Rockin' The Tritone: Gender, Race & The Aesthetics of Aggressive Heavy Metal Subcultures

• Main Author: Mishrell, Kirk W
• Format: Others
• Published: Digital Archive @ GSU 2012
• Subjects: Cultural studies; Death metal; Black metal; Heavy metal
• Online Access: http://digitalarchive.gsu.edu/history_theses/52; http://digitalarchive.gsu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1053&context=history_theses

This paper explores the dynamics of two regional heavy metal styles. It focuses on the aesthetics of Florida death metal and Norwegian black metal. This paper seeks to contribute but also deviate from the great studies linking music with cultural studies. Heavy metal has gained international attention from many social leaders concerned with the direction of its listeners. Heavy metal, from its early foundation, has been used to rebel against social order. As the music evolves, it becomes dangerous to the social establishment; challenging ideologies such as religion, globalization, feminism and common decency. This paper seeks to tell the story of the battle between hegemony and the subversive subculture of intense metal, giving voice to some truly disturbed individuals dissatisfied with the existing social institution. In doing so, I hope this study serves as model for future studies of radical youth culture.