Don't listen to metal at all, but the way you talk about music is almost universal. Great video man. To have a non metal head watch a 21 minute video about metal is an accomplishment
You absolutely nailed it. If people are fake, the true fans will ignore it and let the genre continue on. The same thing goes for deathcore in my opinion. People act like its killing death metal when death metal is in a great place and will continue to be. The only band I take issue with within "hipster" black metal is Liturgy for the exact reasons you said. When it comes to the ideology behind black metal and politics, here's my thoughts. I think black metal should be genuine to the artist. For example. If you sing about Satan, that should be some shit you truly believe in, not use it as some sort of character to scare moms like Venom. If you want to sing about emotions, knock yourself out. If its true to you, thats fine by me. I have more respect for NS artists or RABM artists who wear their politics on their sleeve than a band who sings about one thing and believes another. The only thing that I would add is I believe there should be some element of hate, which is where I do think NS politics can fit into the black metal idea. I've always viewed black metal as the most elitist genre in metal and what is the more elitist ideology on the planet? White supremacy. Also, when you mentioned your view on NS, I actually shouted at my computer "YES!". Because you get it. You don't whine and bitch about it, you ignore it and move on because you're a goddamn adult and not some whiny cunt that wants to pry into people's lives and tell them what they can and can't listen to.
+CountBlagorath I knew people like you would understand. You don't seem to be some pretentious insecure little man baby who thinks metal needs some kind of fucking guardian angel. I agree with you as to black metal being genuine. But, unfortunately, most of the bands are not. They're juvenile little kids who use symbols to shock people. The thing is, though, unlike most black metal fans I don't take them that seriously. I love the music, I love the imagery, etc. All that extra shit I can take it or leave it. I can definitely appreciate when bands are open and honest about their politics like you said as opposed to being full of shit. But I'd still rather my black metal not be full of politics. It's funny...I complain when punk and hip hop is too apathetic to talk about real life issues...but I'd prefer black metal not to. Weird, huh? I guess I need to reflect on myself to see why that is. The whole NS thing doesn't really fit into black metal to me because it's always been about misanthropy and darkness. How can you be a misanthrope and a supremacist at the same time? Those two ideas don't match in the slightest bit. A misanthrope hates humanity as a whole so there would be no way for him to, then, say that one type of person is better than another because, in the end, we are all nothing. And, to go further, some misanthropic philosophers actually say that conscientious treatment of others goes in line with the misanthropic view of the world because they feel like we are all suffering due to a lack of worth (because we're all garbage) so we should treat each other with common decency. But see...a lot of black metal dudes just hear half of something and run with it. (Which is what I was alluding to in the video about not caring about loved ones/idols/etc.) Trust me...I think NS is bullshit. I just don't choose to waste my time complaining about it because it has no real affect on me and, like you said, I'm an adult. I don't listen to it...I don't support it...so it's whatever to me. People can listen to what they want, dude. You know? It's when those individuals start to support and propagate those ideas themselves is when I have to take issue. Especially if they're a friend. Because then it does affect me to some degree.
+Myke C-Town You can't be a misanthrope and a supremacist, but that goes with the blanket term or hate. Hate can me towards ALL of man, SOME of man or even yourself (which is where DSBM come into play). I feel like hate of any kind is welcome in black metal. A lot of it has hate towards religious groups, but doesn't say how they hate people of the same thought. I just feel like with black metal, nothing is safe and nothing should be safe.
+CountBlagorath I mean...I get all that. I just think it's bullshit when people try to act like NSBM makes sense in black metal, but no other political leanings do. I'd love for some black metal dude to explain to me how they support the destruction of the church, but they still support Conservative political values. Which political party would be more likely to completely remove the power of the church? Conservatives or Liberals? Conservatives want nothing more than for Christianity to completely rule every single aspect of our lives! And no, I don't affiliate myself with any political party. I'm just giving further example of how these thoughts and the blind acceptance and support of NS politics in black metal is completely asinine. If black metal is supposed to be misanthropic then being picky choosy about who you hate (especially when that hate has NOTHING to do with anything other than heritage) makes no sense. And, like I said in the video, this plays into the whole idea of metalheads being idiots. Again, I'm not telling people to stop listening to this shit. I don't give a dick what people listen to on their own time or throw their money at. I'm just saying people really need to stop trying to defend it or act like there's some sort of logic in the politics. Even by black metal standards...there's not. But I agree with you...that nothing should be safe with black metal. But that doesn't mean it should always be stupid.
+CountBlagorath you certainly don't want to claim that Satanism is hate for the self, it's quite the contrary, at least judging from what Gaahl says at his fireplace over a glass of vine. I can see how nazi-ism is consistent with BM ideology, because if you exalt the particular in a sort of Nietzschean way you can exalt not only a self but a group of selves (or a culture or whatever), i.e. you then see others as sub-human. There is no logical stopping point which can make you a Satanist but not to be hateful to some kind of out-group (however defined), saying otherwise seems self-refferentially inconsistent to me.
Hunter Hunt Hendrix's 'Transcendental Black Metal - A Vision of Apocalyptic Humanism' was honestly one of the most incoherent pieces of 'literature' my eyes have ever been burdened to read. I would rather stick my tongue in a toaster than have to deal with something as wretched as that ever again.
I'm with you. I have no clue why anyone fucking cares about these hipster kids plaguing black metal. The only reason their involvement even has an impact on anything is because every black metal fan feels the need to post whiney Facebook status updates on how hipsters are ruining the genre. Honestly, it should be as simple as listening to what you like and not giving a fuck what anyone else likes (or pretends to like...ironically, of course). If black metal becomes the first genre to ever be overrun and destroyed by these hipster dudes, that doesn't do anything to the "true" fans listening experience! Listen to what you like and fuck everything else. These black metal fans sure do lose that edge they try so hard to create for themselves when they're crying on the internet about Deafheaven. Ugh. You, Myke, are as gorgeous as ever. Love ya, boo! ;)
+Kanyon Bickel I agree with everything you said here. I remember back in the day it was us vs them. And it was only like that because the them was actively against us. Now we're actually turning on ourselves. And for fucking what? I love metal. And regardless of who is involved in metal or who thinks I shouldn't be involved in metal...I will always love metal. So sick of this silly petty whiny bullshit. Like The Count, I knew you would get it. Love you, too, sessy boi!
+Myke C-Town Metalsucks comment board is a haven for metal fans who turn on each other... i have never seen a larger forum for back biting outside of Metal Archives, Which in itself is an elitist den of hilarity.
But this douchbag didn't get the point about the hipster black metal channel lol. Because that guy isn't a hipster but in his videos he made fun of them, especially myrkur fans who are amongs the bigger hipsters who doesnt know a crap about black metal over the internet
Hi there Myke! Your misanthropic kvlt pen pal here. Great video as always. I think a lot of the ire over Deafheaven comes from their "subversion" of black metal aesthetics on Sunbather: the pink album art, the lyrics, and especially the shoegazer elements woven into the music (so-called blackgaze seems irrevocably tied to hipsterism). It's the same for artists like Alcest and Wolves In the Throne Room. These bands are/were also journalist darlings, so their acclaim and popularity make them prime targets. I think the very fact that publications like Pitchfork talk about black metal pisses some people off. You touch on a good point in your video: that of the outsider. Artists and their fans are seen as invaders, ignorant of black metal history and culture (whether true or not) and treading on 'sacred ground.' On one level, I think it's often perceived as disrespectful. What gives them the right? Etc. Which is, of course, ironic: a lot of black metal purists harbor dogma and orthodoxy. They are essentially religious. On a deeper level, I think there's a fear of change. Invaders are cast as a disease, and diseases scar and wound. The fear is that the 'landscape' of black metal might be overrun by hipsters and jocks and undesirables. These bands may not all write manifestos like Liturgy, but their very existence is seen as an affront that could mutate a genre that often prides itself on orthodoxy. Funny thing is, the existence of 'hipster metal' helps sustain more 'pure' black metal these days. Outsiders help unify culture by giving people a shared enemy. Bands, publications, and even message boards can pride themselves in being 'true.' As an aside: I could never really get into Sunbather, but I'm really liking New Bermuda.
I dunno, maybe its because i'm younger and got into things later, but I never really cared about the philosophy behind genres of music or upholding their traditional values/sounds. As long as it sounds good to me they can dress in tutus and sing about taking your vitamins for all I care
Willie Wardlaw no its not man, thats bullshit. Music is more than noise, its artistic expression. For instance, NSBM can sound good, however the lyrics and reasoning behind making the music is awful, so I cant listen to it. Same with Christian black metal, it goes against the lifestyle and reason black metal was created. Christian pro government hip hop as well, it doesn’t work.
