How to Make Slam Metal

Ever wanted to create music that feels like a sonic bulldozer? Slam metal might be your answer. It’s a subgenre that’s all about heavy, groove-laden riffs and blast beats that can shake the floor. This guide will walk you through the essentials of making slam metal, from crafting brutal riffs to understanding the rhythmic complexity that defines the genre. Let’s break it down.

Building the Foundation: Understanding Slam Metal’s Roots

Slam metal is a subgenre of death metal that focuses on mid-tempo grooves and breakdowns, often characterized by guttural vocals and down-tuned guitars. Its roots can be traced back to bands like Suffocation and Internal Bleeding, which laid the groundwork for the genre’s distinct sound in the early ’90s. While many people think of death metal as a relentless barrage of speed and aggression, slam metal carves its niche by emphasizing rhythm and groove.

Understanding these roots helps you appreciate the genre’s focus on rhythmic complexity and heaviness. It’s not just about speed, it’s about making every note hit as hard as possible. Bands like Devourment and Abominable Putridity have refined this approach, creating music that’s both brutal and catchy.

Crafting the Perfect Slam Riff

At the heart of slam metal is the riff. Riffs in this genre are typically simple yet devastatingly effective. They often use power chords and palm muting to create a chunky, percussive sound. Here’s how you can start crafting your own slam riffs:

• Down-tuning: Most slam metal bands tune their guitars down to B standard or even lower. This gives the riffs a heavier, thicker sound.
• Groove-centric: Focus on creating riffs with a strong groove. Use techniques like chugging and palm muting to accentuate the rhythmic element.
• Simplicity: Keep your riffs simple but powerful. The goal is to create something that makes people want to move.

Experiment with different rhythms and don’t be afraid to slow things down. The emphasis in slam metal is often on creating a heavy, lumbering sound rather than a fast, frenetic one. Interestingly enough, this approach allows you to explore new rhythmic possibilities and create something uniquely yours.

Nailing the Drum Patterns

The drums in slam metal play a crucial role in driving the music forward. While blast beats are a staple, the genre also makes extensive use of breakdowns and slower, groove-laden sections. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Variety: Incorporate a mix of blast beats, double bass patterns, and slower grooves.
• Syncopation: Use syncopated rhythms to add complexity and interest to your drum parts.
• Breakdowns: These are a key feature of slam metal. They’re typically slower sections that emphasize rhythm and groove.

To get these drum patterns right, you might find it helpful to study some of the top drummers in the genre. Watch live videos and pay attention to how they incorporate these elements into their playing.

Vocals: The Art of Guttural Sounds

Vocals in slam metal are typically guttural and low-pitched, often resembling a growl or a roar. Achieving this sound requires both technique and practice:

• Breathing: Proper breath control is essential. Practice diaphragmatic breathing to support your vocals.
• Techniques: Experiment with different vocal techniques, such as fry screaming and false cord growling, to find what works for you.
• Consistency: Consistent practice is key. Consider recording yourself and listening back to identify areas for improvement.

Vocals in slam metal aren’t just about sounding aggressive, they’re an integral part of the music’s rhythm and groove. Consider how your vocal patterns can complement the guitar riffs and drum patterns.

Lyrics: Content that Resonates

Slam metal lyrics often explore themes of violence, horror, and the grotesque. While the content can be extreme, it’s important to approach it with creativity and thoughtfulness:

• Research: Draw inspiration from horror films, literature, and even real-world events.
• Imagery: Use vivid imagery to create a strong visual impact.
• Rhythm: Consider the rhythm of your lyrics and how they fit with the music.

While it’s easy to focus solely on shock value, the most effective slam metal lyrics are those that tell a story or paint a vivid picture.

Production Tips for a Crushing Sound

Production plays a vital role in achieving that crushing slam metal sound. Here are some tips to consider:

• Guitar Tone: Use a high-gain amplifier or pedal to achieve that thick, distorted sound. EQ your tone to emphasize the low and mid frequencies.
• Drum Sound: Make sure the drums are punchy and clear. Use compression to control dynamics and make the drums sit well in the mix.
• Mixing: Pay attention to the balance between instruments. Each element should be clearly audible without overpowering the others.

Good production can make the difference between a track that sounds professional and one that feels amateurish. Spend time refining your mix and don’t hesitate to seek feedback from others to improve it.

Finding Your Audience

While slam metal may not be mainstream, there’s a passionate community of fans who love the genre. Connecting with this audience can be incredibly rewarding:

• Online Communities: Platforms like Reddit and Facebook have active slam metal communities where you can share your music and connect with other fans.
• Live Shows: Playing live shows is one of the best ways to build a following. Consider performing at local metal venues and festivals.
• Social Media: Use social media to promote your music and engage with fans. Share behind-the-scenes content and interact with your audience.

Building a fanbase takes time and effort, but the connections you make can be incredibly rewarding. Remember, your audience is made up of people who love the same music you do, so be genuine and enjoy the process.

Practice Makes Perfect: The Role of Consistent Practice

Creating slam metal music requires practice and dedication. Whether you’re honing your guitar skills or perfecting your vocal technique, consistent practice is essential:

• Set Goals: Establish clear, achievable goals for your practice sessions.
• Use Tools: Consider using a metronome or practice apps to improve your timing and rhythm.
• Stay Inspired: Listen to a variety of slam metal bands to keep your inspiration high.

If you’re looking to take your skills to the next level, Riffhard offers lessons from some of the world’s best metal guitarists. With over 150 video lessons on various guitar techniques, it’s an incredible resource for anyone looking to improve their playing. Plus, our interactive player and custom metronome make practicing more effective and enjoyable.

Final Thoughts

Creating slam metal is all about embracing the genre’s raw power and rhythmic complexity. From crafting riffs to perfecting your vocal growls, each element plays a crucial role in shaping your music. And if you’re serious about refining your skills, Riffhard is here to help with lessons from top-tier metal guitarists. Dive in, experiment, and most importantly, have fun with the process!