sötar

Sötar is a subgenre of black metal that emerged in the late 1990s, primarily in Norway. The term "sötar" is derived from the Swedish word for "sweet," reflecting the genre's distinctive, melodic, and often atmospheric sound. Unlike traditional black metal, which is characterized by its raw, aggressive, and often blasphemous lyrics, sötar incorporates elements of folk music, neoclassical music, and other melodic styles. This results in a more accessible and emotionally resonant sound, often featuring clean vocals, intricate guitar work, and a focus on atmosphere and melody.

The genre's origins can be traced back to bands like 1349 and Taake, who blended black metal with folk and classical influences. Sötar bands often draw inspiration from Nordic folklore, nature, and the occult, but their lyrics are generally more poetic and less explicit than those found in traditional black metal. The music is typically slower and more melodic, with a greater emphasis on composition and arrangement.

Key characteristics of sötar include:

- A blend of black metal with folk, neoclassical, and other melodic influences.

- Clean vocals and intricate guitar work.

- A focus on atmosphere, melody, and composition.

- Lyrics that are often poetic and less explicit than those in traditional black metal.

- A slower tempo compared to traditional black metal.

Notable sötar bands include 1349, Taake, and Svalbard. The genre has gained a dedicated following and has influenced other subgenres of black metal, contributing to the diversity and evolution of the genre.