As an atheist who loves tolerance and the sense of community in metal, it is really refreshing to see some open-minded reactions coming from Christians! Keep up the great work and keep the awesome videos coming! Cheers from Brazil :)
Ricardo Gadelha They might be open minded by listening to it but they are not smart enough to decipher any of the lyrical meaning which is definitely a trademark of religion.
"Christians", don't see any person that claims Christian as a Christian, but simply see if their actions line up with it. Would Jesus react to a metal song singing about Lucifer? it's more than likely he wouldn't, therefore Christians should not.
Yeah, as a Norwegian, who's ancestors were forced into the christian faith 1000 years ago, I can respect the views of these two. Like you, I'm pretty surprised.
"forced conversion" no mate, your kings adapted to it after certain raids on the british isles and france, your and my ancestors werent forced as such, the king decided and the populace followed. there was very little violence. Just one of those things that happened. Dont get me wrong, im not backing christianity im just say people really need to get their facts right
Yes, the kings "adapted". But what choice did the populace have at that point in time? It was pretty much "do what your king commands or face the consequenses". So yeah, I'm still gonna go with "forced". Do you honestly think that hundreds of thousands of people would just go "sure, we have this faith, but now we're gonna go with this other faith, no pressure, we're totally OK with this". That's not how the human mind works.
Wolfie Redd yes, but especially talking about the church burnings and the points vin and sori bring up around them, they’re talking about the black metal culture
Man, as a die hard Behemoth fan, I gotta say I've loved these two videos. And I'm pretty sure Nergal would love to talk to you guys. He loves these types of discussions and is an all around cool dude.
Thanks, also seriously look up Dimmu Borgir between the albums Stormblast and In Sorte Diabloi. Ignore their last two albums, not only does it get really get weak on the religious topics but their music just isn't as good on those albums and it's a long complex story why. But for all their stuff before 2010 was epic, dark, brutal and had very thoughtful exploration of religion. They've also satanic themed, and I would't call them as poetic and complex as Behemoth's lyrics but not as blunt and straightforward as say Vader or Slayer. In particular, look into Insight and the Catharsis, Kings of the Carnival Creation, Puritania, Progenies of the Great Apocalypse, Cataclsym Children, The Sacriligious Scorn, The Serpentine Offering and The Chosen Legacy. In other words, they have a lot to offer.
VinAnd Sori I like your gig. However, I hope you continue your research into the Catholic church. Dont think you're dodging satan's arrows by disassociating yourself from the Catholic church. All of true Black metal, theistic satanists crave destruction of the Blessed Sacrament. You dont understand Nergal because you are not Catholic. Splinter religions from the Word to Peter, "You are the rock. And upon you, I will build my church."
Splinter religions ignore the power of God that was handed to Peter at this utterance. This is the foundation of what you call Roman Catholicism today. But as a literalist, how can you deny this fact? Denials of such things are what satan desires.
While nergal isn't very fond of christianity lol I'm sure he would love hearing your guys' opinions and perspectives on his songs as he is a very philosophical and spiritual person himself. Being a behemoth fan for years it's amazing that the most philosophical and interesting discussions on this band have been from Christians! I'm very into your guy's channel and your discussions! *46
Got yourself a satanist subscriber. I don't normally sit through long videos but it being Behemoth hooked me and y'all's analysis kept me here. Keep up the good work
VinAnd Sori I recently subscribed to a few channles that react to music they haven't heard before. The main channel of them that I watch is Lost in Vegas. They started out reacting to and reviewing rap/hip hop music but to reach a wider audience and open themselves up to new things they started reacting to and reviewing metal music and I'm sure that reason is why they initially popped up in my suggested list. They are also christian but they don't really ever get into the religious side of the music if it happens to be satanic but they do analyze the sound and their own interpretation of the lyrics. So all of a sudden I'm getting your videos in my suggested list and I just had to tap on your video when I saw the word "christians react to Behemoth" haha. Having your own black metal segment and the way you interpret and react to the lyrics from a christian view is definitely something that will keep me tuned in.
Black Metal usually has more a more shrieking style of vocals and the guitars tend to be messier with far less palm-muted chords. I'm sure that if you listened to some black metal and some death metal, you can see how Behemoth has been called "Blackened Death Metal." They take some elements of black metal for sure, especially the symphonic elements, but they lean more towards death metal. I would check out something like Emperor - Ye Entrancemperium for a good example of black metal.
Nergal has cited Isaiah 14:12 as inspiration for this song and has said the song is about "Lack of inner drama, lack of inhibition against falling in love with the volatile which relieves me from consistency and allows an obliteration of established moral and social behavior patterns." It seems that this song is a manifesto of freedom to do what thou wilt. In any case, this song is incredibly written and my personal Behemoth favorite.
You seem to be confused in the difference between black metal and blackened (death or whatever) metal. Maybe it's becuase you missed some historical passage (probably even because black metal is not a big thing in the US and surely was not in early 90'). Black metal is for sure a way of life but it had a pretty clear style that distinguished it from other extreme kinds of metal when it emerged. If you look back at 1991-1996 era it should sound clear (my thought go to "de mysteriis dom sathanas" by mayhem, "in the nightside eclipse" by emperor. "frost" by enslaved, "the shadowthorne" by satyricon, just to name some). That defined the norwegian black metal musically. When people refers to "true norwegian black metal", they refers to that sound/style (the "necro-sound" production was a key factor at the time, but tremolo picking, blast beats and high pitched haunting vocals were a must to be labeled "black metal"). In the 1997-2002 era black metal evolved in many directions and it became such an underground power that other styles of metal encapsulated some parts of it. While emperor drifted to a more death-metal like approach with IX Equilibrium, many death metal bands incorporated blastbeats and high screams instead of deep growls. That made the boundaries between the two genres not as easy to determine. Cradle of Filth and Dimmu Borgir made the same path toward some extreme gothic attitude, all star black metal band like Arcturus set a bridge to progressive that is now a key part of Enslaved sound too, who previously were pioneers of black metal. Black metal was (also) about breaking boundaries and going where noone else ever went. With that spirit in mind many former black metal mastermind moved to experimental metal later. It's hard to say that one of the very inventors of black metal as we know it is no more black metal, because he probably is and will ever be at heart, even if I now plays something completely different (I'm talking about Ihsahn. former leader of emperor together with Samoth and that you probably know for his last 15 years of solo albums). All the devil/pagan/norsemen related lyrics that early black metal was all about became common topics for many extreme bands (and many extreme wannabe, but that's another part of the story). That's because a lot of people tried to jump on the bandwagon, but also because the old blackmetal creators them self changed their music style, but not always the themes they used to sing about. If you look at it now, the boundaries are confused, but if you go back to the classics and then come back to nowadays releases, all sounds (the right word in the right place) pretty clear. Behemoth are (today) a death metal (style) band with some balck metal elements (some tremolo picking, some blast beats) with satanic related lyrics. Vocals and riffs are definitely more death than black metal. Please consider that behemoth started as a black metal band with a death metal attitude and shifted their music till the opposite (the album of the definitive "inversion" was probably Satanica back in 1999) and this is the reason why some listeners still label them as blackmetal. Some bands are on the edge and are impossible to tag correctly, but, afterall, tags are for reviews and catalogues, not for the artists who should be free to mix up whatever they want. Being metal and singing about the devil is not enough to be black metal. AC/DC are not black metal and neither Iron Maiden. If you want to make a jump in the helnorsk svartmetall (true norvegian black metal), you should probably listen to some of this songs: mayhem: freezing moon, funeral fog, de misteriis dom sathanas emperor: I am the black wizards, into the infinity of thoughts, ye entrancemperium, with strength I burn (you already listed this one, right?) satyricon: the mist by the hill, dawn of a new age, immortality passion taake (norwegian lyrics): nattestid part I ulver: hymne I (dansk lyrics, probably the best track to understand the statement about production at that time)
Saw this in my suggestions and honestly, I thought I was in for a laugh but you guys surprised me. From the depth, you went into the lyrics and what they mean including the history behind it. The respect that you showed to them since they do believe in something different. It is something I don't see often from people of varying beliefs. This whole video is awesome 10/10 would watch again.
Got yourself a Luciferian Subscriber here. The amount of intense analysis and thoughtful exploration of the themes presented in both songs is just fucking great man. It's kind of really amazing to me how intelligent you guys are in your musings about the lyrics. If I may make a request for a song? Cthonic - Defenders of Bu-Tik Palace. There are two versions of the song, one metal and one acoustic, which are extremely opposite ends of the spectrum musically I would love to hear your thoughts about that song in both of it's forms.
