Metal Excavation

Ayreon

2011-02-22T14:50:00.012-05:00

Ayreon is the brainchild of Dutch musician/composer, Arjen Lucassen. Lucassen is famous for his so-called "rock operas" wherein he fuses progressive rock with metal to create a unique majestic style that will titillate your ears and satisfy your need for a lengthly musical journey.

The Final Experiment was released in 1995 and is Lucassen's first full-length release. This masterpiece taps on different lyrical subject matters such as the environment's demise and the conquering hold of technology in human life. Musically, this album will take you to and from both ends of the spectrum in true progressive rock/metal fashion. Arjen gives us enough musical variation to content every mood and indulgence in this hodgepodge of styles. If you like the idea of power vocals alongside the grandeur of opera (laced with trippy progressive elements and hard metal) all rolled into one then this album will more than suffice.

Official website

Download "The Final Experiment" (1995)

Powerwolf

2009-11-03T18:25:00.009-05:00

Powerwolf is a German power metal band with three studio albums thus far. In their 2009 album entitled “Bible of the Beast”, the sound is explosively epic. There is a lot to say about the style of this band but more or less, their style can be described as exultantly grim. There is an enveloping grimness present in all the songs that are simultaneously doused with “maidenesque” harmonies and massive church-choir choruses. Their Romanian vocalist, Atilla Dorn, is a force trained in the classical operatic style. Dorn blends his operatic background into his power metal vocals, complementing the band’s theatrical style.

Lyrically, Bible of the Beast speaks about Catholicism, Satan, and werewolves (take note: this is not your average power metal band). And if somehow that isn’t interesting enough for you, get this: It’s mixed by Fredrik Nordström. Enjoy.

Official website

Official MySpace

Download "Bible of the Beast" (2009)

Serenity

2009-09-16T15:43:00.007-04:00

Austria's Serenity hit the metal scene in 2007 with their debut "Words Untold and Dreams Unlived". In 2008, they followed it up with "Fallen Sanctuary", an excellent display of modern melodic power metal. Keyboards and and soaring melodies are prevalent here, as well as harmonized guitars and catchy choruses.

Fans of power metal (especially bands like Sonata Arctica and Symphony X) should check out Serenity for a great listening experience.

Official website

Official MySpace

Download "Fallen Sanctuary" (2008)

Watch a YouTube clip of "All Lights Reversed"

Virtuocity

2009-08-27T01:39:00.009-04:00

When metal meets classical music, the result is a marriage of toughness and technicality, or what most people would simply call "neo-classical metal". Virtoucity is a Finnish band that embraces this marriage made in heaven (or hell). These Finns got together in 2001 and have two albums under their belt: Secret Visions (2002) and Northern Twilight Symphony (2004).

Northern Twilight Symphony is a tasty blend of neo-classical and power metal; it's got the intricacy of the classical style and the epic lyrics to boot. In other words, if you like some Dungeons & Dragons in your Beethoven, Virtuocity is the way to go.

Official website

Official MySpace

Download "Northern Twilight Symphony" (2004)

Watch a YouTube clip of "Flames in the Sky"

Burning in Hell

2009-08-20T15:44:00.008-04:00

Brazil makes awesome power metal and a testament to this would be Burning in Hell. Burning in Hell formed in 1995 and have two full-length albums: a self-titled album released in 2004 and their latest album "Believe" released in 2006. Their music is uplifting, fast, and complex power metal.

What is most notable about their music is the impeccable guitar work done by Geraldo Aita; his skills are top-notch with its progressive and neo-classical elements. If you like power metal and appreciate excellent guitar melodies and solos, Burning in Hell's "Believe" will appease.

Official website

Official MySpace

Download "Believe" (2006)

Watch a YouTube clip of "Medusa"

Savage Circus

2009-08-20T15:34:00.017-04:00

Savage Circus is a power metal band from Germany formed in 2004. Their first album "Dreamland Manor" is extremely reminiscent of Blind Guardian's early albums. The main reason for this being that the band was formed by ex-Blind Guardian drummer Thomen Stauch, who left Blind Guardian because he was unhappy with the band's recent change in musical direction. Thus, Savage Circus was created to return to the early style of his former band.

He recruited Persuader vocalist Jens Carlsson; a fine choice, as many have said that Carlsson's voice sounds very similar to Blind Guardian's Hansi Kürsch. Also on board is Persuader guitarist Emil Norberg and Iron Savior frontman Piet Sielck. As Sielck is a more than capable singer himself, you couldn't ask for a better back-up vocalist/guitarist. Jens Carlsson and Piet Sielck combine to form a power metal vocal duo for the ages, and their choruses are absolutely bombastic. Fans of power metal shouldn't overlook Dreamland Manor, as it's a prime example of power metal done right.

