Christian metal originated in the late 70s' after artists like Larry Norman, Petra and Resurrection Band established Christian Rock. The first popular Christian metal band was Stryper, with their hit single "To Hell With the Devil". But it wasn't until 1990 that the first death metal Christian band emerged: Mortification. As of 2010, the most popular Christian death metal is both technical and melodic. Aletheian and Sympathy being primary examples.
Death metal typically features guitar, bass, drums and vocals as primary instruments. The style is often very fast, and vocals are sung in a low growl or high pitched shriek. The drums generally use a double-kick. To the untrained ear, the music may not sound any different than any other secular metal music. But upon reading a Christian death metal band's lyrics, it becomes clear that they may be Biblical or uplifting.
Most Christian death metal bands are signed to record labels that cater specifically to the Christian metal demographic. Solid State, Rivel, Rowe Productions and Intense Records that are home to many popular Christian death metal bands. In addition to Mortification, some of the most popular Christian death metal bands since 1990 are Living Sacrifice, Crimson Thorn, Embodyment, Vomitorial Corpulence and Extol.
Most Christian death metal bands have fairly straightforward evangelical messages in their lyrics. If all of the members of a band are not Christians, they are generally not considered a part of the Christian metal scene. Themes that are often expressed in the lyrics are of Biblical eschatology, generally apocalyptic according to the book of Revelation. Hell is often referenced in Christian death metal, but not in a glorified manner.
Since the style of music is identical to secular metal, which stems from themes that may be satanic or evil, many Christians believe that Christian death metal is an inappropriate conduit through which Christians should attempt to achieve spiritual encouragement. Fans of Christian death metal believe that the audio component is simply a vehicle for the message, a style like any other, which should not be attributed to any sort of deeper meaning of demonic aesthetics.