as be powerful and sexy-Angela Gossow of Arch Enemy. Even with a lot of symphonic metal bands like Nightwish (Yes, I'm going to rag on Nightwish even if they have won some awards-they still aren't' taken seriously because at the end of the day when people speak of great metal bands none of them are female fronted. Sad but true) the girls are always a bit whimsical and uber soft. Mind you, I'm not saying women in 'tougher' brands of metal aren't considered beautiful but they aren't the type of women to end up in just their skimpees on the covers of these magazines because conventionally they aren't beautiful. Beautiful is demure and safe=nonthreatening.

What man is going to take a woman seriously in a plaid miniskirt and a corset with her boobs hanging out *coughInThisMomentcough* no matter how good she sounds. I just think women who are tougher that don't dress like sluts are respected a tad more than the run of the mill heavy metal chick. They might not get as much attention for obvious reasons but attention=/= reputation? I'm all for wanting to feel sexy in a hot outfit every once in a while but I think power, intimidation, maybe even fear can be extremely sexy.

I know that certain types of metal are supposed to portray a different look but I just find it interesting that the girls that do make the issue are in cookie cutter safe corporate bands that are mostly talentless. Maybe I'm just looking at it the wrong way.

Flavor of The Week:Wrust

2009-01-01T17:31:00.000-08:00

As long as I have a few readers, I'll use it as a way to promote bands that I enjoy or that I think you should be aware of. The current flavor of the week is a death metal band called Wrust. This band hails from Botswana, Africa and just released their full length album Soulless Machine in 2007 on Witchdoctor records. Check em' out if you like a grittier sound with harsh vocals. A good band from the slowly emerging African metal scene.

http://www.myspace.com/wrust (myspace)

http://www.geocities.com/band_rust/index.htm (official website)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fPz5p4x2Qis (Video for single 'Kill or Be Killed')

giggle

2008-12-31T14:50:00.000-08:00

I found this while surfing google.

It's like they're own rendition of corpse paint. I know I shouldn't giggle at this but there is a ridiculous quality about the picture-and its not because they're black it's just corny.

Opinion?

Subculture Adaptation?

2008-12-30T19:36:00.000-08:00

I've been enjoying my break and this is why I have not posted anything in quite a bit (just in case my few, but appreciated readers wanted to know where I was).

While reading comments from a past post, I was inspired to go into an aspect of this whole 'subculture' thing. An anonymous poster (sorry to call you out) brought up an interesting question. He/she asked why a black girl would be interested in Black metal or even more particularly-what he/she was basically asking-music that draws roots from traditional European instruments as well as having a heavy focus on European folklore, culture, language, etc.
I understand the question but it still never ceases to amaze me that black folks are always but into 'the box' and there is no way of getting out of the box even if the people in in consider you out. Let me explain-
The box is EVERYTHING that has to do traditionally with black culture-be it African American or just African. The contents of this box is the black community. The dilemma I'm trying to point out is that every other race is given an opportunity to have some wiggle room in the box. I mean that there are Asian b-boys, Latino metal heads, and white folks into reggae all over the world- my point is that this is considered acceptable and normal.
But if a black person is into anything outside of that suffocating box it's weird or unique. Why is it strange to take an interest in another culture? Or for that matter, subculture? Tons of people of other races travel and explore this giant planet and listen to different music, eat foods, learn the history and language but we somehow aren't allowed because the media portrays us as not being culturally inclined?
Can't I be proud of my nationality and race yet take an interest in the music and culture of another? I think differences are cool and interesting and I've always hated being predictable so I look outside to better understand who I am.
I'm not one of those people who hate who they are and where they come from and are desperate to adapt so much to another culture that they become like them or totally slander their own and that's what I seem to get from a lot of people who don't know me or my views.
I'm not in denial-I'm just interested.
And I refuse to deny what interest me.
Whether it fits in your box or not.
I think the problem is that everyone else seems to be allowed a sort of individuality in their communities that us black folks aren't allowed because we will ALWAYS be whatever we get labeled or filed under in that box.
When will I and the millions of us just be individuals instead of 'that black girl/guy'?

Your Not Black Enough.

