An introduction to the African pioneers of Heavy Metal Music.

Black Sabbath are often given the title as the founders of heavy metal, a band which formed in 1968 their music reflected the mood of the youth and society at the time; anti establishment and resistance being the two major themes. Heavy metal as a genre does have roots in hard rock taking inspiration from bands such as Led Zeppelin however, when Black Sabbaths guitarist Tony Lommi loosened his guitar strings for easier playing following a finger accident he had- the deep and dark sound that resulted categorises heavy metal as we know it.

The introduction of notable style aspects such as leather and studs popularised by Judas Priest have also played a heavy role in the genres identity. As a global phenomenon heavy metal has touched everywhere including the continent of Africa.

Botswana is often labelled as the hub of African heavy metal being home to bands such as Overthrust who in recent years have seen a multitude of success. The alternative communities of Africa are constantly growing straying away from the often conservative cultures found on the continent. In 2016 the band performed at Wacken Open Air, Germany- a festival labelled as the largest heavy metal festival in the world. Before we further analyse Overthrust one cannot talk about

Botswanan heavy metal without mentioning

Metal Orizon a band recognised as pioneering the sound in the country in the 1990s critiquing foundational social ideas such as religion.

Overthrust as a band hasn't always been welcomed in Botswanan society with their original drummer Su1c1d3 Torment triggering an interviewer to proclaim 'i'm Christian' in refusing to say his name. The culture thrives based on word of mouth with there being a lack of push from Botswanan radio towards heavy metal, making the success of the band the more impressive. However, even without the support of the mainstream media of Botswana, the heavy metal community in the country cannot be ignored with Overthrust annually hosting the Overthrust Winter Metal Mania Charity Festival for the disadvantaged. Annually the event attracts hundreds of people showing that there is an active and ever-growing metal-head community which in the normal day to day lives in the shadows.

Free speech is celebrated with what many consider as the normalities within society being analysed and questioned however, culture and tradition is also often highlighted in the music. Togo also hosts its own heavy metal scene with bands such as Arka'n Asrafokor showcasing the pre colonial traditions of their Ewe culture; touches such as their music being performed at 6/8 time reflecting Togolese national music showing how music plays as an extension of their identity.

Creativity in the continent should be celebrated in all forms. Art plays a vital role in allowing people to feel a sense of fulfilment in expressing themselves, from classical music to traditional sounds and even heavy metal African art should never be ignored.

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