These videos are actually my favourite thing on RUclips now. I'm not religious and I am a huge Behemoth and black metal fan and I love the intelligence of your break downs. Also some of the references you guys pick up that I would not know unless I purposely look them up is really educational for me since religion was never a forefront of my life. I would love for you to keep going through Behemoth's catalogue or maybe even going through the whole "Satanist" album. Belphegor is another band you should check into! I also love the fact you guys still jam out and respect how good these songs are even with your beliefs and the lyrical content. No matter what, good music can't be denied. Keep doing the good work with these videos! \m/
What Vin said on 25:50 about the lines "I'll smite heavens golden pride" is so danm deep, I love the song but I've never seen those lyrics in that way until Vin said it, great video, I consider myself an atheist and I really enjoy the religious opinions of this particular song but this time I loved the video and I learned a lot, so thank you so much and keep up with this kind of discussions!
VinAnd Sori you should react to Blow your trumpets Gabriel or Chant for Eschaton 2000 (specially this last one I would like to know both opinions cause I've tried to get information about the meaning but found myself unlucky, maybe with your external opinion I can get a very truthfull explanation)
I don't usually watch videos this long, but as a metalhead, your insight and analysis in these videos are very interesting! Keep doing these reactions/reviews.
The fun thing about Behemoth is the usage of biblicisms, Greek and Latin, something the clergy uses and used and then inversing it. They do this very intelligently and don't use gimmicks. Behemoth are Blackened Death Metal and considering Metal has around 100ish subgenres this is nothing. I am an agnostic and not a big fan of Christianity as most of my country (Croatia) shared the same fate as most European countries, the transition to Christianity wasn't as brutal as in Norway but it still happened. And the fact that our church is extreme, even by European standards. I have no issues with religion just don't force it upon me, unfortunately in my country this happens often. In any case, this was very cool to see, respect! Oh and yeah, don't think all of metal is Satanic, most of it actually isn't. I dislike Satanism because it's rooted in Christianity and most of the satanists are edgy 17 year olds that hang about Tumblr haha. My fav black metal bands tend to be the ones that don't use the Satanic gimmick. Saor, Panopticon, bands like them which are nature, heritage and history related. Metal is a huge and complex thing and I am glad you are exploring it. Have a nice day you two!
Your post sums up my feelings on religion AND Behemoth perfectly. I love how Nergal tells his stories, but as a non-believer I also dont have much invested in the Satanic angle.
"Forcing your religion on somebody is the ultimate testament of your lack of faith." I like that quote. I'm not a religious person myself, but that statement resonates with me. I also really like the observation on Nergal's vocals. He's one of the growlers who can preserve actual... I don't know... musicality? in his voice. You can actually understand him fairly well, too, which isn't always the case with guttural vocals. Also, I'd say musically Behemoth nowadays is pretty much a Death Metal band. But in terms of imagery and atmosphere, they are very similar to what Black Metal tends to do. Hence the 'Blackened'. But ultimately, all this genre this-and-that tends to lose real meaning very fast anyways. Future recommendations: For more metal on the extreme end (albeit very symphonic): *Septic Flesh* - *Portrait of a Headless Man* For a different, more melodic approach: *Unleash the Archers* - *Awakening* (preferably the full band playthrough. That shows off the musicality of the band quite nicely :)) PS: "When Satan fell, he was still not pooping" will forever be tucked away in my almost endless library of VERY prescious quotes :D
I love what you guys are doing. I have no attachment to any religion, just love good music. This channel could go a long way to dispelling the stigma of the finger wagging, hypocritical Christian. Maynard’s “collective Judas”. For some of us, we hear Christian, we instinctively think good ol’ boys paying lip service in exchange for moral superiority. It’s cool to see the authentic, open minded side of things. Also, don’t take Type O Negative lyrics too seriously, they never did.
Mad respect for the both of you seriously! Seeing two Christians be able see past the lyrics and still appreciate the music and even headbang. And then you discuss the history of the lyrics and take into consideration the perspective of the artist. Very inspiring and gives me hope to one day have my family see and understand my love for metal. They’re seven day adventist and very close minded and it’s completely dived the adults from the young ones in the family and it sucks. The day everyone can acknowledge each other’s differences without judgement and persecution is the day we’ll have world peace. Love you guys, namaste!
Hey, Vin and Sori! It warms my heart so greatly to see open minded Christians having positive views and reactions to a lot of my favorite bands! I am studying about Buddhism after being an Agnostic Atheist. My mom is a fellow Christian as well and she does enjoy some of my metal music! Behemoth is technically considered Blackened Death Metal. There's a ton of detail as to why they are considered that specific genre, but the more you listen the more you learn! I've actually learned a lot about Christianity more than going to actual church, so I have so much respect for you two! Keep making videos guys because you got a new subscriber! 👍
Nergal, a name taken from the John Constantine: Hellblazer comic book. Nergal was the demon that took a little girl as payment from John Constantine when Constantine summoned Nergal. Read up it was pretty intense.
Lyrical content doesn't dictate a genre. A genre is the sound. You can write a black metal song about eating a cheese sandwich and it would still be black metal if it has the sound.
I have one for you both. Dissection - Night's Blood As for Ora Pro Nobis Lucifer, glad you guys checked it out! I think what grabs me about this song are the atmospheric elements.
I am a Behemoth fan from a non christian background, i really appreciate your work. You gotta do some more behemoth songs, maybe nergal would be interested in meeting you.
It's fascinating to watch the two of you, particularly Vin, clearly really enjoy this music so much, while simultaneously battling with the concepts. I'm truly impressed with your attitude approaching these songs (and you're very articulate and engaging to watch too).
Another metal band that deals with Satanism, but in a theological way (they actually are theistic Satanists) is the band Deathspell Omega. Their lyrics actually use a lot of bible quotes and they seem very very well read. Even if you don't react to their music, I think you would find it interesting to read their lyrics and listen to them.
The beginning of Paracletus album actually features a quote directly from Matt. 12:32 “...anyone who speaks against the Holy either in this age, or in the age to come”
As a Behemoth fan, I would absolutely love to see a discussion between you and Nergal. Nergal is indeed a great lyricist and he knows his bible, ancient religion and mythology background very well. That's why you are a perfect person to interview/debate him. You and him know your stuff equally well and you are both at the same level of intelligence. I appreciate your in depth analysis of all these Behemoth songs. Was very interesting and entertaining. - 23
When Nergal says "And whom god mourns" i believe that he says that god mourns for Lucifer and what happened to him and also mourns for the fall of the morning star :D
I love the "O Father, O Satan, O Sun" quietly playing in the background of this video without the vocals. Nice touch. If I remember correctly, Nergal explained how he ate a lot of chips during each recording session and drank a lot to get his throat to a certain point where he could do these vocals. His vocals have shifted throughout the time, if you listen to something from their first album/s (where they've actually been pure black metal) and then take something from around the Demigod or Apostasy era (hence I asked you to react to Inner Sanctum as well) you'll see it's very different both from the sound perspective as well as from a lyrical perspective. Almost as if you're listening to two entirely different bands. Fun fact, The Satanist album was recorded and released after Nergal won his fight against a rare form of leukemia that threatened to kill him. He said it was an experience that really enlightened him in a way and that gave him new inspiration and new goals.
It’s almost 3am in Brazil and I’m still here watching you guys. I would love to have this content as a podcast so I could listen to you on the run. Keep it up!
Part of what I think is being missed is the amount of symbolism within all the videos by Behemoth. Lyrically they are more than amazing, but visually they are just as stimulating. I wish you guys would react to songs/videos from their earlier albums, when they were just starting to make a name for themselves. Very powerful, strong, and aggressive.
We need this guy as world president, religion conflicts would be solved instantly. The best, honest and more logical point of view I have heard in my life, thumbs up!
You're critical thinking skills are just out of this world. When I first came to your channel (through the suggested videos) it was for the other BEHEMOTH video. I thought, "Hmm, a couple Christians about to listen to BEHEMOTH, this will be interesting. Probably very funny, but then again the video is pretty long, so maybe there's something more to it than some other channels I've seen." I was extremely impressed with what you had to say about it. You're quickly becoming one of my favorite channels simply because of your breakdown of the lyrics and what you think they might mean. Keep it up and I'm looking forward to more!
Love this reaction, great job guys. I want to comment on the "never pity thee, immaculate divine." line. I think Nergal is calling into question the entire Christian perspective on Jesus's crucifixion. The idea that we are supposed to feel sorry for and pity an immaculate God is disempowering to us as individuals and humans. He's saying, "You seriously want me to pity you? You're supposed to be the creator of all, the prime mover, master of the universe, all is as you will it, and you're demanding MY pity?" It seems very woe is me from Jesus to ask humans to feel sorry for him when he is immaculate divinity, and it doesn't seem worthy of an entity you are supposed to worship.
