Extreme heavy metal and blasphemy in Iran: the case of Confess

Abstract Since the revolution in 1979, Islamic Republic of Iran has imprisoned musicians, especially punk, hip-hop, and hard rock bands, as well those playing heavy metal subgenres. Extreme artists fans emerged 1990s. The government soon targeted them Satanists began a systematic crackdown on metalheads. metalcore band Confess is most well-known case. was arrested 2015 counts blasphemy, disturbing public opinion through production music, participating interviews with opposition media propaganda against Iran, among other charges. majority secular countries today do not consider extreme to be transgressive. This case contexts where religious traditions have significant influence society. By analysing narrative Confess, purpose this paper provide an understanding how Iranian musicians resist oppression, challenge their government, precepts, social values music.