The albums that define
folk metal.
Our picks for where to start with folk metal — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top folk metal artists
Start with one of these.
The folk metal essentials
Twenty-four picks. Press play on any of them.
Mägo de Oz
La leyenda de La Mancha
Folk melodies intertwine with heavy metal riffs, creating a vibrant tapestry of storytelling rooted in Spanish culture.
Start here
Mägo de Oz
Gaia
Epic folk metal meets progressive rock, weaving intricate melodies with powerful lyrics about nature and humanity's impact on the Earth.
Start here
Korpiklaani
Korven Kuningas
Folk-infused metal dances with Finnish mythology, creating a raucous celebration of nature and heritage through vibrant instrumentation.
Start here
Korpiklaani
Spirit of the Forest
A vibrant fusion of Finnish folk melodies and heavy metal, celebrating nature and ancient traditions with infectious energy.
Start here
Metsatöll
Ulg
A raw blend of traditional Estonian folk melodies with heavy metal energy, evoking both history and fierce spirit.
Start here
Metsatöll
Äio
Äio showcases the band's distinctive sound and lyrical depth, making it a compelling starting point for new listeners. Its cohesive structure highlights both intensity and melodic moments that define their artistry.
Start here
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.
Start here
In Extremo
Kunstraub
A vibrant blend of medieval melodies and metal energy creates an exhilarating soundscape that invites both headbanging and dancing.
Start here
Amorphis
Am Universum
A sprawling blend of melodic death metal and progressive elements, rich with atmospheric textures and profound lyrical depth.
Start here
Amorphis
Black Winter Day
A haunting blend of melodic death metal and Finnish folk influences wrapped in atmospheric arrangements and introspective lyrics.
Start here
Chelsea Wolfe
Bloodmoon I
Haunting melodies intertwine with heavy, immersive soundscapes, creating an atmospheric journey through darkness and introspection.
Start here
Chelsea Wolfe
Hiss Spun
A haunting blend of dark pop and electronic textures enveloped in atmospheric heaviness and emotionally charged vocals.
Start here
Eluveitie
Ànv
A powerful fusion of Celtic melodies and metal intensity, weaving intricate narratives through diverse instrumentation.
Start here
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.
Start here
Orphaned Land
Sahara
A fusion of heavy riffs entwined with Middle Eastern melodies, creating a sprawling soundscape that transcends genres.
Start here
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.
Start here
Skyclad
Folkémon
A whirlwind of thrash rhythms and folk melodies, intertwining storytelling with biting social commentary.
Start here
Skyclad
In the... All Together
A vibrant fusion of folk metal and thrash energy, underscored by sharp lyrical commentary and melodic hooks.
Start here
Ensiferum
Two Paths
Epic choruses intertwine with intricate guitar riffs, creating a powerful blend of folk and melodic death metal.
Start here
Ensiferum
Dragonheads
Epic melodies intertwine with aggressive riffs, creating a rich tapestry of folk and metal influences that transport listeners to mythical realms.
Start here
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.
Start here
Liv Kristine
Deus ex Machina
Ethereal melodies intertwine with heavy guitar riffs, creating a haunting soundscape that merges gothic and symphonic elements.
Start here
Ihsahn
AngL
A complex tapestry of progressive metal and haunting melodies interwoven with dark, introspective themes.
Start here
Ihsahn
The Adversary
A haunting blend of progressive metal and symphonic elements, intertwining darkness with melodic complexity and emotional depth.
Start here
By decade
Where folk metal landed in each era.