As anyone reading this will no doubt already be aware, black metal's notoriety reached its peak in the mid-nineties following a spate of well-publicised church burnings and the murder of one its leading figures. `Lords of Chaos' documents the rise of the black metal scene in Norway, as well as exploring the profound effect it had elsewhere (notably, Europe and America) and as such this is a book no self-respecting black metal fan should be without. But even for those with no interest in metal - black or otherwise - 'Lords of Chaos' makes for a truly fascinating, chilling read...
In a clear, well-researched style, the authors, Michael Moynihan and Didrik Soderlind, provide an insight into the cultural, socio- and psychological factors which helped create the scene and inform the mindset of its earliest and most uncompromising advocates. What sets this book apart from the average rock biog - aside from the subject matter - is the genuine, first-hand feel its authors have managed to create, thanks largely to their own hard work in gaining access to those directly involved in the events described, and the subsequent rawness of the interviews conducted. And, despite the extremity of many of the viewpoints expressed within this book, the authors remain objective and non-judgmental throughout, leaving the reader to draw his or her own conclusions.
Highly recommended.
Matt Pucci