What is blackened deathcore?

Najeeb Shah
2 min readFeb 16, 2024

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Title: Unveiling the Ferocity of Blackened Deathcore: A Fusion of Darkness and Aggression

In the labyrinth of extreme metal genres, one subgenre stands out for its relentless intensity and haunting atmosphere: blackened deathcore. This fusion of two already formidable styles — black metal and deathcore — creates a sonic landscape that is as brutal as it is atmospheric, as darkly melodic as it is relentlessly aggressive.

At its core, deathcore is a subgenre of metal that combines the brutality of death metal with the breakdowns and rhythmic elements of hardcore punk. It’s characterized by guttural vocals, rapid-fire drumming, and heavily distorted guitars. On the other hand, black metal is known for its raw production, shrieking vocals, blast beat drumming, and emphasis on themes of darkness, misanthropy, and the occult.

When these two worlds collide, the result is blackened deathcore — a sonic onslaught that marries the relentless aggression of deathcore with the atmospheric and occult elements of black metal. The fusion gives birth to a sound that is both chaotic and mesmerizing, with layers of dissonant melodies weaving through a cacophony of blast beats and breakdowns.

One of the defining characteristics of blackened deathcore is its lyrical themes, which often delve into topics such as nihilism, anti-religion, occultism, and existential dread. These themes are reflected not only in the lyrics themselves but also in the overall atmosphere created by the music, which is often suffused with an aura of darkness and despair.

Musically, blackened deathcore is marked by its use of dissonant chords, tremolo picking, and eerie synths, which add to the sense of foreboding and unease. The vocals, typically consisting of guttural growls and shrieks, further contribute to the sense of chaos and aggression.

Despite its relatively niche appeal, blackened deathcore has garnered a dedicated following among fans of extreme metal. Bands like Thy Art is Murder, Carnifex, and Whitechapel have helped popularize the genre, bringing its ferocious sound to stages around the world.

In conclusion, blackened deathcore is a subgenre that pushes the boundaries of extreme metal, blending the brutality of deathcore with the darkness and atmosphere of black metal. With its relentless aggression, haunting melodies, and nihilistic themes, it offers a visceral and immersive listening experience for fans of the extreme.

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