Recommended Russian rock bands. Special feature on popular overseas bands.

The WoodThe Sundial

The Sundial-The Wood

Sundial is a metal band that was active in the 2000s.

Their appeal lies in story-driven songs set in a gothic world.

They excel at sounds that evoke the “apocalypse” and the “occult,” hallmarks of doom metal.

Another draw is their coquettish female vocals entwined with a heavy band sound.

While many of their tracks are dark and slow-tempo, the simple instrumental arrangements make them approachable for metal newcomers.

Experience their exotic, downer-tinged sound.

Сиамские сердцаMumiy Troll

Сиамские сердца

Mumiy Troll, a rock band from Vladivostok often dubbed “the most dangerous garage band,” rose to prominence in the final days of the Soviet Union and gained popularity both at home and abroad.

In Japan, they were featured on NHK’s Russian language program and are also known for having performed live in Hakodate.

Famous for songs like Vladivostok 2000, their appeal lies in a lively bounce nestled within a tight rock sound.

If you enjoy American power pop, try listening to refreshingly upbeat tracks like Siamese Hearts (Сиамские сердца)!

Away From The SunAmber Tears

Amber Tears – Away From The Sun

Amber Tears is a Russian folk metal band that performs doomy songs themed around “paganism.” Active mainly in the 2000s, they’re known for a heavy metal sound driven at a slow tempo.

Influenced by Amorphis and Moonsorrow, their tone also evokes melodic death metal.

The growls that pulse through their slow rhythms convey a fantastical, melancholic storyline.

They’re a must-check band for those who enjoy psychedelic vocal styles.

OvsenNevid

Nevid – Ovsen

These days, you can’t talk about pagan metal or folk without mentioning Russian music.

Active in the 2000s–2010s, Nevid is a metal band whose folky, brisk groove is truly stirring.

Their fast-paced, orthodox heavy metal sound carries an ethnic flair.

The female vocals, which convey an epic sense of scale, are another highlight.

Among Russian metal, their songs tend to be fresh and melodic, so they’re a great listen even for metal beginners!

WerewolfTemnozor

Werewolf

Temnozor is a Russian black metal band formed in Obninsk, Kaluga Oblast.

Active in the 2000s, their songs primarily revolve around the theme of paganism, and they are known for tracks that address politics and religion.

As they don’t rely heavily on death growls, their music has a certain pop sensibility for black metal.

While delivering a powerful folk metal sound, they incorporate traditional instruments such as the flute, creating a distinctive timbre.

Experience their folkish sound that evokes the vast landscapes of Russia.

Wolf & GyrfalconTverd

Tverd – Wolf&Gyrfalcon

Tverdd was formed in 2007, centered around members of the metal band Pagan Reign.

Their male-female twin vocals and dramatic song developments leave a strong impression.

They excel at aggressive performances, with operatic singing and flute tones resonating dramatically.

The sound evokes progressive rock and hard rock, making it recommended for those who enjoy technical musicianship.

Why not experience a folkish sound that conveys the battles unique to Viking metal?

NagryanuliKalevala

Kalevala – Nagryanuli ( Нагрянули)

Kalevala is a folk metal band known for their name derived from the Finnish national epic.

Formed in 2007, they create music influenced by the ancient traditions of Finland and the Sámi.

While metal often evokes a doomy sound, their hallmark is a refreshing tone led by accordion.

With many melodious tracks sung by a powerful female vocalist, they’re a great listen even for those who are curious about metal bands but haven’t yet taken the plunge.