You have my full respect and I fully 100 percent agree! Grew up listening to bands like limbonic art and emperor and just like you, I could not get enough of it! I listened to any black metal I could get a hold of and any documentary about black metal I could watch. And to give you an example of not complaining about hipsters, I am a good example of it because the record shop I go to is the only one near me and it is right next to the college campus and vintage/thrift stores/yogurt/vegan shops which is just a haven for hipsters! Every time I go into get some music (which is usually Friday when I get my paycheck and right when most of them get out of school) I will be looking through the metal section (which is really damn good since the owner is a metalhead and stocks some good stuff or just orders stuff for me) and I will hear them in the background talking about Madlib and how unknown he is and how long they have been listening to him but they don't even know Quasimoto! To me I just don't care but the only thing I do care about is now my record store is having less and less of what I like and a lot more of what the hipsters like.
Yo myke! I was wondering if you were into early Ulver and can you recommend any early black metal albums for me to check out? Been listening to newer stuff but I want to delve deeper.
I completely agree Myke, I don't give a fuck about hipsters or elitists, I like listening to black metal and I like listening to good music.so thanks for the video, you pretty much said what I was thinking.
The problem with Hipsters Hipster: Hey did you hear this new band with this female singer? Me: No Hipster: Man they are great there are not enough women in metal and this singer is leading the way Me: Looks at Nightwish, Epica, Within Temptation, Delain, Xandria, Seven Kingdoms, Arch Enemy, The Agonist, Edenbridge, Kobra and the Lotus. That's what I hate and dislike. I hate these hipsters who don't bother to give the band that came before credit or act like it was never done before Another example Hipster loving Demi Lovato fan: Hey did you here this metal band they have keyboards in it. If more bands did this they would be well liked. Me: Uh? Hipster loving Demi Lovato fan: Not enough metal bands use keyboards. Me: Dragonforce, Dark Tranquillity, Therion, Epica, Delain, Nightwish, Emperor, Children of Bodom, Sonata Arctica, Kamelot, and the list goes on. My point is I hate how the Hipsters, and Jocks, and so on take a shit all over bands that have been doing things such as male growls and female cleans and acting like a band such as She Must Burn is doing something new and different. There not. Or they act like Symphonic music has never been used if heavy music before so I guess we should forget about about all those symphonic/power/prog metal bands? This is my issues. If someone really likes metal and really wants to get into it great but learn the damn history and stop acting like the band you just heard is the first band to ever do something like that. Then when people point out to you the other bands that were doing it stop shitting on them. People may like In This Moment, Motionless in White and Winds of Plague. But Motionless in White is not the first heavy band to use keyboards on there music. Winds of Plague is not the first heavy band to have a symphonic sound. In This Moment is not the first metal band with a female singer or a female that uses cleans and growls. My dislike for Myrkur is this: "She's the first woman to be in a black metal band." WRONG SO TOTAL WRONG. So False on so many God damn levels. So much lack of respect for black metal bands that have nothing but women in it. So much of a slap in the face to women that came before her. I may not like Anthrax, Megadeth, Metallica, and Slayer or the 80s hair metal scene. But dammit I respect them and understand that with out them we would not have 90% of the bands that we do. So to give a lack of respect to a band like Epica or Nightwish, or Doro. Myrkur and so on would be no where. Winds of Plague would not be using symphonic sounds with out Savatage and Therion there is no damn symphonic metal.
one of greatest videos ever man really. at the end of the day i think what really matters is HOW you express your opinions. we all hate the shit outta them hipsters. but its the way you express your disgust towards them that really matters. also smth else too. miixing clean vocals and post rock-ish tunes with black metal is very risky. only a selected few can pull it off. like oathbreaker for example. at least imo. anyways, great video honestly.
A-FUCKING-MEN....brotha Myke!! I am 43 years old, and been into extreme/black metal since it's inception. I hate to see a hipster in BM T-shirt as well, but I am not gonna cry about it!! They are not ruining my enjoyment of the music I have loved over half of my life. They will move on to the next thing in less than a year anyway!! Thanks for saying this!!
I'm completely new to black metal. I like Deafheaven. I also kinda dig Mayhem's esoteric warfare, and i also checked out COF's new album based on your reccomendation and i really liked it too. Could you give me some more reccomendations?
+Giruga x Hakusho I assume you prefer melodic Black Metal? If that's the case, I would suggest checking out bands like Dissection, Enslaved (later albums) and Emperor. You might also enjoy Emperor's frontman solo work (Ihsahn). I would also suggest checking out the early Norwegian Black Metal scene (bands like Darkthrone and Burzum)
+Giruga x Hakusho I also heavily, HEAVILY RECOMMEND that you check out Agalloch, Wolves In The Throne Room, Primordial and the rest of Cradle Of Filth's discography.
It's kinda funny when you mentioned Euronymous having a youtube channel, since Varg Vikernes has one where he does vlogs and stuff. Totally agree with the video in any case.
My opinion on hipster black metal: I dislike it, because of the nature of the music itself. If it wasn't called black metal, then I would simply ignore it and listen to what I like. But, since some people do call it black metal, I have to say this: if enough of that music claims the name of black metal, then the definition of black metal as I know it will die out and be replaced. Also - you vote with your wallet. It is not the clothing per se, nor the ideology per se, nor the lyrics per se. It is the nature of the music itself. Think about what Liturgy's music expresses. Then think about what Darkthrone's music expresses. Do the same to the music of Deafheaven, and to the music of Enslaved. And so on. What the music expresses is the main factor in deciding which genre it belongs to - which category we should put it in. A lot of death metal, for example, sounds like unmitigated terror, fear, struggling for one's life, etc. There are multiple ways to express this musically, but the genre is an expressive range, both in subject matter, and in method of expressing that subject. If it falls within that range, it is death metal. If it is too different, it should be called by some other name. Clothing, lyrics, and so on, are side effects of the fundamental inspiration - that which the music aspires to express. But they are not the goal, and are not what matter in the end. If a band doesn't dress in a way that looks like, or write lyrics that are about, or have an interest in things that are like what the genre sounds like, then it may mean that some thing is amiss. But it is on its own no grounds for condemnation. I suggest the name of post black metal, to music which has surface elements of black metal (tremolo riffs, shrieking vocals, blast beats, lyrics about Satan or nature, elements of black metal style structure) but which doesn't express what the main body of black metal does. It is a fitting name. It came after black metal. It was influenced by black metal and would probably not be what it is without it. But it is fundamentally different from black metal, in what it expresses, to warrant a different category. Expression is the most defining and important trait of music. Music is a language with which one can say things. Structure itself is nothing if not used to express something. No one likes tech for the sake of tech. Structure in music is like grammar in spoken language - one needs to be proficient in its use in order to articulate more precise, sophisticated ideas - to communicate with precision. But what would you rather listen to: A person with good diction and linguistic abilities, talking about a boring subject, or a person who stutters a little, but who talks about something profound and beautiful?
+vOddy75 I sorta see what you are saying, but i think you're wrong. I think that the genre is technical, like its about how the instruments are played. I don't think that music should be based on an ideology, there are many ways to get to the same point.
a true scotsman uth I did not mention ideology. I mentioned romantic themes and expression. Black metal is black metal in the same way that horror is horror. If a piece of fiction is not about scary or disturbing subjects, then it is not horror. If a movie does not have action, then it is not an action movie. Metal in general is the same, and black metal too, which is related to other metal genres, but still has its own traits.
vOddy75 no, musical themes don't matter when defining a genre. This is why viking metal is retarded, and doesnt exist. Musical genres are about the execution, and how the instruments are played and are separate from themes, tones, lyricss etc. Look at atmospheric black metal, there is a ton of abm, i tihnk its black metal, biut its in a different subgenre. Maybe, "hipster" bm, or whatever you call it isn't black metal in the traditional sense, but its still in the same ballpark, and should still be called black metal. Just in a different subgenre
a true scotsman uth When I say themes, I am not talking about lyrics. I am talking about what the music itself describes or expresses. The violence of Immortal, the fighting spirit of Enslaved, and Darkthrone's dark serenity on Transylvanian Hunger and Under A Funeral Moon are all related to each other. Variations of similar things, even though they emphasize different things to different degrees.
LMFAO "Evil computer throne"... Well said, man, listening to you talk about how you came up in music reminds me of me thoroughly. And I still haven't listened to Liturgy, but I did watch their "What's in my Bag" episode and I couldn't help but think it was an SNL sketch because dude looks exactly like Bill Hader.
I've always been an extremely quiet, serious and lonely person, I grew up with no technology and surrounded by mountains, talk about the supernatural, spirits, past lives, death by witchcraft, people in my family practice shamanic rites, white magic, and know about black magic...Like this stumbling upon Black Metal and understanding its concept was natural for me...I've always been a stranger to this society, rejected the religion imposed on me, denied the existence of god and hate most ignorant brainwashed foolish people. So when I make the effort to come out of my cave to see a band, I don't like to stumble upon hipster clowns that don't give a shit about the dark art that is Black Metal music really, they're just there to feel part of something dark they don't understand, they are in the way. wish it was like back in the days, fucking Internet...