Official website

Official MySpace

Download "Dreamland Manor" (2005)

Watch the official music video for "Evil Eyes"

Messiah's Kiss

2009-08-19T13:49:00.006-04:00

Messiah's Kiss is a German heavy metal band that formed in 2001. The band has 3 full-length albums: Prayer for the Dying (2002), Metal (2004), and Dragonheart (2007). Their music is very traditional heavy metal which will surely remind you of Judas Priest (definitely not a bad choice of influence for a band to emulate).

In Dragonheart, the songs are full of rocking riffs, catchy choruses, wicked guitar solos, and damn good vocals. This unknown German group's metal is solid and needs to be heard by all fans of good ol' heavy metal.

Official website

Official MySpace

Download "Dragonheart" (2007)

Watch a YouTube clip of "Dragonheart"

Eyes of Shiva

2009-08-12T17:50:00.016-04:00

Eyes of Shiva is a power metal band from Brazil, formed in 2003. Their first release, "Eyes of Soul" is pure melodic power metal, while 2006's "Deep" ventured into different territories. From the opening track "Blowing Off Steam", the album explodes into a thrash metal riff frenzy. As the song develops, we are introduced to a melodic chorus and an extended harmonized guitar solo.

The band keeps a heavy guitar tone going throughout the album, while also incorporating musical influences from their homeland of Brazil. This makes for an interesting listening experience ̶ certainly one that might be new to the common metal listener. There are some catchy sing-along tunes here, as shown on songs such as "Profane Minds" and "Innocent Souls". The guitar work is very well-crafted, and there are plenty of long solos abound.

Eyes of Shiva does a great job of putting their own twist on heavy metal. Brazilian percussion is prevalent all throughout the album and it's very refreshing to hear. There's a wide range of sounds to be found on Deep. A string section and acoustic guitars come out on the symphonic ballad "Pain", and even the thrashy rocker "Bring Me to Death" takes a break mid-way for a piano interlude.

Some songs are absolutely infectious and will be looping in your head for quite some time. If you're looking for something that's a little different from what you're used to hearing, check out Eyes of Shiva for a shot of melodic Brazilian metal.

Official MySpace

Download "Deep" (2006)

Watch a YouTube clip of "Blowing Off Steam"

Pagan's Mind

2009-08-08T04:42:00.007-04:00

Pagan's Mind is a progressive metal band from Norway, formed in 2000. They have released 4 full-length albums since then. Their music could be described as a blend of progressive and power metal. Strong, futuristic-sounding melodies are very prevalent on Pagan's Mind albums, such as "Celestial Entrance" in 2002. You'll swear this is the soundtrack to the year 2155. Vocalist Nils K. Rue lends his powerful voice, and quite often there's robotic-sounding effects applied to it. This even further enhances the futuristic mood of the albums.

Guitarist Jørn Viggo Lofstad is capable of belting out very emotional and melodic solos, and he can show off his chops too. There are also many fun and rocking riffs abound, suitable for headbanging. Things can seem a bit ridiculous at times, as the band's cover of David Bowie's "Hallo Spaceboy" on 2007's "God's Equation" is just out of this galaxy. Still, it's all in good fun. Pagan's Mind are an interesting blend of genres and do a great job of standing out from the rest of the pack.

Celestial Entrance is a progressive blast from outer space, while God's Equation is a bit more rocking and fun. If you're interested, step through the stargate and enter the world of Pagan's Mind for a journey beyond the stars.

Official website

Official MySpace

Download "Celestial Entrance" (2002)

Download "God's Equation" (2007)

Watch a YouTube clip of "God's Equation"

Gojira

2009-08-07T10:48:00.014-04:00

It's a crime that this band isn't as popular as it should be―but that's what this blogspot is for: unearthing hidden metal gems such as Gojira. Gojira (formerly known as Godzilla) is a French thrash/death/groove metal band that formed in 2000. Their music is as pleasantly unexpected as where they come from. There aren't a lot of metal bands from France that have international success and Gojira, being one of the few, carries the French metal flag very well.

In their 2005 release "From Mars To Sirius", Gojira's sound is more on the thrash side with its heavy riffs and even heavier drumming. Yet to merely call it "thrashy" would be unjust. "From Mars To Sirius" is a death-coaster ride that takes you from hard-rocking thrash metal sections to long poignant atmospheric passages.

"From Mars To Sirius" is also a concept album following a man's journey as the world ends, to seek flying whales in order to learn how to fly. As you listen to the album, you will notice that Gojira's lyrical focus is on the environment and climate change; a very unlikely subject for a metal band to embrace. But this is exactly what makes "From Mars To Sirius" special, nothing about it (i.e. its sound and concept) is likely and yet Gojira has managed to make all aspects of their music blend well together; producing a unique quality that doesn't resemble anything you've ever heard.

