Death Metal Music: The Passion and Politics of a Subculture

Natalie J. Purcell

Sep 2015 · McFarland

About this ebook

Death Metal is among the most despised forms of violently themed entertainment. Many politicians, conservative groups and typical Americans attribute youth violence and the destruction of social values to such entertainment. The usual assumptions about the Death Metal scene and its fans have rarely been challenged.

This book investigates the demographic trends, attitudes, philosophical beliefs, ethical systems, and behavioral patterns within the scene, seeking to situate death metal in the larger social order. The Death Metal community proves to be a useful microcosm for much of American subculture and lends insight into the psychological and social functions of many forbidden or illicit entertainment forms. The author's analysis, rich in interviews with rock stars, radio hosts, and average adolescent fans, provides a key to comprehending deviant tendencies in modern American culture.

Ratings and reviews

Disclaimer: I have only read the free sample. I gave this two stars because I thought it was poorly edited. I think I understand what she was trying to do here (which was to understand what death metal is) and I give her credit for that. But the way she structured the quotes and paragraphs made me not want to read it anymore.

ilike this book

mawile

About the author

Natalie J. Purcell is a professional in the nonprofit sector and a sociopolitical activist associated with the Amnesty International. She lives in San Francisco, California.