2008-12-14T14:46:00.000-08:00

I'm sure everyone, atleast the black people, that visit this blog have gotten this so much that they are tired of hearing it. The termonology used to describe a black person into alternative cultures beside 'black' culture (whatever that is)-'oreo'. Or have heard phrases such as 'You talk/act white', 'you listen to white music' (again whatever that is). You've tried to explain and rexplain why this is or maybe you have gotten to the point, like I have, where your tired of explaining why you cannot be into whatever your into and not be held back by the social or cultural boundaries that bind you to your own. I'll go into that in a much later blog.

This specifically is about an incident that happened to me recently and was acted upon so bluntly that even though its been weeks, I'm still in a bit of shock. I'm involved in theatre in my school and we had a friend of my director's stop by to give us some positve pointers on an upcoming show. So we performed and afterwords he was giving us notes.

I have a solo in this musical we happened to be doing and even though I never asked for it, I got the 'gospel' esque song even though EVERYONE who really knows me-knows that I am anything but gospel-esque. (I have an inkling she gave me the solo because I was black -_-). To make a long story short the guy asks me to come to him and then he says I have something to tell you. So he precedes to whisper in my ear 'You need to be more black' and I was suddenly transported to all my middle school memories of those exact words told slightly by different from various people that have come and gone in my life. I was embarrassed and perplexed. I didn't know what to do so I just laughed and fumed back to my seat where some of the fellow actors had heard and were laughing, completly oblivious to my disdain.

My question is-since when has just being black in general not good enough? Hell, my father is African-isn't that pretty damn well black? I performed the next time around and did the things that they wanted me to do-which was dance while singing, put more 'soul' into it, gyrate, and pratically obtain the 'yes massa' mentality by doing what they wanted for a successful show.

Anything to make society happy, right?

There Can Only Be One...

2008-12-13T17:51:00.001-08:00

I realized I haven't posted in quite a while so I decided to post today about something I find disturbing (In my experiences). So, recently-whenever I go to shows-if there is another black girl there, I get the up down look then cold treatment. It's very strange to me because whenever I see someone of the same race at shows I always want to compulsively talk to them but then I feel awkward because its the whole 'I'm black-your black' thing that sets me back. But most recently I find other black women at shows to really dislike me or seem to at least and I can't figure out why so I boiled it down to one fact. Apparently there can only be one 'unique' black girl at a concert. I don't so much get this with black guys. I always found it strange because I feel comradery more than anything else and feel that the black female metalhead is such a small community that there needs to be some sense of unity within it-but alas-girls will be girls and we always have to compare ourselves to each other to make up some idiotic sense of self worth to feel good about ourselves. I went to a friends party where I thought I was going to be the only black person there but there was also one other black girl. I was wearing an Opeth shirt that my boyfriend had let me borrow and the girl went up to me and said she dug my shirt. I thanked her and told her it wasn't my own and that my bf had gotten it at a show and she huffed and said she hated me then walked away. I will forever be confused by that. Mind you-that was just one girl but still when I go to concerts I get the silent treatment when I smile at other black females.
Has anyone else gotten this feeling of animosity from other black girls at shows? Or is this all in my head?

A Lack of Color

2008-11-22T09:47:00.000-08:00

I've heard a few metal fans ask why there seems to be a lack of ethnic people in metal. Or scratch that-black people. There are the South American metalheads, the Asian metalheads, and all the others inbetween but its obvious which group seems least to be into metal. Have you ever wondered why there isn't any metal festivals in Africa? (besides in Namibia which metal crowd is mostly wealthy white land owners) In general-there aren't many black metal heads. There are even fewer black metalheads who have actually wanted to go into the metal music genre as musicians or singers. I can literally count on my fingers the successful metal bands that have blacks in them. To name the few-Sevendust, (New) Sepultura, Straight Line Stitch, Suffocation, Skindred, Crackdust, Wrust, Living Color. (I wanted to add Bad Brains but they are punk)
Now, there are three main reasons why blacks aren't very much found in metal.
1.) Blacks in general are heavily religious.
No matter if they're African American or African. I've only met one black atheist and that's a close friend of mine. I'll just be honest, we cling to our religion. Is that bad? No. But metal is typically known throughout the black community as 'devil worshipping music'. Nuff' said.
2.) Blacks are attracted to music other blacks like.
Humans are visual creatures. And other humans that look like us that like the type of music we like generally attract other like minded humans. I guarantee if more black people were into metal-it would catch on. I mean, after that song 'Party Like A Rock star' I definitely saw tons of more black people in explore new clothing options as well as music options. People like feeling belonged.
3.) Racism.
Bottom Line. Just like you wouldn't find a white person at a N.W.A concert you certainly wouldn't find a black person at a Burzum concert. Metal has a way of excluding people unless your like them. And the other stereotype about metal is that all metalheads are racist-which isn't true but there are a few bad eggs (As in NBSM bands as well as others) that ruin it for the rest of them.
Of course there are the exceptions but this is what it comes down to. I hate that it's like this. I would like one day to see a metal festival where there are TONS (not just a few) of black metal heads, as well as Latino, Asian, and White-all together to form one huge brutal moshpit. That would be amazing. That would make metal even more powerful and hopefully people would shed their prejudices. *sigh*
A girl can dream, can't she?