And just when you think you've figured out what these Frenchmen are all about, they pull out a record that astonishes you and shakes your preconceived notions of what metal is. The record is their 4th studio release, "The Way of All Flesh" (2008) which is an avant-garde move for Gojira. The title track of the album is 17 minutes long (with an unexpected twist half-way down and all throughout the end) while the track "All the Tears" features Lamb of God vocalist, Randy Blythe. "The Way of All Flesh" is a release from the usual and would make any experimental and open-minded metalhead proud of being a fan of Gojira.

The two mentioned albums are powerful displays of how diverse metal can be and how talented Gojira is. If you seek a new experience from listening to metal, Gojira won't let you down.

Official website

Official MySpace

Download "From Mars To Sirius" (2005)

Download "The Way of All Flesh" (2008)

Watch the official music video for "To Sirius"

Diabolical Masquerade

2009-08-07T02:28:00.006-04:00

Diabolical Masquerade is an atmospheric black metal band that consists two of Sweden's most talented and popular metal musicians: Dan Swano and Blakkheim. These buddies from the infamous Katatonia have done the world of black metal some good by forming Diabolical Masquerade. Having been formed in 1993, the band has 4 full-length albums. Their third album, Nightwork, released in 1998 is a display of the band's creativity and musical genius in the black metal genre. They have effectively pulled off atmospheric black metal by allotting just the right amount of both atmosphere and black metal influences. The vocals from Blakkheim are dark and evil (a staple in black metal style of course) while the music takes so many courses; it can be heavy, grim, melancholic, fast, aggressive, or extremely melodic at particular instances. If you're looking for some black metal with a good range of moods, Diabolical Masquerade's "Nightwork" is the way to go.

Official website

Official MySpace

Download "Nightwork" (1998)

Watch a YouTube clip of "Haunted by Horror"

Alestorm

2009-08-07T01:24:00.012-04:00

Do you like pirates? Do you like metal? If yes, then Scotland's Alestorm should be worth a listen. A combination of folk, power, and symphonic metal, this band makes for a jolly good time. Vocalist Christopher Bowes gives his best pirate impression, and while it may seem comical, what else would you expect from a band that calls themselves "True Scottish Pirate Metal"?

In 2008, Alestorm made their debut with "Captain Morgan's Revenge", an album with nine pirate-themed anthems that will place you on a boat in the middle of the sea. The band does an excellent job of setting the pirate mood, and the music is quite well-done. Guitar harmonies all-around, solos, and sing-along pirate choruses pave the way for a fun listen.

2009 saw the release of "Black Sails at Midnight", as Alestorm stayed true to the sound of their previous record. There's even more rum-drinking and swashbuckling fun here. So if you're in the mood for some epic metal with a sense of humor, then walk the plank with Alestorm.

Official website

Official MySpace

Download "Captain Morgan's Revenge" (2008)

Download "Black Sails at Midnight" (2009)

Watch the official music video for "Keelhauled"

Keep of Kalessin

2009-08-05T02:48:00.005-04:00

Keep of Kalessin is a black metal band from Norway. Since thier formation in 1993, the band has released 4 full-length albums. Their 2008 black metal masterpiece "Kolossus" is a buffet of badass guitar-playing, creative drum beats, and top-notch musical progression.

Keep of Kalessin is not your average bm band as it has many progressive and melodic touches which are incorporated gracefully into their black metal groundwork. The band's latest effort, Kolossus, is a testament to what modern black metal should aspire to be.

Official forums

Official MySpace

Download "Kolossus" (2008)

Watch a YouTube clip of "A New Empire's Birth"

Bloodbound

2009-08-04T22:52:00.016-04:00

Bloodbound is a heavy/power metal band from Sweden, formed in 2004. On their debut album "Nosferatu" in 2005, Bloodbound's music seemed to be heavily influenced by bands such as Iron Maiden and Helloween. Massive choruses and galloping guitars were a big staple in the music, as were harmonies.

On their second record, "Book of the Dead" in 2007, original singer Urban Breed had departed from the band and ex-Jaded Heart frontman Michael Bormann handled session vocals. His voice gave the album more of an 80's feel, but the influences from the first album still remained intact.

With Bloodbound's latest release, "Tabula Rasa", the band has evolved from the sound displayed on the first two albums. Gone are the Iron Maiden-style guitar gallops, replaced with a heavier, more modern metal approach. Vocalist Urban Breed is back on board, and resumes his rightful place in the band. While the sound is more modern this time, the songs are as catchy as ever.