Nice review Mike!! I fully agree with your assessment of Myrkur, but I felt the demo was much the same. Random riffs that often don't feel associated with each other, like she's just pulling mediocre content out of her ass and she doesn't have any idea how to string a song together that makes any sense to save her life. Garm attached his name to this? Wow. Makes me wonder if he ever knew what GOOD black metal was to begin with. He obviously didn't write any of the music on those early and endlessly amazing Ulver albums if this new Myrkur release is any indication. And her ethereal vocals…. they are good for a minute, but you're right…. they all sound the same and like something pulled off a Christmas special on the Hallmark channel. No thanks!
I came from the Brazilian favelas, slums, and I have no idea what hipster means. I mean no offence, seriously...but I heard people complaining about them. I learned that if I wanted survive the environment around me...I need to not give a shit about what people think about me. I think that is why I never tried to fit anything, I just like metal and I use music as my fuel. Therefore, I never lose time offending anyone. Anyways man...congratulations for your work. I wish I had your skills related with communication.
Back when I played in a black metal band, we were always criticized for "not staying true" by mixing in elements from other genres. I guess that's what you get for trying to play blsck metal a bit different while living in Scandinavia. And a bit off topic: Have you had the chance listent to Mgła's newest album? If you have, what do you think about it?
+Myke C-Town The band was (and I guess is) called Eldjudnir. I stopped playing with them back in '06, but the bands is still going and doing somewhat well for itself. Although, the music was changed a bit. They now play a more folk/atmospheric black metal style The funny thing is that some of the most hailed Danish black metal bands today have been the once who incorporated elements from other genres.
+V0lbet Goddamn! This shit is great! I'm gonna have to look into picking up some of your/their records! I'm listening to Angrboda now and it's fantastic! I don't think it strays too much from traditional black metal. No more than early Enslaved did.
+Myke C-Town I'm glad you like it. But as I said I left the band in '06, so I can't take any credit for any of their recorded work. That was recorded and written way after I left. Back when I still played the style of the band was a bit different. I was more punk oriented. We sounded a bit like Solbrud if you know those guys.
Thanks for this video Myke. I've been thinking the same things the whole time I've been interested in black metal and listening to it. Anyways. if you don't mind me asking. What's that playing in the background? It sounds awesome.
Not really interested in metal I'm a huge hip hop fan, but I really can't imagine un subbing to you (or any of DEHH) for expressing an opinion that doesn't agree with what I believe in. This is why I watch myke DEHH amd TND. To see what other peoples perspectives are and how they compare to mine.
I agree about this. I got real sick of everyone going on about hipsters in life in general but especially is music. People throw the word around so readily these days that I feel like I barely know what they mean at this point. I guess it's someone that dips in and out of scenes like they're fashion trends. Because of that I'm glad you mentioned metal attire. I've been a metal fan since childhood but, like you, I don't suit the full battle jacketed get up. I dress quite ordinarily and don't look metal at all. Sometimes I feel as though I could be written off as one of these hipsters by less accepting fans when they see me at a gig or whatever. But most of the time I feel like life's to short to get hung up on shit like that and people that worry about exclusivity and image that much are missing one of metal's main philosophies. It's supposed to be a scene that accepts everyone and the only reason it doesn't always feel that way is because whiny idiots can be so relentless sometimes.
This video is so damn good. I think people are so scared of being labeled as posers that they will go out of their way to pick on easy targets to divert the attention away from themselves. People are scared to like artists because of how they think it would affect their image /: I'm nowhere close to being a knowledgeable BM fan but I'm so fine with sticking to the beginner stuff for now instead of getting into the extreme areas and say I like em. It's just not fair to the people that actually like those bands. Thank you for being so knowledgeable in your area btw, I love hearing people talk about music they love. Keep up the great work famsky!
Havent heard this album yet, but I intend to cus I've heard people suck it off and people shit all over it. Something that polarizing I wanna hear lol. That said in regards to the rant ABSOLUTELY-ON-FUCKIN-POINT like you I don't give a shit about Hipsters and what they get into at all. I personally think music is meant for anyone who wants to hear it, each artist having their place (ears who wish to hear them) across all genres and all levels of popularity/styles/etc. That said I watched the same thing happen with Punk & Hip Hop (my favorite genres as well) I'm a bit younger myself, I was in HS in 02-06 but I seen similar growing up with the likes of Blink & Asher and (while early Eminem was amazing) he was the ultimate "door opener" for a lot of the people who hold that "fly by night" mentality with music (in hip hop at least). I miss a lot of elements of the music I loved "pre-hipsters" but I also enjoy a lot of the newer music too, catch 22. I like a lot of the experimentalism going on in alot of genres now. Hipster influenced or not. So I just try and leave it at "Live and let listen to w/e the fuck you want" just dont be super pushy with your beliefs/opinions and I'd do the same. Respect given = respect earned. The hipsters and elitists can be just as annoying as each other at times. Just avoid people who you don't enjoy being around... don't know why you'd waste your time complaining about it. It won't change anything.
I dunno if I fall in the hipster category because as many of you I started to hear Black Metal late 90s so the prime time was over , I just love the style and find that many of its themes and style meshes with me perfectly , the best way to describe it is that if you were a film and you just found the perfect sountrack that goes along with it... so the point is that I never found myself in the "Im Kvlt Elitist" side , so I listen to verything that the genre offers yes even the much hated suicidal depressive black metal , I just fucking like it just as much as I like the earliest stuff from Bathory and Venom ... and yes you may not like some of the new stuff that comes along , just shut the fuck up and listen to what you like , it aint going away.
I was laughing through this whole video. I pretty much completely agree with you. I actually like a couple of Christian black metal bands (and just showed one in my newest video), but other that that agree with the whole video. When people start on their BS hipster rant in videos I generally turn the shit off. Great video.
+Myke C-Town Hi Myke, I think the band Extol "Burial" and "Undeceived" albums may change your mind. I really don't pay attention to the lyrics, but the music is phenomenal. I'm guilty of liking some of Burzum, Peste Noire, and even Grand Belial's Key music as well, but I won't monetarily support any NSBM band either. For me, it's all about the music. I don't like Deafheaven, Liturgy, or Myrkur (because of the music), but I do enjoy Wolves in the Throne Room, who I hear are responsible for the whole wave of hipster black metal bands coming into existence. Again, it's about the music. If the bands I mentioned above created black metal that I enjoyed, then I would support them. Every time I check out a new black metal band, I go into it with an opened mind and I really want to enjoy the music. Unfortunately, I wasn't impressed, but think many of the musicians definitely have potential. I am a sucker for the first and second wave bands and also many of the dsbm acts.
I respect your opinion...i definitely don't share your opinion. I think you were looking a little too deep. The simple minor scale riffs were a perfect compliment to her vocals. Funny thing...she's not the person responsible for her marketing mislabeling. If you're looking for black metal, i would suggest some old Venom or Celtic frost. Behemoth is the only band from what i can tell who is actually doing it "right" nowadays. Myrkur is refreshing and somewhat original, in a worn out genre that primarily caters to bed wetters and virgins...and now apearently hipsters.
My favorite subgenre of Black Metal is cheesy Halloween Symphonic Black Metal which has been around since basically day one and everyone hates that shit. Yet the KVLT thrives today. So yeah there's no reason to worry about the hipsters but they are really fun to joke about.
More and more we'll see the bending of genres and ideals. You have the example of Deafheaven, the clothes they wear, but you can say the same about how El-P dresses, he doesn't necessarily look like what we're used to see rappers dressing like. Same for The Weeknd, he came on wearing black combat boots and camo clothing but then he also had pearl earrings and designer shades, that's because he grew up in this new era where we have access to everything and we're influenced by everything. Cultures are being mixed more and more every day and that doesn't mean they are posers or they don't really love X or Y culture.
Not sure why people complain about other people liking things they like without understanding it. Who gives a fuck? They're still funding and supporting the thing you like.
I feel like quite often the people who talk the most shit, are also people who are pretty clueless about the topic. Hipster or not, too many people get off on being needlessly pretentious about everything they like. And i am just past the point of caring, the people judging me for loving Mineral or like La Dispute (sorry Myke) are the same kind of people who would hate on me liking Kurt Vonnegut. Shit talkers are shit talkers regardless of who they are, and none of them matters. They are the ones who take friendly and innocents discussions about art and music and whatever into something else, and it is never fun when that happens. And I am sick of arguing with people about things that don't matter, like i have had metalheads try to convince me that hardcore and screamo are somehow worse than metal, and that i am only listening to these genres because I don't understand their favourite genre. The thing is that i do actually listen to metal, I just often don't like some of the bands they expect your average metalhead to be a fan of. I even do like black metal, sure i am nowhere near as obscure as some other people, but I have listened to a lot of lesser known bands too. Edit: Just to clarify, having a negative opinion on something and expressing it is not shit talking, what Myke is doing is not shit talking either. I am referring to the people who get off on hating everyone else, the people who think it is more important to belittle other people to show how legit they are. Metalheads who hate on hipsters, simply because they think that they get more metal cred by doing so, or anyone else who thinks that actively hating someone is something to be proud of.
