Exploring the Greatness of Finnish Black Metal: The Impact of Beherit and Archgoat
When discussing the history and legacy of Finnish black metal, two bands stand out above the rest: Beherit and Archgoat. Both played pivotal roles in the development of this subgenre, but they also have their unique histories and impacts. This article explores the contributions of these two bands and why they are still celebrated in the Finnish black metal scene.
Introduction to Finnish Black Metal
Finnish black metal, one of the most influential and significant subgenres in the broader black metal category, has a rich and complex history. It not only encompasses a unique cultural aspect but also a narrative centered around darkness, nature, and societal critique. Finland, known for its vast forests and rugged landscapes, serves as the perfect backdrop for this musical movement. The raw and gritty sound of Finnish black metal resonates deeply with its core fanbase, reflecting the harsh and unforgiving environment that inspires the genre.
The Pioneers: Beherit and Archgoat
When talking about the beginnings of Finnish black metal, one cannot overlook the foundational work of Beherit and Archgoat. These bands laid the groundwork for the entire genre, setting the tone and style that would be emulated by countless other acts in the coming decades.
Beherit: The Mythic Pioneers
Beherit, the band formed by Karis Korpi in 1993, holds a mythical status in the genre. Their unique approach to black metal, which involved chanting and vocalizing in the Finnish language, added a dark, sonic landscape to their music. This innovative element set Beherit apart from their contemporaries and laid the foundation for the dominance of black metal in Finland. Their album Suonnot (1995) is widely regarded as a masterpiece, blending raucous black metal with eerie Finnish folk legends. The darkness and intensity of Suonnot captured the essence of Finnish culture and resonated deeply with listeners. Even today, many consider this album to be one of the defining pieces of the Finnish black metal canon.
Another notable Beherit album is Torment (2003), which showcased their evolution in creating more intricate compositions and a more nuanced musical experience. What made Beherit truly unique was their ability to blend traditional black metal with their own cultural narratives, creating a distinct sound that is still imitated and respected in the black metal community.
Archgoat: Another Force in the Scene
While Beherit made the first steps, Archgoat, formed by Vespasian Oferr in 1997, also played a crucial role in developing the Finnish black metal scene. Unlike Beherit, Archgoat's style was more heavy and brutal, focusing on raw, unadulterated black metal that pushed the boundaries of the genre. Their influential album Masonry (1999) is often cited as a seminal work in black metal. The album's raw, uncompromising sound and powerchord-driven aggression set new standards for the subgenre. Despite their departure from the scene in 2000, the impact of Archgoat is still felt in the way they shaped the sound of black metal in Finland.
Why Beherit and Archgoat Are Still Celebrated
Despite not being part of the Finnish black metal scene for the entirety of their run, Beherit and Archgoat continue to be celebrated and referenced by many contemporary bands. The raw intensity of Archgoat's Masonry and the mystical chanting of Beherit's Suonnot have left an indelible mark on the genre. These bands have become almost mythical figures within black metal culture, with many new artists citing them as major influences.
Additionally, Beherit's cultural and linguistic contributions have reshaped the way black metal is perceived in Finland and worldwide. Their use of Finnish during performances and in album lyrics has helped to highlight the unique sounds and legends of the country, adding a layer of depth that is essential to the genre. Similarly, Archgoat's brutal and uncompromising approach has pushed black metal to its limits, inspiring countless bands to explore more extreme territories.
Conclusion
The legacy of Beherit and Archgoat in the Finnish black metal scene is uncontestable. They have not only defined the early days of the genre but continue to be revered by countless fans and artists. As black metal evolves, the influence of these two pioneers remains, a testament to their groundbreaking contributions and enduring legacy.