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

Wooden PintsKORPIKLAANI

KORPIKLAANI – Wooden Pints

To begin with, the theme of this article, “Mori Metal” (Forest Metal), is a coined term referring to the band Korpiklaani.

Globally renowned as a Finnish folk metal band—often described as forest sprites—they originally formed in 1997 under the name Shaman and released about two albums, but due to the existence of another band with the same name, they changed to the current Korpiklaani.

In Japan, when their works were released, the label coined “Mori Metal” as a marketing term to express their music.

Later, tags like “Tabi Metal” (Travel Metal) and “Sake Metal” (Booze Metal) were also used.

Their sound blends Nordic-style heavy metal with traditional folk instruments, creating a lively, celebratory atmosphere—like a drinking party in the woods—that perfectly embodies “Mori Metal.” Check out the music video for their classic Wooden Pints—known in Japan by the outrageous localized title “Sakaba de Kakutō Donjara Hoi”—and savor what Forest Metal is all about!

SolsaganFINNTROLL

FINNTROLL – Solsagan (OFFICIAL VIDEO)

A whirlwind of metal resounding in the forest—its name is Finntroll.

Featuring the figure of the troll that colors the legends of deep woods, the band was formed in Helsinki in 1997.

Their musical style intertwines folk and black metal, captivating fans.

Their Swedish-language songs are sprinkled with fairytale-like fantasy, inviting listeners on a mysterious journey.

In particular, the 2001 album Jaktens Tid gained popularity in Japan and they have continued to deliver hits since.

Their live performances are breathtaking, enthralling audiences.

The band’s unique energy and passion likely explain why they’re loved in Japan, transcending language barriers.

В объятиях МарыГРАЙ

ГРАЙ – В объятиях Мары (Official video) / In the arms of Mara

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!

NagryanuliKalevala

Kalevala – Nagryanuli ( Нагрянули)

Kalevala creates a mysterious soundscape wrapped in forest.

Borrowing their name from the Finnish epic, they’re a folk metal band from Moscow, Russia.

Formed in 2007, their songs—where Nordic melodies and passion intersect—are truly captivating.

Laced with refined musicianship and an exotic allure, they released their first studio album, “Kudel Belosnezhnogo L’na,” in 2008.

Embracing the charm of Nordic folk while delivering approachable melodies, they stir the hearts of listeners.

Ksenia Markevich’s vocals radiate a powerful individuality—beautiful yet strong—and her harmony with the somewhat rustic yet dramatic sound typical of frontier metal is a must-hear.

Be sure to check out the music video for “Nagryanuli,” where they perform right in the forest and even stage a battle—perfect for enjoying as “forest metal.”

Stenka Na StenkuARKONA

ARKONA – Stenka Na Stenku | Napalm Records

Formed in Moscow in 2002, Arkona captivates fans around the world with a musicality that transcends the boundaries of folk metal, weaving in themes from traditional Slavic mythology and folklore.

The only original member and frontwoman, Masha Scream, delivers a distinctive, powerful vocal performance—seamlessly shifting from soaring, beautiful clean vocals to ferocious death growls.

It’s truly breathtaking.

Their signature album, Vo Slavu Velikim!, showcases their wide-ranging musical approach and is well worth a listen.

Whether you’re a fan of folk metal or not, you should give Arkona’s music a try.

Ten More MilesTURISAS

TURISAS – Ten More Miles (OFFICIAL VIDEO)

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.

Flucht nach vornDartagnan

dArtagnan – Flucht nach vorn

D’Artagnan, taking flight from Germany to the world, is reviving medieval folk with a modern metal sound.

Debuting in 2016, they have earned high acclaim at home and abroad, including reaching No.

7 on the German album charts with Seit an Seit.

Their band name is taken from D’Artagnan of The Three Musketeers, and the spirit of “one for all, all for one” is alive in their music.

Bagpipes, violin, and powerful vocals come together as one, drawing you into a sensation like time travel.

Ben Metzner’s masterful tin whistle, Tim Bernard’s guitar and backing vocals, and, since 2018, Gustavo Strauss on violin have added even greater musical depth.

They call their style “Musketeer Rock,” a distinctly European sound that’s sure to surprise listeners who mainly enjoy American heavy metal.