Hard, heavy & happy

Why metal fans are the happiest people in the world. Warning: This is a non-fiction book with a wink. Serious in intent, but not overly serious. Sometimes heartbreakingly sad. Always heavy. Through genre-typical aspects, fans and sympathizers learn how metal enriches life and simply makes one happy - or at least: less unhappy. The work offers a cheerful, yet at times deeply profound and melancholic look at the unique culture and customs of the scene. In line with the author's academic background, relevant psychological aspects of metal culture are also explored. Thus, fans of loud music will discover how metal helps them process negative emotions; why metal makes you smart; and how many calories they burn while headbanging. Nico Rose's insights receive validation from musicians and figures within the scene, including Thomas Jensen and Holger Hübner, organizers of Wacken Open Air, Marcus Bischoff from Heaven Shall Burn, and Thomas Gurrath from Debauchery.