Symphonic black metal is a genre that fuses the aggression and darkness of black metal with the grandeur and complexity of symphonic orchestration. This hybrid style uses orchestral elements like choirs, string sections, and elaborate arrangements to create an atmosphere of epic, often otherworldly soundscapes, while maintaining the raw, intense energy of traditional black metal. With its unique blend of melody and aggression, symphonic black metal has become a captivating subgenre with a dedicated following. In this article, we will explore some of the best symphonic black metal singers and their contributions to the genre. From soaring operatic vocals to raspy, harsh shrieks, these vocalists bring a wide range of styles and emotional depth to their music. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the genre or a newcomer, these singers and their iconic tracks are essential listening for anyone interested in symphonic black metal.
11 Influential Symphonic Black Metal Singers Revealed
1. “Inno A Satana” by Emperor (Ihsahn)
Ihsahn, the mastermind behind the pioneering Norwegian band Emperor, is one of the most influential figures in symphonic black metal. His work, particularly in Emperor’s 1994 album In the Nightside Eclipse, laid the foundation for the symphonic elements in black metal. The track “Inno A Satana” is a perfect example of his vocal range, moving from powerful, guttural growls to more melodic, clean singing. The combination of Ihsahn’s shrieking, demonic vocals and the orchestra’s haunting arrangements creates a chilling atmosphere. This track blends the raw energy of black metal with symphonic flourishes, making it a hallmark of the genre. The sophisticated composition, along with Ihsahn’s complex vocal techniques, has helped define symphonic black metal’s sound.
2. “Moon Over the Temple” by Dimmu Borgir (Shagrath)
Shagrath, the frontman of the Norwegian band Dimmu Borgir, is one of the most recognizable figures in symphonic black metal. Known for his raspy, demonic growls and theatrical presence, Shagrath has led Dimmu Borgir through some of the genre’s most ambitious works. “Moon Over the Temple,” from the Puritanical Euphoric Misanthropia album, is an excellent example of Shagrath’s vocal ability. His voice is layered with symphonic elements that complement the band’s grand orchestral arrangements. The track features sweeping strings, choirs, and majestic keyboard sections that provide the perfect backdrop for Shagrath’s growling vocals. The result is an epic, atmospheric piece that showcases the band’s ability to balance aggressive black metal with symphonic richness.
3.“The Devil’s Lament” by Carach Angren (Seregor)
Carach Angren is known for their unique take on symphonic black metal, often incorporating narrative storytelling into their music. “The Devil’s Lament,” from Where the Corpses Sink Forever (2010), is an atmospheric track with a heavy emphasis on orchestration and storytelling. Seregor, the band’s primary vocalist, delivers both guttural growls and haunting clean vocals that work in perfect harmony with the band’s cinematic, symphonic compositions. The track’s sweeping orchestral sections create an eerie atmosphere, while Seregor’s voice adds an extra layer of darkness and emotion to the song.
4. “Blood of Heroes” by Septicflesh (Seth Siro Anton)
Septicflesh, a band hailing from Greece, is another key player in the symphonic black metal scene. The band’s music is marked by a mix of death metal and symphonic black metal, featuring the operatic vocals of frontman Seth Siro Anton. “Blood of Heroes,” from the album Titan (2014), showcases Anton’s powerful and haunting vocal style. His deep, resonating growls are balanced by the band’s orchestral compositions, which include string sections and choir arrangements. The song is cinematic in scope, with a sense of drama and grandeur that is enhanced by the symphonic elements. Seth Siro Anton’s vocals, combined with the band’s atmospheric arrangements, create a perfect synergy between metal aggression and classical grandeur.
5. “A Funeral Wish” by Therion (Christofer Johnsson)
Swedish band Therion is one of the most influential acts in the symphonic metal scene, known for incorporating classical music and opera into their metal compositions. Christofer Johnsson, the band’s founder and primary vocalist, is known for his operatic singing and songwriting abilities. In “A Funeral Wish,” from their 1996 album Theli, Johnsson demonstrates his operatic vocal range and dramatic delivery. The song features lush orchestration and a choir that adds depth to the track’s symphonic elements. Johnsson’s clean vocals contrast with the heavier, more aggressive sections of the song, highlighting the band’s ability to blend symphonic arrangements with metal’s raw energy. His use of operatic vocal techniques makes this track a prime example of symphonic black metal’s potential for grandeur and sophistication.
6. “The Serpentine Offering” by Dimmu Borgir (Shagrath)
Another standout track by Dimmu Borgir, “The Serpentine Offering” from In Sorte Diaboli (2007) is a perfect example of Shagrath’s vocal prowess combined with the band’s symphonic elements. The track features complex arrangements with orchestral strings, choirs, and powerful keyboard passages, creating a dark, cinematic atmosphere. Shagrath’s vocals are at the forefront, blending harsh black metal screams with more melodic, haunting moments. His ability to fluctuate between intense shrieks and more subdued, atmospheric passages shows the versatility required in symphonic black metal. The song’s aggressive rhythm section is balanced by the lush symphonic elements, making for a compelling and dynamic listening experience.
7. “Nemesis” by Rotting Christ (Spiros Antonopoulos)
Rotting Christ is one of the most respected bands in the Greek metal scene, known for blending black metal with a variety of influences, including symphonic and atmospheric elements. Spiros Antonopoulos, the band’s lead vocalist, brings a unique style to their music, combining guttural growls with clean singing. “Nemesis” from Theogonia (2007) features Antonopoulos’ deep, ritualistic vocals that are complemented by the song’s symphonic and choral arrangements. The track’s epic scope is enhanced by the orchestral sections, which lend a sense of grandeur to the song’s aggressive, riff-heavy foundation. Antonopoulos’ voice gives the track a sense of mystery and depth, fitting the dark themes of the album perfectly.
8. “The Phantom of the Opera” by Nightwish (Tuomas Holopainen)
Although Nightwish is often associated with symphonic metal, their music contains many elements of symphonic black metal, particularly in their darker, more atmospheric songs. Tuomas Holopainen, the band’s leader and primary songwriter, also contributes vocals on several tracks, although Nightwish is best known for their operatic female lead vocalists. “The Phantom of the Opera” is an adaptation of the famous musical, but Nightwish’s version incorporates symphonic black metal elements, particularly in the darker, more haunting passages. Holopainen’s deep, brooding vocals create an ominous atmosphere, which is further emphasized by the band’s sweeping orchestral arrangements. While the track doesn’t showcase traditional black metal vocals, its symphonic arrangements and dramatic delivery make it an essential listen for fans of the genre.
9. “As I Am” by Cradle of Filth (Dani Filth)
Another standout track from Cradle of Filth, “As I Am” from the album Midian (2000) is a perfect example of Dani Filth’s complex vocal style. Filth’s vocal performance here is multifaceted, with shrieking screams juxtaposed against more melodic, clean passages. The song features an intricate blend of symphonic elements, including choirs and orchestral arrangements, that heighten the track’s dramatic feel. Filth’s intense vocal delivery enhances the song’s haunting atmosphere, making it a standout in Cradle of Filth’s discography. “As I Am” is a great showcase of how symphonic black metal can marry aggression with beauty, creating a layered and immersive listening experience.
10.“Laments of the Ashen” by Fleshgod Apocalypse (Tommaso Riccardi)
Fleshgod Apocalypse, an Italian band known for their combination of death metal and symphonic elements, also dabbles in symphonic black metal. “Laments of the Ashen,” from King (2016), features Tommaso Riccardi’s harsh vocals, which are enhanced by the band’s symphonic instrumentation. The song’s orchestral passages—filled with sweeping strings, choirs, and grand melodies—serve as a backdrop to Riccardi’s aggressive growls and shouts. This blend of brutal vocals with symphonic grandeur creates a track that’s both intense and atmospheric, showcasing Fleshgod Apocalypse’s ability to push the boundaries of symphonic black metal.
11. “Nymphetamine Fix” by Cradle of Filth (Dani Filth)
“Nymphetamine Fix” is one of Cradle of Filth’s most well-known songs, and it’s a perfect demonstration of Dani Filth’s ability to merge gothic, symphonic, and black metal elements into a cohesive whole. The track, from Nymphetamine (2004), features a balance between beautiful orchestral arrangements and the band’s typical black metal aggression. Filth’s dramatic vocals are paired with lush string sections and atmospheric keyboards, creating a song that’s both haunting and emotionally charged. The contrast between the melodic beauty of the music and Filth’s dark, raspy vocals adds depth to the track, making it an unforgettable listening experience.
See Also: What Makes Heavy Metal Music Translate to Symphonic Music?
Conclusion
Symphonic black metal is a genre that continues to evolve, but it is built upon the foundations laid by vocalists like Ihsahn, Shagrath, Dani Filth, and others who have helped shape its distinctive sound. These singers have brought a unique blend of aggression, emotion, and musical complexity to the genre, paving the way for future generations of metal artists. Through their skillful use of both harsh vocals and melodic elements, they have created a musical world that is both dark and beautiful. If you are a fan of symphonic black metal, these singers and their iconic tracks should be at the top of your listening list.
Related Topics
Why Did Music Critics Bash Heavy Metal?
What is Screaming Metal Music Called?
David Ellefson’s 7 Essential Thrash Metal Tracks to Check Out