I have always hated how snakes get portrayed as evil in so many art forms to the point were they are now misunderstood and mistreated due to peoples misplaced fear for them. I have had one as a pet for nearly 3 years now and not once has it been aggressive towards anyone, yea its a royal python (ball python) one of the most docile species of snake, but still I wish more people could see them for how wonderful they are.
Last but not least: Vin is a good guy, he knows his shit. Not only his Religion, but is also well rounded in worldly manners (like music ;) ), some ancient and historic stuff (that obviously religion draws on or at least has something to do with). Well read and literate. Because as we all know: Knowledge is power. Books (also the bible) usually want to deliver some sort of information or knowledge, even if sometimes hidden in tales and allegories. "For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart." (Hebrews 4:12 )
Loving every single one of your reaction videos. You guys are exploring new ground in this field, adding extensive analysis and research and that team chemistry that captures us and keeps viewers wanting more. I'd like to recommend a black metal band who puts great effort and craft on its lyrics, telling gruesome but masterfully written stories: CARACH ANGREN. (I'd recommend "There is no place like home" off their album "This is no fairytale", but basically any song would be ok, since they are all awesomely written) I really hope to get support for this request, metal fans who know this band will know has got a lot m material for you to react to. Thank you for the amazing work you have been doing, you deserve the rapid growth your channel has been having, you have a prosperous future ahead of you.
When I saw this turn up on my feed, I'll admit, I rolled my eyes. But fair play to you, this and the other videos you guys have done that I've watched are very well done, and are a really interesting point of view in a sea of "X reacts to metal videos." It's good to see Christians with open enough minds to take on this content on in such an even handed way. Shout out from Cambodia!
I know it's an old video but I love this song. Saw Behemoth at Knotfest last year, and we sat in a section where there was a dude performing each song in sign language. It was really cool to see, and for some reason his performance of this one was the most entertaining lol. They're a really good live band, and I'm not even a huge Behemoth fan!
Watching you guys react to Behemoth is great ! Honestly I came for the cringe (sorry, lol), really didn't expect to have so many interesting comments and interpretations as open minded, honest and respectful in both of your videos with both of you being grounded in your own beliefs. Hope your channel grows even more and you 2 keep being awesome !
I love the insightful analysis the two of you provide on these types of videos. I don't know how, but it transcends my ADD, and I am somehow able to sit through your unusually long (by today's standards) "reaction" videos. Thank you for sharing your knowledge, and wisdom. God bless.
I love how you two are engaging with these lyrics on a level that 98% of metalheads are completely unwilling:D. Great job, love your channel! I was wondering: I noticed that the reaction from metal fans has been mostly very positive (correct if I´m mistaken); was this a surprise for you? Did you have have a more negative stereotype of the fanbase? Because for example I know a lot of people who, after going to their first metal concert, were surprised by how little aggression there was:).
I would honestly watch a 2 hour long discussion between you two and Nergal. I'd love to see how your viewpoints collide, and how they come together. Then also how you discuss the lyrics of their songs, their history, hidden meaning, biblical influences, and just general chat. You two are so grounded in your faith that opposing beliefs are welcome, and it's quite refreshing to see Christians who aren't actually terrified of anything that doesn't come from church. I'm glad that there are more Christians out there who can enjoy art and talent for what it is, even without necessarily agreeing with the message.
I have forsaken Weaboo nation for your reaction video's. Your way of breaking down the music, and summarizing the lyrics line for line is just addictive. And the humor adds a nice touch! 🤘
If you wish to analyse really deeply religious (of course in a twisted way) art, you should go for the French black metal band called Deathspell Omega. Fas- Ite, Maledicti in Ignem Aeternum album's any track would be fine to analyse both musically and lyrically. Give it a try. ;))
just stumbled across this reaction. i immediatly subscribed. i watched a couple of your vids since then but this one and your analysis got me hooked. greetings from germany. i´ve never met christians who are so openminded to other aspects of different religions and i love your choice of songs. thx for the great content
I'll explain what black metal ACTUALLY is. Black metal is usually based much more in atmosphere than sheer brutality. Darkthrone is a great example. Its supposed to have a dark, depressing atmosphere, rather than trying to be as heavy as possible. Death metal is about brutality. Blackened Death metal is a combination of both so you have heavy music that is also atmospherically heavy. Behemoth is blackened death metal. Like you guys said during O Father O Satan O Son, its atmospheric but is very heavy as well. Hope that made sense. Metal heads get very anal over sub-genres as you are probably finding out very quickly. It's very cool to see a christian perspective that is not immediately dismissive of this type of music. Much Love :)
Death Metal is also atmospheric in some cases like mid era Necrophagia or the classic Autopsy records and obviously the first full length by The Ravenous.
Thank you two for this video. I feel I appreciate the poetry in this song much more after hearing your analysis. Haha, funny that your critique of this song made me like it more than I did before! Subbed!
For me, Christianity has always been a source of great authoritarianism and totalitarianism. Iv'e always considered myself a "cultural pagan" (make fun of me if you will). While on some level, The Satanist (the album) resonates with me, Iv'e pushed the mythology back to its pagan roots. Most people tend to stop their spirituality at the christian mythos. However, upon looking into history, I find the same overarching themes reaching far beyond Christianity. That's not to say that I wish to tear down your beliefs, I don't but I do think you are right when you say to those who are not christian feel a sort of spiritual kinship to the themes of these songs. Not because they worship Satan but because, like me (and I can't speak for anyone else) there is a sense of reclaiming a sort of spiritual individuality that the abrahamic religions seem to strip away (no disrespect). I'm sorry if I'm coming off like an ass, that's not my intent. None the less, great video. Hope you get Nergal on the show, and while you and I may not see eye to eye on everything, you got yourself a sub.
*46 Great reaction, well-informed and very insightful. I have been listening to black metal for nearly 20 years, and here are my thoughts. I don't agree with aspects of the way you framed Behemoth's lyrics against what's commonly known as the "2nd wave black metal" scene out of Norway in the late 80s/early 90s. Mayhem, Burzum (Varg's one man band), and others were more influenced by teenage angst and a lashing out against an increasingly stagnant death metal scene, in my opinion, however some of what you said is definitely relevant. Varg embellishes quite a bit in the documentary you reference too. That being said, your breakdown of the lyrics was incredible and your Christian interpretation was quite educational, revealing some nuance I had not noticed in the lyrics upon first listen. I highly recommend checking out Deathspell Omega, a French theistic Satanic black metal band, if you enjoy breaking down these complex and well researched Satanic lyrics. They have an entire EP (Kénôse) which is a reinterpretation of the Kenosis that blew my mind. Musically they're a bit more aggressive and chaotic. Please check them out!
Dissection-Mahi khaki, seriously I've tried to get every review channel experiencing metal to listen to this, its truly the most amazing combination of melody and dark power, if you are the wave of reviewing 'satanic' metal etc. then this is seriously something you have to do and I would absolutely love+ love the way you guys really dissect (non intended pun) the music in depth, which makes your videos stand out and feel more authentic
I like the way you guys figure out different thibgs about Behemoth and Ghost songs. As their fan I really appreciate your effort even though our opinions are distinguished by a lot!
Fantastic video LOL at you guys ROCKING OUT to the blast beats. Dude, your woman is a true hottie. If yall actually score the interview with Adam(Nergal), cant wait to see the great conversation that happens. You 2 are gonna be metal philosophers by next year :) !
I am a member from a kind of "extreme" black metal band and I appreciate the way you do things with respect and consideration for the inner value of the music.
*46 Please do the entire album The Satanist. It's musically brilliant and lyrically very well done and poetic, despite the message being questionable at best. But as an atheist, I see them as part of the other side of the coin - one cannot exist without the other. I appreciate the band and the music on their own - to me it's like a performance. It doesn't matter if they believe it or now, they are like actors in a play and I enjoy their art as they present it. And I also appreciate your opinion and critique from a Christian point of view. It's obvious that you're well versed in the history of your religion and since the topics are intertwined, it's very interesting to hear your thoughts on the matter in such depth. Keep it up! Edit: I don't think that Jesus "falling" as a human being has ever been viewed as shameful. I might be wrong but didn't Jesus also came voluntarily, as much as that can be the case when an omniscient being is asking you to do something? Whereas Satan was cast out because of his "free will" as he used it to stand against God?
i was really not expecting for you to sit there, listen, and give the band a legitimate chance and even respecting the music that they make. It's really refreshing to see people like you, who can look at a certain song or topic and give it it's due. I myself am of an orthodox christian background (slavic), and my ancestors are pagans who were forceably converted to christianity. Some paganic hollidays yet remained, still, i think our culture and values were shaped positively by the influence of christianity and i think that my country (Serbia) was able to prosper in the middle ages because of it.
also near the end near 42:47, in philosophy things like black holes generally go under natural evil. in philosophy there are three types of primary evils explored. natural evil, metaphysical evil and moral evil.
