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.
Amorphis
Halo
A rich tapestry of melodic death metal layered with folk influences and atmospheric soundscapes.
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Amorphis
Queen of Time
Epic soundscapes merge melodic death metal with Finnish folk elements, weaving intricate narratives of nature and mythology.
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Alestorm
Curse of the Crystal Coconut
A raucous blend of folk and power metal, infused with pirate-themed humor and infectious energy.
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Amorphis
Skyforger
A rich tapestry of melodic death metal woven with Finnish folklore and atmospheric soundscapes.
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Eluveitie
Slania
A fusion of ancient Celtic melodies and aggressive metal riffs creates a captivating, atmospheric soundscape.
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Eluveitie
Evocation II – Pantheon
A haunting tapestry of ancient melodies woven with modern metal intensity and rich orchestration.
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Amorphis
The Beginning of Times
Melodic death metal intertwines with rich folk elements, creating a tapestry of dark yet uplifting soundscapes.
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Amorphis
Silent Waters
Melodic death metal interwoven with folk elements, creating an expansive, atmospheric soundscape that evokes ancient tales.
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Amorphis
Am Universum
Ethereal melodies intertwine with crushing riffs, crafting a hauntingly immersive sonic landscape that resonates deeply.
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Amorphis
Far from the Sun
Melancholic melodies intertwine with heavy riffs, creating a haunting atmosphere that explores themes of loss and introspection.
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Amorphis
Tuonela
A haunting blend of melodic death metal and progressive elements shrouded in Finnish folk narratives.
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Amorphis
Elegy
Melodic death metal intertwines with folk elements, creating a hauntingly atmospheric journey through loss and introspection.
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Amorphis
Eclipse
Melodic death metal intertwines with Finnish folklore, creating an atmospheric and heavy sonic landscape.
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Mägo de Oz
Mägo de Oz
A spirited fusion of heavy metal and traditional folk music that captures a unique Spanish identity.
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Mägo de Oz
Belfast
A vibrant fusion of folk melodies and heavy metal riffs that evoke the spirit of Irish culture.
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Mägo de Oz
Mägo de Oz
A vibrant blend of folk melodies and heavy metal riffs, steeped in Spanish folklore and theatrical storytelling.
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Korpiklaani
Ukon wacka
A vibrant blend of folk melodies and heavy metal rhythms, evoking a lively Finnish celebration.
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Korpiklaani
Jylhä
A vibrant fusion of traditional Finnish folk melodies and heavy metal energy, drawing listeners into a mythical soundscape.
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Skyclad
In the... All Together
An eclectic blend of folk and heavy metal, infused with sharp social commentary and melodic instrumentation.
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Skyclad
Vintage Whine
A vibrant fusion of folk melodies and heavy metal intensity, wrapped in sharp lyrical wit.
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Skyclad
Folkémon
A riotous blend of folk melodies and heavy metal riffs that invites irreverence and reflection.
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Ensiferum
Ensiferum
Epic melodies and fierce growls intertwine, creating a vibrant tapestry of Finnish folk and metal influences.
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Ihsahn
After
A haunting blend of progressive metal and symphonic elements, rich with introspective themes and intricate compositions.
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Ensiferum
Iron
Epic melodies intertwine with thunderous riffs, creating a battle-ready soundtrack that embodies the spirit of Viking lore.
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