Metalocalypse: Dethklok

About

Dethklok, the virtual death metal band spawned from the twisted mind of Brendon Small and the animated series *Metalocalypse*, isn’t just a cartoon gag; they're a genuine force in extreme metal. Carving a niche with their blend of melodic death metal and technical prowess, Dethklok draws heavily from Scandinavian death metal titans like At the Gates and Dark Tranquillity, while infusing the brutality with elements of black metal and a surprising dose of progressive song structures. Rising to prominence alongside the Adult Swim series' popularity, Dethklok's albums, including *The Dethalbum* (the highest-charting death metal album in history at the time of its release) and *Dethalbum II*, cemented their musical credibility, transcending their animated origins. Concerts featuring Small and collaborators like Gene Hoglan brought the virtual band to life, offering a genuinely crushing live experience. Dethklok's impact extends beyond record sales and festival appearances. They’ve popularized death metal to a wider audience, albeit through a satirical lens, and their music has influenced a generation of musicians who appreciate both brutality and technicality. Featuring collaborations with luminaries such as George "Corpsegrinder" Fisher, Dethklok consistently proved their dedication to metal authenticity. After a long hiatus, Dethklok returned with a new album, *Dethalbum IV*, and a full-length movie, *Metalocalypse: Army of the Doomstar*, proving their enduring legacy and satisfying a fanbase that's been craving new material.