One of two big trademark in terms of composition when it comes to Black Metal is the type of riffs and drum patterns. A thing that is extremely prominent in Black Metal is tremolo picking which means picking the same note multiple times in a quick succession. As for the drum, it would be a lot of blast beat. Those two things alongside the type of tuning and tone, is what overall defines black metal. There are other things that would make a band/album/song a Black metal one or one of it's sub genre, but primarily, It's the two things aforementioned.
You wanna know why it's working? You're an interracial christian couple that is open to hearing alternative views on religion and humanity. You appreciate the music no matter what the lyrical content or motive. My one piece of advice/recommendation... Vin, love your analysis and knowledge of music but I think a lot of people are here to also hear Sori's point of view (even though it's clear that she isn't as confident to review the music) push her to the front and don't "mansplain" the music. I am completely atheist and neutral but also appreciate honest views from any side of the fence. Keep it up!
I just wanted to say how much I appreciate the tolerance and perspective displayed in this commentary/reaction. I love how you guys gave the song a full listen, and then dove deep into the lyrics and did your best to interpret the meaning. I also especially appreciated the understanding of why someone might come to the perspective of the artist, even if you don't agree and in fact it is antithetical to your beliefs. You've earned a fan out of this salty agnostic. I'm sure many others have probably commented to the following, but just in case it escaped your notice somehow, Nergal actually went to college for biblical studies. He's very likely the most educated (on the topic) lyricist in black/blackened metal.
The story you mentioned about Adam and the Djinn is not originally from Islam. It was taken from the Book of Enoch in which Azazel questions God about the Grace he bestowed upon man. The Book of Enoch is over one thousand year older than Islam itself which was founded in the 7th century A.D. If I remember correctly, Azazel asks God, "Why should I worship that which thou has made from dust when thou hast made me from light and smokeless fire?" This led to the events in the Book of Enoch where a group of Fallen Angels take human wives and had children with them. This same story appears in Genesis 6:2-4 though Azazel isn't mentioned specifically. Azazel also appears in one of the Dead Sea Scrolls found in Qumran called "The Book of Giants". The Book of Giants (as well as the Book of Enoch) tells how Azazel corrupted Mankind before the Flood and was eventually subjugated by the Four Archangels. Taking human wives and the corruption of Mankind led to God destroying the World with the Great Flood.
I really enjoy your guyses videos. I really enjoy your appreciation of the music, but also am a huge fan of your knowledge of your religion. It's actually really refreshing that a Christian really knows their stuff, but is completely unjudgemental about others and just looks to understand without trying to force anything. I am by no means a Christian (raised catholic but fell out with the church), would probably class myself as a Luciferian, but i honestly think that if we were to go for a drink we'd get on famously. I hope you keep doing your videos and I hope whatever you believe keeps making you happy.
I highly recommend the first four tracks off of Gorgoroth's "Ad Majorem Sathanas Gloriam" album (Wound upon Wound, Carving a Giant, God Seed (Twilight of the Idols), Sign of an Open Eye). The live videos are where it's at, you need to see Ghaal's presence
They are amazing artist, they make very good videos, especially the official video o father osatan o sun, i suggest to watch it because it has rituals from African tribes, Prometeus and Odin. Also im very glad you as christians admitted the crimes of the Church, (i am from Europe and i'm an Atheist but i have respect for the pagans). When The Roman Empire adopted Christianity it was to stop the civil war, but not force anynone to cristianity, later when the western Empire fall the tribes (Franks, Vandals and many more) who now control western Europe forced the other population to submit to Christianity and then the genocides took place. Harald Bluetooth was a Pagan Danish King who accepted Christianity and later almost all of Scandinavia was Christian, but it was forced, killing their children, burning their temples and killing all who resist it. Also Latin its like a mother language of almost all languages in Europe so it's wrong to say its only from the Roman Catholic Church, Latin was used before Christians
In the middle of of a child custody battle and I have binge watched your Ghost and Behemoth reactions today. I love the live show story of behemoth. More Christians need to open their hearts as much.
"Forcing your religion on somebody is the ultimate testament to your lack of faith" - This line just earned you a subscription.
Legit!
agreed.
I subscribed immediately after they said that too
So much respect to Vin and Sori for being some of the most tolerant Christians that I have ever seen
Lay down your body for the God Emperor, HERETIC! Purge the unclean!
Well, the whole world was forced to accept Christianity, so this line doesn't earned anything. This line just unmasked a hypocrite.
As an atheist who loves tolerance and the sense of community in metal, it is really refreshing to see some open-minded reactions coming from Christians! Keep up the great work and keep the awesome videos coming! Cheers from Brazil :)
Cheers!
Ricardo Gadelha
They might be open minded by listening to it but they are not smart enough to decipher any of the lyrical meaning which is definitely a trademark of religion.
"Christians", don't see any person that claims Christian as a Christian, but simply see if their actions line up with it. Would Jesus react to a metal song singing about Lucifer? it's more than likely he wouldn't, therefore Christians should not.
you guys are brilliant.
How do you know what jesus would react to ?
I have pure respect for these 2. Understanding the history of the forced conversion of Europe is something Ive never heard Christians admit.
Yeah, as a Norwegian, who's ancestors were forced into the christian faith 1000 years ago, I can respect the views of these two. Like you, I'm pretty surprised.
"forced conversion" no mate, your kings adapted to it after certain raids on the british isles and france, your and my ancestors werent forced as such, the king decided and the populace followed. there was very little violence. Just one of those things that happened. Dont get me wrong, im not backing christianity im just say people really need to get their facts right
Can you lead me to anything more to research ?
Tore, like the Norse mythology and religion wasn't forced upon people when it came.
Yes, the kings "adapted". But what choice did the populace have at that point in time? It was pretty much "do what your king commands or face the consequenses". So yeah, I'm still gonna go with "forced". Do you honestly think that hundreds of thousands of people would just go "sure, we have this faith, but now we're gonna go with this other faith, no pressure, we're totally OK with this". That's not how the human mind works.
Dude, you understand Black Metal better than most of the people that listens to that genre.
demonizer123 So you must really know alot of people
Aye and they were shitting all over themselves at Mayhem. I think it was Freezing Moon or Carnage...either way....CHRISTIANS TO THE LIONS.
it's blackend death metal actually
Wolfie Redd yes, but especially talking about the church burnings and the points vin and sori bring up around them, they’re talking about the black metal culture
@@madisonhulton5813 I wouldn't really call church burnings apart of the culture
Man, as a die hard Behemoth fan, I gotta say I've loved these two videos. And I'm pretty sure Nergal would love to talk to you guys. He loves these types of discussions and is an all around cool dude.
Hopefully he responds!
That would be amazing!
How is he not awesome? He beat Leukemia by injecting chaos into his veins.
Comment of the freakin weak!
Thanks, also seriously look up Dimmu Borgir between the albums Stormblast and In Sorte Diabloi. Ignore their last two albums, not only does it get really get weak on the religious topics but their music just isn't as good on those albums and it's a long complex story why. But for all their stuff before 2010 was epic, dark, brutal and had very thoughtful exploration of religion. They've also satanic themed, and I would't call them as poetic and complex as Behemoth's lyrics but not as blunt and straightforward as say Vader or Slayer. In particular, look into Insight and the Catharsis, Kings of the Carnival Creation, Puritania, Progenies of the Great Apocalypse, Cataclsym Children, The Sacriligious Scorn, The Serpentine Offering and The Chosen Legacy. In other words, they have a lot to offer.
As an atheist, I really appreciate your thoughts and opinions on this style of music
You believe. Stop faking
@@jimmyrourksyoure human garbage
I'm atheist but you are Christians that have researched your topics, know your stuff and talk sense. Respect.
appreciate that my man
They've got more research to do
Show us the way
VinAnd Sori I like your gig. However, I hope you continue your research into the Catholic church. Dont think you're dodging satan's arrows by disassociating yourself from the Catholic church. All of true Black metal, theistic satanists crave destruction of the Blessed Sacrament. You dont understand Nergal because you are not Catholic. Splinter religions from the Word to Peter, "You are the rock. And upon you, I will build my church."