+Arian hmn I think we're all shit talkers sometimes. Basically, we all spit acid every now and then. That being said, this is the first time I've seen Myke do it for so long. A lot of people here seemed to enjoy it, though I didn't.
BitterLad I don't think Myke is a shit talker, he is upset at peoples bullshit and is venting about it. I am mostly referring to the same kind of people he is ranting about the, the shitheads who spends so much time hating on hipsters that they completely lose touch with what actually matters. And yeah you are right, but i feel like some people don't know where to stop, or when to do it. When you are friends you can talk shit about a band, or even make fun of fans of a type of music. But it becomes a problem when people start thinking that they are actually above other people, know what i mean? Sorry if it came of as I was talking down to Myke or anyone else in this comment section, that was not my intention at all.
+Arian hmn Yes. I agree with everything you said here. The thing is...yeah, hipsters annoy me. But I just don't care enough about them to make some huge production about it at every given chance. I feel like the people who do this are simply trying to make themselves look and feel more important. "I'm more kvlt than you." When at the end of the day, they just look like jerkoffs. And fuck anyone who would judge someone negatively for liking Mineral!!! Haha! I love them! And next time some jacknut telling you that screamo is worse than black metal, tell them to listen to Union of Uranus and say that they're not more black metal than a lot of the black metal bands they listen to. Fucknuts.
+BitterLad It's more than fine if you didn't enjoy the video. It wasn't made for you. But if you took what I said here as "shit talking" then clearly you don't get it.
Myke C-Town Yeah sure, there are plenty of people who annoy me too. I can't stand bros, and all of these edgy anti-PC people are too much for me. Like if i see someone in a Disturbed t-shirt and backward caps i am probably not going to like them. And i think a lot of people hate Mineral because they probably have never actually given emo music a real chance before. Same thing with screamo really, they just hear that word and assume either a) that is the thing as like really awful metalcore, or b) they know it is a from of punk and just dismisses it outright. Because so many people are completely clueless when it comes to punk music. Like I know people who think of Green Day when you mention punk music, like that is their entire frame of reference. Sorry for ranting, just had to get that out :P
Tbh I don’t even like black metal that much. I’m more of a death/thrash and prog guy myself. But I do like Mayhem and Darkthrone though. I understand the gate keeping, they want to make it pure and true to the roots. Kinda like what that metal scene used to be like, extremely underground
The only reason one should listen to black metal is for how it sounds, that is what music is about. How bands dress or where they are from is irrelevant. ps what do you think about the new Deafheaven record?
The thing is that the hipster garbage black metal is that it's a lame a side effect of the genre's need for experimentation so it keeps from being banal. For every Liturgy, you still got an Agalloch and a WITTR that ditches corpsepaint right.
She also had the other guitarists from early Ulver on it. Awesome Dawn shirt btw! Love Ulver too although Shadows of the Sun is my favorite, newer stuff mixed thoughts. Myrkur is better as a folk project. Hilarious all the hype about her and no one talks about Bethlehem vocalist!
agree dude!,.Im a new subscriber but I like your taste and style in music,.im very bigg into everything in rock/metal and its subgenres and hip hop rap especially alternative stuff.Totally agree on the Myrkur album,.weak and generic,.keep up the good work and look forwards to seeing your videos!,.have a nice weekend :)
I dont understand how people will shove away new people to their genre. It just means that you will get to teach them and then converse with them. It is a way to grow. I am slowly inching my way into the bm genre starting with bands like Botanist, that one Kayo Dot song, Saor, Liturgy, Leviathan, Behemoth, and I just discovered Deafheaven. I really dont give a shit about the people behind the music or how they dress. I just like to listen. To go even farther, I dont really care about the elitists. Its not about anything other than the music. I dont understand why hipsters are frowned upon so much.
I'm inexperienced black metal fan. Only bands I'm really into are Deafheaven(not straight up bm, i know), Altar of Plagues, and a little bit of Thantifaxath. Not a huge fan of the uglier stuff like Darkthrone or Mayhem(appreciate their importance, though). If you could recommend some great shit that'd be great. I trust your opinion. Awesome vids. Also, lovin the Deafheaven album.
+Taimir Gore You could try some more experimental stuff like Ved Buens Ende, Sigh, Fleurety and Porta Nigra. Also try Ulver and Drudkh for a little folkier sounding BM and you basically can't go wrong with Wolves in the Throne Room.
I completely agree actually. I loved Myrkur's EP. This album is pretty random and a boring mess. She should stick to clean vocals, make a post rock or shoegazing band or something and take her time songwriting.
Hah....is that a Dawn shirt? Killer band bruh.....yeah man.....you fucking nailed it with the rabbit hole thing....its exactly what happened to me....around the same time....you basically described how I got into BM....I went through the crust and grind stage back in like 96-98 but I just wasnt feeling the dogmatic politics....it was almost cultish...luckily I serendipitously found Dissection, Incantation and a few other bands that not only filled the heaviness that i craved and recieved from grindcore (Napalm death, Dead Infection Etc) but added a new darker dynamic that totally fit me like a glove
the hipster black metal thing has not spread to were i live fuck people do not even know what black metal is outside of 3/4 people .and on a non related subject i just sent for loads of current 93 vinyl from mr tibet today
A lot of the people who constantly complain about "hipsters" not only look annoying, but also drive away people who may actually be interested in getting into metal music. If I was a person interested in dipping my toes into metal, or sub-genres such as black metal, and I witnessed insane amounts of elitism, and general toxicity towards new fans or naive people, I would be repelled. They aren't just driving away posers and "hipsters", they're also driving away decent people who are genuinely interested in learning about the genre. I feel like, as a music fan, that's one of the worst things you can do. Also, great video!
This might just be my favourite of your videos to date
Hands down. I want to drink this dude.
Don't listen to metal at all, but the way you talk about music is almost universal. Great video man. To have a non metal head watch a 21 minute video about metal is an accomplishment
You absolutely nailed it. If people are fake, the true fans will ignore it and let the genre continue on. The same thing goes for deathcore in my opinion. People act like its killing death metal when death metal is in a great place and will continue to be. The only band I take issue with within "hipster" black metal is Liturgy for the exact reasons you said.
When it comes to the ideology behind black metal and politics, here's my thoughts. I think black metal should be genuine to the artist. For example. If you sing about Satan, that should be some shit you truly believe in, not use it as some sort of character to scare moms like Venom. If you want to sing about emotions, knock yourself out. If its true to you, thats fine by me. I have more respect for NS artists or RABM artists who wear their politics on their sleeve than a band who sings about one thing and believes another. The only thing that I would add is I believe there should be some element of hate, which is where I do think NS politics can fit into the black metal idea. I've always viewed black metal as the most elitist genre in metal and what is the more elitist ideology on the planet? White supremacy.
Also, when you mentioned your view on NS, I actually shouted at my computer "YES!". Because you get it. You don't whine and bitch about it, you ignore it and move on because you're a goddamn adult and not some whiny cunt that wants to pry into people's lives and tell them what they can and can't listen to.
+CountBlagorath I knew people like you would understand. You don't seem to be some pretentious insecure little man baby who thinks metal needs some kind of fucking guardian angel.
I agree with you as to black metal being genuine. But, unfortunately, most of the bands are not. They're juvenile little kids who use symbols to shock people. The thing is, though, unlike most black metal fans I don't take them that seriously. I love the music, I love the imagery, etc. All that extra shit I can take it or leave it. I can definitely appreciate when bands are open and honest about their politics like you said as opposed to being full of shit. But I'd still rather my black metal not be full of politics. It's funny...I complain when punk and hip hop is too apathetic to talk about real life issues...but I'd prefer black metal not to. Weird, huh? I guess I need to reflect on myself to see why that is.
The whole NS thing doesn't really fit into black metal to me because it's always been about misanthropy and darkness. How can you be a misanthrope and a supremacist at the same time? Those two ideas don't match in the slightest bit. A misanthrope hates humanity as a whole so there would be no way for him to, then, say that one type of person is better than another because, in the end, we are all nothing. And, to go further, some misanthropic philosophers actually say that conscientious treatment of others goes in line with the misanthropic view of the world because they feel like we are all suffering due to a lack of worth (because we're all garbage) so we should treat each other with common decency. But see...a lot of black metal dudes just hear half of something and run with it. (Which is what I was alluding to in the video about not caring about loved ones/idols/etc.) Trust me...I think NS is bullshit. I just don't choose to waste my time complaining about it because it has no real affect on me and, like you said, I'm an adult. I don't listen to it...I don't support it...so it's whatever to me. People can listen to what they want, dude. You know? It's when those individuals start to support and propagate those ideas themselves is when I have to take issue. Especially if they're a friend. Because then it does affect me to some degree.
+Myke C-Town You can't be a misanthrope and a supremacist, but that goes with the blanket term or hate. Hate can me towards ALL of man, SOME of man or even yourself (which is where DSBM come into play). I feel like hate of any kind is welcome in black metal. A lot of it has hate towards religious groups, but doesn't say how they hate people of the same thought. I just feel like with black metal, nothing is safe and nothing should be safe.
