Dethklok: The Melodic Death Metal Powerhouse of Metalocalypse
Dethklok is a virtual melodic death metal band that rose to fame as the central focus of the Adult Swim animated series Metalocalypse. Known for their satirical lyrical themes and overwhelming sonic power, the band blends high-concept comedy with genuine musical proficiency. While they exist as animated characters in a fictional universe, their music is a real-world phenomenon that has topped charts and filled concert halls.
The project was created by Brendon Small and Tommy Blacha. While the animated band is the face of the franchise, the music is primarily composed and performed by Small, with a rotating cast of elite musicians bringing the sound to life for studio albums and live performances.
Key Facts
- Genre: Melodic death metal.
- Origin: United States, Norway, and Sweden (fictional).
- Creators: Brendon Small and Tommy Blacha.
- Chart Success: Dethalbum III reached number 10 on the US Billboard 200.
- Major Awards: Best International Band at the 2009 Revolver Golden God Awards.
- Active Years: 2006–2016 and 2019–present.
The Musical Evolution and Discography
Dethklok's recording history is marked by a series of high-charting releases under the Crystal Mountain label. Their debut, The Dethalbum, was released on September 25, 2007, debuting at number 21 on the Billboard Top 200. This was followed by Dethalbum II in 2009 and Dethalbum III in 2012, the latter of which achieved their highest chart position.
After a period of relative silence, the band returned in August 2023 with Dethalbum IV and a soundtrack for the film Metalocalypse: Army of the Doomstar. Interestingly, during the band's hiatus, Brendon Small released Galaktikon II in 2017; while unofficially viewed as a Dethklok project, it was released under Small's own name because Adult Swim holds the rights to the Dethklok brand.
| Year | Album | US Billboard 200 | US Rock | US Hard Rock |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2007 | The Dethalbum | 21 | 5 | 3 |
| 2009 | Dethalbum II | 15 | 6 | 5 |
| 2012 | Dethalbum III | 10 | 1 | — |
| 2023 | Dethalbum IV | — | — | — |
The Fictional Lineup
The animated version of Dethklok consists of five distinct personalities, each contributing to the band's dysfunctional dynamic:
- Nathan Explosion: The lead vocalist, voiced by Brendon Small.
- Skwisgaar Skwigelf: The lead guitarist, voiced by Brendon Small.
- Toki Wartooth: The rhythm guitarist, voiced by Tommy Blacha (and Mike Keneally for The Doomstar Requiem). Toki is a type 2 diabetic with a childlike personality and a phobia of antique coins. He replaced the original rhythm guitarist, Magnus Hammersmith, who was fired for violent behavior.
- Pickles: The drummer, voiced by Brendon Small. His character design was modified during development to avoid resembling musician Devin Townsend.
- William Murderface: The bassist, voiced by Tommy Blacha. Despite his self-importance, his bass lines are often mixed out of the songs, though the band acknowledges his negativity is essential to their songwriting.
Bringing the Music to the Stage
To translate the animated experience into reality, a live band was formed. This ensemble allows fans to experience the music in a format similar to the virtual band Gorillaz, where real musicians perform while the animated characters are the primary identity.
The studio core has long featured Brendon Small on guitars, vocals, bass, and keyboards, with Gene Hoglan handling drums since 2007. Live iterations have included Bryan Beller on bass, Mike Keneally on guitars, and more recently, Nili Brosh and Pete Griffin.
The band's touring history is as chaotic as their fictional counterpart. They have toured with heavyweights like Mastodon, High on Fire, Converge, and Babymetal. One notable incident occurred in 2008 at The Fillmore in San Francisco, where an electrical fire broke out during a set; some attendees initially refused to leave, believing the fire was a planned part of the Dethklok show.
Looking forward, Dethklok remains active. Following their 2024 "Mutilation on a Spring Night" tour with DragonForce and Nekrogoblikon, the band is scheduled for 2026 appearances at Welcome to Rockville and Louder Than Life, as well as the Amonklok tour with Amon Amarth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dethklok a real band?
Dethklok is a virtual band from the animated series Metalocalypse. However, they have a real-life counterpart consisting of professional musicians who record the albums and perform the music live in concerts.
Who writes the music for Dethklok?
The music is primarily created and performed by Brendon Small, who also voices several of the characters. Gene Hoglan provides the drumming for the studio recordings.
Why was Galaktikon II not released as a Dethklok album?
Brendon Small released Galaktikon II under his own name because Adult Swim holds the legal rights to the Dethklok name.
What is the musical style of Dethklok?
Dethklok plays melodic death metal, characterized by aggressive vocals, complex guitar work, and satirical lyrics.
Which Dethklok album performed the best on the charts?
Dethalbum III was their most successful release in terms of peak position, reaching number 10 on the US Billboard 200.