Splinter religions ignore the power of God that was handed to Peter at this utterance. This is the foundation of what you call Roman Catholicism today. But as a literalist, how can you deny this fact? Denials of such things are what satan desires.
While nergal isn't very fond of christianity lol I'm sure he would love hearing your guys' opinions and perspectives on his songs as he is a very philosophical and spiritual person himself. Being a behemoth fan for years it's amazing that the most philosophical and interesting discussions on this band have been from Christians! I'm very into your guy's channel and your discussions! *46
Thank you !
8:08 "I feel bad, but I wanna rock"
Got yourself a satanist subscriber. I don't normally sit through long videos but it being Behemoth hooked me and y'all's analysis kept me here. Keep up the good work
How’d you find us ?
VinAnd Sori I recently subscribed to a few channles that react to music they haven't heard before. The main channel of them that I watch is Lost in Vegas. They started out reacting to and reviewing rap/hip hop music but to reach a wider audience and open themselves up to new things they started reacting to and reviewing metal music and I'm sure that reason is why they initially popped up in my suggested list. They are also christian but they don't really ever get into the religious side of the music if it happens to be satanic but they do analyze the sound and their own interpretation of the lyrics. So all of a sudden I'm getting your videos in my suggested list and I just had to tap on your video when I saw the word "christians react to Behemoth" haha. Having your own black metal segment and the way you interpret and react to the lyrics from a christian view is definitely something that will keep me tuned in.
Same.
Make that at least 2 satanic subscribers
I'm an atheist but I love satanic imagery
Hail Lucifer 🤘
Black Metal usually has more a more shrieking style of vocals and the guitars tend to be messier with far less palm-muted chords. I'm sure that if you listened to some black metal and some death metal, you can see how Behemoth has been called "Blackened Death Metal." They take some elements of black metal for sure, especially the symphonic elements, but they lean more towards death metal.
I would check out something like Emperor - Ye Entrancemperium for a good example of black metal.
IXINineIXI Emperor is one of the OG black metalists for sure lol
"The Big Homie Nergal" lmfao. Hell yeah!
Nergal has cited Isaiah 14:12 as inspiration for this song and has said the song is about "Lack of inner drama, lack of inhibition against falling in love with the volatile which relieves me from consistency and allows an obliteration of established moral and social behavior patterns." It seems that this song is a manifesto of freedom to do what thou wilt. In any case, this song is incredibly written and my personal Behemoth favorite.
If you interview Nergal the internet will break. That would be amazing.
You seem to be confused in the difference between black metal and blackened (death or whatever) metal. Maybe it's becuase you missed some historical passage (probably even because black metal is not a big thing in the US and surely was not in early 90').
Black metal is for sure a way of life but it had a pretty clear style that distinguished it from other extreme kinds of metal when it emerged. If you look back at 1991-1996 era it should sound clear (my thought go to "de mysteriis dom sathanas" by mayhem, "in the nightside eclipse" by emperor. "frost" by enslaved, "the shadowthorne" by satyricon, just to name some). That defined the norwegian black metal musically.
When people refers to "true norwegian black metal", they refers to that sound/style (the "necro-sound" production was a key factor at the time, but tremolo picking, blast beats and high pitched haunting vocals were a must to be labeled "black metal").
In the 1997-2002 era black metal evolved in many directions and it became such an underground power that other styles of metal encapsulated some parts of it. While emperor drifted to a more death-metal like approach with IX Equilibrium, many death metal bands incorporated blastbeats and high screams instead of deep growls. That made the boundaries between the two genres not as easy to determine.
Cradle of Filth and Dimmu Borgir made the same path toward some extreme gothic attitude, all star black metal band like Arcturus set a bridge to progressive that is now a key part of Enslaved sound too, who previously were pioneers of black metal.
Black metal was (also) about breaking boundaries and going where noone else ever went. With that spirit in mind many former black metal mastermind moved to experimental metal later. It's hard to say that one of the very inventors of black metal as we know it is no more black metal, because he probably is and will ever be at heart, even if I now plays something completely different (I'm talking about Ihsahn. former leader of emperor together with Samoth and that you probably know for his last 15 years of solo albums).
All the devil/pagan/norsemen related lyrics that early black metal was all about became common topics for many extreme bands (and many extreme wannabe, but that's another part of the story). That's because a lot of people tried to jump on the bandwagon, but also because the old blackmetal creators them self changed their music style, but not always the themes they used to sing about.
If you look at it now, the boundaries are confused, but if you go back to the classics and then come back to nowadays releases, all sounds (the right word in the right place) pretty clear.
Behemoth are (today) a death metal (style) band with some balck metal elements (some tremolo picking, some blast beats) with satanic related lyrics. Vocals and riffs are definitely more death than black metal. Please consider that behemoth started as a black metal band with a death metal attitude and shifted their music till the opposite (the album of the definitive "inversion" was probably Satanica back in 1999) and this is the reason why some listeners still label them as blackmetal.
Some bands are on the edge and are impossible to tag correctly, but, afterall, tags are for reviews and catalogues, not for the artists who should be free to mix up whatever they want.
Being metal and singing about the devil is not enough to be black metal. AC/DC are not black metal and neither Iron Maiden.
If you want to make a jump in the helnorsk svartmetall (true norvegian black metal), you should probably listen to some of this songs:
mayhem: freezing moon, funeral fog, de misteriis dom sathanas
emperor: I am the black wizards, into the infinity of thoughts, ye entrancemperium, with strength I burn (you already listed this one, right?)
satyricon: the mist by the hill, dawn of a new age, immortality passion
taake (norwegian lyrics): nattestid part I
ulver: hymne I (dansk lyrics, probably the best track to understand the statement about production at that time)
Im saving this comment because fuck yea
Nailed it! 🤙🏼
woah.. thank you for the learning. seriously, not sarcasm.
Good, but don't forget to mention "SARCÓFAGO" from Brazil. Darkthrone's singer spoke about...
Saw this in my suggestions and honestly, I thought I was in for a laugh but you guys surprised me. From the depth, you went into the lyrics and what they mean including the history behind it. The respect that you showed to them since they do believe in something different. It is something I don't see often from people of varying beliefs. This whole video is awesome 10/10 would watch again.
Got yourself a Luciferian Subscriber here. The amount of intense analysis and thoughtful exploration of the themes presented in both songs is just fucking great man. It's kind of really amazing to me how intelligent you guys are in your musings about the lyrics. If I may make a request for a song? Cthonic - Defenders of Bu-Tik Palace. There are two versions of the song, one metal and one acoustic, which are extremely opposite ends of the spectrum musically I would love to hear your thoughts about that song in both of it's forms.
Listed! Good idea!
These videos are actually my favourite thing on RUclips now. I'm not religious and I am a huge Behemoth and black metal fan and I love the intelligence of your break downs. Also some of the references you guys pick up that I would not know unless I purposely look them up is really educational for me since religion was never a forefront of my life. I would love for you to keep going through Behemoth's catalogue or maybe even going through the whole "Satanist" album. Belphegor is another band you should check into! I also love the fact you guys still jam out and respect how good these songs are even with your beliefs and the lyrical content. No matter what, good music can't be denied. Keep doing the good work with these videos! \m/
Blow your trumpets grabriel video reaction!
Breasts..
LOL
ayyy its the jk guy
Oh really now?
O Father, O Satan, O Sun is a really good video! ruclips.net/video/UA_j_72psoo/видео.html
What Vin said on 25:50 about the lines "I'll smite heavens golden pride" is so danm deep, I love the song but I've never seen those lyrics in that way until Vin said it, great video, I consider myself an atheist and I really enjoy the religious opinions of this particular song but this time I loved the video and I learned a lot, so thank you so much and keep up with this kind of discussions!
On it my man!!
VinAnd Sori you should react to Blow your trumpets Gabriel or Chant for Eschaton 2000 (specially this last one I would like to know both opinions cause I've tried to get information about the meaning but found myself unlucky, maybe with your external opinion I can get a very truthfull explanation)
I don't usually watch videos this long, but as a metalhead, your insight and analysis in these videos are very interesting! Keep doing these reactions/reviews.
On it!
Dan same here man I love this video man keep it up I can see you getting really big
Bel'akor! I love your pfp.
