The best Symphonic Metal albums
of the 1990s.
Where to start with 1990–1999 symphonic metal — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top of the 1990s — symphonic metal
Top picks from 1990–1999, ranked by where we would start.
Within Temptation
Enter
Ethereal melodies intertwine with heavy guitar riffs, creating a hauntingly atmospheric soundscape that defines symphonic metal.
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Nightwish
Angels Fall First
A lush blend of operatic vocals and symphonic arrangements intertwined with heavy metal riffs creates a fantastical soundscape.
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Nightwish
Oceanborn
Ethereal melodies collide with thunderous orchestration, creating a lush soundscape that embodies the spirit of symphonic power metal.
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Skillet
Skillet
A raw blend of alternative metal and post-grunge with emotionally charged lyrics and dynamic instrumentation.
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Apocalyptica
Plays Metallica by Four Cellos
Cello-driven arrangements transform classic Metallica anthems into haunting, orchestral interpretations that blend rock with classical elegance.
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Apocalyptica
Inquisition Symphony
Dynamic cello-driven arrangements meld with heavy metal influences, creating a dramatic and symphonic listening experience.
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Skillet
Hey You, I Love Your Soul
A vibrant blend of hard rock and alternative melodies infused with heartfelt lyrics and a touch of industrial grit.
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Rhapsody of Fire
Legendary Tales
Epic orchestration intertwines with thunderous guitar riffs, crafting a fantastical narrative landscape steeped in power metal grandeur.
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Rhapsody of Fire
Symphony of Enchanted Lands
A grand tapestry of orchestral arrangements and soaring vocals, blending fantasy narratives with thunderous power metal riffs.
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Therion
Of Darkness...
A heavy blend of aggressive riffs and symphonic elements, creating an atmosphere of dark grandeur and relentless intensity.
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Therion
Theli
'Theli' serves as a cornerstone in Therion's discography, encapsulating their innovative approach and setting the stage for future explorations. Its combination of powerful tracks and thematic depth makes it accessible for newcomers while still offering layers for deeper appreciation.
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Septicflesh
The Ophidian Wheel
Orchestral arrangements intertwine with brutal riffs and haunting vocals, creating a darkly cinematic soundscape that defies genre boundaries.
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Septicflesh
Revolution DNA
Orchestral arrangements entwine with heavy riffs and guttural vocals, creating a darkly cinematic atmosphere that defines Septicflesh's unique sound.
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Lacrimosa
Einsamkeit
A haunting blend of orchestral arrangements and melancholic melodies that evoke deep emotional landscapes.
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Lacrimosa
Elodia
A lush and haunting blend of orchestral arrangements with dark, emotive vocals that encapsulates the essence of gothic metal.
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Liv Kristine
Deus ex Machina
Ethereal melodies intertwine with heavy guitar riffs, creating a haunting soundscape that merges gothic and symphonic elements.
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Haggard
And Thou Shalt Trust... the Seer
A sweeping orchestral backdrop intertwines with crushing metal riffs, creating an epic soundscape that evokes dark, romantic narratives.
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Kipelov
Smutnoye Vremia
A thunderous blend of symphonic metal and hard rock, merging soaring melodies with powerful riffs and poignant lyrics.
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Eternal Tears of Sorrow
Vilda Mánnu
Melodic death metal meets symphonic elements, weaving haunting melodies with aggressive riffs across a dark, atmospheric landscape.
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Eternal Tears of Sorrow
Sinner's Serenade
A haunting blend of melodic death metal and symphonic elements that weaves dark narratives with ethereal instrumentation.
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Dark Moor
Shadowland
A sweeping blend of symphonic metal and hard rock, imbued with theatrical narratives and melodic grandeur.
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Catharsis
Febris Erotica
An orchestral blend of haunting melodies and aggressive instrumentation creates a dramatic landscape that defines Catharsis's symphonic metal vision.
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Thompson
Vjetar s Dinare
A fusion of folk rock and hard rock, layered with evocative melodies and culturally rich lyrical themes.
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Thompson
Vrijeme škorpiona
A potent blend of hard rock and folk influences, blending anthemic melodies with powerful narratives rooted in Croatian culture.
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