GREEK (HELLENIC) METAL
Greece has a rich and vibrant Metal scene that has been producing world-class bands for decades. The scene is particularly renowned for its Black Metal, which is characterized by its raw, atmospheric sound and often explores themes of paganism and mythology.
The Beginnings of the Greek Metal Scene
The Greek Metal scene emerged in the late 1980s. Early Greek Metal bands like Rotting Christ, Varathron, and Necromantia helped to establish the country’s reputation for producing unique and innovative Metal music.
Hellenic Black Metal
Greek Black Metal developed its own distinct style, which became known as Hellenic Black Metal. This style is characterized by its fast tempos, tremolo-picked riffs, and a focus on melodies and atmosphere. Hellenic Black Metal bands often incorporated elements of Greek mythology and paganism into their music, which set them apart from their Scandinavian counterparts.
Notable Greek Black Metal Bands
Some of the most notable Greek Black Metal bands include Rotting Christ, Varathron, Necromantia, Zemial, Agatus, Kawir, Mortify, and Deviser. These bands have all released critically acclaimed albums and have played a significant role in shaping the development of the Hellenic black metal genre.
Other Subgenres of Greek Metal
While Black Metal is the most prominent subgenre of Greek metal, the scene also produces a wide variety of other styles, including Death Metal, Thrash Metal, Doom Metal, and Power Metal. Greek bands like Septic Flesh, Suicidal Angels, Nightstalker, and Planet of Zeus have gained international recognition for their unique and powerful takes on these styles.
The Impact of the Greek Metal Scene
The Greek Metal scene has had a significant impact on the global Metal community. Hellenic Black Metal has been influential in the development of the genre, and Greek bands have played a major role in expanding the boundaries of Metal music. The scene continues to produce innovative and exciting bands that are pushing the genre forward.
BANDS FEATURED
Necromantia
- Genre: Black Metal
- Location: Athens, Attica
- Status: Split-up
- Formed in: 1989
- Link: Encyclopedia Metallum
Nightfall
- Genre: Melodic Black/Death/Doom Metal, Gothic Metal
- Location: Athens, Attica
- Status: Active
- Formed in: 1991
- Link: Encyclopedia Metallum
* Varathron
- Genre: Black Metal
- Location: Athens, Attica (early); Ioannina, Epirus (later)
- Status: Active
- Formed in: 1988
- Link: Encyclopedia Metallum
* Horrified
- Genre: Thrash/Melodic Death Metal
- Location: Athens, Attica
- Status: Split-up
- Formed in: 1989
- Link: Encyclopedia Metallum
* Biotoxic Warfare
- Genre: Atmospheric Black Metal
- Location: Heraklion, Crete
- Status: Active
- Formed in: 2012
- Link: Encyclopedia Metallum