+CountBlagorath Black Metal is music. Nothing more, nothing less. Get over it.
+CountBlagorath I mean...I get all that. I just think it's bullshit when people try to act like NSBM makes sense in black metal, but no other political leanings do. I'd love for some black metal dude to explain to me how they support the destruction of the church, but they still support Conservative political values. Which political party would be more likely to completely remove the power of the church? Conservatives or Liberals? Conservatives want nothing more than for Christianity to completely rule every single aspect of our lives! And no, I don't affiliate myself with any political party. I'm just giving further example of how these thoughts and the blind acceptance and support of NS politics in black metal is completely asinine.
If black metal is supposed to be misanthropic then being picky choosy about who you hate (especially when that hate has NOTHING to do with anything other than heritage) makes no sense. And, like I said in the video, this plays into the whole idea of metalheads being idiots. Again, I'm not telling people to stop listening to this shit. I don't give a dick what people listen to on their own time or throw their money at. I'm just saying people really need to stop trying to defend it or act like there's some sort of logic in the politics. Even by black metal standards...there's not. But I agree with you...that nothing should be safe with black metal. But that doesn't mean it should always be stupid.
+CountBlagorath you certainly don't want to claim that Satanism is hate for the self, it's quite the contrary, at least judging from what Gaahl says at his fireplace over a glass of vine. I can see how nazi-ism is consistent with BM ideology, because if you exalt the particular in a sort of Nietzschean way you can exalt not only a self but a group of selves (or a culture or whatever), i.e. you then see others as sub-human. There is no logical stopping point which can make you a Satanist but not to be hateful to some kind of out-group (however defined), saying otherwise seems self-refferentially inconsistent to me.
100% agree with you dude; all i want are conversations about the music.
The post-review rant is so good I wish I could subscribe twice.
Hunter Hunt Hendrix's 'Transcendental Black Metal -
A Vision of Apocalyptic Humanism' was honestly one of the most incoherent pieces of 'literature' my eyes have ever been burdened to read. I would rather stick my tongue in a toaster than have to deal with something as wretched as that ever again.
Quite a lot of her academic cake frosting of a philosophy literally went over my head.
I hated the Myrkur album. It's all over the place. The Black Metal sound is so forced. It doesn't work at all.
I'm with you. I have no clue why anyone fucking cares about these hipster kids plaguing black metal. The only reason their involvement even has an impact on anything is because every black metal fan feels the need to post whiney Facebook status updates on how hipsters are ruining the genre.
Honestly, it should be as simple as listening to what you like and not giving a fuck what anyone else likes (or pretends to like...ironically, of course). If black metal becomes the first genre to ever be overrun and destroyed by these hipster dudes, that doesn't do anything to the "true" fans listening experience! Listen to what you like and fuck everything else.
These black metal fans sure do lose that edge they try so hard to create for themselves when they're crying on the internet about Deafheaven. Ugh.
You, Myke, are as gorgeous as ever. Love ya, boo! ;)
Also, I'm glad you made this video. Someone had to!
+Kanyon Bickel I agree with everything you said here. I remember back in the day it was us vs them. And it was only like that because the them was actively against us. Now we're actually turning on ourselves. And for fucking what? I love metal. And regardless of who is involved in metal or who thinks I shouldn't be involved in metal...I will always love metal. So sick of this silly petty whiny bullshit. Like The Count, I knew you would get it. Love you, too, sessy boi!
+Myke C-Town Metalsucks comment board is a haven for metal fans who turn on each other... i have never seen a larger forum for back biting outside of Metal Archives, Which in itself is an elitist den of hilarity.
6:54 "I don;t really care about the hipster epidemic"
SO IT'S TRUE! there IS AN EPIDEMIC! lol
Had too.....lol
But this douchbag didn't get the point about the hipster black metal channel lol. Because that guy isn't a hipster but in his videos he made fun of them, especially myrkur fans who are amongs the bigger hipsters who doesnt know a crap about black metal over the internet
This video had me pumping my fucking fist over and over again. So much truth in here.
Thanks dude you pretty much nail my opinion. I like what I like. I'm not special because of it. We are all different.
Hi there Myke! Your misanthropic kvlt pen pal here. Great video as always.
I think a lot of the ire over Deafheaven comes from their "subversion" of black metal aesthetics on Sunbather: the pink album art, the lyrics, and especially the shoegazer elements woven into the music (so-called blackgaze seems irrevocably tied to hipsterism). It's the same for artists like Alcest and Wolves In the Throne Room. These bands are/were also journalist darlings, so their acclaim and popularity make them prime targets. I think the very fact that publications like Pitchfork talk about black metal pisses some people off.
You touch on a good point in your video: that of the outsider. Artists and their fans are seen as invaders, ignorant of black metal history and culture (whether true or not) and treading on 'sacred ground.' On one level, I think it's often perceived as disrespectful. What gives them the right? Etc. Which is, of course, ironic: a lot of black metal purists harbor dogma and orthodoxy. They are essentially religious.
On a deeper level, I think there's a fear of change. Invaders are cast as a disease, and diseases scar and wound. The fear is that the 'landscape' of black metal might be overrun by hipsters and jocks and undesirables. These bands may not all write manifestos like Liturgy, but their very existence is seen as an affront that could mutate a genre that often prides itself on orthodoxy.
Funny thing is, the existence of 'hipster metal' helps sustain more 'pure' black metal these days. Outsiders help unify culture by giving people a shared enemy. Bands, publications, and even message boards can pride themselves in being 'true.'
As an aside: I could never really get into Sunbather, but I'm really liking New Bermuda.
Well said.
I dunno, maybe its because i'm younger and got into things later, but I never really cared about the philosophy behind genres of music or upholding their traditional values/sounds.
As long as it sounds good to me they can dress in tutus and sing about taking your vitamins for all I care
+BuiikiKaesu69 That's the way it's supposed to be. Music is supposed to go into your ears and you should make your decisions based off of that.
Willie Wardlaw no its not man, thats bullshit. Music is more than noise, its artistic expression. For instance, NSBM can sound good, however the lyrics and reasoning behind making the music is awful, so I cant listen to it. Same with Christian black metal, it goes against the lifestyle and reason black metal was created. Christian pro government hip hop as well, it doesn’t work.
@@dylanforsythe6598 NSBM Is the only autentic branch of black metal nowadays
You have my full respect and I fully 100 percent agree! Grew up listening to bands like limbonic art and emperor and just like you, I could not get enough of it! I listened to any black metal I could get a hold of and any documentary about black metal I could watch. And to give you an example of not complaining about hipsters, I am a good example of it because the record shop I go to is the only one near me and it is right next to the college campus and vintage/thrift stores/yogurt/vegan shops which is just a haven for hipsters! Every time I go into get some music (which is usually Friday when I get my paycheck and right when most of them get out of school) I will be looking through the metal section (which is really damn good since the owner is a metalhead and stocks some good stuff or just orders stuff for me) and I will hear them in the background talking about Madlib and how unknown he is and how long they have been listening to him but they don't even know Quasimoto! To me I just don't care but the only thing I do care about is now my record store is having less and less of what I like and a lot more of what the hipsters like.
+Hunter Ballard And btw thank you for this video
"Sitting at your evil ComputerThrone" hahahaha
Yo myke! I was wondering if you were into early Ulver and can you recommend any early black metal albums for me to check out? Been listening to newer stuff but I want to delve deeper.
+Manic Panic Come on, man. Trolling is really lame.
i'm sorry lol...
In all seriousness though this was a great video.
Hey Mayke, what do you think about Proclamation and Blasphemy? I find them very entertaining but they play a lil monoton riffs sometimes.
I completely agree Myke, I don't give a fuck about hipsters or elitists, I like listening to black metal and I like listening to good music.so thanks for the video, you pretty much said what I was thinking.
The problem with Hipsters
Hipster: Hey did you hear this new band with this female singer?
Me: No
Hipster: Man they are great there are not enough women in metal and this singer is leading the way
Me: Looks at Nightwish, Epica, Within Temptation, Delain, Xandria, Seven Kingdoms, Arch Enemy, The Agonist, Edenbridge, Kobra and the Lotus.
That's what I hate and dislike. I hate these hipsters who don't bother to give the band that came before credit or act like it was never done before
Another example
Hipster loving Demi Lovato fan: Hey did you here this metal band they have keyboards in it. If more bands did this they would be well liked.
Me: Uh?
Hipster loving Demi Lovato fan: Not enough metal bands use keyboards.
Me: Dragonforce, Dark Tranquillity, Therion, Epica, Delain, Nightwish, Emperor, Children of Bodom, Sonata Arctica, Kamelot, and the list goes on.
My point is I hate how the Hipsters, and Jocks, and so on take a shit all over bands that have been doing things such as male growls and female cleans and acting like a band such as She Must Burn is doing something new and different. There not.
