Date of Graduation

Fall 12-20-2024

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts in International Studies (MAIS)

College/School

College of Arts and Sciences

Department/Program

International Studies

First Advisor

Dorothy Kidd

Second Advisor

Genevieve Negrón-Gonzales

Abstract

Metal music’s latest frontier is Indigenous metal, combining explorations of Indigenous identity with the heavy and aggressive stylings of the music genre. To explore this new subgenre, this study asks to what extent can metal music be used as a political tool and what are some of the broader effects of metal bands working to better their communities. This thesis utilizes case studies of two notable Indigenous metal scenes, the Rez metal scene in the Navajo Nation and the Māori metal scene in Aotearoa. By collecting data from these scenes, including lyrics, videos, interviews, and audience interactions, this thesis thoroughly explores how four bands, two from each locale, can explore their Indigenous identities through this musical medium, are able to speak directly about the lives of their communities in a way that resonates locally and globally, and are revolutionizing the modern metal genre. Employing textual, media, and comparative analysis, this study concludes the ways in which these scenes make the impact that they do as well as gaining a deeper understanding of the Indigenous metal genre by exploring how different scenes engage in their own unique ways. This is essential work to better understand the impacts Indigenous metal has for local communities, for decolonial and pro- Indigenous efforts, and to note how music is a landscape for significant political action, especially when considering the broader implications of how audiences interact with their favorite music.

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