Why Do Some Metalheads Dislike Avenged Sevenfold?
The enigmatic and often polarizing nature of Avenged Sevenfold (A7X) has sparked a significant divide within the metal community. While some metal fans embrace the band's versatility and contribution to the music scene, others vehemently dislike them for various reasons. Let's explore the factors behind this controversy and whether the hate towards A7X is justified.
Mainstream Success and Commercial Appeal
A7X's mainstream success, particularly with albums like Mess with the Devil and The Stage, has garnered both praise and criticism. Their music blends genres such as metalcore, hard rock, and even pop, which can alienate traditional metal fans who prefer more aggressive and roots-oriented sounds. This eclectic style might be seen as too commercial, detracting from the perceived authenticity of the band's metal roots.
Image and Aesthetics
The band's polished image and theatrical elements can also rankle traditional metal fans. A7X's stage presence often includes elaborate costumes and lighting, which some metalheads perceive as being more akin to pop rock than the raw and gritty aesthetics of classic metal. This contrast leads to the band being labeled as "pop metal" or "arena metal," which some fans find uncharacteristic of true metal.
Impact on the Metal Community
The diverse fanbase of A7X can be another point of contention. The band's success and popularity have attracted a broad audience that includes listeners who might not typically worship at the altar of heavy metal. Some long-time metal fans believe this influx of new fans dilutes the culture and community of the metal scene, making it less authentic for experienced enthusiasts.
Arguments for and Against
Whether the hate towards A7X is justified is a matter of perspective. For some, the band's mainstream success and diluted sound undermine the genre's authenticity. They argue that A7X's music does not fully capture the essence of true metal, making it an affront to metal purists.
Others argue that A7X's musicianship and songwriting are superior, and that their success has been instrumental in broadening the appeal of metal. Many appreciate the band's ability to bridge different genres, suggesting that their music has helped introduce more people to metal, including those who might otherwise not be drawn to the genre.
Personal Opinions and Uncommon Perspectives
Not all metalheads view A7X with the same disdain. Some, like our resident metal enthusiast, believe that A7X, while not fitting the strict definition of 'metal,' can still be appreciated for their talent and unique sound. For example, one metalhead noted:
I don’t hate them… I just wouldn’t classify them as Metal. Maybe hard rock, but not Metal. Even though I love them all, I still would NEVER call them Metal. Want real Metal, listen to Slayer, Gojira, etc. Heck, I know a LOT of metalheads will hate me for this, but even Metallica is good Metal.
Another metalhead expressed a more positive view:
As a metalhead, I have to say that I don’t hate A7X. Actually, I like the band and a lot of their songs. I find the singer’s voice annoying and the song-writing mediocre. However, they are definitely talented musicians and, to a certain extent, still some form of metal. Their music may not conform to the rigid boundaries of metal, but it still carries elements that passionate metal fans can appreciate.
Ultimately, the divide between fans of A7X and traditional metalheads often stems from differing definitions and expectations of what metal should be. Whether one views A7X as a valuable contributor to the genre or as a dissonant force remains a matter of personal opinion and experience.