Or they act like Symphonic music has never been used if heavy music before so I guess we should forget about about all those symphonic/power/prog metal bands? This is my issues. If someone really likes metal and really wants to get into it great but learn the damn history and stop acting like the band you just heard is the first band to ever do something like that. Then when people point out to you the other bands that were doing it stop shitting on them.
People may like In This Moment, Motionless in White and Winds of Plague. But Motionless in White is not the first heavy band to use keyboards on there music. Winds of Plague is not the first heavy band to have a symphonic sound. In This Moment is not the first metal band with a female singer or a female that uses cleans and growls.
My dislike for Myrkur is this: "She's the first woman to be in a black metal band." WRONG SO TOTAL WRONG. So False on so many God damn levels. So much lack of respect for black metal bands that have nothing but women in it. So much of a slap in the face to women that came before her. I may not like Anthrax, Megadeth, Metallica, and Slayer or the 80s hair metal scene. But dammit I respect them and understand that with out them we would not have 90% of the bands that we do. So to give a lack of respect to a band like Epica or Nightwish, or Doro. Myrkur and so on would be no where. Winds of Plague would not be using symphonic sounds with out Savatage and Therion there is no damn symphonic metal.
Totally agree with everything you said. Although now I'm curious as to what a "Demi Lovato" is.
Mike you are the best!
What do you think of the new Wildernessking single?
one of greatest videos ever man really. at the end of the day i think what really matters is HOW you express your opinions. we all hate the shit outta them hipsters. but its the way you express your disgust towards them that really matters. also smth else too. miixing clean vocals and post rock-ish tunes with black metal is very risky. only a selected few can pull it off. like oathbreaker for example. at least imo. anyways, great video honestly.
I think that "where are the riffs at?" really sums up my problem with tons of nowadays black metal. Good video. Keep it up.
A-FUCKING-MEN....brotha Myke!! I am 43 years old, and been into extreme/black metal since it's inception. I hate to see a hipster in BM T-shirt as well, but I am not gonna cry about it!! They are not ruining my enjoyment of the music I have loved over half of my life. They will move on to the next thing in less than a year anyway!! Thanks for saying this!!
I'm completely new to black metal. I like Deafheaven. I also kinda dig Mayhem's esoteric warfare, and i also checked out COF's new album based on your reccomendation and i really liked it too. Could you give me some more reccomendations?
Literally requested the same thing lol.
+Giruga x Hakusho I assume you prefer melodic Black Metal? If that's the case, I would suggest checking out bands like Dissection, Enslaved (later albums) and Emperor. You might also enjoy Emperor's frontman solo work (Ihsahn). I would also suggest checking out the early Norwegian Black Metal scene (bands like Darkthrone and Burzum)
CarlHH777 Thank you. I will give it a shot
+Giruga x Hakusho Shining's new album ix everyone everything everywhere ends is killer and archgoat the apocalyptic triumphator is great
+Giruga x Hakusho
I also heavily, HEAVILY RECOMMEND that you check out Agalloch, Wolves In The Throne Room, Primordial and the rest of Cradle Of Filth's discography.
It's kinda funny when you mentioned Euronymous having a youtube channel, since Varg Vikernes has one where he does vlogs and stuff. Totally agree with the video in any case.
+Trash Lounge Ha. Yeah, I watched a vid or two just out of curiosity. They were pretty worthless.
Also...the post review rant was totally on point. \m/
All jokes aside, why do you poses those two shirts?
+John Burnside Because I like Star Wars and Katy Perry. Pretty simple.
I cannot upvote this video enough.
My opinion on hipster black metal:
I dislike it, because of the nature of the music itself. If it wasn't called black metal, then I would simply ignore it and listen to what I like. But, since some people do call it black metal, I have to say this:
if enough of that music claims the name of black metal, then the definition of black metal as I know it will die out and be replaced. Also - you vote with your wallet.
It is not the clothing per se, nor the ideology per se, nor the lyrics per se. It is the nature of the music itself.
Think about what Liturgy's music expresses. Then think about what Darkthrone's music expresses.
Do the same to the music of Deafheaven, and to the music of Enslaved.
And so on.
What the music expresses is the main factor in deciding which genre it belongs to - which category we should put it in.
A lot of death metal, for example, sounds like unmitigated terror, fear, struggling for one's life, etc. There are multiple ways to express this musically, but the genre is an expressive range, both in subject matter, and in method of expressing that subject. If it falls within that range, it is death metal. If it is too different, it should be called by some other name.
Clothing, lyrics, and so on, are side effects of the fundamental inspiration - that which the music aspires to express.
But they are not the goal, and are not what matter in the end. If a band doesn't dress in a way that looks like, or write lyrics that are about, or have an interest in things that are like what the genre sounds like, then it may mean that some thing is amiss. But it is on its own no grounds for condemnation.
I suggest the name of post black metal, to music which has surface elements of black metal (tremolo riffs, shrieking vocals, blast beats, lyrics about Satan or nature, elements of black metal style structure) but which doesn't express what the main body of black metal does.
It is a fitting name. It came after black metal. It was influenced by black metal and would probably not be what it is without it. But it is fundamentally different from black metal, in what it expresses, to warrant a different category.
Expression is the most defining and important trait of music. Music is a language with which one can say things. Structure itself is nothing if not used to express something. No one likes tech for the sake of tech. Structure in music is like grammar in spoken language - one needs to be proficient in its use in order to articulate more precise, sophisticated ideas - to communicate with precision. But what would you rather listen to: A person with good diction and linguistic abilities, talking about a boring subject, or a person who stutters a little, but who talks about something profound and beautiful?
+vOddy75 I sorta see what you are saying, but i think you're wrong. I think that the genre is technical, like its about how the instruments are played. I don't think that music should be based on an ideology, there are many ways to get to the same point.
a true scotsman uth
I did not mention ideology. I mentioned romantic themes and expression. Black metal is black metal in the same way that horror is horror. If a piece of fiction is not about scary or disturbing subjects, then it is not horror.
If a movie does not have action, then it is not an action movie.
Metal in general is the same, and black metal too, which is related to other metal genres, but still has its own traits.
vOddy75 no, musical themes don't matter when defining a genre. This is why viking metal is retarded, and doesnt exist. Musical genres are about the execution, and how the instruments are played and are separate from themes, tones, lyricss etc. Look at atmospheric black metal, there is a ton of abm, i tihnk its black metal, biut its in a different subgenre. Maybe, "hipster" bm, or whatever you call it isn't black metal in the traditional sense, but its still in the same ballpark, and should still be called black metal. Just in a different subgenre
a true scotsman uth When I say themes, I am not talking about lyrics.
I am talking about what the music itself describes or expresses.
The violence of Immortal, the fighting spirit of Enslaved, and Darkthrone's dark serenity on Transylvanian Hunger and Under A Funeral Moon are all related to each other. Variations of similar things, even though they emphasize different things to different degrees.
"yer fuckin boring"
LMFAO "Evil computer throne"... Well said, man, listening to you talk about how you came up in music reminds me of me thoroughly. And I still haven't listened to Liturgy, but I did watch their "What's in my Bag" episode and I couldn't help but think it was an SNL sketch because dude looks exactly like Bill Hader.
+Eric Bauer Hahahaha! I still say you should listen to one song just to see how fucking terrible they are!
have you heard the new children of bodom? i love it. hoping you review it
I've always been an extremely quiet, serious and lonely person, I grew up with no technology and surrounded by mountains, talk about the supernatural, spirits, past lives, death by witchcraft, people in my family practice shamanic rites, white magic, and know about black magic...Like this stumbling upon Black Metal and understanding its concept was natural for me...I've always been a stranger to this society, rejected the religion imposed on me, denied the existence of god and hate most ignorant brainwashed foolish people. So when I make the effort to come out of my cave to see a band, I don't like to stumble upon hipster clowns that don't give a shit about the dark art that is Black Metal music really, they're just there to feel part of something dark they don't understand, they are in the way. wish it was like back in the days, fucking Internet...
"[...] [Y]ou'd be sitting in a room, by yourself, the majority of the time, listening to black metal."-What!? What do you mean _"would"_???
Myke do you listen to agalloch?
+Pope Francis Yup. I wasn't a huge fan of their last album, but I do like them as a band.
Liked the video, elitism in metal makes me sad. And just curious, are you going to the Atlanta King Diamond concert in November?
+Andrew Morris Yup. I'll be there.
cool, see you there maybe!
Nice review Mike!! I fully agree with your assessment of Myrkur, but I felt the demo was much the same. Random riffs that often don't feel associated with each other, like she's just pulling mediocre content out of her ass and she doesn't have any idea how to string a song together that makes any sense to save her life. Garm attached his name to this? Wow. Makes me wonder if he ever knew what GOOD black metal was to begin with. He obviously didn't write any of the music on those early and endlessly amazing Ulver albums if this new Myrkur release is any indication. And her ethereal vocals…. they are good for a minute, but you're right…. they all sound the same and like something pulled off a Christmas special on the Hallmark channel. No thanks!