This album rocks harder than previous albums, although things are slightly less power metal and less epic. If you're looking for power metal akin to Helloween, check out Nosferatu and Book of the Dead. But if you want a heavier and more rocking side of Bloodbound, get Tabula Rasa.

Official website

Official MySpace

Download "Nosferatu" (2005)

Download "Book of the Dead" (2007)

Download "Tabula Rasa" (2009)

Watch a YouTube clip of "Sweet Dreams of Madness"

Disarmonia Mundi

2009-08-03T02:07:00.016-04:00

Disarmonia Mundi is a melodic death metal band from Italy. The band formed in 1999 and have released 3 full-length albums: Nebularium (2002), Fragments of D-Generation (2004), and Mind Tricks (2006). Their latest album, Mind Tricks, is an onslaught of melodic death metal goodness. The band gives you enough variety in their vocals as they have high-pitched growls, death growls, and clean vocals (FYI: Bjorn "Speed" Strid from Soilwork sings for DM). Their melodies are sweet and consistently good all throughout the album. Get Mind Tricks, enough said.

Official website

Official MySpace

Download "Mind Tricks" (2006)

Watch a YouTube clip of "Liquid Wings"

Vanishing Point

2009-08-02T19:28:00.010-04:00

Vanishing point is a progressive metal band from Melbourne, Australia. They have released 4 albums since their debut "In Thought" in 1997. Their 2005 release "Embrace the Silence" is a masterpiece of modern metal. Singer Silvio Massaro gives an emotional vocal performance, and the songs are extremely infectious. The lyrics are also thought-provoking and well-written, speaking mostly of real-world subjects. You won't find many fantasy lyrics here, if any at all. As most of the album's tracks are above 5 minutes, each one usually features a healthy amount of time signature changes and solos.

Every single song on Embrace the Silence is overflowing with brilliant melodies. There's a wide array of sounds here, ranging from bright and happy songs, to sad ballads. The band's guitarists, Chris Porcianko and Tom Vucur, weave beautiful harmonies that leave a lasting impression on the listener. It's easy to detect some 1970's prog-rock and even Dream Theater influences, but the band does an impressive job of creating their own distinct sound. If you enjoy longer songs with great musicianship and melodic music, Vanishing Point is a sure bet.

Official website

Official MySpace

Download "Embrace the Silence " (2005)

Watch a YouTube clip of "Hollow"

Other Genres

2009-08-02T03:29:00.001-04:00

Bands:

Bison B.C.
Genre: Stoner Metal
Country: Canada

Bison B.C.

2009-08-02T03:08:00.009-04:00

Bison B.C. is a Canadian stoner metal band that formed in 2006. Having just formed not too long ago, Bison B.C. already has two full-length albums: Earthbound (2007) and Quiet Earth (2008). This band, especially in their 2008 release, is very reminiscent of Mastodon. The music has abundant rocking riffage and guitar solos to please all you guitar-hounds. They also incorporate various unexpected sounds in their music that enhances the apparent progressive quality they so clearly show off. If you like albums that come off as like a long rocking jam session, Bison B.C. is the way to go.

Official MySpace

Download "Quiet Earth" (2008)

Watch a YouTube clip of "Wendigo Pt.1 (Quest for Fire)"

Hibria

2009-08-01T18:52:00.013-04:00

Hibria is a fast-paced power metal band from Brazil. They have released 2 full-length albums since their debut "Defying the Rules" in 2004. The band's latest album "The Skull Collectors", released in 2008, is another assault of their signature speed/power metal style. This is blistering, testosterone-injected power metal at its best. Shredding solos and aggressive, thrashy riffs will kick you in the face on every song here. Singer Iuri Sanson's vocals are soaring, melodic, and suit the band's sound effectively. Furious double-bass and guitar harmonies are paramount, as are infectious choruses. Anyone that's looking for speedy power metal should no doubt give Hibria a listen.

Official website

Official MySpace

Download "Defying the Rules" (2004)

Download "The Skull Collectors" (2008)

Watch a YouTube clip of "Reborn From the Ashes"

Made of Hate

2009-07-31T23:42:00.016-04:00

Made of Hate is a melodic death metal band from Poland. They released one album under the name Archeon, but unveiled their debut "Bullet in Your Head" under the new moniker in 2008. The band's style is a combination of various genres, including power, speed, thrash, neo-classical, and melodic death. Upon first listen, drawing comparisons to bands like Children of Bodom is almost unavoidable.

