Innovation and tradition in metal music production

Thomas, Niall

Abstract

Contemporary music technology affords limitless potential and has changed the way record producers need to work with metal music, often employing a far more fragmented approach. This article explores technology’s influence on producing metal records through the lived experiences of seven renowned metal music producers, and it is argued that what can be perceived as traditional production processes are production processes that favour capturing performances, embracing the potential of technology. In contrast, the construction of recorded performances through anticipated uses of technology often embodies innovative production methodologies. There are tensions caused by the anticipated use of technology and the participants highlight that commercial and artistic pressures have informed prescriptive and homogenous production methodologies under the guise of innovation.

Citation

Thomas, N. (2021). Innovation and tradition in metal music production. Metal Music Studies, 7(3), 423-443. https://doi.org/10.1386/MMS_00058_1

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Aug 4, 2020
• Online Publication Date: Sep 1, 2021
• Publication Date: Sep 1, 2021
• Deposit Date: Oct 23, 2024
• Publicly Available Date: Nov 18, 2024
• Journal: Metal Music Studies
• Print ISSN: 2052-3998
• Electronic ISSN: 2052-4005
• Publisher: Intellect
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 7
• Issue: 3
• Pages: 423-443
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1386/MMS_00058_1
• Public URL: https://hull-repository.worktribe.com/output/4869830