Discover 10 Must-Know One-Woman Black Metal Bands Making Waves in the Scene

From the iconic Onielar, the driving force behind Darkened Nocturn Slaughtercult and Bethlehem, to Sarcana, the former keyboardist of Gehenna’s “Spell Trilogy,” the black metal world is rich with remarkable female artists who have left indelible marks—often in the form of stiletto prints. These talented musicians have not only shaped the genre but also brought a unique perspective that is both fierce and enchanting.

If you haven’t yet delved into the profound lyrical contributions of Hildr, a renowned lyricist nominated for the prestigious Spellemann (often referred to as the “Norwegian Grammy”), you’re missing out on a significant piece of black metal history. Hildr has been instrumental in crafting the haunting lyrics for Tulus and their sister band, Khold, establishing a legacy that resonates with fans and newcomers alike.

Moreover, experiencing the innovative saxophone work of Sofia Hedman in Kall, a groundbreaking Swedish black metal ensemble, is essential for any true aficionado. Her contributions elevate the genre, blending traditional black metal elements with unexpected sounds that challenge the status quo.

Renowned bands like Djevel, Dissection, Behexen, Sigh, and Odium have not only welcomed women into their ranks but have also showcased their talents as guest musicians, regular members, or live collaborators. Additionally, all-female groups like Greece’s Astarte are paving the way for future generations, proving that women have a vital role in the evolution of black metal.

Today, we will explore the rich tapestry woven by one-woman black metal bands, who stand as a powerful answer to the often solitary nature of one-man projects in the genre. These solo artists bring their unique stories and emotions to life through their music, delivering a captivating blend of raw emotion and artistic expression.

As a woman in this scene, I can attest to the incredible capacity we have to harness our struggles, channel our emotions, and create music that is both mesmerizing and brutally honest. Let us celebrate these 10 fierce, fire-breathing sonic sorceresses who boldly choose to carve their paths in the black metal universe!

(And let’s keep our fingers crossed that the elusive demo from the tragically late Deathanie’s one-woman project, Vendigeit, will eventually grace our ears.)

Exploring the Unique Sound of Martyra

Martyra features the immensely talented vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Marita Hellem, who is widely regarded as one of the most promising figures in rock and metal today. Although Martyra debuted its chillingly atmospheric black metal EP, Rigor Mortis, in 2018, Hellem’s artistic vision knows no bounds, as she fearlessly explores various styles throughout her projects.

This True Norwegian Queen frequently collaborates with Trondheim’s esteemed black metal band Enevelde and has lent her powerful vocals to the legendary Manes, known for their pioneering role in the black metal movement and their subsequent evolution into a genre-blending powerhouse. Hellem has also graced the stage with Lethe, featuring the talented Anna Murphy of ex-Eluveitie fame, along with Manes’ driving force, Tor-Helge “Cernunnus” Skei.

Listeners are drawn in by Hellem’s ethereal clean vocals, which echo the charms of a chart-topping diva, only to be met with the spine-chilling growls reminiscent of a chthonic deity. This dynamic range captivates audiences, making Martyra a band to watch in the ever-evolving landscape of black metal.

Unveiling the Brilliance of Myrkur

Amelie Bruun’s acclaimed project Myrkur stands as a shining example of a one-woman act that brilliantly incorporates black metal elements while transcending traditional boundaries. Bruun is unafraid to explore different musical styles, much like her contemporaries, blending genres such as folk, post-rock, and classical to create an expansive sound.

Her full-length debut album, M (2015), was produced by the innovative Kristoffer “Garm” Rygg of Ulver fame, featuring contributions from notable members of the black metal elite, including Håvard Jørgensen, Teloch from Mayhem, and Øyvind Myrvoll of Dødheimsgard, among others. This collaboration signifies a pivotal moment in the black metal scene, marking Håvard’s return after a long hiatus.

Thanks to Garm’s encouragement, M also paved the way for Håvard to create solo material, and his participation in Myrkur’s live follow-up, Mausoleum (2016), revitalized his creative spirit, leading to his collaboration with Øyvind Myrvoll in the project Dold Vorde Ens Navn. Myrkur’s exploration of diverse sounds not only showcases Bruun’s versatility but also highlights the rich tapestry of influences that define modern black metal.

Discovering the Allure of Hulder

Founded in 2018 by the mysterious Belgian-born artist now residing in the U.S., Hulder has garnered a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim. This captivating project has even graced the cover of Decibel magazine, a testament to its rising prominence in the metal scene.

