2. Enslaved
Enslaved, another band hailing from Norway, initially gained recognition for their Viking-themed black metal. Albums like Vikingligr Veldi and Eld showcased their black metal roots with epic, long-form compositions. However, by the late 90s, Enslaved began incorporating progressive rock and psychedelic elements, showcased in albums like Isa and Vertebrae. This evolution has made them a staple in the progressive metal scene.
3. Dimmu Borgir
Dimmu Borgir started as a straightforward black metal band, heavily influenced by the second wave of black metal. Their early work, such as For All Tid and Stormblåst, was raw and atmospheric. As their career progressed, they began integrating symphonic elements and complex orchestrations, resulting in a more polished and grandiose sound. This shift is evident in albums like Death Cult Armageddon and Abrahadabra.
4. Samael
Originating from Switzerland, Samael’s early work was characterized by its dark, black metal aesthetic. Their first album, Worship Him, is a raw black metal classic. However, Samael soon ventured into industrial metal with the release of Passage, incorporating electronic beats and synthesizers. This transition has defined their subsequent releases, making them pioneers in blending black metal with industrial sounds.
5. Borknagar
Borknagar began as a black metal band with a strong focus on the natural world and Norse mythology. Their self-titled debut was a quintessential black metal album. However, as the band matured, they began incorporating elements of progressive and folk music. Albums like Empiricism and Winter Thrice showcase their evolution into a more progressive and melodic sound, with clean vocals and intricate compositions.
6. Satyricon
Satyricon, renowned for their early black metal releases like Dark Medieval Times and The Shadowthrone, have significantly evolved their sound over the years. The band has gradually incorporated more rock-oriented elements, leading to a more accessible and mainstream sound. Albums like Now, Diabolical and The Age of Nero highlight this transformation, blending black metal with rock and roll influences.
7. Arcturus
Arcturus began as a black metal side project but quickly developed into a band known for its avant-garde and experimental approach. Their debut album, Aspera Hiems Symfonia, combined black metal with symphonic elements. Over time, Arcturus shifted towards a more theatrical and eclectic sound, incorporating avant-garde metal, progressive rock, and even elements of opera, as seen in albums like The Sham Mirrors and Sideshow Symphonies.
8. Emperor
Emperor, one of the most iconic names in black metal, initially defined the genre with their groundbreaking releases like In the Nightside Eclipse. Known for their complex compositions and symphonic elements, Emperor gradually incorporated more progressive and diverse influences into their music. Their final studio album, Prometheus: The Discipline of Fire & Demise, exemplifies this evolution, featuring intricate arrangements and a broader musical palette.
9. Ulcerate
Hailing from New Zealand, Ulcerate initially embraced a more death metal-influenced black metal sound. However, they soon began incorporating elements of technical death metal and post-metal into their music. Albums like The Destroyers of All and Stare Into Death and Be Still highlight this progression, showcasing their complex, atmospheric, and technically proficient sound that transcends traditional genre boundaries.
10. Alcest
Alcest began as a black metal project with strong shoegaze influences, spearheaded by French musician Neige. Their early work, such as Le Secret, was steeped in black metal aesthetics. However, Alcest soon became pioneers of the “blackgaze” genre, blending black metal with shoegaze and post-rock. Albums like Écailles de Lune and Shelter are celebrated for their ethereal soundscapes and emotional depth.
11. Agalloch
Agalloch, an American band, initially drew from black metal influences, with their debut album Pale Folklore reflecting this style. However, Agalloch’s music quickly evolved to incorporate elements of folk, doom, and post-rock. Their subsequent albums, such as The Mantle and Ashes Against the Grain, showcase their unique blend of atmospheric and melodic metal, earning them a dedicated following across various musical communities.
Conclusion
The bands mentioned above exemplify the dynamic nature of music and artistic evolution. While they all started in the black metal genre, each has embarked on a unique journey, exploring new sounds and influences. This willingness to experiment and push boundaries has not only broadened their appeal but also enriched the musical landscape as a whole. As these artists continue to innovate, they remind us that music is a living, breathing art form, capable of endless transformation.