The impact of man on Earth is so considerable that now defines a new geological era, known as the “Anthropocene.”
This new but accurate scientific term was spawned by some pioneering researchers.
The name originate, as expected, from the combination of two ancient Greek words: “man” + “new” (new, latest, recent).
The first to suggest this term in 2000 were two eminent scientists, Paul Crutzen and Eugene Stoermer.
They wanted to determine the exact distinction of this new geological era, which is determined by the activities of the human species.
More and more studies are coming to confirm that: humans are not just adapting to the ecosystems where they live, but changing them according to their needs.
Nobel laureate Paul Crutzen, one of the main proponents of this idea, believes that “Anthropocene” began between the 18th and 19th centuries.
Although there is a wide difference of opinion among scientists about the exact beginning of this era, everyone agrees on its meaning.
The human dominance on the planet is causing the destruction of the other species that inhabited the Earth long before us.
Recent research shows that 60% of existing species on the planet are in immediate danger of extinction due to anthropogenic causes.
These studies do not focus on species that have become extinct, but on what is still enduring:
- Deforestation,
- Water pollution,
- Uncontrolled waste disposal,
- Illegal hunting – fishing,
- The wildlife trade and much more.
The covetous human activities threaten every living organism of our planet.
The Black Metal awakening …
All this cannot leave Rock / Metal music unaffected …
Despite what non-connoisseurs of this kind of music believe, there are bands trying to awaken people’s consciences to this catastrophe.
One of them is Cattle Decapitation.
Sonically, Cattle Decapitation may sound like metal, but the fans distinguish them from the rest of the genre as:
“It’s a voice for the existential fears of the Anthropocene,” as their fans typically report.
As Cattle Decapitation appears on stage, portentous atmospheric sounds began to permeate throughout the space …
A voice is heard …
“The recent unparalleled temperatures in the Arctic as well as the data showing abnormal rises in upper-atmosphere methane levels converge to give the impression that the near future of the entire human race is at stake.”
The voice continues…
“In 2018, the World Bank Group reported that many countries will need to prepare for over 100 million displaced people, as well as the displacement of millions of international refugees, due to the ill effects of climate change.”
Time seems to have stopped, as the fate of the entire planet is in jeopardy.
Then, the band begins to “bombard” the crowd with deformed strings, unobtrusive drums and bass as Ryan interprets the lyrics “demonically” …
“A las, the deed is done
Mankind now dead and gone
Post-Anthropocene, Earth reset to day one
Fire now rages on.”
His vocals mutate, calm and like a whisper from another dimension, it sounds …
“We deserve what comes“
The lyrics of Cattle Decapitation for the most part concern the human impact on the environment, the ethics of meat consumption, and animal rights.
Cattle Decapitation are not “new“, it was founded in 1996 in San Diego, California.
Since then, they have been referring to what is now “fashion“, but global warming is not seasonal…
Human intervention in the environment leaves a devastating imprint with an uncertain future for all of us…