Yes, Made of Hate plays a style of metal that is very close to that of Bodom's early albums. With all talk of copying other styles aside, this album is very well-made. The band draws huge inspiration from classical music, as so many melodies on this album are of neo-classical style. The vocals on Bullet in Your Head are of the higher-pitched growled style. If you're looking for a metal album that's rocking and full of melody: this one is a great choice.

Official website

Official MySpace

Download "Bullet in Your Head" (2008)

Watch a YouTube clip of "Bullet in Your Head"

Symphonic Metal

2009-07-31T21:05:00.002-04:00

Symphonic metal or opera metal is a term used to describe heavy metal music that has symphonic elements; that is, elements that sound similar to a classical symphony. Symphonic metal is both a genre of metal and a name given to several subgenres of other metal genres, and as such, both forms of usage have slightly varying definitions. The genre refers to bands that combine aspects of varying metal genres, with signature female-lead vocals and operatic/classical themes to give the music a feeling of being a symphony.

Taken from: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Symphonic_metal

Symphonic Metal bands:

Hollenthon
Genre: Symphonic/Melodic Death Metal
Country: Austria

Hollenthon

2009-07-31T20:44:00.014-04:00

Hollenthon is a symphonic/melodic death metal band from Austria. Since their formation in 1994, Hollenthon has released 3 full-length albums which you can download below. Hollenthon's music is supremely symphonic as it is riddled with orchestral elements. If you like epic-sounding metal but prefer death growls over power vocals then this is the band for you. This music is not for the frail-hearted; it's loud, in your face, "i-am-gonna-bite-your-head-off-even-if-have-a-sword-in-hand" kind of music. In other words, if you like subtlety, go somewhere else, because Hollenthon does everything epic and heavy.

Official website

Official MySpace

Download "Domus Mundi" (1999)

Download "With Vilest of Worms To Dwell" (2001)

Download "Opus Magnum" (2008)

Watch a YouTube clip of "Son of Perdition"

Lechery

2009-07-31T05:09:00.012-04:00

Lechery is a heavy metal band from Sweden. The band is relatively new having only been formed in 2004. Their only full-length album released in 2008 entitled "Violator" is as good as modern heavy metal gets. If you're a stubborn metalhead who only worships heavy metal from the 80s, Lechery will smack you in the face with their debut album and make you a believer of modern-day heavy metal. With this much promise, Lechery is sure to explode in the metal scene soon.

Official website

Official MySpace

Download "Violator" (2008)

Watch a YouTube clip of "Come Alive"

Neoclassical Metal

2009-07-31T04:10:00.007-04:00

Neo-classical metal is a subgenre of heavy metal music that is heavily influenced by classical music. It refers to a very technical performance[1] consisting of elements borrowed from both classical and heavy metal music. Yngwie Malmsteen, the most notable musician in the sub-genre, contributed greatly to the development of the style in the 1980s.

Taken from: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neo-classical_metal

Neoclassical Bands:

Victor Smolski
Genre: Symphonic/Neoclassical Metal
Country: Belarus (Minsk)

Virtuocity

Genre: Neoclassical Metal/Power Metal

Country: Finland

Victor Smolski

2009-07-31T03:51:00.011-04:00

Victor Smolski is a guitarist who primarily plays lead guitar for Germany metal band Rage. His second solo effort, "Majesty and Passion" is a collection of metalized versions of Johann Sebastian Bach compositions. Smolski brings Bach into the realm of heavy metal, adding his crunchy guitar tone and face-melting solos along with a full symphony orchestra. The other members of Rage at the time were also on hand for the record. Drummer Mike Terrana provides his trusty beats, and vocalist Peavy Wagner lends his voice for narration scattered throughout the album. This album could alternatively be called "Rage performs Bach".

If you're not familiar with Rage, don't worry. This record is a fine example of mixing classical music with heavy metal. Victor Smolski shows off his chops and brings these Bach compositions to new levels. Everything here just reeks of high-quality material, and should please fans of both metal and classical. If you're a fan of both of these genres, look no further than Majesty and Passion.

Official website

MySpace Fan page

Rage official website

Download "Majesty and Passion" (2004)

Watch a YouTube clip of "Suite 1: Courante"

Enslavement of Beauty

2009-07-31T03:50:00.011-04:00

Enslavement of Beauty is a melodic black metal band from Norway. The band formed in 1995 and have 3 full-length albums: Traces O' Red (1999), Megalomania (2001), and Mere Contemplations (2007). Calling this band's music simply "melodic black metal" does not suffice. Enslavement of Beauty is one of those bands where it's extremely difficult to attribute to one or two metal sub-genres alone because it showcases a multitude of metal sounds. At times, you will swear that this is a power metal band with growling, and then change your mind once it changes into a more melodic or gothic style. In fact, it could be said that the only "black" element this band has are its vocal and lyrical style. But other than that, expect bursts of different metal styles to pound your ears hard.

