Hellenic Black Metal
The Hellenic Black Metal scene offers a truly distinctive flavor. It emerged in the late 1980s, parallel to its Norwegian counterparts. Yet, it developed a unique character. This sound is immediately recognizable.
Hellenic black metal embraces a “warmer” and more atmospheric sound. This contrasts with the “cold” Norwegian style. Key characteristics include a mid-tempo pace. Rich, mid-range guitar tones are prominent. Pinch harmonics often add a majestic feel. Folk elements and traditional Greek melodies sometimes appear. Drum machines were surprisingly common in early recordings.
Lyrical themes often draw from ancient Greece. Mythology, history, and paganism are central. Anti-Christian sentiments also appear, echoing global black metal. However, Greek bands frequently express admiration for their ancient heritage.
Pioneering bands forged this sound. Rotting Christ are undisputed kings. Varathron and Necromantia are also vital. Necromantia uniquely used two eight-string basses without guitars. Kawir heavily incorporate Greek mythology and sing in Ancient Greek. These bands created a powerful, mystical, and proudly Greek form of black metal.
Likno
Frozen winds from the Northern Greece Likno is an atmospheric Black Metal band from Kozani, consisting of the duo Neurosplinter and Flægra. They give us a taste of their old school black metal through their self-titled debut album, released on 14 July 2024 and has already managed to gain some hype in black metal circles. Likno…
Deviser
Hellenic Black Metal Deviser is a band with a long history and its roots in the purest metal.You are to discover a perfect mixture of aggression and melody. Founded in 1989 in Crete, by Matt (Vocals/guitars/bass). Members of other bands (Agatus , Piranha ) joined the band in 1992. Stamped by a primitive old school…