I came from the Brazilian favelas, slums, and I have no idea what hipster means. I mean no offence, seriously...but I heard people complaining about them. I learned that if I wanted survive the environment around me...I need to not give a shit about what people think about me. I think that is why I never tried to fit anything, I just like metal and I use music as my fuel. Therefore, I never lose time offending anyone. Anyways man...congratulations for your work. I wish I had your skills related with communication.
Back when I played in a black metal band, we were always criticized for "not staying true" by mixing in elements from other genres. I guess that's what you get for trying to play blsck metal a bit different while living in Scandinavia.
And a bit off topic: Have you had the chance listent to Mgła's newest album? If you have, what do you think about it?
+V0lbet What was the name of your band?
Yeah, I heard the MGLA record. I'm gonna try to get around to doing a Metal Monday on it. I fucking love it!
+Myke C-Town The band was (and I guess is) called Eldjudnir.
I stopped playing with them back in '06, but the bands is still going and doing somewhat well for itself.
Although, the music was changed a bit. They now play a more folk/atmospheric black metal style
The funny thing is that some of the most hailed Danish black metal bands today have been the once who incorporated elements from other genres.
+V0lbet Goddamn! This shit is great! I'm gonna have to look into picking up some of your/their records! I'm listening to Angrboda now and it's fantastic! I don't think it strays too much from traditional black metal. No more than early Enslaved did.
+Myke C-Town I'm glad you like it.
But as I said I left the band in '06, so I can't take any credit for any of their recorded work. That was recorded and written way after I left.
Back when I still played the style of the band was a bit different. I was more punk oriented. We sounded a bit like Solbrud if you know those guys.
Thanks for this video Myke. I've been thinking the same things the whole time I've been interested in black metal and listening to it.
Anyways. if you don't mind me asking. What's that playing in the background? It sounds awesome.
+Bryce McRae You gotta watch the whole video.
Not really interested in metal I'm a huge hip hop fan, but I really can't imagine un subbing to you (or any of DEHH) for expressing an opinion that doesn't agree with what I believe in. This is why I watch myke DEHH amd TND. To see what other peoples perspectives are and how they compare to mine.
Came to this review expecting a review... Left with an overheated monitor from the fire you was dropping got damn homie
I agree about this. I got real sick of everyone going on about hipsters in life in general but especially is music. People throw the word around so readily these days that I feel like I barely know what they mean at this point. I guess it's someone that dips in and out of scenes like they're fashion trends. Because of that I'm glad you mentioned metal attire. I've been a metal fan since childhood but, like you, I don't suit the full battle jacketed get up. I dress quite ordinarily and don't look metal at all. Sometimes I feel as though I could be written off as one of these hipsters by less accepting fans when they see me at a gig or whatever. But most of the time I feel like life's to short to get hung up on shit like that and people that worry about exclusivity and image that much are missing one of metal's main philosophies. It's supposed to be a scene that accepts everyone and the only reason it doesn't always feel that way is because whiny idiots can be so relentless sometimes.
Wooden Stake and Mystic Charm=the best female vocals
Maybe there's something I'm not getting, but why do you have to believe a certain thing to like how something sounds?
+Atomsk0192 You don't. But once you choose to immerse yourself into the culture that produces that music, then the ideologies must be considered.
i love the fact that he has a teenage dream shirt
Holy shit yes thank you! Can't agree with you more!!
8:32 was pretty deep man. I can relate completely.
Man you're awesome haha I'm glad I found your channel.
she has this otherworldly scandinavian darkness to her, thats what makes her interesting.
The song writing on that album felt really disjointed and lacked direction to me.
This video is so damn good. I think people are so scared of being labeled as posers that they will go out of their way to pick on easy targets to divert the attention away from themselves. People are scared to like artists because of how they think it would affect their image /: I'm nowhere close to being a knowledgeable BM fan but I'm so fine with sticking to the beginner stuff for now instead of getting into the extreme areas and say I like em. It's just not fair to the people that actually like those bands. Thank you for being so knowledgeable in your area btw, I love hearing people talk about music they love. Keep up the great work famsky!
Havent heard this album yet, but I intend to cus I've heard people suck it off and people shit all over it. Something that polarizing I wanna hear lol.
That said in regards to the rant ABSOLUTELY-ON-FUCKIN-POINT like you I don't give a shit about Hipsters and what they get into at all. I personally think music is meant for anyone who wants to hear it, each artist having their place (ears who wish to hear them) across all genres and all levels of popularity/styles/etc.
That said I watched the same thing happen with Punk & Hip Hop (my favorite genres as well) I'm a bit younger myself, I was in HS in 02-06 but I seen similar growing up with the likes of Blink & Asher and (while early Eminem was amazing) he was the ultimate "door opener" for a lot of the people who hold that "fly by night" mentality with music (in hip hop at least).
I miss a lot of elements of the music I loved "pre-hipsters" but I also enjoy a lot of the newer music too, catch 22. I like a lot of the experimentalism going on in alot of genres now. Hipster influenced or not. So I just try and leave it at "Live and let listen to w/e the fuck you want" just dont be super pushy with your beliefs/opinions and I'd do the same. Respect given = respect earned.
The hipsters and elitists can be just as annoying as each other at times. Just avoid people who you don't enjoy being around... don't know why you'd waste your time complaining about it. It won't change anything.
I dunno if I fall in the hipster category because as many of you I started to hear Black Metal late 90s so the prime time was over , I just love the style and find that many of its themes and style meshes with me perfectly , the best way to describe it is that if you were a film and you just found the perfect sountrack that goes along with it... so the point is that I never found myself in the "Im Kvlt Elitist" side , so I listen to verything that the genre offers yes even the much hated suicidal depressive black metal , I just fucking like it just as much as I like the earliest stuff from Bathory and Venom ... and yes you may not like some of the new stuff that comes along , just shut the fuck up and listen to what you like , it aint going away.
Amalie Bruun bores the shit outta me. M? Should be called "Z" for all the Z's you'll get outta this thing. Better than Ambien, actually.
I was laughing through this whole video. I pretty much completely agree with you. I actually like a couple of Christian black metal bands (and just showed one in my newest video), but other that that agree with the whole video. When people start on their BS hipster rant in videos I generally turn the shit off. Great video.
+Harmless Rebel I can't lie...I probably wouldn't be interested in Christian black metal. It just seems weird, man. Like white power hip hop. Haha!
+Myke C-Town Hi Myke, I think the band Extol "Burial" and "Undeceived" albums may change your mind. I really don't pay attention to the lyrics, but the music is phenomenal. I'm guilty of liking some of Burzum, Peste Noire, and even Grand Belial's Key music as well, but I won't monetarily support any NSBM band either. For me, it's all about the music. I don't like Deafheaven, Liturgy, or Myrkur (because of the music), but I do enjoy Wolves in the Throne Room, who I hear are responsible for the whole wave of hipster black metal bands coming into existence. Again, it's about the music. If the bands I mentioned above created black metal that I enjoyed, then I would support them. Every time I check out a new black metal band, I go into it with an opened mind and I really want to enjoy the music. Unfortunately, I wasn't impressed, but think many of the musicians definitely have potential. I am a sucker for the first and second wave bands and also many of the dsbm acts.
Check out my newest video. I play a clip. The lyrics are not Christian, just the band.
So how about that Grift record?
+everdarkgreen I actually just heard bits of it for the first time today. Undecided so far.
Cool. I quite like it. It fits the Finnish Autumn.
Idk why I thought that was lightspeed champion in the
thumbnail lol
I respect your opinion...i definitely don't share your opinion. I think you were looking a little too deep. The simple minor scale riffs were a perfect compliment to her vocals.
Funny thing...she's not the person responsible for her marketing mislabeling. If you're looking for black metal, i would suggest some old Venom or Celtic frost. Behemoth is the only band from what i can tell who is actually doing it "right" nowadays.
Myrkur is refreshing and somewhat original, in a worn out genre that primarily caters to bed wetters and virgins...and now apearently hipsters.
You don't like Deafhaven? I'm surprised honestly
+I.Mythos I never said I didn't like Deafheaven.
You called them "One of the shittiest metal bands" in this; or did I mishear?
+I.Mythos You absolutely mishead. I was talking about Liturgy.
My mistake; it happens sorry.
Perfect video, my friend.
+Brady Spencer Thanks, bro!
BTW I need to get that Altars of Madness! One of my all time favorites.
Get on it boi!
Speaking of black metal; check out the new Tsjuder record. It's fantastic old school black metal.
My favorite subgenre of Black Metal is cheesy Halloween Symphonic Black Metal which has been around since basically day one and everyone hates that shit. Yet the KVLT thrives today. So yeah there's no reason to worry about the hipsters but they are really fun to joke about.
