In the 1990s , a new form of heavy metal developed , called alternative metal . Like Jane 's Addiction , many of the most popular early 1990s groups with roots in heavy metal fall under the umbrella term `` alternative metal . '' Bands in Seattle 's grunge scene such as Soundgarden , credited as making a `` place for heavy metal in alternative rock '' , and Alice in Chains were at the center of the alternative metal movement .