This band obviously does not care for the usual black metal formula. The band name and logo speaks to this truth and more importantly, their music does as well. Enslavement of Beauty is different and fun, so put your corpse paint back in that drawer and embrace variety in the most evil genre known in metal.

Official MySpace

Download "Mere Contemplations" (2007)

Watch a YouTube clip of "Exit There; and Disappear"

Black Metal

2009-07-31T03:43:00.013-04:00

Black Metal is an extreme subgenre of heavy metal. It often employs fast tempos, shrieked vocals, highly distorted guitars played with tremolo picking, double-kick drumming, and unconventional song structure.

Taken from: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_metal

Black Metal bands:

Abigail Williams
Genre: Melodic/Symphonic Black Metal
Country: United States of America

Diabolical Masquerade
Genre: Atmospheric/Melodic Black Metal
Country: Sweden

Enslavement of Beauty
Genre: Melodic Black Metal
Country: Norway

Keep of Kalessin
Genre: Black Metal
Country: Norway

Thrash Metal

2009-07-31T03:37:00.006-04:00

Thrash metal is a subgenre of heavy metal that is characterized by its fast tempo and aggression. Thrash metal songs typically use fast, percussive and low-register guitar riffs, overlaid with shredding-style lead work.[1] Thrash metal lyrics often deal with social issues using direct and denunciatory language, an approach which partially overlaps with the hardcore genre.

Taken from: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thrash_metal

Thrash Metal bands:

Gojira
Genre: Thrash/Death/Groove Metal
Country: France

Sanctity
Genre: Melodic Thrash Metal
Country: United States of America

Abigail Williams

2009-07-31T03:35:00.012-04:00

No, it's not pure black metal. If that's what you're looking for then this is not the band for you. Abigail Williams is a melodic black metal band from the United States of Metalcore... eh, America. Although they aren't from Norway, Abigail Williams could very well be. The music is intricate and ever-changing. There are always several things going on whether it be symphonic elements or sweet-sounding piano sections. But at the core, they are a black metal band. Expect the mandatory blast beats and evilness. There is a great deal of vocal range in their music; from black growls to death growls to clean vocals. In a nutshell, Abigail Williams is for you if you enjoy the extreme elements of black metal but at the same time, value melodies and sound progression.

The band formed in 2005 and have one album under their belt called "In The Shadow of a Thousand Suns" which was released in 2008. Check it out.

Official MySpace

Download "In The Shadow of a Thousand Suns" (2008)

Watch a YouTube clip of "The World Beyond"

Sanctity

2009-07-31T03:18:00.012-04:00

Sanctity is a US thrash metal band from North Carolina. After forming in 1998, the band released various demos until their first full-length "Road to Bloodshed" debuted on Roadrunner records in 2007. The album is a skull-crushing assault of modern-day thrash metal. From the opening track "Beneath the Machine", the energy level is cranked up, and fists are ready to fly. Although singer Jared MacEachern would leave the band shortly after this album, he makes a fine thrash vocalist. His vocal style on this record is usually the middle-ground between clean and harsh vocals.

The songs here are very catchy and melodic, with punishing riffs and shredding guitar solos. Call the choruses poppy if you wish, but you'll be singing along to them for quite some time. The band seems to make a very modern approach to thrash metal, but Road to Bloodshed just rocks hard. Headbangers shouldn't pass this one up. This is melodic modern thrash metal at its best.

Official website

Official MySpace

Download "Road to Bloodshed" (2007)

Watch a YouTube clip of "Beneath the Machine"

Melodic Death Metal

2009-07-30T18:57:00.006-04:00

Melodic death metal (also referred to as melodeath) is a subgenre of death metal which combines the melody of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) with the intensity of death metal. The genre is also known as Gothenburg metal, a reference to the city in Sweden where it originated. Originally the genre combined the harmony style and groove melodies of heavy metal with the harsh thrashing sound and vocals of death metal. Later the genre evolved due to many different influences, a notable evolution in the genre being the addition of keyboards. Melodic death metal contains more melodic guitar riffs, melodic solos, and acoustic guitar work than traditional death metal. It also contains more comprehensible lyrics with traditional death growl vocal input.

Taken from: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Melodic_death_metal

Melodic Death Metal bands:

Disarmonia Mundi
Genre: Melodic Death Metal
Country: Italy

Insomnium
Genre: Melodic Death Metal
Country: Finland

Made of Hate
Genre: Melodic/Neo-Classical Death Metal
Country: Poland

Heavy Metal

2009-07-30T18:44:00.009-04:00

Heavy metal (often referred to simply as metal) is a genre of rock music[1] that developed in the late 1960s and early 1970s, largely in England and the United States.[2] With roots in blues-rock and psychedelic rock, the bands that created heavy metal developed a thick, massive sound, characterized by highly amplified distortion, extended guitar solos, emphatic beats, and overall loudness. Heavy metal lyrics and performance styles are generally associated with masculinity and machismo.

