Black Metal, specifically Norwegian Black Metal, is terrifying, fascinating and for some a refreshing break from the overly sanitized pop that dominates mainstream American pop culture. Despite recent efforts to uncover its true machinations - even Hollywood's taking a stab at it - the subgenre largely remains shrouded in mystery and stereotypes.%uFFFD

A well-researched 2007 documentary produced by Vice/VBS.tv and based on Peter Beste's stunning photographs provides a fairly comprehensive summary of the somewhat insular scene. It's definitely worth watching. One of the groups in the film explains that their purpose is to spread the message of Satan and the music is secondary, if important at all. This is not the case for every group, of course.

Music appears to be a bit more highly regarded among the American Black Metal bands appearing at Burt's Tiki Lounge tonight on the Black Twilight Tour. In fact, headliner Bone Awl ("The aliases of the members derive from the two goats that draw the flying chariot of Thor") combines elements of punk into the gnarling metal mash. Unless they are accidentally talented, it's safe to assume they put a little effort into their sound. Most American Black Metal bands share in common with their Norwegian counterparts themes of death, destruction, violence, paganism, occult, primitive culture, indigenous culture, etc. If that sounds at all interesting, stop by to catch the entire lineup which also features Ashdautas, Volahn, plus Salt Lake City's own Yaotl Mictlan and Iconoclast Contra (ex-Ibex Throne).

Red Light Sound helped make the show happen, so show some love for Tia and Jared. Let them know they're still an important part of this town.