The original rock and roll music that originated in the early 50’s and that carries many different musical influences is very popular form of music. However, with the passage of time, rock music has evolved into many subgenres and it has become more aggressive and loud than ever. It is still the favorite music of the DJ’s in discos and nightclubs as it is foot tapping and rhythmical in nature. Grunge, punk, and metal happen to its subgenres that are very confusing for some music lovers because of the similarities. However, despite similarities, there are differences between grunge, punk and metal that will be talked about in this article.
Grunge
It was in the mid-eighties that a particular style of rock music emerged in Washington USA. Starting from Seattle, this music was also referred to as Seattle music in some circles. If you find yourself unable to pick up this style easily, try focusing on the lyrics. If they are filled with anger, it is certainly grunge music. Often lyrics induce depression or fear in the listener. The artists of this genre typically look unkempt and disheveled and do not put on heavy makeup or body art. Though many experts feel that grunge lasted till mid-nineties only, it is still alive given by the numbers of people listening to this music is any indication. There is a dirty sound of guitar with loud drums in grunge music.
Punk
Punk is another form of music that has evolved from the original rock music. The financial depression that took place in Britain is said to be the main reason for the development of this music that look anti-establishment to the ears of the listener. Punk music is very loud and fast, and it often talks about relationships. Songs often have political overtones and are of shorter duration with few lyrics. Punk music slowly spread around the western world as a form of teen rebellion.
Metal
The name metal music conjures up loud and harsh music that is full of beats. It originated in the 60’s, in Britain and continued well into 70’s. It is believed to be a subgenre of rock music. This music is characterized by loud and violent lyrics. The instruments mainly used in metal music are electric guitars, drums, and bass guitars. Metal music has often been criticized for being masculine and masochist at times. However, its popularity during the eighties and nineties was to be seen to be believed.
Grunge vs. Punk vs. Metal
Music is an expression of attitude and emotions of the artist and has served as a reflection of the times especially in the case of grunge, punk, and metal music. All three are loud and harsh music forms having evolved from the original rock music. If soft pop is at one extreme of rock music, heavy metal can be considered as its opposite extreme. Grunge is a music characterized by heavy drumming and dirty guitar sounds. The lyrics in grunge are full of angst and sometimes even produce fear and depression. Grunge, also called Seattle having been originated in Seattle in USA, in the mid-eighties, is believed to have continued till mid-nineties. Punk music was a form of rock music that originated in UK as a form of rebellion against the government to protest against the depression that gripped UK in mid-seventies.