Recommended hard rock and heavy metal

[Forest Fairies] What Is Forest Metal? Recommended Bands Introduction

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.

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!

[Forest Fairies] What is Forest Metal? Recommended Bands (11–20)

GleipnirSKÁLMÖLD

SKÁLMÖLD – Gleipnir (Official) | Napalm Records

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!

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In conclusion

As mentioned at the beginning, the term “forest metal” itself was created as a promotional catchphrase for Korpiklaani and doesn’t actually exist as a musical genre.

That said, among enthusiasts on the internet there certainly are musical styles and music videos that are understood as forest metal.

Even as a bit of a joke, it might be fun to go looking for metal that has a forest-like vibe!