The fun thing about Behemoth is the usage of biblicisms, Greek and Latin, something the clergy uses and used and then inversing it. They do this very intelligently and don't use gimmicks. Behemoth are Blackened Death Metal and considering Metal has around 100ish subgenres this is nothing. I am an agnostic and not a big fan of Christianity as most of my country (Croatia) shared the same fate as most European countries, the transition to Christianity wasn't as brutal as in Norway but it still happened. And the fact that our church is extreme, even by European standards. I have no issues with religion just don't force it upon me, unfortunately in my country this happens often. In any case, this was very cool to see, respect! Oh and yeah, don't think all of metal is Satanic, most of it actually isn't. I dislike Satanism because it's rooted in Christianity and most of the satanists are edgy 17 year olds that hang about Tumblr haha. My fav black metal bands tend to be the ones that don't use the Satanic gimmick. Saor, Panopticon, bands like them which are nature, heritage and history related. Metal is a huge and complex thing and I am glad you are exploring it. Have a nice day you two!
Thanks your thoughts are welcome !!
Your post sums up my feelings on religion AND Behemoth perfectly. I love how Nergal tells his stories, but as a non-believer I also dont have much invested in the Satanic angle.
"Saor" good taste
Noone Yaknow thanks dude!
"Forcing your religion on somebody is the ultimate testament of your lack of faith." I like that quote. I'm not a religious person myself, but that statement resonates with me.
I also really like the observation on Nergal's vocals. He's one of the growlers who can preserve actual... I don't know... musicality? in his voice. You can actually understand him fairly well, too, which isn't always the case with guttural vocals.
Also, I'd say musically Behemoth nowadays is pretty much a Death Metal band. But in terms of imagery and atmosphere, they are very similar to what Black Metal tends to do. Hence the 'Blackened'. But ultimately, all this genre this-and-that tends to lose real meaning very fast anyways.
Future recommendations:
For more metal on the extreme end (albeit very symphonic): *Septic Flesh* - *Portrait of a Headless Man*
For a different, more melodic approach: *Unleash the Archers* - *Awakening* (preferably the full band playthrough. That shows off the musicality of the band quite nicely :))
PS: "When Satan fell, he was still not pooping" will forever be tucked away in my almost endless library of VERY prescious quotes :D
Lol!!! Tru story !
GeeKAdemics I ABSOLUTELY second your request for Septic Flesh: Portrait of a Headless Man.
Ooooh.....Portrait of a Headless Man!! Nice choice!
I love what you guys are doing. I have no attachment to any religion, just love good music. This channel could go a long way to dispelling the stigma of the finger wagging, hypocritical Christian. Maynard’s “collective Judas”. For some of us, we hear Christian, we instinctively think good ol’ boys paying lip service in exchange for moral superiority. It’s cool to see the authentic, open minded side of things.
Also, don’t take Type O Negative lyrics too seriously, they never did.
Blow your trumpets Gabriel by Behemoth is an absolute must.
Ov Fire and the Void by Behemoth much better i think.
the drums on Ov Fire and the Void are sexy!
They should just do the entire The Satanist, loving this deep analysis from a christian perspective
Ricardo Alcantara true. The Satanist is an absolute work of art.
Edgar Flores or go back all the way to the satanist. LAM!
Mad respect for the both of you seriously! Seeing two Christians be able see past the lyrics and still appreciate the music and even headbang. And then you discuss the history of the lyrics and take into consideration the perspective of the artist. Very inspiring and gives me hope to one day have my family see and understand my love for metal. They’re seven day adventist and very close minded and it’s completely dived the adults from the young ones in the family and it sucks. The day everyone can acknowledge each other’s differences without judgement and persecution is the day we’ll have world peace. Love you guys, namaste!
Namaste!
Hey, Vin and Sori! It warms my heart so greatly to see open minded Christians having positive views and reactions to a lot of my favorite bands! I am studying about Buddhism after being an Agnostic Atheist. My mom is a fellow Christian as well and she does enjoy some of my metal music!
Behemoth is technically considered Blackened Death Metal. There's a ton of detail as to why they are considered that specific genre, but the more you listen the more you learn! I've actually learned a lot about Christianity more than going to actual church, so I have so much respect for you two! Keep making videos guys because you got a new subscriber! 👍
Whoa!! Thank you !
Nergal, a name taken from the John Constantine: Hellblazer comic book. Nergal was the demon that took a little girl as payment from John Constantine when Constantine summoned Nergal. Read up it was pretty intense.
Behemoth - Blow Your Trumpets Gabriel. You totally gotta react to that one! Btw, you're awesome!
Gabriel Bykhovsky Absolutely. Even I would recommend to react to the video which I find mind-blowing!
YES! This is my favorite. Please please please.
Lyrical content doesn't dictate a genre. A genre is the sound. You can write a black metal song about eating a cheese sandwich and it would still be black metal if it has the sound.
Only if it's goat cheese man. 🤣
I have one for you both. Dissection - Night's Blood
As for Ora Pro Nobis Lucifer, glad you guys checked it out! I think what grabs me about this song are the atmospheric elements.
Definitely Dissection. I like Thorns of Crimson Death
Also a great one! Maybe my favorite song from Dissection.
HOLY FUCK YES, dissection please, please just do this, this band is the real fucking deal
Wes Mantooth Dissection - Where dead angels lie!
Mine too! It is one of my all-time favourite songs.
I am a Behemoth fan from a non christian background, i really appreciate your work. You gotta do some more behemoth songs, maybe nergal would be interested in meeting you.
Hope so !
Gorgoroth is awesome too. The song sign of an open eye is amazing
There is a God in man;
and in Nature;
He who sits in the dark;
The bringer of Light.
Highly influenced by Nikos Kazantzakis' Salvatores Dei
That song is badass. Perfect for running.
Great song. Funeral procession as well
Also Prayer
And devil is calling
It's fascinating to watch the two of you, particularly Vin, clearly really enjoy this music so much, while simultaneously battling with the concepts. I'm truly impressed with your attitude approaching these songs (and you're very articulate and engaging to watch too).
Thank you !
Another metal band that deals with Satanism, but in a theological way (they actually are theistic Satanists) is the band Deathspell Omega. Their lyrics actually use a lot of bible quotes and they seem very very well read. Even if you don't react to their music, I think you would find it interesting to read their lyrics and listen to them.
GyroLamb yes, yes, yes. Carnal Malefacter or Abcission 😁
The beginning of Paracletus album actually features a quote directly from Matt. 12:32
“...anyone who
speaks against the Holy
either in this age, or in
the age to come”
adore them! Chaos incarnate.
Yes! Please listen to "Si Monumentum Requires, Circumspice".
GyroLamb I was actually thinking about recommending it to these guys because of the very same reason.
Huge respect for actually researching what black metal is about here in Europe. Greetings from Finland
*46*
Behemoth - Blow your trumpets gabriel
Behemoth - At the left hand ov god
Behemoth - Ceremony of shiva
Don't forget In the absence ov light!
Matt Hell Inner Sanctum lml
At the left hand ov god would be amazing
Matt Hell Amen. Daimonos, Demigod, Slaves Shall serve, Shemaforash, Alas the Lord is Upon Me, also Fleshgod Apocalypse is a great band.
Decade of therion
As a Behemoth fan, I would absolutely love to see a discussion between you and Nergal. Nergal is indeed a great lyricist and he knows his bible, ancient religion and mythology background very well. That's why you are a perfect person to interview/debate him. You and him know your stuff equally well and you are both at the same level of intelligence. I appreciate your in depth analysis of all these Behemoth songs. Was very interesting and entertaining. - 23
Why people forgot about awesome song and official video for "Ov Fire and the Void " Behemoth song? Check it!
Анатолий Петренко I agree I also suggested this song earlier
When Nergal says "And whom god mourns" i believe that he says that god mourns for Lucifer and what happened to him and also mourns for the fall of the morning star :D
I love the "O Father, O Satan, O Sun" quietly playing in the background of this video without the vocals. Nice touch. If I remember correctly, Nergal explained how he ate a lot of chips during each recording session and drank a lot to get his throat to a certain point where he could do these vocals. His vocals have shifted throughout the time, if you listen to something from their first album/s (where they've actually been pure black metal) and then take something from around the Demigod or Apostasy era (hence I asked you to react to Inner Sanctum as well) you'll see it's very different both from the sound perspective as well as from a lyrical perspective. Almost as if you're listening to two entirely different bands.
Fun fact, The Satanist album was recorded and released after Nergal won his fight against a rare form of leukemia that threatened to kill him. He said it was an experience that really enlightened him in a way and that gave him new inspiration and new goals.
ya he's a very fascinating individual. I hope to talk to him soon!
It’s almost 3am in Brazil and I’m still here watching you guys. I would love to have this content as a podcast so I could listen to you on the run. Keep it up!
Thank you !!
We’re working on it soon!
Part of what I think is being missed is the amount of symbolism within all the videos by Behemoth. Lyrically they are more than amazing, but visually they are just as stimulating. I wish you guys would react to songs/videos from their earlier albums, when they were just starting to make a name for themselves. Very powerful, strong, and aggressive.