More and more we'll see the bending of genres and ideals. You have the example of Deafheaven, the clothes they wear, but you can say the same about how El-P dresses, he doesn't necessarily look like what we're used to see rappers dressing like. Same for The Weeknd, he came on wearing black combat boots and camo clothing but then he also had pearl earrings and designer shades, that's because he grew up in this new era where we have access to everything and we're influenced by everything. Cultures are being mixed more and more every day and that doesn't mean they are posers or they don't really love X or Y culture.
Thank you. Great review. !
coming soon...slamming brutal Death Metal hipsters, just you wait
Not sure why people complain about other people liking things they like without understanding it. Who gives a fuck? They're still funding and supporting the thing you like.
I loved this so much that I wish I could give this more than 1 thumbs up. Thank you for this. I'm fucking sharing this everywhere.
battle jackets ha, same here. yeah i wear cardigans too and hoodies.
Hard to hear but these insights are deeply profound.
This video reminds me of Chickenshit Conformist by the Dead Kennedys which is one of their best songs. You summed everything up perfectly.
Amen on your rant!
I feel like quite often the people who talk the most shit, are also people who are pretty clueless about the topic. Hipster or not, too many people get off on being needlessly pretentious about everything they like. And i am just past the point of caring, the people judging me for loving Mineral or like La Dispute (sorry Myke) are the same kind of people who would hate on me liking Kurt Vonnegut. Shit talkers are shit talkers regardless of who they are, and none of them matters. They are the ones who take friendly and innocents discussions about art and music and whatever into something else, and it is never fun when that happens.
And I am sick of arguing with people about things that don't matter, like i have had metalheads try to convince me that hardcore and screamo are somehow worse than metal, and that i am only listening to these genres because I don't understand their favourite genre. The thing is that i do actually listen to metal, I just often don't like some of the bands they expect your average metalhead to be a fan of. I even do like black metal, sure i am nowhere near as obscure as some other people, but I have listened to a lot of lesser known bands too.
Edit: Just to clarify, having a negative opinion on something and expressing it is not shit talking, what Myke is doing is not shit talking either. I am referring to the people who get off on hating everyone else, the people who think it is more important to belittle other people to show how legit they are. Metalheads who hate on hipsters, simply because they think that they get more metal cred by doing so, or anyone else who thinks that actively hating someone is something to be proud of.
+Arian hmn I think we're all shit talkers sometimes. Basically, we all spit acid every now and then. That being said, this is the first time I've seen Myke do it for so long. A lot of people here seemed to enjoy it, though I didn't.
BitterLad I don't think Myke is a shit talker, he is upset at peoples bullshit and is venting about it. I am mostly referring to the same kind of people he is ranting about the, the shitheads who spends so much time hating on hipsters that they completely lose touch with what actually matters.
And yeah you are right, but i feel like some people don't know where to stop, or when to do it. When you are friends you can talk shit about a band, or even make fun of fans of a type of music. But it becomes a problem when people start thinking that they are actually above other people, know what i mean?
Sorry if it came of as I was talking down to Myke or anyone else in this comment section, that was not my intention at all.
+Arian hmn Yes. I agree with everything you said here. The thing is...yeah, hipsters annoy me. But I just don't care enough about them to make some huge production about it at every given chance. I feel like the people who do this are simply trying to make themselves look and feel more important. "I'm more kvlt than you." When at the end of the day, they just look like jerkoffs. And fuck anyone who would judge someone negatively for liking Mineral!!! Haha! I love them!
And next time some jacknut telling you that screamo is worse than black metal, tell them to listen to Union of Uranus and say that they're not more black metal than a lot of the black metal bands they listen to. Fucknuts.
+BitterLad It's more than fine if you didn't enjoy the video. It wasn't made for you. But if you took what I said here as "shit talking" then clearly you don't get it.
Myke C-Town Yeah sure, there are plenty of people who annoy me too. I can't stand bros, and all of these edgy anti-PC people are too much for me. Like if i see someone in a Disturbed t-shirt and backward caps i am probably not going to like them.
And i think a lot of people hate Mineral because they probably have never actually given emo music a real chance before.
Same thing with screamo really, they just hear that word and assume either a) that is the thing as like really awful metalcore, or b) they know it is a from of punk and just dismisses it outright. Because so many people are completely clueless when it comes to punk music. Like I know people who think of Green Day when you mention punk music, like that is their entire frame of reference.
Sorry for ranting, just had to get that out :P
hey myke, great video. definitely opened my eyes and made me realize I need to stop caring about stupid shit.
“Tiddy baby!”😂
Tbh I don’t even like black metal that much.
I’m more of a death/thrash and prog guy myself.
But I do like Mayhem and Darkthrone though.
I understand the gate keeping, they want to make it pure and true to the roots.
Kinda like what that metal scene used to be like, extremely underground
The only reason one should listen to black metal is for how it sounds, that is what music is about. How bands dress or where they are from is irrelevant.
ps what do you think about the new Deafheaven record?
The thing is that the hipster garbage black metal is that it's a lame a side effect of the genre's need for experimentation so it keeps from being banal. For every Liturgy, you still got an Agalloch and a WITTR that ditches corpsepaint right.
She also had the other guitarists from early Ulver on it. Awesome Dawn shirt btw! Love Ulver too although Shadows of the Sun is my favorite, newer stuff mixed thoughts.
Myrkur is better as a folk project.
Hilarious all the hype about her and no one talks about Bethlehem vocalist!
agree dude!,.Im a new subscriber but I like your taste and style in music,.im very bigg into everything in rock/metal and its subgenres and hip hop rap especially alternative stuff.Totally agree on the Myrkur album,.weak and generic,.keep up the good work and look forwards to seeing your videos!,.have a nice weekend :)
Well done Myke CT. New sub here.
Nofx and green day are not punk!
The exploited!
Dude I need that Dawn shirt. PRONTO
I dont understand how people will shove away new people to their genre. It just means that you will get to teach them and then converse with them. It is a way to grow. I am slowly inching my way into the bm genre starting with bands like Botanist, that one Kayo Dot song, Saor, Liturgy, Leviathan, Behemoth, and I just discovered Deafheaven. I really dont give a shit about the people behind the music or how they dress. I just like to listen. To go even farther, I dont really care about the elitists. Its not about anything other than the music. I dont understand why hipsters are frowned upon so much.
I went to a Deafheaven/Myrkur concert.... I liked them both
I feel like the only genres that hate experimentation from "outsiders" is black metal & footwork
Wow I love your DAWN t-shirt
I'm inexperienced black metal fan. Only bands I'm really into are Deafheaven(not straight up bm, i know), Altar of Plagues, and a little bit of Thantifaxath. Not a huge fan of the uglier stuff like Darkthrone or Mayhem(appreciate their importance, though). If you could recommend some great shit that'd be great. I trust your opinion. Awesome vids. Also, lovin the Deafheaven album.
+Taimir Gore try Deathspell Omega
+Roronoa Zoro Ef it ain't Barzum, itz bullpucky.
+Taimir Gore You could try some more experimental stuff like Ved Buens Ende, Sigh, Fleurety and Porta Nigra. Also try Ulver and Drudkh for a little folkier sounding BM and you basically can't go wrong with Wolves in the Throne Room.
Try Treblinka. I think they are/were great.
+Taimir Gore give Blut Aus Nord a listen they have some pretty good albums.
Great review man. I'll sub and I don't really listen to metal much these days.
thank you myke this video nailed it
i agree with you but based on my taste il take marduk over deafheaven any day
great video...completely agree
Also, good rant. Could not agree more.
I completely agree actually. I loved Myrkur's EP. This album is pretty random and a boring mess. She should stick to clean vocals, make a post rock or shoegazing band or something and take her time songwriting.
+Ocean Sage Agree...
Hah....is that a Dawn shirt? Killer band bruh.....yeah man.....you fucking nailed it with the rabbit hole thing....its exactly what happened to me....around the same time....you basically described how I got into BM....I went through the crust and grind stage back in like 96-98 but I just wasnt feeling the dogmatic politics....it was almost cultish...luckily I serendipitously found Dissection, Incantation and a few other bands that not only filled the heaviness that i craved and recieved from grindcore (Napalm death, Dead Infection Etc) but added a new darker dynamic that totally fit me like a glove
i am quite lucky were i live about 3/4 people know about black metal or neo folk and that is the way i like it
+Robert Munro Why?
the hipster black metal thing has not spread to were i live fuck people do not even know what black metal is outside of 3/4 people .and on a non related subject i just sent for loads of current 93 vinyl from mr tibet today
A lot of the people who constantly complain about "hipsters" not only look annoying, but also drive away people who may actually be interested in getting into metal music. If I was a person interested in dipping my toes into metal, or sub-genres such as black metal, and I witnessed insane amounts of elitism, and general toxicity towards new fans or naive people, I would be repelled. They aren't just driving away posers and "hipsters", they're also driving away decent people who are genuinely interested in learning about the genre. I feel like, as a music fan, that's one of the worst things you can do.
Also, great video!
Wow...awesome rant
Nice DAWN shirt
hipsters are funny , i dont bother with them , i listen what i like. end of story.
Nah, but for real that's a pretty dope Katy Perry shirt