Metal vs. Nu Metal

Attribute	Metal	Nu Metal
Origins	1970s, UK and US	1990s, US
Instrumentation	Guitar, bass, drums, vocals	Guitar, bass, drums, vocals, turntables, samples
Sound	Heavy, aggressive, distorted guitars	Combines elements of metal with hip-hop, funk, and electronic music
Lyrics	Often dark, fantasy, political themes	Can include personal, emotional, and social commentary
Popularity	Widespread, mainstream success	Popular in the late 1990s and early 2000s

Origins

Metal music, also known as heavy metal, has its roots in the late 1960s and early 1970s with bands like Black Sabbath, Led Zeppelin, and Deep Purple. These bands laid the foundation for the genre with their heavy guitar riffs, powerful vocals, and often dark lyrical themes. Nu Metal, on the other hand, emerged in the late 1990s and early 2000s as a fusion of metal, hip-hop, and alternative rock. Bands like Korn, Limp Bizkit, and Linkin Park popularized this new sound, incorporating elements of rap, electronic music, and aggressive guitar playing.

Musical Style

Metal music is characterized by its loud, distorted guitars, fast drumming, and often operatic vocals. The genre is known for its complex song structures, virtuosic guitar solos, and themes of rebellion, darkness, and fantasy. Nu Metal, on the other hand, incorporates elements of hip-hop and electronic music, with a focus on groove and rhythm. The genre often features rapped vocals, DJ scratching, and a more accessible, radio-friendly sound compared to traditional metal.

Lyrics

Metal lyrics often explore themes of power, mythology, and existential angst. Bands like Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, and Metallica have written songs about war, religion, and personal struggles. Nu Metal lyrics, on the other hand, tend to focus on more personal and emotional topics such as depression, addiction, and alienation. Bands like Slipknot, System of a Down, and Deftones have addressed issues like mental health, societal injustice, and inner turmoil in their songs.

Image

Metal bands are known for their dark, aggressive image, with musicians often sporting leather jackets, long hair, and tattoos. The genre has a rebellious, anti-establishment attitude, with bands like Motörhead, Slayer, and Pantera embodying a tough, no-nonsense persona. Nu Metal bands, on the other hand, have a more eclectic and diverse image, drawing from hip-hop, skate culture, and alternative fashion. Bands like Limp Bizkit, Linkin Park, and Papa Roach have incorporated elements of streetwear, graffiti, and urban style into their look.

Reception

Metal music has a dedicated fan base around the world, with festivals like Wacken Open Air and Download Festival drawing thousands of attendees each year. The genre has produced iconic bands like Metallica, Iron Maiden, and Black Sabbath, who are considered legends in the music industry. Nu Metal, on the other hand, has faced criticism for its commercial appeal and perceived lack of authenticity. While bands like Korn and Slipknot have achieved mainstream success, they have also been dismissed by some metal purists as selling out or diluting the genre.

Influence

Metal music has had a profound influence on a wide range of musical genres, from punk rock to progressive metal to symphonic metal. Bands like Slayer, Megadeth, and Anthrax have inspired countless musicians with their aggressive sound and technical prowess. Nu Metal, on the other hand, has had a more limited impact on the broader music scene. While bands like Linkin Park and System of a Down have achieved commercial success, they have not had the same lasting influence as classic metal bands.