A head banging haven

The Heavy Metal Club is back and heavier than ever

By Cesar Espinosa

Reporter

Heavy Metal is often looked at as an “outsider genre.” You’re not likely to find someone in your friend group who would consider themselves a Metal Head. But for this club, metal runs deep.

The Heavy Metal Club is a haven for those looking to share their love of the genre with like minded individuals. While it seems like the Heavy Metal community is in constant war amongst itself, this club is a conflict-free zone where you can freely express your opinions on Metal.

“Every metalhead starts off a little wooden. Heavy metal club is for everyone if you can hang,” said Heavy Metal Club Officer Jonah Lucero.

For those new to the Metal scene, stepping into the community can be a bit intimidating. It’s a very divisive genre with tons of sub genres that aren’t for everybody. But despite these obstacles that can easily turn people away, the Heavy Metal Club has become an inviting gateway for students hungry for something new.

“My favorite part of the club is the music because it’s really awesome to hear something new,” said club member Ed Belteton.

If you're worried about the club being “watered down” have no fear. The club advisor, Sanger High School English 9 Teacher, Jesus Zamarripa, is the most qualified man for the job. Zamarripa has a very special place in his heart for Metal music. In fact, he grew up in the Bay Area, the birthplace of Thrash Metal, and even attended San Jose High Academy.

“I grew up in the Bay Area (Birthplace of Thrash Metal), in San Jose. My high school was called San Jose High Academy,” said Zamarripa.

Not only does he make listening to heavy metal fun, but he also makes it educational by engaging students in lyrical and instrumental analysis, as well as giving some background on the band and specific sub-genre.

“Students explore the wide variety of sub-genres that Metal music has to offer. We also discuss/analyze the music (both lyrically and instrumentally), as well as the social and cultural impact this music has,” said Zamarripa.

If you’re interested in joining the club don’t hesitate, it's a welcoming environment for students fascinated by all things metal.

“I would 100% recommend people to join the Heavy Metal Club,” said Lucero.