Symphonic Black Metal
Symphonic Black Metal is a subgenre of heavy metal that combines elements of black metal with orchestral and symphonic music. It typically features fast tempos, shrieking vocals, and heavily distorted guitars, alongside lush arrangements of strings, choirs, and keyboards. This fusion creates a dramatic and atmospheric sound that enhances the dark themes often explored in the lyrics.
The genre emerged in the early 1990s, with bands like Dimmu Borgir and Cradle of Filth leading the way. Symphonic Black Metal often draws inspiration from classical music, incorporating complex compositions and grandiose melodies, which set it apart from traditional black metal.