Lights illuminate the ebullient crowd as the heavy metal concert rumbles with layers of music and noise. Everybody is letting go of all of the things they have been clinging onto and nobody gives a care in the world. They all come together to the same place for the same reason: to feel free.
High school senior Kaia Zaitz is not only passionate about heavy metal music, but she is also an expert on the culture. Some people may believe that metal music is protest music, but they never truly take the time to listen past the classic lion-like growl and hear the emotion abundant lyrics.
“Metal music has a very large umbrella of opinions…but it’s more an expression of feelings than views,” Kaia says as she continues to uncover the true meaning of heavy metal music.
Another thing that is important to note is that “metalheads” are not who most people believe them to be. Leaning over the table, Kaia pauses to note an important detail that most people would not know about heavy metal culture.
“Even though the culture seems pretty violent, every metalhead has a very strong family tie to each other,” Kaia explains. This sense of community is not only a crucial factor of Kaia’s life, but also an incredible platform for her to release all of the emotions she has been holding in.
Heavy Metal music has numerous layers of sound, that anyone who understands it can release any emotion that has been lingering like the tight knit fog on a gloomy day. Heavy metal music and it’s sense of family has guided Kaia through some of the most unimaginable obstacles, including the loss of one of her best friends.
“Being in the metal community has really helped just let it all out,” says Kaia. The strong empathy that metalheads show towards one another truly supports each member of the community as individuals, and as a whole.
The ability to experience a heavy metal concert is unlike any other. The stage hums with the lingering explosion of music as the crowd anticipates the next song. A rush of noise is reunited with its audience which is enveloped in movement and buzzing sensation of energy. All of the people there are letting go of their burdens, while still clinging to the incredible community of their family.
Mayzie Smith-Mooers