[For Beginners] The Epic World of Symphonic Metal: A Collection of Popular and Classic Songs

Master Of The Bright SeaDark Horizon

Dark Horizon – Master Of The Bright Sea

An Italian band.

Guided by flowing keyboards, they unfold a fantastical symphonic metal sound.

With catchy choruses as well, it’s a track that, despite its low profile, can be recommended to those getting into symphonic metal or melodic speed metal for the first time.

Königin der NachtSCHWARZER ENGEL

SCHWARZER ENGEL – Königin der Nacht (OFFICIAL VIDEO)

A German band.

Anyway, the vocalist’s persona really stands out.

He looks like someone who’d appear in a Western video game, so no wonder people run away like in the music video.

His low-pitched German singing also brings to mind fellow countrymen Rammstein.

If you’re looking for impact in a song, give them a listen.

Chatiment De La RoseAnorexia Nervosa

anorexia nervosa chatiment de la rose

From start to finish, this song barrels ahead at top speed with incredible power.

There’s no time to catch your breath—it’s like saying, “If you can’t keep up, we’re leaving you behind!” The vocalist’s commanding death growls and the storm-like onslaught of sound deliver a satisfying kind of exhaustion.

Earthly IllusionsDiabulus in Musica

DIABULUS IN MUSICA – Earthly Illusions (Official Audio) | Napalm Records

It’s a very cool song that stands out with its intense riffs, powerful speed, and heavy, impactful choruses, but it may not feel very original since it has Epica-like elements throughout.

That said, the quality is high, and the band’s arrangements and performance are excellent.

Bubonic WaltzSONS OF SEASONS

SONS OF SEASONS – Bubonic Waltz | Napalm Records

A German band, formed around Kamelot’s keyboardist.

Both the songs and the vocalist’s tone are quintessentially Kamelot.

In the latter half they try to differentiate themselves with choirs and female spoken parts, but it still feels very Kamelot-like.

UnbelieverSeptic Flesh

Septicflesh – Unbeliever

While it’s a breakneck death metal track, there’s an unmistakable air of decadence.

The epic-tinged sound and choir keep it from being merely destructive.

It’s symphonic death metal that I can recommend even to those who’ve never listened to death metal before.

Skies of AmazoniaAquaria

Aquaria – Skies of Amazonia

Contrary to what its gentle opening piano melody might suggest, this piece unfolds dramatically.

The mystical timbre of the percussion in the interlude makes the song even more intriguing.

After briefly settling down, it brings the chorus in with a bang at the end—and that’s really cool.