Conflicted About Listening to Metal

2008-11-14T21:35:00.000-08:00

I've mentioned before on this blog that I like all types of music including metal. I wouldn't call myself a 'metal head' per se, but I do like listening to it. I guess there are a few reasons why I haven't fully devoted myself to metal and why I'm mostly just a musical sponge that absorbs any type of music just because I love it.
Metal mainly turns me away for three key reasons.
-it's for men.
-Not only men but angry white men.
-I'm pretty sure a good bit of metal fans are racist-and aggresive.
I suppose this is why I've still never been to a real 'metal concert'. (As well as the reason not alot of black females or black people in general are interested in metal)I've been to tons of concerts but they've mostly been indie rock, alternative, goth/industrial, and avant-garde but never metal because honest to goodness I'm terrified of being heckled and no one defending me or being lynched and raped on the spot. Now, not that I'm stereotyping all metal fans-I did say a few post ago that metal heads can be some of the nicest people-which they can. But men in large groups with aggresive music are dangerous in no matter any environment-its that pack mentality.
So naturally, its conflicting. Why do I like a type of music that potentionally doesn't like or appreciates me and would just mock me for liking it. Well, thats why I listen to metal at a distance and only a few people actually know that I listen to alot of the-ahem-heavier stuff. No, I'm not ashamed of anything I listen to-but people already think I'm strange in general so I don't want to add ammunition to their guns.
Another issue is that if I really wanted to start a band-or be in a metal band, I suppose all I can expect is the same treatment that any black female in a genre of music that isn't specifically molded for her gets treated. I'll get called either novelty, something 'different', or be labeled 'R&B' anyways even if I don't do that type of music-but just because I'm black. *sigh*
Do I belong in the metal world?
You tell me.

sigh...And Then There Are The Stupid Metal Fans.

2008-11-14T21:25:00.001-08:00

http://www.guitarworld.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=42&p=714128

We've come so far yet at the same time we still have a looonnggg way to go.

Why Would A Black Girl Like Metal?

2008-11-13T17:31:00.000-08:00

Most would wonder why a black girl of seveteen would like such an extreme form of music. I don't even know why I started liking it. I remember getting bits and pieces throughout my youth of metal and being scared shitless. Then I realized music and it's message is only harmful if you believe in it (I suppose thats why I can listen to bands like Gorgoroth and not be phased). It's so aggresive and angry-and for someone who generally is non confrontational-it surprises most people. My answer is that metal gave me a voice that I didn't have. The harsh vocals could scream my innermost fears and frustration through the toughtest times of my life. The soft whispering followed by a intricate guitar solo comforted me in my lonliness. Going to my first 'rock' concert (not metal, just rock) and feeling the guitar and drums in my heart made me burn for something faster and aggrestive and when I first moshed-I lost myself.

Of course, it hasn't been easy being a black chick into metal. I've gotten stares, whispering comments, grins and laughts, etc. Other times-I've experienced some of the nicest people I've ever encountered in my life.

I suppose this is why I began to develop a certain preference for men-mainly guys who were artist in some way-it hardly mattered if they were into poetry/writing, playing an instrument, painting-but I especially grew attracted to the ones that I looked up to. Men like Vreth, Jones, King ov Hell-among others. It never really mattered what race they were-just that they were so powerful on stage-giving themselves to a life full of powerful music. And I always liked mysterious men that required peeling to get to the core.

