Norwegian Black Metal

Whether it truly resonates with you or not, investigation of a musical and social subculture is a fascinating and rewarding journey. American documentary photographer Peter Beste may have had this in mind when he began working with Norway’s Black Metal community. Inspired by satanism, paganism, horror movies and heavy metal,Norwegian Black metal has grown over the last two decades as one of the most potent examples of teenage angst in Scandinavia. In the 1990s, members of the Black Metal sect were involved in some highly publicized violent crimes and church burnings. The resulting feeling, somewhat understandable, has made the community rather insular. All the more reason to applaud Beste effort and appreciate the unique and important nature of his output. 

True Norwegian Black Metal is out now from Powerhouse Books.