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.
Korpiklaani
Korven Kuningas
A vibrant blend of folk melodies and metal riffs, celebrating Finnish culture with energetic rhythms and lively instrumentation.
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Korpiklaani
Spirit of the Forest
A lively fusion of traditional Finnish folk melodies with heavy metal instrumentation creates an enchanting sonic landscape.
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Metsatöll
Ulg
An evocative blend of traditional Estonian folk melodies and heavy metal intensity, rich with cultural storytelling.
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Metsatöll
Äio
A vibrant fusion of traditional Estonian folk melodies and heavy metal instrumentation creates an evocative sonic landscape.
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In Extremo
Mein rasend Herz
A vibrant blend of medieval-inspired melodies and heavy metal riffs that evoke a sense of epic adventure.
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In Extremo
Kunstraub
A vibrant fusion of medieval motifs with modern rock energy, blending folk instrumentation and industrial metal grit.
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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
Black Winter Day
Melodic death metal meets Finnish folk elements, creating a haunting and atmospheric soundscape that captivates the listener.
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Eluveitie
Ànv
A dynamic fusion of ancient melodies and modern metal, echoing the rich heritage of Celtic folklore.
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Eluveitie
The Early Years
A vibrant fusion of ancient Celtic melodies and modern metal intensity creates an immersive listening experience.
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Mägo de Oz
Fölktergeist
Epic folk metal anthems interwoven with Spanish mythology and rich orchestration create a captivating auditory journey.
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Mägo de Oz
Ilussia
A vibrant tapestry of folk metal enriched with orchestral arrangements and theatrical storytelling.
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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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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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Ensiferum
Two Paths
Epic melodies collide with thunderous rhythms, creating a powerful and invigorating folk metal experience.
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Ensiferum
10th Anniversary Live
A rousing blend of folk melodies and thunderous metal riffs, capturing the spirit of a live celebration.
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Ihsahn
AngL
Complex arrangements weave progressive metal with symphonic elements, creating an immersive sonic experience that challenges the listener.
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Ihsahn
The Adversary
A complex fusion of progressive metal and symphonic elements, driven by haunting melodies and intense vocals.
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Chelsea Wolfe
Bloodmoon I
A haunting blend of dark wave and folk metal, enveloping listeners in atmospheric soundscapes and introspective themes.
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Chelsea Wolfe
Hiss Spun
A haunting blend of dark pop and metal textures, enveloping listeners in ethereal soundscapes.
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Týr
How Far to Asgaard
A rich tapestry of melodic metal woven with Norse mythology and folk elements, creating an epic sonic journey.
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Týr
Ragnarok
A mythic journey woven through intricate melodies and heavy riffs, blending folk tales with progressive metal intensity.
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Gåte
Nord
A haunting blend of traditional folk melodies and modern progressive metal intricacies that transports listeners to a mythic Norse landscape.
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Gåte
Svevn
A haunting blend of traditional Norwegian folk and modern progressive rock, rich with atmospheric textures.
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