'Horrorcore' possibly linked to killings

DAYTON, Ohio, Nov. 2 (UPI) -- Officials are considering a possible connection between a music genre, "horrorcore," and a series of random, brutal killings in the Eastern United States.

Four separate killings involving bludgeoning, stabbing and hacking with a machete in New Hampshire, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Ohio have allegedly involved fans of horrorcore, a mixture of rap and heavy-metal music featuring violent, horror-based imagery and lyrics, the Dayton Daily News reported Monday.

A leading exponent of horrorcore is the Detroit band Insane Clown Posse signed to Psychopathic Records, authorities said. Followers call themselves "juggalos," a term given by band member, Joseph Bruce, during a concert.

Lyrics of ICP's songs involve murder, misogyny and necrophilia, the Daily News said.

University of Dayton Associate Professor of Sociology Art Jipson questions the connection between music and crime. The music "is kind of an emotional release. It could be argued to be empowering." Jipson also said horrorcore bands deliver lyrics with "a hint of irony. You have to ask yourself, 'How much of it is done with a wink and a nod?'"