Recommended bands from Ukraine. Popular bands overseas.

In my mindAzathoth Circle

Azathoth Circle – In my mind (Official video)

Azathoth Circle, a black metal band representing Ukraine.

Black metal is a subgenre of heavy metal known for its sharp, cutting sound, aiming to return to thrash metal—and it’s not an exaggeration to say it stands in contrast to death metal.

Their sound blends black metal with alternative elements, resulting in a style that’s approachable even for those who don’t usually listen to rock.

Definitely give them a listen.

Let Mepanivalkova

panivalkova – Let Me (official music video)

Panivalkova is one of Ukraine’s leading indie-pop bands.

If we were to describe their musical style in a single phrase, it would be “sensual minimalism.” That’s the catchphrase they use themselves, and true to the name, their songs are very simple, often centered on percussion and vocals.

Even within that simple melodic framework, they craft a compelling atmosphere—one of their key charms.

Be sure to check them out.

ЛунаMYSTERYA

MYSTERYA – Луна (official video)

Mysteria is a Ukrainian symphonic metal band known for its strikingly beautiful, symphony-like melodies.

Symphonic metal can vary greatly in atmosphere depending on the subgenre—some lean close to death metal—but Mysteria’s take is essentially the classic, straight-down-the-line style.

The hallmark dark tonality often associated with Ukrainian music fits their traditional symphonic metal perfectly, so if you like songs with a serious mood, they’re a must-check.

Army Of DeadTHY DESPAIR

THY DESPAIR – Army Of Dead (OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO)

Zai Despair is a band marked by ethereal female vocals and the sudden entrance of male death growls.

While they fall under what’s commonly called gothic metal, their style also evokes a folk-like atmosphere.

One of the band members handles the death growls, and the contrast with the female singer’s beautiful voice is strikingly unique.

Their style is close to Arkona, a Russian folk metal band, so if you like Arkona, this is a must-check!

Time.O.Torvald

O.Torvald – Time. Евровидение 2017. Финал нацотбора

O.

Torvald is a Ukrainian rock band formed in 2005.

Specializing in alternative rock and alternative metal, they gained global popularity after appearing at Eurovision in 2017.

If their musical style could be summed up in one word, it would be “drive.” Their sharply executed sound is striking, and the sense of speed evokes something close to thrash metal.

They also weave in the characteristically dark tonalities of Ukrainian music, making their work a must-check for listeners who enjoy a serious, somber atmosphere.

ГосподарI Miss My Death

I Miss My Death – Господар (Gospodar) | Official Music Video | Symphonic Metal

In Eastern Europe and the Nordic countries, a distinctive metal genre known as gothic metal has developed.

Among the highly acclaimed bands in Ukraine’s gothic metal scene is I Miss My Death.

Gothic metal often incorporates elements of symphonic metal, and their works are crafted to be highly melodic.

While the band makes extensive use of death growls, their sound is arranged in a way that’s very accessible even to those who don’t usually listen to that kind of music, making them a great recommendation for beginners.

ИскандерУндервуд

Ундервуд – Искандер [Премьера, 2022] 16+

Underwood is an alternative rock band formed in Crimea, the peninsula along Ukraine’s northern coast.

It’s no exaggeration to call them one of Ukraine’s leading bands, and they enjoy immense popularity across the Russian-speaking world.

They released a track in February 2022, and since Ukraine and Russia were at war at the time, it drew considerable attention.

The song translates Ukraine’s characteristic dark tonality into a catchy rock sound, making it very easy to listen to.