[Forest Fairies] What Is Forest Metal? Recommended Bands Introduction
Have you heard of a genre with a name that makes little sense unless you know the backstory of “forest metal,” yet somehow sounds kind of cute?
In reality, it’s not that a music genre by this name is recognized overseas.
The truth is that the term was coined as a promotional tagline for the Japanese domestic releases of Korpiklaani, a popular Finnish folk metal band.
In this article, we introduce bands that could be considered fellow members of “forest metal,” starting with Korpiklaani—groups that “seem like they live in the forest” or have music videos filmed in the woods.
While the piece is a bit tongue-in-cheek, all the bands featured genuinely have excellent musicality, so please enjoy!
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[Forest Fairies] What Is Forest Metal? Recommended Bands (1–10)
From AfarEnsiferum
Ensiferum, known for their heroic sound, was born in the mystical land of Finland in 1995.
Their debut album was released in 2001, featuring a fresh and innovative sound that weaves folk elements into melodic death metal.
Beautiful folk melodies that feel like walking through a forest blend with high-velocity metal riffs, leading listeners on a fantastical journey.
In particular, the 2020 album Thalassic includes many sea-themed tracks, showcasing the band’s depth and unconventional musicality.
They have performed in Japan and are a highly popular band—if you’re curious, they’re definitely worth checking out!
Ten More MilesTURISAS
From Finland to the world, Turisas delivers a truly exceptional metal sound.
Adorned with distinctive war paint and captivating audiences with epic, Viking-era stage aesthetics, they are a sight to behold.
Formed in 1997, the band incorporates violin and accordion, forging a bold sonic identity that transcends folk metal and evokes the spirit of Viking metal.
Their signature work, “Battle Metal” (2004), has become nothing short of legendary among fans.
Their long-awaited Japan performance at a music festival in 2010 left many Japanese fans stunned.
They’re less forest dwellers and more like Vikings taking a breather in the woods to recover from battle—but never mind the details; dive into their sound and savor their spectrum from folk metal to Viking metal.
В объятиях МарыГРАЙ
Grai is a folk metal band that perfectly fits the image of something born from a deep forest.
Formed in 2005, they hail from Russia and are characterized by music rooted in Slavic culture.
Their use of traditional Russian instruments creates tones like mysterious melodies played in the heart of the woods.
The lineup features Irina Zybina’s beautiful vocals, with standout flute and bagpipe performances by Alia “Leta.” Their second album, O Zemle Rodnoy, released in 2011, came out not only in their home country but also across Europe, bringing their name to a much wider audience.
There’s no doubt they’re influenced by Korpiklaani, but if you’re looking for a different kind of “forest metal” sound than other bands offer, this is definitely a band you should check out!
[Forest Fairies] What is Forest Metal? Recommended Bands (11–20)
Wirtshaus GaudiEQUILIBRIUM
Equilibrium is a German epic–folk–pagan metal band that the country proudly boasts.
Born in Germany in 2001, their music masterfully fuses traditional Germanic melodies with folk and symphonic black metal.
Their unique world view became widely known with their 2005 debut album, Turis Fratyr.
The grand melodies crafted by bandleader René Berthiaume, combined with the woodland timbres of folk instruments like flute and violin, seize the ear and never let go.
Their songs themed around Germanic mythology captivate fans with their distinctiveness.
In 2010, with the addition of new vocalist Robse and drummer Hati, they achieved further musical evolution.
In short, their music lets you drift into a dreamlike state, as if adventuring through a fantasy forest.
Give it a listen and hear for yourself!
GleipnirSKÁLMÖLD
The world of Skálmöld from Iceland is a grand one, where Norse mythology comes alive.
Starting in Reykjavík in 2009, their story began with the 2010 debut album “Baldur.” Their folk metal, woven from Icelandic lyrics and traditional music, transports listeners to ancient battlefields.
Their appearance at Wacken Open Air in 2011 was a major step that rapidly raised the band’s profile and won them many fans for their musical style.
There’s no doubt about the appeal of Skálmöld’s music.
With bold, Viking-stirring riffs, at times graceful melodies, and addictive rhythms, it’s unforgettable after just one listen.
Even those who aren’t fans will be struck by their energy!
Exile Of The GodsEluveitie
Eluveitie captivates fans with their unique musicality, where Celtic-inspired melodies intertwine with metal sounds.
Since their formation in 2002, the band has incorporated a variety of traditional instruments while firmly maintaining the powerful framework of metal, transporting listeners to ancient battlefields.
In particular, Inis Mona from their second album Slania, released in 2008, enchants listeners with its beauty.
Eluveitie’s true brilliance shines in live performances, guiding countless audiences to an exquisite musical experience.
Their songs are not merely metal—they are art that tells the stories of history and peoples.
En Fallen JätteGrimner
Grimner is a band from Sweden that brought a fresh breeze to folk metal.
Their music weaves together Norse mythology and Viking legends with a heavy metal sound, while also offering refreshing melodies that feel as if you’re walking through a forest.
Their mastery of numerous instruments earned them high praise for their 2016 album Frost Mot Eld, which has amassed millions of streams.
In 2018, marking the band’s 10th anniversary, they released the album Vanadrottning, featuring the excellent vocals of their new member Martin, adding even more depth to their sound.
Their stage presence is absolutely powerful—highly recommended to experience them live.