Metalistų subkultūros bruožai ; Particular Attributes of the Metal Music Subculture

Abstract

This author's bachelor's theses base this article. The purpose was to gather and systematise data on the metal music subculture in Lithuania and describe its fundamental features of identity. To compile this article, the method of observing the metalist subculture, in-depth interviews and a structures questionnaire were employed and 35 members were interviewed. The research was conducted in the cities of Kaunas and Vilnius from 2007 August to 2008 April. The data analysis establishes that the main components of the subcultural identity of metal music enthusiasts, here called "metalists", are worldview, music and the image and lifestyle they are creating. Metal music is the essential unifying factor of the subculture. It is distinguishable by its complexity, live performance and diversity of styles. The identity of the metal music subculture also relates to the image its members design that is meant to express the ideology of the subculture (e.g., black colour, long hair, preferences for military boots and leather and jeans-style clothing). The most frequently encountered symbols are related to rebellion against Christianity: the pentagram, upside-down cross, fire and different Pagan symbols. Such symbols are not only used as accessories on clothing but also for the logos the metal music groups use.[.]