Epic Black Metal

The roots of Epic Black Metal lie in the Second Wave of Black Metal during the early 1990s, but its specific genesis is almost entirely attributed to the Austrian band Summoning. Formed in 1993, Summoning initially played a more traditional style but radically shifted their sound with the release of Minas Morgul in 1995. This album established the genre's blueprint: the use of programmed drums to create steady, marching rhythms, the integration of medieval melodies, and a heavy reliance on synthesizers to carry the lead melody, all wrapped in Tolkien-themed lyrics.

Throughout the late 1990s and 2000s, Summoning continued to refine this niche style with landmark albums like Dol Guldur and Let Mortal Heroes Sing Your Fame. For many years, the genre was small, with few other bands successfully replicating the specific "Summoning sound."

The genre experienced a significant resurgence and validation in the 2010s, particularly with the release of Caladan Brood's Echoes of Battle in 2013. This album, inspired by the Malazan Book of the Fallen series, proved that the style could evolve beyond its progenitor. This sparked a modern wave of artists such as Emyn Muil, Sojourner, and Cân Bardd, who have since expanded the genre by incorporating higher production values and stronger folk influences.

To compose Epic Black Metal, focus on building a "wall of sound" where texture and atmosphere take precedence over technical riffing.

Rhythm: Avoid the constant blast beats of traditional black metal. Instead, use programmed drums or heavy percussion with deep, booming toms and significant reverb. Aim for slow-to-mid-tempo marching beats (4/4) or swaying triplets (6/8) that evoke the feeling of an army on the move.

Instrumentation: Synthesizers are often the lead instrument. Use patches that emulate brass (french horns, trumpets), orchestral strings, and choirs to play the primary melodies. Guitars should provide a thick, distorted backdrop, often playing simple tremolo-picked chord progressions that support the synth leads.

Harmony: Utilize minor keys and modal progressions (such as Dorian or Aeolian) to create a sense of ancient sorrow or heroic triumph. Melodies often mimic medieval folk tunes.

Vocals: Use distant, high-pitched black metal shrieks heavily drenched in reverb to make them feel like part of the background texture. Clean male choirs, spoken word passages, or chanting can be used to highlight dramatic moments.