Songwriting Advice

Deathcore Songwriting Advice

Deathcore Songwriting Advice

Deathcore is a subgenre of extreme metal that emerged in the 1990s, characterized by its fast tempo, aggressive riffs, and intense vocal performances. It's a fusion of death metal and hardcore punk, with a focus on brutal, technical musicianship and often, socially conscious or introspective lyrics. As a deathcore songwriter, it's essential to understand the genre's core elements and how to craft songs that resonate with fans.

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Developing Your Sound: Influences and Inspiration

To write effective deathcore songs, you need to draw inspiration from the right sources. Study the pioneers of the genre, such as Decapitated, Whitechapel, and Job for a Cowboy. Analyze their song structures, riffing styles, and vocal approaches. Don't be afraid to explore other genres, like black metal, grindcore, or metalcore, to incorporate unique elements into your sound.

Listen to a wide range of deathcore bands to understand the diversity within the genre. Pay attention to the production quality, mixing, and mastering of your favorite albums. This will help you develop an ear for what works and what doesn't in terms of tone, balance, and overall sound.

Crafting Brutal Riffs: Guitar Work and Chord Progressions

Deathcore riffs are characterized by their complexity, speed, and aggression. To write effective riffs, focus on the following techniques:

Use palm muting and finger independence to create a tight, percussive sound. Experiment with chromaticism, dissonance, and atonality to add tension and release to your riffs. Don't be afraid to incorporate breakdowns, pinch harmonics, and sweep picking to add variety and interest.

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When it comes to chord progressions, deathcore often employs a mix of power chords, diminished chords, and augmented chords. Experiment with unusual chord voicings and inversions to create a sense of unease and tension.

Vocal Approach: Scream, Growl, and Shred

Deathcore vocals are a key element of the genre, requiring a range of techniques and styles. To develop your vocal approach, focus on the following:

Practice your scream and growl techniques, experimenting with different tones, pitches, and intensities. Work on your enunciation and diction to ensure your lyrics are clear and intelligible. Don't be afraid to incorporate clean vocals or spoken word passages to add contrast and depth to your songs.

Study the vocal styles of deathcore pioneers, such as Phil Bozeman (Whitechapel) or Jonny Davy (Job for a Cowboy). Analyze their techniques, tone, and delivery to develop your own unique vocal approach.

Lyrical Themes: Social Commentary, Personal Struggle, and Storytelling

Deathcore lyrics often focus on socially conscious themes, such as politics, inequality, and personal struggle. To write effective lyrics, draw from your own experiences, observations, and emotions.

Use storytelling techniques to craft narratives that resonate with your audience. Experiment with metaphor, allegory, and symbolism to add depth and complexity to your lyrics.

Don't be afraid to tackle difficult subjects, such as mental health, trauma, or social injustice. Deathcore is a genre that thrives on intensity and honesty, so be prepared to bare your soul and confront the darkness head-on.

Song Structure: Building Tension and Release

A well-structured deathcore song typically follows a pattern of tension and release. To craft effective songs, focus on the following:

Use intro sections to set the tone and establish the mood. Build tension through verse and pre-chorus sections, using riffs, vocals, and drum patterns to create a sense of urgency and release.

Chorus sections should be catchy, memorable, and intense, often featuring a key riff or vocal hook. Use bridge sections to add variety and contrast, incorporating different time signatures, tempos, or moods.

Outro sections should provide a sense of resolution, often featuring a reprise of the main riff or theme. Experiment with ambient sections, soundscapes, or instrumental passages to add depth and texture to your songs.

Drumming and Percussion: The Backbone of Deathcore

Deathcore drumming is characterized by its speed, precision, and aggression. To develop your drumming skills, focus on the following:

Practice your blast beats, double bass patterns, and snare work to develop a solid foundation. Experiment with polyrhythms, time signature changes, and unusual drum patterns to add complexity and interest.

Use your cymbals to add texture and atmosphere to your songs, incorporating crashes, rides, and bell hits to create a dynamic sound.

Production and Mixing: Bringing Your Vision to Life

A well-produced deathcore album can make all the difference in terms of sound quality and overall impact. To get the best out of your recordings, focus on the following:

Work with a producer or engineer who understands the genre and can help you achieve your vision. Use high-quality equipment, such as microphones, preamps, and plugins, to capture a clear and balanced sound.

Experiment with different mixing techniques, such as layering, panning, and EQ, to create a sense of space and depth. Don't be afraid to push the limits of your mix, using compression, distortion, and reverb to create a heavy, aggressive sound.

