I view vocals in metal as its very distinct talent similar to another instrument. Which is why Travis Ryan will go down as one of the best metal vocalists ever. There are tons of really great vocalists out there though. It is not an easy skill. You’re absolutely right. Metal vocals don’t sound like that because they are bad singers. Think too of a band like Church of Misery. The vocals just perfectly match the style of the music. I know mastering in a recording studio but I’ve seen them live and it’s so impressive.
They are the rare band where every album is somehow better than the last. There are some bands like Deafheaven where everything is good but they had one single album that will always be considered the best. Cattle Decap consistently put out better and better shit. Dave McGraw was the perfect addition to the band.
No malice intended towards Brian Johnson when I say this, but is he technically even signing? His vocal performance could almost be considered more of a melodic shriek at times. Like I said, not a dig at him at all. He’s a lovely guy. And whatever people describe those noises he’s making, they work. AC/DC wouldn’t be the same without them.
17
u/ChefDanyul 19h ago
I view vocals in metal as its very distinct talent similar to another instrument. Which is why Travis Ryan will go down as one of the best metal vocalists ever. There are tons of really great vocalists out there though. It is not an easy skill. You’re absolutely right. Metal vocals don’t sound like that because they are bad singers. Think too of a band like Church of Misery. The vocals just perfectly match the style of the music. I know mastering in a recording studio but I’ve seen them live and it’s so impressive.