The Black Metal Murders

The Black Metal Murders

Black Metal is a subgenre of Heavy Metal that is inextricably associated with murder, church burnings, and extremism in its myriad forms – including but not limited to Satanism, Neo-Paganism, Neo-Nazism, and hate-fueled misanthropic nihilism. Characterized by its harsh, raw sound – it is among the darkest, most extreme forms of musical expression ever created. Shrill, throat-ripping vocals, tremolo picked buzz-saw guitars, pounding drums, ominous bass and synths are the calling card of Black Metal. Anti-Christianity…evil…war…genocide…armageddon…death…vampirism…are all common lyrical themes, and no subject is off-limits or too offensive. Equal parts theatrical and evocative – the music is at once emotionally captivating and sonically violent. In the early 1990’s, the underground scene transcended music and gained infamy after a series of shocking crimes were committed by many of the most prominent Black Metal musicians. The author, veteran metal journalist BJØRN ERIK KRISTIANSSON breaks new ground in an engaging, story-telling style. Among others, you’ll learn about: VARG VIKERNES: The sole member of Burzum and one of Black Metal’s most controversial personalities. He was convicted of several church arsons and the knife-slaying of former friend turned bitter rival Oystein “Euronymous” Aarseth, guitarist of Mayhem and a key founding figure of the “true” Norwegian Black Metal scene. BARD “FAUST” EITHUN: Drummer for symphonic Black Metal band Emperor, he landed in prison for the random thrill-killing of a homosexual man. His bandmate said: “[Bard] had been fascinated by serial killers for a long time, and I guess he wanted to know what it’s like to kill a person, another human being.” RODRIGO ORIAS: A Chilean Black Metal fanatic, he sent shockwaves through the Catholic Church when he was arrested for stabbing and nearly decapitating a beloved 69 year old Italian priest in front of hundreds of horrified churchgoers. This tragic act, which left the nation reeling – was done in the name of Satan. Filled with stunning, rare photos – this book covers the most notorious murderers in Black Metal history – shedding unprecedented light on the darkest corners of the music world.