![[For Beginners] The Epic World of Symphonic Metal: A Collection of Popular and Classic Songs](https://i.ytimg.com/vi_webp/mLz61g0JLxQ/maxresdefault.webp)
[For Beginners] The Epic World of Symphonic Metal: A Collection of Popular and Classic Songs
A vast sonic universe woven from the majesty of orchestral music and the intensity of heavy metal—that is symphonic metal.
Its distinctive musicality, born from the fusion of the elegance of classical music and the power of metal, has long captivated music fans.
The world conjured by beautiful female vocals, orchestral arrangements, and a weighty guitar sound has truly opened up a new horizon in music.
In this article, we’ll introduce essential masterpieces and pivotal tracks that have contributed to the genre’s development.
Even if you’ve never experienced the allure of symphonic metal, take this opportunity to peer into its grand world!
[For Beginners] The Epic World of Symphonic Metal: A Roundup of Popular and Classic Tracks (1–10)
Shot In The DarkWithin Temptation
One of the bands that propelled symphonic metal into a major genre is the Dutch group Within Temptation.
The female vocalist Sharon den Adel’s singing has a stirring, emotionally evocative quality that defines the band’s character.
It’s among the more accessible sides of symphonic metal, so this is a track I’d recommend even to those new to metal.
Emerald SwordRhapsody of Fire
When asked what symphonic metal sounds like, one band that delivered a definitive answer is Italy’s Rhapsody of Fire.
Their renowned track Emerald Sword, in particular, distills the film score–like elements that define their appeal.
Fabio Lione, who handled vocals until his departure in 2016, became a leading singer in the power metal scene with a vocal style reminiscent of an opera performer.
AmaranthNIGHTWISH
Nightwish, from Finland, is one of the bands that laid the groundwork for symphonic metal’s global rise.
This track comes from the period with their second vocalist, Anette Olzon, and the album Dark Passion Play became a worldwide hit that can be considered one of their signature works.
It’s a masterpiece where Anette’s crystalline vocals blend perfectly with the metal sound.
To Mega TherionTherion
Therion from Sweden is a leading band that helped shape the history of symphonic metal.
Listening now, the sound might feel a bit dated, but their songs—adding classical elements and a real choir to the dark metal of what was originally a death metal band—achieve a shocking level of completeness, with surprising developments continuing right up to the end.
The album Theli, which includes this track, could be said to have influenced every symphonic metal band.
Riding CloudsKERION
A masterpiece that packs in the very essence of symphonic metal to the max! This French band features a female vocalist, with members who also play in Fairyland.
They’re highly rated among metal fans who love melodramatic, “cheesy” phrases, and the violin lines intertwining in equal measure with the lead guitar are simply irresistible.
The album that includes this track, Cloudriders Part 2: Technowars, is a must-check!
Dawn Of The DragonstarTwilight Force
If you ask, “Who stands at the pinnacle of modern symphonic metal?” many would name Twilight Force.
Hailing from Sweden, they command strong support from melodic metal fans with a symphonic sound worthy of being called the true successor to Rhapsody.
Their meticulously crafted fantasy world is another hallmark—be sure to check out their story-driven music videos.
The Night of the AgeDark Moor
Dark Moor from Spain are not only top-tier in symphonic metal, but also masters of kusamero—those gloriously melodramatic, “cheesy” melodies beloved by melodic metal fans.
Their symphonic arrangements further amplify melodies that make any metalhead want to throw a fist in the air.
By the way, this track is from the period when their former vocalist Elisa C.
Martín was in the band—but if you listened without any prior info, would you have realized it was a female vocalist?