Conclusion: Tips for Success in the Deathcore Scene

Writing effective deathcore songs requires a combination of technical skill, creative vision, and perseverance. To succeed in the deathcore scene, focus on the following:

Develop your craft through practice, experimentation, and collaboration. Stay true to your vision and artistic integrity, while remaining open to feedback and constructive criticism.

Build a strong online presence, using social media and streaming platforms to promote your music and engage with your audience. Network with other bands, promoters, and industry professionals to build relationships and opportunities.

Remember, deathcore is a genre that thrives on intensity, honesty, and creativity. By following these tips and staying true to your artistic vision, you can write songs that resonate with fans and leave a lasting impact on the scene.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is deathcore, and how does it differ from other metal subgenres?

Deathcore is a subgenre of extreme metal that originated in the 1990s. It's characterized by its use of blast beats, breakdowns, and a blend of death metal and hardcore punk elements. Deathcore is distinct from other metal subgenres like death metal, grindcore, and metalcore due to its emphasis on slow, heavy riffs and brutal, guttural vocals. If you're new to deathcore, think of it as a fusion of the technicality of death metal and the aggression of hardcore punk.

What kind of gear do I need to write deathcore music?

To write deathcore music, you'll need a few essential pieces of gear. First, you'll need a guitar with a low tuning (drop-A or drop-G are common) and a pickup that can handle high-gain settings. A 7- or 8-string guitar can also be beneficial for creating those heavy, chunky riffs. You'll also need a drum machine or a drummer who can handle blast beats and fast-paced rhythms. Finally, a good quality audio interface and DAW (digital audio workstation) will help you record and produce your music.

How do I come up with brutal, guttural vocals?

Developing a brutal, guttural vocal style takes practice and patience. Start by listening to deathcore vocalists and studying their techniques. Experiment with different vocal styles, such as growls, screams, and pig squeals. Warm up your voice with exercises like lip trills and tongue twisters, and then practice vocalizing over your instrumental tracks. Remember to take care of your voice by staying hydrated and getting plenty of rest.

What's the best way to structure a deathcore song?

A typical deathcore song structure consists of an intro, verse, chorus, bridge, and outro. However, feel free to experiment and add your own twists. Start with a crushing intro riff, followed by a verse that builds tension and releases it with a brutal breakdown. The chorus should be catchy and memorable, while the bridge can be a slower, more atmospheric section. End with an outro that leaves the listener breathless.

How do I write a killer breakdown?

A great breakdown is all about creating tension and release. Start by building up to the breakdown with a series of palm-muted chords or single-note riffs. Then, drop the tempo and bring in the heavy, chunky riffs. Experiment with different rhythms and time signatures to create a sense of uncertainty. Finally, release the tension with a blast beat or a fast-paced riff section.

What's the role of the bass in deathcore music?

The bass plays a crucial role in deathcore music, providing the low-end foundation for the guitars and drums. A good deathcore bassist should be able to follow the guitar riffs closely, adding depth and complexity to the music. Experiment with different bass tones and techniques, such as slapping and popping, to add texture to your sound.

How do I record a deathcore song on a budget?

Recording a deathcore song on a budget requires creativity and resourcefulness. Start by investing in a good quality audio interface and DAW. Use free or low-cost plugins to enhance your sound, and experiment with different mic techniques to capture the best drum and guitar tones. Consider recording in a home studio or renting a local rehearsal space to save on costs.

What's the best way to promote my deathcore band?

Promoting a deathcore band requires a strong online presence and a willingness to engage with your audience. Start by creating a professional website and social media profiles. Share your music on platforms like Bandcamp and YouTube, and engage with your fans through comments and messages. Consider running social media contests or giveaways to generate buzz around your music.

How do I find other musicians to collaborate with?

Finding like-minded musicians to collaborate with can be challenging, but there are several ways to do it. Start by attending local metal shows and networking with other musicians. Join online forums and social media groups dedicated to deathcore and extreme metal. You can also use websites like Bandmix or Meetup to find musicians in your area who share your interests.

What's the most important thing to remember when writing deathcore lyrics?

When writing deathcore lyrics, the most important thing to remember is to stay true to yourself and your message. Deathcore lyrics often focus on themes of anger, aggression, and social commentary. Write about what you're passionate about, and don't be afraid to push boundaries and challenge your listeners.

How do I create a unique sound in a crowded genre?

Creating a unique sound in a crowded genre like deathcore requires experimentation and creativity. Start by identifying what sets you apart from other bands, whether it's your vocal style, guitar tone, or lyrical themes. Experiment with different time signatures, rhythms, and song structures to create a sound that's distinctly yours.

What's the role of the drummer in a deathcore band?

