Metal Evolution Season 1 Episode 6
Metal Evolution
Season 1

Ep 6. Trash

  • TV-PG
  • December 31, 2011
  • 44 min
  • 8.6  (62)

In the sixth episode of Metal Evolution season 1, titled "Trash," the focus is on the birth and rise of the subgenre known as thrash metal. Host and metal enthusiast Sam Dunn takes viewers on a journey through the early days of thrash, exploring the bands and scenes that paved the way for this fast, aggressive, and rebellious movement.

The episode begins in San Francisco in the early 1980s, where a group of young musicians began merging the raw energy of punk with the virtuosity of heavy metal. Dunn charts the rise of bands like Exodus, Metallica, Slayer, and Megadeth, who brought a new level of musicianship and intensity to the metal world. He interviews key players in the scene, including members of Metallica and Megadeth, as well as music journalists and industry insiders who were there to witness the birth of thrash.

The episode also explores the wider cultural context that gave rise to thrash metal. Dunn delves into the political and social climate of the 1980s, which was marked by Reaganism, the Cold War, and the threat of nuclear annihilation. He shows how thrash metal expressed the anger and anxiety of a generation that had lost faith in the status quo and turned to music as a form of protest and release.

One of the highlights of the episode is the segment on the so-called "Big Four" of thrash metal: Metallica, Slayer, Megadeth, and Anthrax. Dunn examines the unique sound and style of each band, as well as their intense rivalries and collaborations. He also reveals how these bands redefined the boundaries of metal, incorporating elements of punk, hardcore, and other subgenres to create a new sound that would influence countless bands in the decades to come.

Throughout the episode, Dunn also explores some of the controversies and challenges that thrash metal faced as it gained popularity. He looks at the backlash from mainstream critics and conservative groups who saw the music as violent and dangerous, as well as the internal tensions within bands as they tried to balance commercial success with artistic integrity.

Overall, "Trash" is a compelling and informative episode that sheds light on one of the most iconic and influential subgenres in metal history. Dunn's passion for the subject matter is evident throughout, as he delves deep into the music, culture, and personalities that made thrash metal a force to be reckoned with. Fans of metal, punk, and music history in general will find plenty to enjoy in this episode, which offers a fascinating glimpse into a pivotal moment in music history.

Description
Watch Metal Evolution - Trash (s1 e6) Online - Watch online anytime: Buy, Rent
Metal Evolution, Season 1 Episode 6, is available to watch and stream on VH1 Classic. You can also buy, rent Metal Evolution on demand at Amazon, Apple TV online.
  • First Aired
    December 31, 2011
  • Content Rating
    TV-PG
  • Runtime
    44 min
  • Language
    English
  • IMDB Rating
    8.6  (62)