Hulder draws inspiration from the foundational elements of black metal while also infusing influences from classical and medieval music, creating a sound that is both haunting and enchanting. The lyrics are steeped in folklore, performed in both Flemish and English, which adds a unique cultural richness to the music.

DödsÄngel: A Brief but Impactful Journey

DödsÄngel represents the short-lived yet impactful project of Canadian-Norwegian drummer Trish Kolstad. In 2009, she recorded a black metal/punk hybrid demo titled Helgrind, which showcased her fierce creativity and unique vision.

Throughout her career, Trish has been a part of numerous notable collectives, including the mind-blowing super-duo Skitliv, the all-female ensemble Asagraum, Urarv, and Djevelkult. Her dynamic collaborations extend to performances alongside esteemed acts like Craft, Nattefrost, and Isvind, solidifying her reputation as a versatile and powerful musician.

Vermilia: The Enchantress of Finnish Pagan Metal

Launched in 2017, Vermilia seamlessly merges epic Scandinavian pagan metal with black metal elements, creating a sound that is both enchanting and powerful. This Finnish solo project thrives on the delicate balance between sweetness and bestial ferocity, engaging listeners through a melancholic yet captivating experience.

Vermilia’s ability to craft emotionally resonant melodies is a hallmark of her artistry, drawing in a diverse audience and garnering considerable attention in the metal community. Like many Finnish musicians, she excels at weaving intricate melodies that linger in the mind long after the music has stopped.

The Ambient Black Metal Journey of Turdus Merula

Born from the creative mind of Swedish-Icelandic artist Dísa, Turdus Merula is an ambient black metal project that first emerged with the demo The Paths of Life in 2007, followed by the albums Herbarium (2010) and Mentem Recipere (2011). Dísa’s work is characterized by its blend of brutality and mysticism, offering a unique listening experience.

In her collaborations with Murmurs and Korpblood, Dísa teamed up with the talented Ulf Nylin, formerly of Livsneskad/Acacia, further showcasing her versatility and commitment to pushing creative boundaries. Additionally, listeners should explore Dísa’s dark and ritualistic solo project, Draugurinn, as well as her newer three-piece band, Doula Infernum, which features Runemagick’s Nicklas Rudolfsson.

READ MORE: The 10 Best Supergroups in Black Metal

The Dark Aesthetic of Drug Darkness

Drug Darkness embodies a synth-heavy approach that is perfect for those moments when you crave a dash of quirky, lo-fi misanthropy. This project ultimately delivers music that is both twisted and oddly hypnotic, creating a feel-good atmosphere amidst its dark themes.

The mastermind behind Drug Darkness, known as “Sterile” or Shelby, may be young, but she has produced an impressive body of work under this moniker as well as through her various other creative endeavors.

The Evolution of Ilkim Oulanem

Before launching her eponymous project in 2008, Ilkim Oulanem was the frontwoman and bassist of another band called Messershmit. Initially rooted in black metal, Ilkim Oulanem has evolved over time, embracing a more progressive and black ‘n’ roll sound, showcasing her artistic growth.

Eventually, the artist adopted the moniker İlkim to explore different creative avenues, allowing for a broader range of expression. Looking back, it’s clear that Ilkim Oulanem has earned her place in history as Turkey’s first one-woman black metal band, achieving a cult status despite her relatively brief career.

Germany’s Gedanken toten Lebens: A Meditative Experience

Germany’s atmospheric project Gedanken toten Lebens, led by Solveig, made its debut in 2015 with a self-titled album that captivates listeners with its poetic and meditative qualities. This project strikes an impressive balance between darkness and light, combining delicate beauty with haunting contrasts.

The interplay between acoustic and electric guitars enhances the overall sonic journey, while the mix of harsh and spoken, sometimes whispered, vocals adds layers of depth and nuance to the listening experience. Guest artist Freigeist contributes additional instrumentation, enriching the album’s texture.

Ampulheta: The Haunting Sound of Japanese Black Metal

Ampulheta, the brainchild of ex-Apocalyptic Slave’s Yuga, emerged in Japan in 2010 as a unique creative outlet. While fellow musician Soma briefly joined the project on guitar and bass, he has since departed, leaving Yuga to forge ahead with her striking vision.

The project has released two profoundly haunting demos, Neblina (2011) and Disturbing (2014). While the first demo is rawer and more primal, both recordings are guaranteed to leave listeners feeling a sense of dread at the mere thought of encountering the fiercely talented Miss Yuga Necros in real life.