Black Metal

Venom's 'Black Metal' is a song that is often credited with giving the black metal genre its name and establishing its thematic and musical direction. The lyrics celebrate the raw energy, power, and rebellious spirit of the genre, which is characterized by its fast tempo, distorted guitars, and aggressive vocal style. The song serves as an anthem for the black metal community, encapsulating the ethos of the music and its fans.

The song's lyrics are filled with references to darkness, power, and satanic imagery, which are common themes in black metal music. Phrases like 'Satan records the first note' and 'Lay down your souls to the gods rock 'n roll' suggest a dedication to the music that is almost religious in its fervor. The song portrays black metal as not just a genre, but a way of life that demands total commitment and offers a sense of belonging to 'legions' of like-minded fans. The repeated call to 'Lay down your souls to the gods rock 'n roll' emphasizes the idea of sacrifice and devotion to the music.

The imagery of 'atomic force' and 'nuclear screams' conveys the intensity and explosive nature of black metal, while 'riding hell's stallions bareback and free' and 'taking our chances with raw energy' reflect the wild, untamed spirit associated with the genre. Venom's 'Black Metal' is not just a song, but a declaration of identity for those who align themselves with the genre's dark, powerful, and rebellious ethos.