Just did a reaction to blow your trumpets
We need this guy as world president, religion conflicts would be solved instantly. The best, honest and more logical point of view I have heard in my life, thumbs up!
You're critical thinking skills are just out of this world. When I first came to your channel (through the suggested videos) it was for the other BEHEMOTH video. I thought, "Hmm, a couple Christians about to listen to BEHEMOTH, this will be interesting. Probably very funny, but then again the video is pretty long, so maybe there's something more to it than some other channels I've seen." I was extremely impressed with what you had to say about it. You're quickly becoming one of my favorite channels simply because of your breakdown of the lyrics and what you think they might mean. Keep it up and I'm looking forward to more!
Thank you !
It's so cool hearing all you have to say about these lyrics from christian point of view. Great video!
I am an atheist and I love and respect your videos. I love how open minded you guys are keep up the good work.
Ps do Blow Your Horn Gabriel
You guys are changing the reaction game by delving into this and actually analyzing it. Complete respect.
8:00 it’s the power of music, no matter what the genre or context. It legit gets your blood flowing. That’s what Behemoth is good for.
Love this reaction, great job guys. I want to comment on the "never pity thee, immaculate divine." line. I think Nergal is calling into question the entire Christian perspective on Jesus's crucifixion. The idea that we are supposed to feel sorry for and pity an immaculate God is disempowering to us as individuals and humans. He's saying, "You seriously want me to pity you? You're supposed to be the creator of all, the prime mover, master of the universe, all is as you will it, and you're demanding MY pity?" It seems very woe is me from Jesus to ask humans to feel sorry for him when he is immaculate divinity, and it doesn't seem worthy of an entity you are supposed to worship.
I have always hated how snakes get portrayed as evil in so many art forms to the point were they are now misunderstood and mistreated due to peoples misplaced fear for them. I have had one as a pet for nearly 3 years now and not once has it been aggressive towards anyone, yea its a royal python (ball python) one of the most docile species of snake, but still I wish more people could see them for how wonderful they are.
Same here. Trying to convince my parents let me get a snake 😆
I love the open mindedness. Started watching last week and have been binging all the black metal reactions!
Last but not least: Vin is a good guy, he knows his shit. Not only his Religion, but is also well rounded in worldly manners (like music ;) ), some ancient and historic stuff (that obviously religion draws on or at least has something to do with). Well read and literate. Because as we all know: Knowledge is power. Books (also the bible) usually want to deliver some sort of information or knowledge, even if sometimes hidden in tales and allegories. "For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart." (Hebrews 4:12 )
Awesome video! I love hearing you guys break down behemoth lyrics from your point of view.
Loving every single one of your reaction videos. You guys are exploring new ground in this field, adding extensive analysis and research and that team chemistry that captures us and keeps viewers wanting more.
I'd like to recommend a black metal band who puts great effort and craft on its lyrics, telling gruesome but masterfully written stories: CARACH ANGREN. (I'd recommend "There is no place like home" off their album "This is no fairytale", but basically any song would be ok, since they are all awesomely written)
I really hope to get support for this request, metal fans who know this band will know has got a lot m material for you to react to.
Thank you for the amazing work you have been doing, you deserve the rapid growth your channel has been having, you have a prosperous future ahead of you.
When I saw this turn up on my feed, I'll admit, I rolled my eyes. But fair play to you, this and the other videos you guys have done that I've watched are very well done, and are a really interesting point of view in a sea of "X reacts to metal videos." It's good to see Christians with open enough minds to take on this content on in such an even handed way.
Shout out from Cambodia!
Thanks for giving us a chance !
I've learned alot I didn't know from you two I really enjoy watching things that are entertaining and highly informative
Thanks !
I know it's an old video but I love this song.
Saw Behemoth at Knotfest last year, and we sat in a section where there was a dude performing each song in sign language. It was really cool to see, and for some reason his performance of this one was the most entertaining lol. They're a really good live band, and I'm not even a huge Behemoth fan!
Watching you guys react to Behemoth is great ! Honestly I came for the cringe (sorry, lol), really didn't expect to have so many interesting comments and interpretations as open minded, honest and respectful in both of your videos with both of you being grounded in your own beliefs. Hope your channel grows even more and you 2 keep being awesome !
Thanks Jeff
I don't normally watch videos like this that are this long the whole way through, but this was really interesting. Subscribed
Thank you !
Do "Where dragons dwell" live at Hellfest 2013 by Gojira. It will blow you away.
Listed!
I love the insightful analysis the two of you provide on these types of videos. I don't know how, but it transcends my ADD, and I am somehow able to sit through your unusually long (by today's standards) "reaction" videos. Thank you for sharing your knowledge, and wisdom. God bless.
I love how you two are engaging with these lyrics on a level that 98% of metalheads are completely unwilling:D. Great job, love your channel!
I was wondering: I noticed that the reaction from metal fans has been mostly very positive (correct if I´m mistaken); was this a surprise for you? Did you have have a more negative stereotype of the fanbase?
Because for example I know a lot of people who, after going to their first metal concert, were surprised by how little aggression there was:).
I would honestly watch a 2 hour long discussion between you two and Nergal. I'd love to see how your viewpoints collide, and how they come together. Then also how you discuss the lyrics of their songs, their history, hidden meaning, biblical influences, and just general chat. You two are so grounded in your faith that opposing beliefs are welcome, and it's quite refreshing to see Christians who aren't actually terrified of anything that doesn't come from church. I'm glad that there are more Christians out there who can enjoy art and talent for what it is, even without necessarily agreeing with the message.
"Like feminists who wear pant suits." The look Vin got! Lol... oh and Sori... nice earrings.
Hahahaha I ran !
I have forsaken Weaboo nation for your reaction video's. Your way of breaking down the music, and summarizing the lyrics line for line is just addictive. And the humor adds a nice touch! 🤘
Wow !
React to Batushka - Yektenia 1!
Behemoth beatiful song!
Yessssss Batushka are fantastic. The whole album is great
Going to see them live tonight with Mortuus (sweden) in Copenhagen...
They added some pyrotechnics now, so have fun :) .
Good call. Batushka kills
I just love how you like the music and let your body follow it's rhythm,but when the lyrics start you are stunned and so serious.
If you wish to analyse really deeply religious (of course in a twisted way) art, you should go for the French black metal band called Deathspell Omega. Fas- Ite, Maledicti in Ignem Aeternum album's any track would be fine to analyse both musically and lyrically. Give it a try. ;))
Norbert Széll And the album Paracletus too.
just stumbled across this reaction. i immediatly subscribed. i watched a couple of your vids since then but this one and your analysis got me hooked. greetings from germany. i´ve never met christians who are so openminded to other aspects of different religions and i love your choice of songs. thx for the great content
I'll explain what black metal ACTUALLY is. Black metal is usually based much more in atmosphere than sheer brutality. Darkthrone is a great example. Its supposed to have a dark, depressing atmosphere, rather than trying to be as heavy as possible. Death metal is about brutality. Blackened Death metal is a combination of both so you have heavy music that is also atmospherically heavy. Behemoth is blackened death metal. Like you guys said during O Father O Satan O Son, its atmospheric but is very heavy as well. Hope that made sense. Metal heads get very anal over sub-genres as you are probably finding out very quickly. It's very cool to see a christian perspective that is not immediately dismissive of this type of music. Much Love :)
Andrew Dow This is a quality comment. Black metal isn't about lyrical content AT ALL to be honest.
Death Metal is also atmospheric in some cases like mid era Necrophagia or the classic Autopsy records and obviously the first full length by The Ravenous.
Thank you two for this video. I feel I appreciate the poetry in this song much more after hearing your analysis. Haha, funny that your critique of this song made me like it more than I did before! Subbed!
Thank you !
For me, Christianity has always been a source of great authoritarianism and totalitarianism. Iv'e always considered myself a "cultural pagan" (make fun of me if you will). While on some level, The Satanist (the album) resonates with me, Iv'e pushed the mythology back to its pagan roots. Most people tend to stop their spirituality at the christian mythos. However, upon looking into history, I find the same overarching themes reaching far beyond Christianity. That's not to say that I wish to tear down your beliefs, I don't but I do think you are right when you say to those who are not christian feel a sort of spiritual kinship to the themes of these songs. Not because they worship Satan but because, like me (and I can't speak for anyone else) there is a sense of reclaiming a sort of spiritual individuality that the abrahamic religions seem to strip away (no disrespect). I'm sorry if I'm coming off like an ass, that's not my intent. None the less, great video. Hope you get Nergal on the show, and while you and I may not see eye to eye on everything, you got yourself a sub.
appreciate your honesty my man
I love you guys and your discussions, especially when you compare faith to messages within songs. Brilliant concept.