Taken from: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heavy_metal_music

Heavy Metal bands:

Axel Rudi Pell
Genre: Heavy/80's/Power Metal
Country: Germany

Lechery

Genre: Heavy Metal

Country: Sweden

Messiah's Kiss

Genre: Heavy Metal

Country: Germany

Insomnium

2009-07-30T18:42:00.012-04:00

Finland does melodic death metal the best. This is a fact. And from this awesome country, comes Insomnium. Since their formation in 1997, they have released four full-length albums namely "In the Halls of Awaiting" (2002), "Since the Day It All Came Down" (2004), "Above the Weeping World" (2006), and "Across the Dark" (2009).

Insomnium's music is melodic death metal at its best. Their guitarists, Ville Friman and Ville Vänn, make wonderful engaging melodies and at the same time, come out with riffs that rock the skull hard. What is most captivating about this band are their melodies and with it, they take you into an array of musical experiences. If you care for dark melody-driven metal, Inosmnium is a sure bet.

Official website

Official MySpace

Download "Since the Day It All Came Down" (2004)

Download "Above the Weeping World" (2006)

Watch a YouTube clip of "Drawn to Black"

Axel Rudi Pell

2009-07-30T18:13:00.010-04:00

Axel Rudi Pell is a heavy metal band from Germany, with a sound that comes straight from the 1980's. The band takes its name from lead guitarist and songwriter, Axel Rudi Pell. There have been 13 full-length releases since the band's formation in 1989. Often, they will dip into power metal, complete with mutli-album concepts and fantasy lyrics. A few different vocalists have been in the band; none more fitting than current singer Johnny Gioeli. When he joined in 1998 for the Oceans of Time record, the stable lineup was complete and the band would continue to produce solid albums until present day.

Ballads are a hallmark in Axel's music, as three ballad compilations have been released so far. Another songwriting staple is Pell's epic songs. On most of his albums, one will find a song clocking in at 8+ minutes, with long and emotional guitar solos. While Axel Rudi Pell never strays too far from their formula, rest assured that the music on each album is of top-notch quality. Check out the following albums for a healthy dose of modern hard rock/metal with an 80's flair.

Official website

Official MySpace

Download "Kings and Queens" (2004)

Download "Mystica" (2006)

Download "Tales of the Crown" (2008)

Watch a YouTube clip of "Fly to the Moon"

Folk Metal

2009-07-30T04:52:00.007-04:00

Folk metal is a sub-genre of heavy metal music that developed in Europe during the 1990s. As the name suggests, the genre is a fusion of heavy metal with traditional folk music. This includes the widespread use of folk instruments and, to a lesser extent, traditional singing styles.

Taken from: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Folk_metal

Folk Metal bands:

Alestorm
Genre: Folk/Power/Symphonic Metal
Country: United Kingdom (Scotland)

Wuthering Heights
Genre: Progressive/Power/Folk Metal
Country: Denmark

Wuthering Heights

2009-07-30T04:13:00.014-04:00

Wuthering Heights is a power/folk metal band from Denmark. With 4 albums under their belt, the band is due to release a 5th full-length in late 2009. Their latest release, The Shadow Cabinet, is an onslaught of progressive, power, and folk metal. With celtic sounds galore and powerful melodies abundant, Wuthering Heights should not be overlooked by any fan of the aforementioned genres. Vocalist Nils Patrik Johansson is the perfect voice for the band, as his distinct sound whisks you away, deep into a medieval forest. Occasionally, the band will abandon their electric intstruments, and delve into pure folk music. Make no mistake though, there is plenty of rocking out to be had. Headbangers and aspiring bards alike will all find their niche when looking into The Shadow Cabinet.

Official website

Official MySpace

Download "The Shadow Cabinet" (2006)

Watch a YouTube clip of "Faith - Apathy Divine Part 1"

Progressive Metal

2009-07-30T03:58:00.009-04:00

Progressive metal (sometimes shortened to prog metal) is a fusion genre: a mixture of progressive rock and heavy metal. Progressive metal blends the powerful, guitar-driven sound of metal with the complex compositional structures, odd time signatures, and intricate instrumental playing of progressive rock. Some progressive metal bands are also influenced by jazz fusion and classical music. Like progressive rock songs, progressive metal songs are usually much longer than standard metal songs, and they are often thematically linked in concept albums. As a result, progressive metal is rarely heard on mainstream radio and video programs.

