[For Beginners] A Collection of Iconic and Popular Songs Showcasing the Appeal of Viking Metal

The Crystal PalaceForlorn

Forlorn–The Crystal Palace

A song by Forlorn, a band from the Norwegian metal scene that pursued a unique, epic worldview.

Featured on the 1997 masterpiece The Crystal Palace, it evokes the imagery of a cold yet beautiful ancient castle with synth sounds reminiscent of an orchestra.

The dramatic interplay between serene melodies woven by clean vocals and the hallmark black metal growls epitomizes the appeal of Viking metal.

The weighty ensemble, elevated by unhurried guitar riffs, is deeply satisfying, making this a perfect metal tune for listeners who want to immerse themselves in a grand fantasy world.

King Of The Distant ForestMithotyn

Mithotyn – King Of The Distant Forest

In 1990s Sweden, the Viking metal band Mithotyn made a significant impact on subsequent artists despite their short period of activity.

Active from 1992 to 1999, they could be said to have laid the foundations for the later folk metal scene.

The piece introduced here is the title track from their 1998 classic album, “King of the Distant Forest.” This song’s sound—woven from melodic guitars and weighty keyboards—creates a sense of immediacy as if an ancient battlefield were unfolding before your eyes.

It portrays the tale of a solitary king reigning over a distant forest, and his pride and sorrow seem to surge into your chest alongside fierce screams.

The dramatic development and lyricism of this work will be irresistible to those who love the grand worldview of Norse mythology.

It’s a masterpiece that condenses the appeal of Viking metal, where wildness and beauty coexist.

Night SkyScald

Night Sky

A song by the Russian band Scald, who champion “Ancient Doom Metal,” a fusion of Viking metal and epic doom.

It appears on their debut album, Will of Gods Is a Great Power, released in October 1997.

The mournful yet majestic guitar riffs leave a deep impression, don’t they? The late vocalist Agyl’s earnest delivery vividly evokes emotions like human loneliness as we gaze up at the night sky and our questions about fate, making it feel as though we’re listening to a tale spun by an ancient hero.

It’s an immersive track, perfect for nights when you want to surrender to the epic, dramatic currents that dwell within its massive sound.

HimmelsrandEQUILIBRIUM

Himmelsrand

A song by the German metal band Equilibrium.

The original piece is the theme from the popular game The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, covered with the band’s signature heavy sound that amplifies its majestic melody.

The ensemble—fierce guitar riffs and powerful drums fused with a grand symphonic arrangement—instantly transports listeners to the snow-laden northern lands.

The track is included on the EP Waldschrein, released in August 2013.

It’s an emotional, dramatic number recommended not only for fans of the game but also for anyone who wants to fully immerse themselves in a fantasy world.

EwerounFalkenbach

Falkenbach – Eweroun [Official Lyric Video]

Falkenbach is an indispensable one-man project when discussing Germany’s Viking/folk metal scene.

Since its inception in 1989, it has delivered profound music centered on Norse mythology.

This piece is a lyrical and majestic number, marked by an acoustic intro and pristine clean vocals.

The lyrics employ a rare dialect said to have been spoken by the creator’s ancestors, and their resonance—imbued with an eternal longing for homeland and kin—strikes a chord in the listener’s heart.

The fusion of a grand mythological worldview with this warm human touch is precisely their allure.

Released in April 2013 as a limited single of 500 copies, the track was later included on the acclaimed album “Asa.” Take your time listening as you let your mind wander to ancient scenes.

Viking’s AnthemFolkearth

Folkearth – Viking’s Anthem [With lyrics]

Folk Earth is a unique project that brings together musicians from around the world remotely.

This track serves as the title song of their album “Viking’s Anthem,” released in June 2010.

Bold guitar riffs intertwine with the tones of traditional instruments like tin whistle and violin, instantly drawing the listener into a world of storytelling.

The lyrics depict the pride of warriors bound by blood and the unbreakable bonds of comradeship.

This powerful worldview superbly captures the appeal of Viking metal.

The piece’s vivid sense of presence—like an ancient battlefield unfolding before your eyes—is sure to set your heart ablaze.

It’s a must-listen for anyone who loves grand historical romance.

Suden TuntiMOONSORROW

MOONSORROW – Suden Tunti (OFFICIAL VIDEO)

A Finnish band.

Guided by a heavy intro that builds anticipation, the song proceeds at a mid-tempo pace.

The vocalist’s deep, guttural roar and the strongly folk-tinged, oriental melody make it very dramatic.

As a grand, slow-burning piece of metal, it exudes an exceptional sense of confidence.