Blast beat
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Blast beats are drum beats consisting of torrents of alternating snare and bass drums which increase the speed, density, and percussiveness of death metal, black metal and grindcore. The hi-hat or a ride cymbal is often played simultaneously with the bass drum, and occasionally a crash cymbal or china cup is also featured. Diverse patterns and timings are also frequently employed by more technical players. This method is often used to create a forceful climax or sometimes the basis of an entire song, although a blastbeat occasionally constitutes the bulk of a song.
Blast beats are normally played in tempos from 180 bpm upwards, with so-called "hyperblast beats" existing in the range of 260-340 bpm. A typical blast beat consists of alternating 16th note snare and bass drum hits, on the top of which a cymbal, normally a hi-hat or a ride, is hit, in 16th notes as well. Variations exist. Some people maintain the bass drum should be played with one foot for the best effect; others prefer dual bass drum pedals.
Blast beats have their roots in hardcore punk as well as thrash metal, however in modern standards the snare work is frequently comparable to established snare patterns in jazz. Early blast beats were generally quite slow and less precise compared to today's standards. The blast beat is a fundamental component in nearly all of extreme metal. Bands making extensive use of it include Origin, Cryptopsy, Napalm Death, Dying Fetus, Suffocation and Dark Funeral among others.
Notable artists
- Nicholas Barker (Dimmu Borgir, Lock Up, Cradle Of Filth)
- Charlie Benante (Anthrax, SOD)
- Tommy Buckley (Soilent Green)
- Mick Harris (Napalm Death)
- Hellhammer (Mayhem)
- Alex Hernandez (Immolation)
- Danny Herrera (Napalm Death)
- John Longstreth (Origin)
- Flo Mounier (Cryptopsy)
- Ken Owen (Carcass)
- Pete Sandoval (Morbid Angel, Terrorizer)
- Mike Smith (Suffocation)
- Kevin Talley (Chimaira, Misery Index, Dying Fetus)
- Trym Torson (Emperor, Enslaved)
- Weasel Walter (Flying Luttenbachers, Lake of Dracula, solo)
- Andy Whale (Bolt Thrower)de:Blastbeat