The Howling - Melodic Death Metal With Symphonic Flourishes That Will Haunt You For Days

The Howling - Melodic Death Metal With Symphonic Flourishes That Will Haunt You For Days

“The Howling,” a ferocious and captivating track from the Swedish melodic death metal band, At The Gates, is not for the faint of heart. This song, released in 1995 as part of their groundbreaking album “Slaughter of the Soul,” perfectly encapsulates the raw aggression of the genre while showcasing moments of haunting beauty that will linger in your mind long after the last note fades away.

At The Gates emerged from the fertile Swedish death metal scene of the early 90s, a period marked by bands like Entombed and Dismember pushing the boundaries of extreme music. Founded in Gothenburg in 1990, At The Gates initially played a more traditional death metal style, but they soon evolved their sound to incorporate melodic elements and complex song structures, paving the way for what would become known as “melodic death metal.”

“The Howling,” arguably their most renowned track, exemplifies this evolution. The song opens with a blistering barrage of tremolo-picked guitars and blast beats, instantly transporting the listener into a realm of sonic fury. Vocalist Tomas Lindberg’s distinctive growl pierces through the instrumental chaos, delivering lyrics that paint a bleak and unsettling picture of societal collapse and spiritual desolation.

As the song progresses, At The Gates expertly weave in melodic passages, allowing moments of respite amidst the unrelenting assault. Lead guitarist Anders Björler delivers soaring solos that are both technically impressive and emotionally evocative, adding a layer of complexity and depth to the music.

The drumming by Adrian Erlandsson is equally noteworthy, a relentless barrage of double bass drums and intricate fills that drive the song forward with undeniable power. The interplay between the instruments is tight and precise, showcasing the band’s musical prowess and their ability to seamlessly blend aggression and melody.

Dissecting the Musical Landscape

Here’s a closer look at the key elements that contribute to “The Howling’s” enduring appeal:

Element Description Impact
Riffs Fast, intricate, and heavily reliant on tremolo picking Create a sense of urgency and relentless aggression
Melody Soaring lead guitar lines interwoven with harsh vocals Provide contrast and emotional depth
Drums Blast beats interspersed with complex fills and double bass drumming Drive the intensity and create a powerful rhythmic foundation
Vocals Tomas Lindberg’s signature growl, ranging from guttural roars to higher-pitched screams Conveys raw emotion and enhances the song’s unsettling atmosphere

Beyond “The Howling” - The Legacy of At The Gates

“The Howling” remains a quintessential example of melodic death metal, influencing countless bands in its wake. While At The Gates disbanded in 1996 at the height of their success, they reunited in 2007 and continue to tour and release new music, solidifying their place as one of the genre’s most important and enduring acts.

Exploring At The Gates’ discography reveals a treasure trove of sonic delights for fans of extreme metal:

  • “With Fear I Kiss the Burning Darkness” (1993): Their debut album showcases a rawer, more traditional death metal sound.

  • “Terminal Spirit Disease” (1994): A crucial step in their evolution towards melodic death metal, featuring intricate song structures and haunting melodies.

  • “Slaughter of the Soul” (1995): Their masterpiece and arguably the most influential album in the history of melodic death metal.

  • “At War with Reality” (2014): A powerful comeback album that proves they haven’t lost their edge after a long hiatus.

At The Gates’ influence extends beyond the realm of music, inspiring countless visual artists, filmmakers, and writers with its dark themes and intense imagery. “The Howling,” in particular, has become a cultural touchstone, representing the raw power and unbridled creativity that can be found within the darkest corners of extreme metal.

So, if you’re looking for an auditory experience that will challenge your perceptions and leave a lasting impression, dive into the depths of “The Howling” by At The Gates. Prepare to be consumed by its sonic ferocity, mesmerized by its haunting melodies, and forever changed by its raw emotional power.