Understanding Raven Black’s Genre: A Carnival of Heavy Metal

When it comes to Raven Black's "Carnival," it's sometimes hard to pinpoint exactly what subgenre fits the band best. Many people have speculated whether it is black metal, death metal, thrash metal, or melodic death metal. However, ultimately, the best description for Raven Black is likely Alternative Metal, a genre that we will explore in detail.

The Enigma of Raven Black’s Sound

Raven Black's music is described by themselves as a "Dark Metal Carnival," which sets the stage for a diverse and multi-layered sound. Whether you classify it as black metal, death metal, thrash metal, or melodic death metal, the band's music exhibits characteristics of all four. They engage in a unique blend that is difficult to categorize solely within one subgenre. This complexity is a key aspect of Raven Black's appeal.

Defining Alternative Metal

Alternative metal, also known as alt-metal, is a genre that combines heavy metal with influences from alternative rock and other genres that are not typically associated with metal. This genre is characterized by several distinct features:

Downtuned Mid-Paced Guitar Riffs: Alternative metal often features guitar riffs that are tuned down, creating a heavier and more aggressive sound. Melodic and Harsh Vocals: This genre typically incorporates a combination of melodic and harsh (growling/shrieking) vocals. This duality adds depth and complexity to the lyrics and performances. Unconventional Sounds: Alternative metal often experiments with unconventional sounds, including elements from ambient, electronic, and even jazz music, making it a genre that defies easy classification.

Vocals and the Raven Black Experience

Raven Black takes their vocal performance to another level. Guitarist and vocalist, Amy Metzger, switches between clean and growling/shrieking vocals. This range in vocal style contributes to the band's unique identity and helps to tell a more diverse story within the music. It can be argued that Raven Black's music would fit well under the Melodic Death Metal genre, but Alternative Metal presents a more comprehensive description that captures the essence of their entire musical approach.

The Limitations of Sub-Subgenres

While it may be tempting to categorize bands into even more specific sub-subgenres, it's crucial to recognize the risks of doing so. Creating sub-subgenres can lead to a point where each band spawns its own niche, which erodes the usefulness of genres and subgenres altogether. It's better to have a broader, more encompassing term that captures the essence of a band’s sound, which is precisely what Alternative Metal does for Raven Black.

Alternative metal is versatile and evolving, allowing Raven Black to thrive within this genre. It's a fitting description for their music, which is described as a "carnival-esque leaning" due to their self-identification as a Dark Metal Carnival. This genre description helps to highlight Raven Black's unique and immersive experience, making it more accessible to a wider audience.