It’s been happening for a while. The game is constantly changing. Time to address it.
Heavy metal is fading. Hardcore-based genres are following. Alt rock is rising. End of story.
Honestly, I’m kind of butt hurt over this. I LOVE my heavy metal. I LOVE my hardcore. And, I LOVE my alt rock. But it is a reality we can’t ignore any longer.
I cannot remember the last time I did a strictly metal show. Most of my shows have a genre mix, which I do on purpose, but I don’t even know how many bands would be available for that show, in one market anyway.
So first, we’ll talk about the rise of alt rock.
I get hit up for more alt rock bands than any other genre. They are touring more, and the popularity is there. Now, if you started an alt rock band a couple years ago, you’re in a really good place. You’ve found your sound. You’ve built a small following. And your genre is on the rise. You’re solid. Keep hustling.
I have had the pleasure of working with an act called StraightJacket, who has a very grunge type sound (which is only a matter of time before that comes back) and they are killing it! Draw fans at every show. Sound amazing. They are in a great place right now.
Now, as for heavy metal and hardcore… You ARE NOT fucked. Don’t let this get you down. Recognize the difference, but don’t let it discourage you. There will always be people like me with love for your genre. On top of that, I think it is WAY better to be a big fish in a small pond then a small fish in a big pond. YOU can stand out. YOU can keep the genre alive. YOU have that responsibility now. Run with it. Own it.
But absolutely, under no circumstances, should you change your sound based on this information alone. If you are a heavy metal band and you want to incorporate some (for example) alt rock influences, go for it. Who am I to tell you not to? Or to do it? You are an adult. Do your thing.
Whitechapel incorporated some metalcore influence in their music and their fans loved it. Just don’t go all Suicidal Silence and completely change everything. You’ll lose your fans.
On a side note, sorry for not posting last week. I am exceptionally busy at the moment and it is difficult to keep everything in line at times. See you guys next week!