Essential 2000s folk metal

The best Folk Metal albums of the 2000s.

Where to start with 2000–2009 folk metal — with a one-line read on why each one matters.

Top of the 2000s — folk metal

Top picks from 2000–2009, ranked by where we would start.

Korven Kuningas

Korpiklaani

Korven Kuningas

Folk-infused metal dances with Finnish mythology, creating a raucous celebration of nature and heritage through vibrant instrumentation.

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Spirit of the Forest

Korpiklaani

Spirit of the Forest

A vibrant fusion of Finnish folk melodies and heavy metal, celebrating nature and ancient traditions with infectious energy.

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Mein rasend Herz

In Extremo

Mein rasend Herz

A fusion of medieval melodies and industrial metal creates an exhilarating soundscape that invites listeners into a vibrant, historical realm.

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Sünder ohne Zügel

In Extremo

Sünder ohne Zügel

Medieval melodies intertwine with heavy guitar riffs, creating a distinctive blend of folk and industrial metal.

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Am Universum

Amorphis

Am Universum

A sprawling blend of melodic death metal and progressive elements, rich with atmospheric textures and profound lyrical depth.

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Silent Waters

Amorphis

Silent Waters

A haunting blend of melodic death metal and folk elements, enveloping the listener in atmospheric soundscapes and introspective themes.

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Slania

Eluveitie

Slania

'Slania' showcases the band's distinctive style, featuring powerful instrumentation and compelling narratives. It's an album that balances heaviness with beauty, making it approachable for newcomers while still satisfying long-time fans.

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Spirit

Eluveitie

Spirit

A vibrant fusion of traditional Celtic melodies and aggressive metal instrumentation creates a thrilling sonic tapestry.

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Finisterra

Mägo de Oz

Finisterra

A bold fusion of Celtic folk melodies and heavy metal riffs, creating an epic narrative soundscape steeped in mythology.

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Gaia parte II: La Voz Dormida

Mägo de Oz

Gaia parte II: La Voz Dormida

Epic folk metal soundscapes blend orchestral elements with dark, poetic lyrics, creating a hauntingly immersive experience.

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Mabool

Orphaned Land

Mabool

Mabool showcases a masterful integration of heavy instrumentation and traditional melodies, reflecting their cultural roots. The album flows like a journey, allowing listeners to fully immerse themselves in their world.

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Ararat

Orphaned Land

Ararat

A fusion of heavy riffs and Middle Eastern melodies creates a powerful exploration of identity and spirituality.

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Folkémon

Skyclad

Folkémon

A whirlwind of thrash rhythms and folk melodies, intertwining storytelling with biting social commentary.

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In the... All Together

Skyclad

In the... All Together

A vibrant fusion of folk metal and thrash energy, underscored by sharp lyrical commentary and melodic hooks.

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Dragonheads

Ensiferum

Dragonheads

Epic melodies intertwine with aggressive riffs, creating a rich tapestry of folk and metal influences that transport listeners to mythical realms.

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Iron

Ensiferum

Iron

Epic melodies intertwine with thunderous rhythms, creating a battle-ready atmosphere that evokes ancient tales of heroism and struggle.

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Enter My Religion

Liv Kristine

Enter My Religion

This album exemplifies Liv Kristine's signature style, fusing delicate melodies with darker themes. It serves as a introduction to her unique sound and lyrical depth.

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AngL

Ihsahn

AngL

A complex tapestry of progressive metal and haunting melodies interwoven with dark, introspective themes.

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The Adversary

Ihsahn

The Adversary

A haunting blend of progressive metal and symphonic elements, intertwining darkness with melodic complexity and emotional depth.

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How Far to Asgaard

Týr

How Far to Asgaard

Epic folk metal intertwines with progressive elements, reflecting ancient mythologies through powerful instrumentation and evocative storytelling.

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Ragnarok

Týr

Ragnarok

Epic folk metal anthems intertwine with progressive elements, steeped in Norse mythology and the band’s distinct Faroese identity.

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Iselilja

Gåte

Iselilja

Iselilja effectively encapsulates Gåte's artistic vision, combining powerful instrumentation with haunting vocals that reflect their cultural roots. It serves as a brilliant introduction to their distinctive style and thematic depth.

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Gåte EP

Gåte

Gåte EP

A fusion of haunting folk melodies and progressive metal intricacies, transporting listeners through a mystical Norwegian landscape.

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Goi, Rode, Goi!

Arkona

Goi, Rode, Goi!

'Goi, Rode, Goi!' serves as a comprehensive gateway into Arkona’s world, offering engaging tracks that highlight their energetic sound and cultural themes. It's where their style is most cohesive and accessible for newcomers.

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