IoMP 146: Metalocalypse: Dethklok - Gimmick or Genius?
What happens when an animated comedy series accidentally creates one of the most beloved melodic death metal bands of the 2000s?
That’s the question Collin and Tom tackle in this episode of the Influencers of Metal Podcast as they debate whether Dethklok and Metalocalypse are a gimmick… or pure genius.
The conversation starts with the origins of Metalocalypse back in 2006, when Brendon Small and Tommy Blacha pitched Adult Swim a ridiculous idea: a cartoon about the biggest metal band in the world. What followed became one of the most influential pieces of metal media ever created, blending absurd comedy, over-the-top violence, and legitimately phenomenal melodic death metal.
Our favourite duo discuss how they actually missed out on the show growing up thanks to “normal parent interference,” eventually discovering Dethklok through the legendary Batmetal videos during high school. From songs like “Face Fisted” and “Murmaider” to the insanity of “Awaken,” the guys reflect on how the music immediately stood out — even before they fully understood the world of Metalocalypse itself.
The episode also explores how Dethklok evolved beyond being “just a cartoon band.” The touring lineup featuring Brendon Small, Gene Hoglan, Nili Brosh, and others became a genuine powerhouse live act, something Collin and Tom experienced firsthand during their recent Toronto concert review episode. They discuss the surreal feeling of watching giant animated visuals instead of focusing on the band itself, while also praising just how ridiculously tight the musicianship remains.
The conversation dives into the band’s hiatus, their eventual return with Dethalbum IV, and why newer songs like “SOS” prove Dethklok somehow became even heavier with age.
Most importantly, Collin and Tom debate the core idea behind the episode: can something that starts as a gimmick transcend the label entirely?
Listen now to become part of the debate and decide if they truly are a genius creation, or a gimmicky cartoon fueled by nostalgia today.
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