Alternative Metal vs. Nu Metal

Attribute	Alternative Metal	Nu Metal
Origins	Combines elements of alternative rock and heavy metal	Combines elements of alternative rock, hip hop, and heavy metal
Instrumentation	Typically includes distorted guitars, heavy riffs, and melodic vocals	Often includes turntables, samples, and rap vocals in addition to traditional rock instruments
Lyrics	Often introspective and emotional	Can be aggressive and confrontational, with themes of angst and rebellion
Popularity	Less mainstream than nu metal	Had a more mainstream appeal in the late 1990s and early 2000s
Commercial Success	Generally less commercially successful than nu metal	Many nu metal bands achieved commercial success with radio hits and album sales

Introduction

Alternative metal and nu metal are two subgenres of heavy metal music that emerged in the 1990s. While they share some similarities, they also have distinct characteristics that set them apart. In this article, we will compare the attributes of alternative metal and nu metal to help music fans better understand the differences between the two genres.

Origins

Alternative metal, also known as alt-metal, originated in the late 1980s and early 1990s as a fusion of alternative rock and heavy metal. Bands like Faith No More, Jane's Addiction, and Soundgarden were among the pioneers of the genre. Nu metal, on the other hand, emerged in the mid-1990s as a fusion of alternative metal, hip hop, and industrial music. Bands like Korn, Limp Bizkit, and Slipknot are often credited with popularizing nu metal.

Musical Style

Alternative metal is characterized by its use of alternative rock melodies and song structures combined with heavy metal riffs and rhythms. The genre often incorporates elements of grunge, punk, and industrial music. Nu metal, on the other hand, is known for its use of downtuned guitars, hip hop-inspired beats, and rap-influenced vocals. The genre also often features electronic elements and samples.

Lyrical Themes

Alternative metal lyrics tend to focus on personal and introspective themes, often exploring topics like mental health, relationships, and societal issues. Bands in the genre often use poetic and metaphorical language to convey their messages. Nu metal lyrics, on the other hand, often deal with themes of anger, aggression, and alienation. The genre's lyrics can be more direct and confrontational, often reflecting the angst and frustration of the musicians.

Instrumentation

Alternative metal bands typically use a traditional rock band setup, with guitars, bass, drums, and vocals being the primary instruments. The genre may also incorporate elements of electronic music, such as synthesizers and samples. Nu metal bands, on the other hand, often use turntables and samplers in addition to the traditional rock band instruments. This gives nu metal a more eclectic and experimental sound.

Commercial Success

Alternative metal enjoyed mainstream success in the 1990s and early 2000s, with bands like Tool, Alice in Chains, and System of a Down achieving commercial and critical acclaim. Nu metal, on the other hand, experienced a peak in popularity in the late 1990s and early 2000s, with bands like Linkin Park, Papa Roach, and Disturbed dominating the charts. While both genres have had their share of commercial success, nu metal was arguably more commercially successful during its peak.

Legacy

Alternative metal has had a lasting impact on the rock and metal scenes, with many bands continuing to draw inspiration from the genre's fusion of alternative and metal elements. Bands like Deftones, Mastodon, and Chevelle are often cited as carrying on the legacy of alternative metal. Nu metal, on the other hand, has faced more criticism and backlash over the years, with many music fans and critics dismissing the genre as a passing fad. However, nu metal bands like Slipknot and Korn continue to have dedicated fan bases and influence newer generations of musicians.