Morocco’s heavy metal scene began to take shape in the late 1980s and 1990s, with Casablanca and Rabat as the main hubs. Early underground bands such as Overdose and Reborn helped introduce heavier sounds, while tape trading and small local shows slowly built a dedicated following.
In 2003 the scene was thrust into the spotlight when several musicians and fans connected to bands like Nekros and Infected Brain were arrested and accused of “Satanism”. The case caused national and international outcry, and although the charges were eventually dropped, the incident became a turning point that strengthened the community and made Moroccan metal more visible.
During the 2000s and 2010s the scene diversified. Bands like Analgesia from Rabat brought symphonic and gothic influences, while Lazywall from Tangier blended rock and metal and worked actively to tour and promote Moroccan heavy music. Casablanca’s L’Boulevard festival, with its rock and metal-focused “Tremplin” contest for new bands, has played a crucial role in giving local acts a stage and linking the Moroccan scene to the wider alternative music world.
CITIES
FAMOUS METAL BANDS FROM MOROCCO
Analgesia
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