The drummer is the backbone of a deathcore band, providing the fast-paced rhythms and blast beats that drive the music forward. A good deathcore drummer should be able to play with precision and power, while also adding their own flair and creativity to the music.

How do I balance brutality and melody in my deathcore songwriting?

Balancing brutality and melody is key to writing effective deathcore songs. Start by creating a brutal, aggressive foundation with your riffs and drums. Then, add melodic elements like harmonized guitars or ambient synths to create contrast and depth. Experiment with different dynamics and textures to create a sense of tension and release.

What's the best way to practice my deathcore vocals?

Practicing deathcore vocals requires patience, persistence, and proper technique. Start by warming up your voice with exercises like lip trills and tongue twisters. Then, practice vocalizing over instrumental tracks, focusing on different techniques like growls, screams, and pig squeals. Record yourself and listen back to identify areas for improvement.

How do I write a catchy, memorable chorus?

Writing a catchy, memorable chorus is all about creating a sense of familiarity and repetition. Start by identifying the main hook or riff of your song, and then build your chorus around it. Experiment with different vocal melodies and harmonies to create a sense of depth and complexity.

What's the most common mistake deathcore bands make?

One of the most common mistakes deathcore bands make is sacrificing songwriting quality for the sake of brutality and technicality. Remember that a good deathcore song should be both brutal and memorable, with a clear structure and hooks that stick in the listener's head.

How do I stay inspired and motivated to write deathcore music?

Staying inspired and motivated to write deathcore music requires a passion for the genre and a willingness to push yourself creatively. Start by listening to new music and discovering new bands. Experiment with different techniques and styles, and challenge yourself to write something new and innovative. Finally, surround yourself with like-minded musicians who share your passion and enthusiasm.

What's the best way to handle criticism and negative feedback?

Handling criticism and negative feedback is an essential part of being a musician. Start by developing a thick skin and learning to separate constructive criticism from hate. Use negative feedback as an opportunity to improve and grow, and don't be afraid to ask for feedback from your peers and mentors.

How do I create a sense of atmosphere and ambiance in my deathcore music?

Creating a sense of atmosphere and ambiance in deathcore music requires experimentation and creativity. Start by using ambient synths or soundscapes to create a sense of tension and foreboding. Experiment with different guitar tones and textures, and consider adding atmospheric elements like choirs or orchestral samples.

What's the role of the guitarist in a deathcore band?

The guitarist is responsible for creating the heavy, crushing riffs that drive the music forward. A good deathcore guitarist should be able to play with precision and power, while also adding their own flair and creativity to the music. Experiment with different techniques like palm muting, sweep picking, and legato playing to create a unique sound.

How do I write a deathcore song that's both brutal and catchy?

Writing a deathcore song that's both brutal and catchy requires a balance of aggression and melody. Start by creating a brutal, aggressive foundation with your riffs and drums. Then, add melodic elements like harmonized guitars or ambient synths to create contrast and depth. Experiment with different dynamics and textures to create a sense of tension and release.

What's the best way to prepare for a deathcore show?

Preparing for a deathcore show requires a combination of physical and mental preparation. Start by rehearsing your set list until you can play it flawlessly. Work on your stage presence and crowd interaction, and make sure you have all the necessary gear and equipment. Finally, take care of your physical and mental health by getting plenty of rest and eating well.

How do I network and build relationships with other deathcore bands?

Networking and building relationships with other deathcore bands is essential for getting gigs, collaborations, and exposure. Start by attending local metal shows and networking with other musicians. Join online forums and social media groups dedicated to deathcore and extreme metal. Finally, be respectful, professional, and supportive of your peers, and always be open to new opportunities and collaborations.

Write Lyrics Like a Professional Songwriter

The ultimate songwriting tool that takes your creative vision to the next level! With just a few clicks, you can unleash your inner songwriter and craft a hit that's uniquely yours. Your song. You own it.

Example: Pop, Rock, Rap, Electronic, R&B, K-Pop, Drill...
Example: Happy, sad, inspirational, romantic, gritty...
Example: Love, loss, overcoming adversity, party, faith, personal growth, reflection...
Example: Kendrick Lamar, Drake, Grimes, Beyonce, Billie Eillish, Pink Floyd, BTS ...
A bridge is used to provide a new perspective or shift in your song's mood
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About Toni Mercia

Toni Mercia is a Grammy award-winning songwriter and the founder of Lyric Assistant. With over 15 years of experience in the music industry, Toni has written hit songs for some of the biggest names in music. She has a passion for helping aspiring songwriters unlock their creativity and take their craft to the next level. Through Lyric Assistant, Toni has created a tool that empowers songwriters to make great lyrics and turn their musical dreams into reality.