Emerging from the underground scene in the early 1990s, Ὁπλίτης (Hoplitēs), a one-man black metal project from Greece, shrouded itself in mystery and a deep fascination with ancient Hellenic history. While their existence was brief and their recorded output minimal, Hoplitēs left an indelible mark on the black metal scene, particularly within the subgenre of National Socialist black metal (NSBM). Here, we delve into the enigmatic history of Hoplitēs:
A Project Rooted in Antiquity
The sole member behind Hoplitēs adopted the pseudonym “Perikles,” most likely in reference to the famed Athenian statesman Pericles. Perikles utilized black metal as a medium to explore themes of Hellenic pride, paganism, and a romanticized view of ancient Greece’s military prowess. The band’s name itself, Ὁπλίτης (Hoplitēs), is the Greek term for a heavily-armed citizen soldier in ancient Greece.
Musical Style: A Blend of Black Metal Fury and Hellenic Atmosphere
Hoplitēs’ music adhered to the core tenets of black metal – raw, distorted guitars, blast beats, and shrieking vocals. However, they incorporated elements that set them apart. Prominent use of keyboard melodies imbued their music with an epic, atmospheric quality, evocative of ancient battlefields and mythological grandeur. Lyrics, sung entirely in Greek, delved into Hellenic history, mythology, and a glorification of a bygone era.
The Notorious “O Legions of the Black Sun” Demo (1995)
Hoplitēs’ sole release, a 1995 demo titled “O Legions of the Black Sun,” became a cornerstone of the NSBM scene. The album art depicted a black sun symbol, a controversial emblem appropriated by white supremacist and neo-Nazi groups. While the lyrics themselves didn’t explicitly promote racism or violence, the underlying theme of Hellenic supremacy resonated with some within the NSBM movement.
Controversy and Disappearance (1995-Present)
“O Legions of the Black Sun” gained notoriety within the black metal scene, but also attracted criticism for its association with NSBM ideology. Shortly after the demo’s release, Hoplitēs vanished from the scene as abruptly as they had emerged. Perikles’ identity and reasons for disbanding remain a mystery.
A Legacy of Musical Innovation and Ideological Debate
Despite its brevity, Hoplitēs’ impact on black metal is undeniable. Their blend of black metal aggression with Hellenic atmosphere paved the way for other bands exploring similar themes. However, their association with NSBM ideology continues to be a point of contention. Some fans separate the music from the potential political views of Perikles, appreciating its creativity. Others reject Hoplitēs entirely due to the historical baggage associated with the black sun symbol.
The Unanswered Questions
The story of Hoplitēs is riddled with unanswered questions. Perikles’ true identity and motivations remain shrouded in secrecy. The extent to which they subscribed to NSBM ideology is a matter of speculation. Whether they ever intended to create more music is unknown.
Hoplitēs: A Brief Chapter in Black Metal History
Ὁπλίτης (Hoplitēs) stands as a fascinating, albeit controversial, footnote in black metal history. Their music, a potent blend of black metal fury and Hellenic atmosphere, left a lasting impression. However, their association with NSBM ideology continues to cast a shadow on their legacy. Hoplitēs’ story serves as a reminder of the complexities and contradictions that often exist within the black metal scene. While their music continues to be debated and dissected by fans, the enigma of Perikles and the true motivations behind Hoplitēs remain a mystery.
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