10 Fascinating Niche Music Genres Which Need To Be Heard
2. Unblack Metal
Similar to Straight Edge (see elsewhere on this list), Unblack Metal is a genre defined by an ethos, in this case a religious, mainly Christian one. The origins of Unblack Metal are disputed, but the genre appears to have arisen throughout the 90s as a direct response to the dark imagery and lyrical content displayed by numerous heavy rock bands.
We could debate for some time as to image verses reality when it comes to heavy metal and black metal bands. Certainly, many such groups have adopted, or co-opted pagan and 'satanic' imagery as both visual and lyrical elements. Exactly what proportion (if any) of these bands actually adhere to such practices and beliefs is probably impossible to answer, although it has to be suspected that the number is surely low.
Nevertheless, it's understandable why others feel the need to redress the imbalance within the heavy rock genre towards misanthropic, anti-Christian viewpoints. In the end, all that really matters is the quality of the music, and it can't be denied that there are many fine Unblack Metal bands out there who deserve to be heard.