Thunderous riffs and raw energy from the southern cone. 131–179 BPM.
Chilean Metal is a heavy metal scene from Chile, emerging in the late 1960s and evolving through thrash, death, and black metal. It is characterized by fast tempos (131-179 BPM), aggressive guitar riffs, and double bass drumming. The genre often incorporates local folk elements and political themes.
The defining artists of Chilean Metal — the names that shaped the sound. Tap to hear on Spotify.
The classic anthems and current essentials that define Chilean Metal.
Chilean Metal is defined by fast, aggressive riffing, blast beats, and guttural vocals. The double bass pedal drives the rhythm, often at speeds exceeding 160 BPM. Guitar solos are technical and melodic, while bass lines are heavy and distorted.
The sound varies by subgenre: thrash is raw and punk-influenced, death metal is brutal and complex, and black metal is atmospheric with shrieking vocals. Some bands incorporate folk instruments like charango or quena, adding a distinct Latin American flavor.
Chilean Metal originated in the late 1960s, influenced by early heavy metal bands like Black Sabbath and Deep Purple. The scene grew in the 1980s with thrash metal bands such as Pentagram (Chile) and Necrosis, who added a raw, aggressive edge.
In the 1990s, Chilean metal diversified into death and black metal, with bands like Torturer and Sadism gaining international recognition. The underground scene thrived despite political turmoil and censorship during the Pinochet regime.
Today, Chilean metal is known for its intensity and technical skill, with bands incorporating indigenous instruments and themes from Chilean history. The scene remains vibrant, with festivals like Metal Fest Chile showcasing local talent.
How Chilean Metal is built — drum pattern, swing, and the sounds you need.
For drum programming, focus on fast double bass patterns (16th notes at 140-180 BPM) with tight snare hits. Use a punchy kick drum sound with minimal reverb. Guitar tones should be high-gain with scooped mids for thrash, or darker for death/black metal.
Samples: use natural room reverb for drums, and layer guitar tracks for thickness. Avoid over-compression; let the aggression breathe. Tempo changes are common, so map out sections carefully. Vocals should be recorded with a dynamic mic and slight distortion.
Press play here, or open the playlist in Spotify. Best for Headbanging, Gym workouts, Driving fast.
The playlist is hosted on Spotify and plays through its official player. The guide — sound, history, artists and tracks — is put together by Dropo, and every artist and track links to Spotify so you can check it by ear. Spotted a mistake? Tell us. How Dropo is made →