Taken from: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Progressive_metal

Progressive Metal bands:

Ayreon
Genre: Progressive Metal
Country: Netherlands

Pagan's Mind
Genre: Progressive Metal
Country: Norway

Seventh Wonder
Genre: Progressive/Power Metal
Country: Sweden

Vanishing Point
Genre: Melodic/Progressive Metal
Country: Australia

Seventh Wonder

2009-07-30T03:29:00.010-04:00

Seventh Wonder is a progressive metal band from Sweden. Their third full-length and latest album, Mercy Falls, is an emotional roller coaster of a concept album. Their music could be described as a mixture of Symphony X and Dream Theater, with countless other influences. Singer Tommy Karevik gives a convincing performance, as his soaring vocals bring the characters on this album to life.

Mercy Falls is laden with tasteful and melodic guitar solos, and the keyboards are quite prevalent as well. During your stay in Mercy Falls, you will laugh, cry, and never be bored for a moment. This is truly one of the essential releases of 2008, and should not be missed by any fan of progressive metal.

Official website

Official MySpace

Buy Mercy Falls

Download "Mercy Falls" (2008)

Watch a YouTube clip of "Welcome to Mercy Falls"

Lost Horizon

2009-07-30T03:03:00.022-04:00

Lost Horizon is a Swedish power metal band from the most "metally-gifted" country in the world, Sweden. They formed in 1990 and have released two albums: "Awakening the World" (2001) and "A Flame to the Ground Beneath" (2003). In 2004, Horizon's vocalist Daniel Heiman left the band thus leaving them with the gargantuan challenge of looking for a vocal replacement. Heiman is one of the best power vocalists you will ever come across; no one equals him in vocal control and projection. In the two albums they put out with Heiman, the music is heavy, fast, rocking, and doused with Heiman's perfectly-pitched screams, malevolent laughter, and aggressive style.

Lost Horizon's metal will empower you―like a fearless knight as his steed fiercely gallops into the dawn of battle―and leave you wanting more. A main ingredient that culminates this effect would be Heiman's vocals which is why it is truly a tragedy that he left Lost Horizon for non-metal pursuits (i.e. a rock band called Lavett). Boo. Hopefully, Heiman will regain his senses and re-join Lost Horizon. 'Til then, empower yourself with these two albums.

Official website

Official MySpace

Download "Awakening the World" (2001)

Download "A Flame to the Ground Beneath" (2003)

Watch a YouTube Clip of "Sword in the Metal Wind"

Power Metal

2009-07-29T23:33:00.021-04:00

Power metal is a style of heavy metal music combining characteristics of traditional metal with thrash metal or speed metal, often within symphonic context. The term refers to two different but related styles: the first pioneered and largely practiced in North America with a harder sound similar to speed metal, and a later more widespread and popular style based in Europe (especially Germany, Italy, Scandinavia) and Japan (early Visual Kei bands) with a lighter, more melodic sound and frequent use of keyboards.

Taken from: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Power_metal

Power Metal bands:

Bloodbound
Genre: Heavy/Power Metal
Country: Sweden

Burning in Hell
Genre: Power Metal
Country: Brazil

Eyes of Shiva
Genre: Heavy/Power Metal
Country: Brazil

Hibria
Genre: Speed/Power Metal
Country: Brazil

Lost Horizon
Genre: Power Metal
Country: Sweden

Persuader
Genre: Power/Thrash Metal
Country: Sweden

Powerwolf
Genre: Power Metal
Country: Germany

Savage Circus
Genre: Power Metal
Country: Germany

Serenity
Genre: Progressive/Power Metal
Country: Austria

Persuader

2009-07-29T22:21:00.017-04:00

Persuader is a power metal band that hails from Sweden. They have released 3 full-length albums since their formation in 1997. Their music is usually fast, aggressive, thrashy, melodic, and epic. Vocalist Jens Carlsson is often compared to Blind Guardian frontman Hansi Kürsch. Carlsson is also the lead vocalist of Savage Circus; a band that once housed former Blind Guardian drummer Thomen Stauch. To describe and give praise to Carlsson's vocals would not do justice to it but in a simple attempt to do so, it could be described as an ideal marriage between epic and aggressive vocal stlyes.

Persuader is the perfect combination of thrash and power metal, as most songs are fast-paced and intense while still containing epic sing-along choruses. This band is highly recommended to anyone who is interested in power metal, thrash, or if you just enjoy epic catchy music.

Official website

Official MySpace

Download "Evolution Purgatory" (2004)

Download "When Eden Burns" (2006)

Watch a YouTube clip of "Sanity Soiled"