Deathcore vs. Metalcore

Attribute	Deathcore	Metalcore
Origin	United States	United States
Subgenres	Death metal, metalcore	Hardcore punk, heavy metal
Vocals	Guttural growls, screams	Clean vocals, screams
Instrumentation	Downtuned guitars, blast beats	Breakdowns, melodic riffs
Lyrics	Dark themes, violence	Personal struggles, relationships

Origins

Deathcore and Metalcore are two subgenres of heavy metal that have gained popularity in the past few decades. Metalcore emerged in the late 1990s as a fusion of hardcore punk and extreme metal, incorporating elements of both genres to create a unique sound. Bands like Killswitch Engage and Atreyu are often credited with popularizing the genre. On the other hand, Deathcore emerged in the mid-2000s as a fusion of death metal and metalcore, combining the aggressive vocals and breakdowns of metalcore with the brutal riffs and blast beats of death metal.

Instrumentation

One of the key differences between Deathcore and Metalcore lies in their instrumentation. Metalcore bands typically use a combination of heavy guitar riffs, melodic hooks, and breakdowns to create a dynamic sound. The guitar work in Metalcore often features intricate solos and harmonies, adding a melodic element to the music. On the other hand, Deathcore bands focus more on brutal riffs, blast beats, and guttural vocals to create a more aggressive and intense sound. The guitar work in Deathcore is often characterized by dissonant chords and tremolo picking, adding to the chaotic nature of the music.

Vocals

Another distinguishing factor between Deathcore and Metalcore is the vocal style used by bands in each genre. Metalcore bands typically use a combination of clean vocals and harsh screams or growls to create contrast in their music. Clean vocals are often used in the choruses to add melody and catchiness to the songs, while harsh vocals are used in the verses to add aggression and intensity. On the other hand, Deathcore bands primarily use guttural growls and screams throughout their songs, creating a more brutal and relentless sound. The vocals in Deathcore are often low-pitched and guttural, adding to the overall heaviness of the music.

Lyrics

Lyrically, Deathcore and Metalcore often explore similar themes such as personal struggles, inner demons, and societal issues. Metalcore bands tend to focus more on introspective and emotional lyrics, delving into topics like heartbreak, loss, and perseverance. The lyrics in Metalcore often have a positive message, encouraging listeners to overcome obstacles and stay strong in the face of adversity. On the other hand, Deathcore bands tend to have darker and more violent lyrics, often exploring themes of death, destruction, and nihilism. The lyrics in Deathcore are often graphic and confrontational, reflecting the brutal nature of the music.

Popularity

Both Deathcore and Metalcore have gained a significant following in the heavy metal scene, with each genre attracting a dedicated fan base. Metalcore has enjoyed mainstream success, with bands like Bring Me The Horizon and Parkway Drive achieving commercial success and playing to large audiences around the world. Metalcore has also influenced other genres of music, with elements of the genre being incorporated into pop and electronic music. On the other hand, Deathcore has a more underground following, with bands like Whitechapel and Suicide Silence gaining a cult following within the metal community. Deathcore is known for its extreme and uncompromising sound, appealing to fans of more extreme forms of metal.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Deathcore and Metalcore are two distinct subgenres of heavy metal that share some similarities but also have key differences in terms of instrumentation, vocals, lyrics, and popularity. Metalcore is known for its melodic guitar work, clean and harsh vocals, introspective lyrics, and mainstream success. Deathcore, on the other hand, is characterized by brutal riffs, guttural vocals, dark and violent lyrics, and a more underground following. Both genres have their own unique appeal and have made a significant impact on the heavy metal scene, attracting fans from all over the world.