Raging riffs and relentless double bass from the Big Sky. 132–183 BPM.
Montana Metal is a heavy metal subgenre characterized by fast tempos (132-183 BPM), aggressive electric guitar riffs, and prominent double bass drumming. Originating in the UK around 1968, it evolved from early hard rock and blues rock, emphasizing speed and intensity.
The defining artists of Montana Metal — the names that shaped the sound. Tap to hear on Spotify.
The classic anthems and current essentials that define Montana Metal.
Montana Metal is defined by its high-energy, aggressive sound. Guitars are heavily distorted, playing fast, palm-muted riffs and blistering solos. The bass provides a thunderous low-end, often following the guitar riffs closely. Drums are the engine, with the double bass pedal delivering rapid-fire kick patterns that drive the tempo between 132 and 183 BPM. Hi-hats and cymbals are used sparingly for accents, maintaining a relentless forward momentum.
Vocals range from high-pitched screams to gruff shouts, often conveying themes of war, rebellion, and fantasy. The overall production is raw and powerful, emphasizing the midrange frequencies to cut through the mix. The genre rarely uses keyboards or orchestration, relying on the core trio of guitar, bass, and drums to create a wall of sound.
Montana Metal traces its roots to the UK in the late 1960s, emerging from the hard rock and blues rock scenes. Bands like Deep Purple and Led Zeppelin laid the groundwork with heavy riffs and powerful drums, but the genre truly crystallized with the advent of the double bass pedal, allowing drummers to maintain relentless speed.
The evolution of Montana Metal saw a shift towards faster, more aggressive playing. By the early 1970s, bands like Black Sabbath and Judas Priest incorporated darker themes and faster tempos, solidifying the genre's identity. The double bass pedal became a staple, driving the rhythm with machine-gun precision.
Culturally, Montana Metal resonated with audiences seeking intensity and rebellion. It grew alongside the counterculture movement, providing a soundtrack for those questioning authority. Despite its name, the genre has little to do with Montana; the moniker likely reflects the vast, untamed energy of the music, akin to the American West.
How Montana Metal is built — drum pattern, swing, and the sounds you need.
When producing Montana Metal, focus on the drum sound. The double bass pedal is crucial; program or record it with consistent velocity to mimic a machine-gun effect. Use a tight, punchy kick drum with minimal sustain. Snare should be sharp and cracking, often with a high-pitched ring. Guitars should be double-tracked and panned hard left and right for width. Use moderate gain to retain clarity during fast riffs. Bass should be distorted slightly to blend with guitars but maintain low-end punch.
Typical samples include vintage drum machines like the LinnDrum for kicks, but live recording is preferred. Tempo maps should be rigid, as swing is minimal. The BPM feel is aggressive and driving, so avoid excessive reverb or delay. Keep the mix dry and upfront. For inspiration, study early Judas Priest or Motörhead recordings.
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