The International Society for Metal Music Studies

Our mission is to:

encourage and facilitate academic research related to heavy metal music and culture

adopt interdisciplinary approaches inclusive of sub-genres and related genres

establish metal music studies as a relevant and respected academic discipline

contribute to the growth of knowledge within academic and music communities

Latest posts

• Call for Papers: Metal Music Studies “Dialogues”28 October 2025
  With the passing of Ozzy Osbourne earlier this year, the journal Metal Music Studies is announcing a new “Dialogues” series of short articles for publication in Vol. 12/3, Summer 2026. We are seeking 5-7 articles of 1500-3000 words each that will critically discuss the legacy of Osbourne, Black Sabbath, and his other musical and media endeavors. Articles … Read more
• ISMMS Board Elections23 October 2025
  ISMMS members—it is that time of year again! We are holding elections for the followingpositions—President and 2 ordinary members. To stand for one of the positions you must submita 1-page statement of intent which will explain what you will bring to the role and a CV which isno more than 5 pages long. Personal information … Read more
• Call for Papers: Crossing Borders: Metal Music Scenes and Extremity3 August 2025
  Symposium at Liverpool John Moores University, Friday 3rd October 9.30 am to 5 pm Extreme metal music has been characterized as something that explores transgression, whether this is in relation to sound, its discourses and imagery, or embodied practices such as moshing and stagediving (Kahn-Harris, 2007). However, the extent to which it is deemed transgressive … Read more