Gothic Metal

Gothic metal is a subgenre of heavy metal music that combines the aggression of traditional metal with the dark, somber atmosphere of gothic rock. It originated in the late 1980s in Europe, as bands such as Paradise Lost, Anathema, and My Dying Bride began to combine the elements of traditional metal and gothic rock. Gothic metal is known for its deep, melancholic sound, often characterized by slow tempos, minor key tonality, and melodic male vocals. This genre is also known for its use of keyboards, synthesizers, and string instruments, which often create an ethereal, atmospheric soundscape. Lyrically, gothic metal often focuses on themes of death, despair, love, and religion.