2025 – JournalSpoke \ Music

Decoding the Riffs: The Secrets of Metal Songwriting

Metal's sonic power comes from masterful songwriting. Delve into the complex structures, theory, and creative techniques behind iconic riffs. Uncover the secrets of your favorite bands and the musical architects behind the genre's enduring appeal.

Daniel Bramhall October 30, 2025

Music Theory and Technique

Guitar Gods: Tracing the Evolution of Metal Guitar Techniques

From the earliest power chords to the face-melting solos of today, metal guitar has constantly redefined the boundaries of what's possible. Dive deep into the techniques, players, and technologies that fueled metal's sonic evolution and birthed legions of shredders.

Daniel Bramhall October 23, 2025

Genres and Scenes

Beyond the Growl: Uncovering the Nuances of Extreme Metal Vocals

Extreme metal vocals aren't just noise; they're a complex form of musical expression. This article dissects the diverse techniques employed in extreme metal, analyzing the physical demands, artistic motivations, and cultural impact behind those iconic, guttural sounds. Explore the technical skills of extreme metal vocals.

Daniel Bramhall October 16, 2025

Industry and Culture

Headbanging and the Human Body: A Scientific Look at Metal’s Physicality

Metal concerts are a whirlwind of movement, but there's more to the physicality than meets the eye. Dive into the surprising science behind headbanging and moshing, and explore how these activities impact the body, both positively and negatively. Understand the community-building power of shared physical expression.

Daniel Bramhall October 9, 2025

Industry and Culture

Metal’s Moral Maze: Exploring Ethics and Controversies in Lyrics and Imagery

Metal's always been a battlefield, but the fight isn't always on stage. This article dives deep into the ethical minefield of metal's lyrical and visual content, exploring the blurred lines between creative expression and potentially harmful messaging, with insights into censorship's chilling impact on artistic innovation.

Daniel Bramhall October 2, 2025

History and Legacy

From Vinyl to Streaming: How Technology Transformed Metal’s Consumption

Discover how technology shaped metal music's journey, from the crackle of vinyl to the endless streams of today. Explore the impact on artists, fans, and the industry itself—a wild ride through the decades.

Daniel Bramhall September 18, 2025

Genres and Scenes

Black Metal’s Mystical Landscapes: Nature, Nihilism, and the Norwegian Woods

Uncover the chilling beauty of Norwegian black metal's connection to its stark landscapes and ancient pagan myths. Explore how desolate nature fueled the genre's dark aesthetic and philosophical core, shaping its iconic sound and cultural impact.

Daniel Bramhall September 11, 2025

Gear and Production

The Economics of Distortion: How Pedal Makers Shaped Metal’s Sound

Discover the untold story of how boutique effects pedals revolutionized heavy metal. This article explores the surprising economic impact of small-batch pedal manufacturers on the genre's evolution, revealing the unexpected connection between entrepreneurial spirit and sonic innovation.

Daniel Bramhall September 6, 2025