This music genre is a subgenre of heavy metal that originated in the 1980s in Norway. It is characterized by its aggressive, fast-paced sound, which combines elements of thrash metal, punk rock, and classical music. The lyrics often deal with themes of darkness, death, and the occult, and the music is characterized by harsh, distorted guitar riffs, fast drumming, and guttural vocals. Italian black metal bands often incorporate elements of traditional Italian music into their sound, creating a unique fusion of styles.