Mysticism, Ritual, and Religion in Drone Metal: Bloomsbury Studies in Religion and

Drone metal is a genre of heavy metal music characterized by its use of sustained, repetitive drones. These drones can be created using a variety of instruments, including guitars, bass, synthesizers, and loops. Drone metal is often slow and atmospheric, and it can create a sense of immersion and transcendence. In recent years, drone metal has become increasingly popular, and it has been praised by critics for its originality and its ability to create unique and powerful experiences.

This article explores the relationship between mysticism, ritual, and religion in drone metal music. It draws on interviews with musicians, ethnographic fieldwork, and textual analysis to examine how drone metal creates immersive and transformative experiences that can be understood as religious or spiritual in nature. The article argues that drone metal is a unique and important form of religious expression that deserves further scholarly attention.

Mysticism, Ritual and Religion in Drone Metal (Bloomsbury Studies in Religion and Popular Music)

by Marcia Naomi Berger

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1441 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	224 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

Mysticism in Drone Metal

Mysticism is a term that refers to a variety of beliefs and practices that seek to achieve union with the divine. Mysticism can be found in many different religious traditions, and it is often associated with altered states of consciousness, such as trance and ecstasy. In drone metal, mysticism is often expressed through the use of sustained drones and repetitive rhythms. These drones can create a sense of immersion and transcendence, which can allow listeners to experience a sense of connection with the divine.

One example of mysticism in drone metal can be found in the music of the band Earth. Earth's music is characterized by its use of slow, heavy drones that create a sense of vastness and emptiness. This music can be seen as a reflection of the band's own mystical beliefs, which are based on the idea that the universe is a single, interconnected being. In an interview, Earth guitarist Dylan Carlson stated that the band's music is intended to "create a space where people can experience the divine."

Ritual in Drone Metal

Ritual is another important aspect of drone metal music. Rituals are formalized actions that are performed in order to create a sense of community and to connect with the divine. In drone metal, rituals can take many different forms, including live performances, listening sessions, and online forums. These rituals can help to create a sense of community among drone metal fans, and they can also provide a way for fans to connect with the music on a deeper level.

One example of ritual in drone metal can be found in the live performances of the band Sunn O))). Sunn O)))'s live performances are known for their use of extreme volume and darkness. These performances can be seen as a form of ritualized transcendence, in which the audience is transported to another realm of consciousness. In an interview, Sunn O))) guitarist Stephen O'Malley stated that the band's live performances are intended to "create a space where people can experience the sublime."

Religion in Drone Metal

Drone metal can also be seen as a form of religion. Religion is a system of beliefs and practices that is concerned with the supernatural. In drone metal, religion is often expressed through the use of mystical and ritualistic elements. This music can provide a sense of community and belonging, and it can also offer a way to connect with the divine.

One example of religion in drone metal can be found in the music of the band Boris. Boris's music is characterized by its use of heavy drones and psychedelic lyrics. This music can be seen as a reflection of the band's own religious beliefs, which are based on the idea that the universe is a sacred place. In an interview, Boris vocalist Atsuo Matsuoka stated that the band's music is intended to "create a space where people can experience the love of God."

Drone metal is a unique and important form of religious expression. This music can create immersive and transformative experiences that can allow listeners to experience a sense of connection with the divine. Drone metal is a growing and evolving genre, and it is likely to continue to play an important role in the religious lives of many people.

Mysticism, Ritual and Religion in Drone Metal (Bloomsbury Studies in Religion and Popular Music)

by Marcia Naomi Berger

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1441 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	224 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE