Death metal, a subgenre of heavy metal music known for its extreme and aggressive style, has garnered a dedicated following around the world. One of the most intriguing aspects of this genre is the vocal performance, characterized by guttural growls and high-pitched screams. The intensity and brutality of death metal vocals may leave many wondering how these singers manage to maintain their vocal prowess without sacrificing their voices. In this article, we will delve into the world of death metal, explore the techniques employed by death metal singers, and discover the strategies that help them preserve their unique vocal abilities.
Understanding Death Metal
Before delving into the intricacies of death metal vocal techniques and vocal preservation, it’s essential to gain a fundamental understanding of death metal music as a music genre. Death metal emerged in the late 1980s, evolving from the broader spectrum of heavy metal music. It is characterized by its distorted, aggressive guitar riffs, thunderous double-bass drumming, and, most notably, the intense vocal style.
In death metal, vocalists employ a wide range of techniques to create their signature sound. These techniques include guttural growls, high-pitched screams, and other aggressive vocalizations. The lyrics often revolve around dark and macabre themes, contributing to the genre’s ominous and extreme nature.
While death metal vocalists are celebrated for their distinctive style, their vocal performances come with a risk of straining and damaging their voices. Nevertheless, these artists have developed strategies to maintain their vocal power over the long term.
Understanding Death Metal Singers
Death metal vocalists, sometimes referred to as “growlers” or “screamers,” are the driving force behind the genre’s vocal intensity. Their unique vocal style, marked by its ferocity and raw power, is what sets death metal apart from other metal subgenres. To understand how these vocalists preserve their voices, we need to explore the techniques they employ and the preparation that goes into their performances.
One of the key factors in understanding death metal singers is the technique they use to produce their signature growls and screams. Death metal vocalists often employ a technique called “vocal fry.” Vocal fry involves manipulating the vocal cords to create a low, guttural sound with minimal airflow. This technique minimizes the strain on the vocal cords, making it a sustainable method for producing extreme sounds over extended periods.
In addition to vocal fry, death metal vocalists also utilize techniques like false cord screaming, which involves using the false vocal cords to create harsh, raspy screams. These techniques are carefully mastered over time, allowing singers to perform with consistency while minimizing the risk of vocal injury.
Strategies That Help Them Unique Vocal Abilities
The Importance of Proper Technique
Maintaining vocal health is paramount for death metal singers, and this begins with the adoption of proper vocal techniques. Learning how to growl or scream effectively without straining the vocal cords is crucial for preserving their voices.
One common mistake that novice death metal vocalists make is trying to mimic their favorite artists without understanding the mechanics behind the sound. This can lead to vocal strain and injury. To avoid these issues, many death metal singers invest in vocal training and work with vocal coaches who specialize in extreme vocal styles. Professional guidance can help vocalists develop a solid foundation and ensure that they use their voices in a sustainable way.
Furthermore, proper breath control is a fundamental aspect of death metal vocal technique. Singers must learn how to control their airflow to produce powerful growls and screams while minimizing the strain on their vocal cords. This requires a balance between using the diaphragm and managing tension in the throat, all of which are skills honed through practice and professional guidance.
Vocal Warm-Ups and Maintenance
To ensure longevity in their careers, death metal vocalists also prioritize vocal warm-ups and maintenance routines. Vocal warm-ups help prepare the vocal cords for the intense demands of their performances. These warm-ups include exercises to relax the throat, loosen the vocal cords, and improve breath control.
Incorporating a daily vocal maintenance routine can further help death metal singers safeguard their voices. This routine may include hydrating the vocal cords by drinking ample water, avoiding excessive throat clearing, and refraining from smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, which can dehydrate the vocal cords. Regular rest and proper sleep are essential for vocal recovery and overall vocal health.
Balancing Performances and Rest
One of the most challenging aspects of being a death metal vocalist is striking a balance between intense performances and necessary vocal rest. The vocal demands of death metal shows, with their aggressive growls and high-pitched screams, can put a significant strain on the vocal cords.
Many death metal vocalists carefully plan their performance schedules to ensure they have adequate time for vocal recovery between shows. This may include taking days off from singing or using gentler vocal techniques during rehearsal or warm-up sessions to avoid overtaxing the vocal cords.
The Role of Diet and Lifestyle
Diet and lifestyle choices play a substantial role in the preservation of a death metal singer’s voice. Nutrition is vital in supporting vocal health. Singers often prioritize a diet that promotes hydration and minimizes the consumption of foods and beverages that can lead to vocal irritation. This means avoiding spicy foods, caffeine, and excessive dairy, which can increase mucus production.
Maintaining overall health through regular exercise and stress management is equally crucial. Stress and fatigue can negatively impact vocal performance, so death metal vocalists often incorporate relaxation techniques into their daily routines to reduce tension and promote vocal well-being.
Vocal Rest and Recovery
Vocal rest and recovery are non-negotiable for death metal singers looking to maintain their vocal power over the long term. After intense performances, vocalists often engage in complete vocal rest to allow their vocal cords to heal and recover. This rest may include periods of silence or speaking in a gentle, hushed tone.
Additionally, some vocalists use throat-coating remedies like herbal teas and lozenges to soothe any irritation or inflammation in the vocal cords. Steam inhalation can also be helpful in keeping the vocal cords hydrated and relaxed.
Conclusion
Death metal vocalists, known for their extreme and aggressive vocal performances, employ a range of techniques and strategies to preserve their vocal power. Through mastering vocal techniques like vocal fry and false cord screaming, seeking professional guidance, prioritizing vocal warm-ups and maintenance routines, and balancing performances with rest, they ensure that they can continue to deliver their distinctive sound without compromising their vocal health.
As fans of this unique genre continue to revel in the electrifying performances of death metal vocalists, it becomes clear that behind the brutal sound lies a meticulous and thoughtful approach to vocal preservation. These singers demonstrate not only their dedication to their craft but also their commitment to ensuring that the death metal voice remains as powerful and evocative as ever.
