Greymetal

Greymetal is a subgenre of black metal that emerged in the mid-1990s, characterized by its use of clean, melodic vocals and a more atmospheric, less aggressive sound compared to traditional black metal. The term "greymetal" was coined by the German band In the Woods... to describe their music, which blended elements of black metal with folk and ambient influences. This subgenre is often associated with a darker, more melancholic atmosphere, with lyrics that explore themes of nature, death, and the occult.

Greymetal bands typically feature a mix of black metal instrumentation, including distorted guitars, bass, and drums, but with a greater emphasis on keyboards and synthesizers to create a more ethereal soundscape. The vocals in greymetal can range from clean, melodic singing to harsh, growled black metal vocals, or a combination of both. The lyrics often draw from folklore, mythology, and the occult, reflecting the darker themes prevalent in the genre.

Some of the most notable greymetal bands include In the Woods..., which is often credited with pioneering the genre, as well as groups like Samael, Sigh, and Theatrum. Greymetal has gained a dedicated following among black metal enthusiasts and has contributed to the diversification of the black metal scene, offering a more atmospheric and melodic alternative to the more aggressive styles of the genre.