*46
Great reaction, well-informed and very insightful. I have been listening to black metal for nearly 20 years, and here are my thoughts.
I don't agree with aspects of the way you framed Behemoth's lyrics against what's commonly known as the "2nd wave black metal" scene out of Norway in the late 80s/early 90s. Mayhem, Burzum (Varg's one man band), and others were more influenced by teenage angst and a lashing out against an increasingly stagnant death metal scene, in my opinion, however some of what you said is definitely relevant. Varg embellishes quite a bit in the documentary you reference too. That being said, your breakdown of the lyrics was incredible and your Christian interpretation was quite educational, revealing some nuance I had not noticed in the lyrics upon first listen. I highly recommend checking out Deathspell Omega, a French theistic Satanic black metal band, if you enjoy breaking down these complex and well researched Satanic lyrics. They have an entire EP (Kénôse) which is a reinterpretation of the Kenosis that blew my mind. Musically they're a bit more aggressive and chaotic. Please check them out!
Dissection-Mahi khaki, seriously I've tried to get every review channel experiencing metal to listen to this, its truly the most amazing combination of melody and dark power, if you are the wave of reviewing 'satanic' metal etc. then this is seriously something you have to do and I would absolutely love+ love the way you guys really dissect (non intended pun) the music in depth, which makes your videos stand out and feel more authentic
BEHEMOTH,
Album: The Satanist,
Song, "Ben Sahar" is a direct challenge....
***46
I like the way you guys figure out different thibgs about Behemoth and Ghost songs. As their fan I really appreciate your effort even though our opinions are distinguished by a lot!
Fantastic video LOL at you guys ROCKING OUT to the blast beats. Dude, your woman is a true hottie. If yall actually score the interview with Adam(Nergal), cant wait to see the great conversation that happens. You 2 are gonna be metal philosophers by next year :) !
So legit! Metal philosophers!
I am a member from a kind of "extreme" black metal band and I appreciate the way you do things with respect and consideration for the inner value of the music.
Check out "Septicflesh - The Vampire from Nazareth"
You both are terrific at having such an open mind and willingness to communicate.
*46
Please do the entire album The Satanist. It's musically brilliant and lyrically very well done and poetic, despite the message being questionable at best. But as an atheist, I see them as part of the other side of the coin - one cannot exist without the other. I appreciate the band and the music on their own - to me it's like a performance. It doesn't matter if they believe it or now, they are like actors in a play and I enjoy their art as they present it.
And I also appreciate your opinion and critique from a Christian point of view. It's obvious that you're well versed in the history of your religion and since the topics are intertwined, it's very interesting to hear your thoughts on the matter in such depth. Keep it up!
Edit: I don't think that Jesus "falling" as a human being has ever been viewed as shameful. I might be wrong but didn't Jesus also came voluntarily, as much as that can be the case when an omniscient being is asking you to do something? Whereas Satan was cast out because of his "free will" as he used it to stand against God?
i was really not expecting for you to sit there, listen, and give the band a legitimate chance and even respecting the music that they make. It's really refreshing to see people like you, who can look at a certain song or topic and give it it's due.
I myself am of an orthodox christian background (slavic), and my ancestors are pagans who were forceably converted to christianity. Some paganic hollidays yet remained, still, i think our culture and values were shaped positively by the influence of christianity and i think that my country (Serbia) was able to prosper in the middle ages because of it.
Cool! What made u stop to listen to us? -Sori🤟🏻
Do behemoths messe noir !!!!
Hector Garcia YES!
how you handled this single handedly earned you my sub. good show.
Sweet! Welcome! -Sori
also near the end near 42:47, in philosophy things like black holes generally go under natural evil. in philosophy there are three types of primary evils explored. natural evil, metaphysical evil and moral evil.
Slayer disciple great song would make great reaction and discussion please
Disciple! yes!
Jesus saves would be good too
One of two big trademark in terms of composition when it comes to Black Metal is the type of riffs and drum patterns. A thing that is extremely prominent in Black Metal is tremolo picking which means picking the same note multiple times in a quick succession. As for the drum, it would be a lot of blast beat. Those two things alongside the type of tuning and tone, is what overall defines black metal. There are other things that would make a band/album/song a Black metal one or one of it's sub genre, but primarily, It's the two things aforementioned.
You wanna know why it's working? You're an interracial christian couple that is open to hearing alternative views on religion and humanity. You appreciate the music no matter what the lyrical content or motive. My one piece of advice/recommendation... Vin, love your analysis and knowledge of music but I think a lot of people are here to also hear Sori's point of view (even though it's clear that she isn't as confident to review the music) push her to the front and don't "mansplain" the music. I am completely atheist and neutral but also appreciate honest views from any side of the fence. Keep it up!
I think you’re TOTALLY RIGHT !!! thank you for that!!!
I just wanted to say how much I appreciate the tolerance and perspective displayed in this commentary/reaction. I love how you guys gave the song a full listen, and then dove deep into the lyrics and did your best to interpret the meaning. I also especially appreciated the understanding of why someone might come to the perspective of the artist, even if you don't agree and in fact it is antithetical to your beliefs. You've earned a fan out of this salty agnostic.
I'm sure many others have probably commented to the following, but just in case it escaped your notice somehow, Nergal actually went to college for biblical studies. He's very likely the most educated (on the topic) lyricist in black/blackened metal.
Behemoth - Messe noire
Respect to put so much effort checking and understanding the lyrics...
The story you mentioned about Adam and the Djinn is not originally from Islam. It was taken from the Book of Enoch in which Azazel questions God about the Grace he bestowed upon man. The Book of Enoch is over one thousand year older than Islam itself which was founded in the 7th century A.D. If I remember correctly, Azazel asks God, "Why should I worship that which thou has made from dust when thou hast made me from light and smokeless fire?" This led to the events in the Book of Enoch where a group of Fallen Angels take human wives and had children with them. This same story appears in Genesis 6:2-4 though Azazel isn't mentioned specifically. Azazel also appears in one of the Dead Sea Scrolls found in Qumran called "The Book of Giants". The Book of Giants (as well as the Book of Enoch) tells how Azazel corrupted Mankind before the Flood and was eventually subjugated by the Four Archangels. Taking human wives and the corruption of Mankind led to God destroying the World with the Great Flood.
DestructZero Yep silly Muslims dont realise Azazel is a fallen angel and Djinn are Seraphim angels.
I really enjoy your guyses videos. I really enjoy your appreciation of the music, but also am a huge fan of your knowledge of your religion. It's actually really refreshing that a Christian really knows their stuff, but is completely unjudgemental about others and just looks to understand without trying to force anything. I am by no means a Christian (raised catholic but fell out with the church), would probably class myself as a Luciferian, but i honestly think that if we were to go for a drink we'd get on famously. I hope you keep doing your videos and I hope whatever you believe keeps making you happy.
Should do a react video to Mine Church is Black by Me and That Man which is Nergal's Bluegrass band.
scott smith definitely! It's interesting seeing him switch from Behemoth to a Bluegrass band!
Cliff Reintzel looks up the video on RUclips "What's in mine bag"Nergal, his musical taste is very unexpected.
I highly recommend the first four tracks off of Gorgoroth's "Ad Majorem Sathanas Gloriam" album (Wound upon Wound, Carving a Giant, God Seed (Twilight of the Idols), Sign of an Open Eye). The live videos are where it's at, you need to see Ghaal's presence
They are amazing artist, they make very good videos, especially the official video o father osatan o sun, i suggest to watch it because it has rituals from African tribes, Prometeus and Odin. Also im very glad you as christians admitted the crimes of the Church, (i am from Europe and i'm an Atheist but i have respect for the pagans). When The Roman Empire adopted Christianity it was to stop the civil war, but not force anynone to cristianity, later when the western Empire fall the tribes (Franks, Vandals and many more) who now control western Europe forced the other population to submit to Christianity and then the genocides took place. Harald Bluetooth was a Pagan Danish King who accepted Christianity and later almost all of Scandinavia was Christian, but it was forced, killing their children, burning their temples and killing all who resist it. Also Latin its like a mother language of almost all languages in Europe so it's wrong to say its only from the Roman Catholic Church, Latin was used before Christians
In the middle of of a child custody battle and I have binge watched your Ghost and Behemoth reactions today. I love the live show story of behemoth. More Christians need to open their hearts as much.
Carnal Malefactor by Deathspell Omega reaction.
The repellent scars of abandon and election would be much better both musically and lyrically.
You guys did a freakin excellent job doing an analysis for this song. Total respect.