Metal Monday: Why A Metal Band Name Matters

posted in: Features • Rock

If I were to ask you what type of music a band called Abigail Williams would play, what would you say? Was your guess symphonic blackened death metal? If you guessed otherwise, you’re incorrect. What about Skinless? They’re a brutal death metal band. Regardless of whether or not you guessed correctly, there is still an assumption made about a band based on their name, logo and accompanying image.

There are many reasons why an unknowing listener or potential fan can be lead astray by a band name. Here’s the skinny on 3 of the most common “offenders”:

1. The “Out-of-Place Name Syndrome”

The “Out-of-Place Name Syndrome” is when a band chooses a name that fits it well with a name common in another genre. Bands like Every Time I Die and Veil of Maya fall into this category. Both band names are more akin to that of other genres, such as pop punk or emo punk (which Every Time I Die and Veil of Maya are not).

2. The “Acronym Complex”

The “Acronym Complex” is when a band has a name with an abundance of words in it, or is incredibly difficult to either remember or say out loud. The most serious case of this being Success Will Write Apocalypse Across The Sky. SWWAATS has a seven word name ” one that will only be spoken when absolutely necessary. For other bands, such as Bring Me The Horizon, the preference to refer to them as “BMTH” is for ease, even though their name is not very long or complex.

3. The “Class Clown Disorder”

Third, there are bands with complete nonsense or “joke” names, such as The Tony Danza Tapdance Extravaganza or HORSE the Band. While entertaining, it’s tough to take a band with a ludicrous band name serious until they’ve proven themselves worthy. If I told you my band name was “Bozo’s Bald Head” and that we played the most brutal death metal on the planet, how serious would you take me?

Now, there are no rules against these naming styles. Bands can name themselves whatever they like. After all, some of the most legenday metal bands out there have some of the most awful names. Take, for instance, Metallica or Megadeth” both cheesy plays on “brutal” or “metal” words, yet they’re two of the biggest metal bands ever. If you’re in a band and looking to become economically successful, however, you should consider the significance of your name.  Band names should be something that represents the band, the music, and image appropriately (or, at least suitable to what you wish to be). When you’re coming up with your band name, though, be careful what you choose “ there’s more to a name than you think.