Black Noise vs. Blackgaze

Attribute	Black Noise	Blackgaze
Genre	Experimental electronic music	Black metal with shoegaze influences
Origin	United States	Europe (Norway, France)
Key Bands	Prurient, Pharmakon	Alcest, Deafheaven
Sound	Noisy, harsh, industrial	Melodic, atmospheric, shoegaze-influenced
Lyrics	Often abstract or political	Emotional, introspective

Introduction

Black Noise and Blackgaze are two subgenres of black metal that have gained popularity in recent years. While both genres share some similarities, they also have distinct attributes that set them apart. In this article, we will explore the key differences between Black Noise and Blackgaze, examining their musical characteristics, lyrical themes, and overall aesthetic.

Musical Characteristics

Black Noise is characterized by its use of harsh, abrasive sounds and dissonant melodies. The genre often incorporates elements of industrial music, noise, and experimental electronic music. Bands like Gnaw Their Tongues and Sutekh Hexen are known for their chaotic and cacophonous soundscapes that push the boundaries of traditional black metal.

On the other hand, Blackgaze combines the atmospheric and melodic elements of shoegaze with the raw aggression of black metal. Bands like Alcest and Deafheaven are pioneers of the genre, blending shimmering guitar textures with blast beats and harsh vocals. Blackgaze is known for its dynamic shifts between ethereal beauty and intense aggression.

Lyrical Themes

Black Noise often explores themes of existential dread, nihilism, and psychological torment. The lyrics are often abstract and surreal, reflecting the chaotic and dissonant nature of the music. Bands in this genre often delve into the darker aspects of the human psyche, creating a sense of unease and discomfort in the listener.

Blackgaze, on the other hand, tends to focus on themes of nature, nostalgia, and introspection. The lyrics often evoke a sense of longing and melancholy, reflecting the genre's dreamy and introspective sound. Bands like Wolves in the Throne Room and Lantlôs often draw inspiration from nature and the natural world in their lyrical themes.

Overall Aesthetic

Black Noise is known for its confrontational and abrasive aesthetic, with bands often incorporating elements of performance art and visual experimentation into their live shows. The genre's dark and chaotic sound is reflected in its visual presentation, creating a sense of unease and disorientation for the audience.

Blackgaze, on the other hand, has a more ethereal and atmospheric aesthetic, with bands often incorporating dreamy visuals and introspective imagery into their album artwork and music videos. The genre's focus on beauty and melancholy is reflected in its visual presentation, creating a sense of nostalgia and longing for the listener.

Conclusion

While Black Noise and Blackgaze share some similarities in their use of black metal as a foundation, they also have distinct attributes that set them apart. Black Noise is characterized by its harsh and abrasive sound, abstract lyrics, and confrontational aesthetic, while Blackgaze combines the atmospheric and melodic elements of shoegaze with the raw aggression of black metal, focusing on themes of nature and introspection. Both genres offer unique and compelling listening experiences for fans of experimental and boundary-pushing music.