Then when I first heard a woman sing metal-I was hooked. Knowing that a girl could pull off and conduct a crowd of mostly angry men inspired me. I grew tougher, I became more independant, and even tried to develop a 'metal scream' <-to which I haven't yet accomplished but I'm working on it. It sounds more like a dying giraffe but it 'll get better. Then came this utter passion for music in general. In it I found ecstacy. It gave me a way better high than weed ever could. I'm still trying to learn all about music from folk, to hip hop, to the different subgenres of metal and discovering bands that relate to my experience as well as bands that I don't really like but listen to just to retain the knowledge. I don't even think in these few words I covered why I really love metal or just music in general. This blog was meant to solely focus on metal but I also appreciate every other type of music from Neil Young to Erykah Badu. But the point I was trying to make with metal is that its an escapist music for me and after I listen to metal-I feel like that energy was transposed into me. It gave me the power to be whatever I wanted and say whatever I wanted-and with it I could not only keep waking up the next day but I could take over the world. One step at a time.
\m/.

The Problem With (Black) Female Fronted Metal Bands

2008-11-09T09:48:00.000-08:00

*Sigh* I was rooting for you Straight Line Stitch. I want so desperately to really enjoy their music and proudly declare to the world 'I'm a fan of Straight Line Stitch' but...I find that if I think deep down inside-it would be wrong for me to lie to myself. Just as I tried to lie to myself to get into Wicked Wisdom. It's not that SLS is a terrible metal band-no the metalcore is decent enough but, alas, tis' the vocals.

The problem I'm experiencing with many black womem (pfft-more like the three that I know of which includes: SLS, Wicked Wisdom and Roulette) who go into the harsh vocal side of metal is that they try to imitate their angry white male counterparts and it never ends up sounding right. It's really forced and cheesy. This isn't to say that Alexis Brown cannot growl with the best of them, but it seems like if she keeps on forcing the vocals in a few years they'll be shredded up and unusable. Add on to that the awkward R&B sections in songs like 'Remission', and 'Eucharist' its' just...something isn't right. Metal is metal and R&B is R&B. I mean, can you imagine a random death growl in a BB King or Alicia Keys song? Maybe its the mixing or bad recording. Now, some of you might say that diversity in metal is a good thing-whicih I have absolutely no problem with diversity as someone who desperately looks for any faces that resemble her own in this music genre but you have to do it right. Am I highly critical? Yes. Because I know what many of these hardcore heavy metal fans are thinking when they see and hear a band like SLS:
-It's gimmicky to have a black person in a metal band
-It's gimmicky having a black FEMALE in a metal band
-It's gimmicky just for the fact that they are metalcore

And all other assorted judgements. I like a few songs of SLS's like 'Black Veil', 'Faceless and Inhuman', etc. Plus, I would much rather listen to them than that Maria bitch from In This Moment but I just can't really get into them because just like Wicked Wisdom and that myspace band Roulette-there is something off about it. And I'm not saying it's because they're black but maybe because they haven't really listened to enough metal music to really form a vocal style unique to themselves.
Never the less, I'm rooting for you Straight Line Stitch and I hope you make it big.
There will probaly be a part two to this entry or a whole 'Women in Metal' post in the future.
(By the way, when searching for this picture I tried to find the most ethnic picture of her, being as all the rest of the professionally done pictures seemed to lighten her skin -_-)

\m/.

I'm serious about this one, guys.

2008-11-09T09:06:00.001-08:00

In the past I've tried to do so many internet blogging/networking sights but I've never been really consistent with any one as I lose interest, forget my password, or even forget to post. It scares me to think of all the personal information and blogs I've put on the internet but I decided to try one last time at blogging. Some how, I have the audacity to believe my opinion and thoughts are important to the world. But I do believe in the power of such websites as this.

I need an outlet-a place where I can share my thoughts on what I deem necessary and interesting.

So, I decided to make a blog on a specific aspect of my life as well as possibly many other lives-Heavy Metal. But I vowed this wouldn't be like the other blogs about such a topic praising guitar licks and sacrificial lamb heads at a black metal concert (Although I'm sure it will be sprinkled in here sometime). This would be about the ever so rare black perspective on heavy metal culture-a microcosm within the rock'n'roll culture. Even more obscure the female perspective. I'm not necessarily doing this so people can read it-but more so for my own sanity.

I'm pretty sure black folks in heavy metal is an oxymoron of sorts. Almost something of a myth like the Boogieman or Bigfoot. But trust me, we do exsist and I'm here to confirm that.

(Puts a whole new meaning on 'black metal', eh?)

\m/