[Overwhelming Kusamero] A collection of classic Kusametal songs
If you’ve just started listening to so-called melodic speed metal or power metal, you’ve probably often come across unique phrases like “kusamero” or “kusai” used to describe works and songs.
Of course, it’s not talking about smell.
In Japanese, “kusai” is used to describe things like melodious, wistful tunes that suit Japanese tastes, fantastical worldbuilding, or songs with over-the-top, dramatic structures.
Heavy metal that features these elements is referred to in Japan as “Kusa Metal,” a uniquely Japanese subgenre.
This time, we’ll introduce a wide selection of quintessential Kusa Metal classics from around the world—from globally famous bands to beloved B-tier groups adored by devoted fans.
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[Overwhelmingly Cheesy Melodies] A Collection of Cheesy Metal Masterpieces (11–20)
Dark MasqueradeDRAGON GUARDIAN
A song by Dragon Guardian, a speed metal project that made its major debut in 2009 with the concept of creating music that fuses anime songs and melodic speed metal.
Featured on their third album, Dragonvarius, the track conveys its concept through a fantastical worldview that’s especially easy to grasp precisely because it’s in Japanese.
The straightforward vocals and driving arrangement give it a pop accessibility that even non-metal fans may find easy to enjoy.
It’s a dramatic number that showcases the signature “cheesy” melodies of melodic speed metal and its affinity with anime songs.
Sunrise In The DreamlandAzrael
A power metal track by AZRAEL, whose trademark is the high-tone vocals of AKIRA, who also performs as the vocalist of Prophesia.
It’s the title track from their third album, “SUNRISE IN THE DREAMLAND,” and that opening—where the band’s grand, ensemble sound melts into tear-jerking guitar phrases—is truly emotional.
AKIRA’s extraordinary high register rivals bands from Europe, the heartland of melodic speed metal, and really conveys the evolution of Japan’s metal scene.
It’s a fierce yet pop-leaning metal tune, dramatic with melancholic melodies and harmonies.
The Lord Of WolvesPathfinder
A song by Pathfinder, a symphonic power metal band from Poland known for their trademark high-velocity metal sound featuring flashy guitar work.
Included on their debut album “Beyond the Space, Beyond the Time,” it opens with a technically intricate guitar intro that’s sure to fire up metal fans on the spot.
Amid the high-speed, loud barrage, the melodic vocals shine, shaping the song’s world while remaining catchy.
It’s a track where you’ll want to pay special attention to the thrilling ensemble, including the guitar and bass solos.
Majesty of the Mithril MountainsDragonland
A song by Dragonland, a Swedish power metal band often hailed as a leading act in the Nordic metal scene since the 2000s.
Featured on their third album, Holy War, the track opens with high-speed drumming and classically styled synths that evoke the signature beauty of Scandinavian metal.
The twin-guitar obbligatos layered over the emotive vocals feel like the perfected form of a quintessentially “cheesy” melodic line.
It’s a brisk yet deeply melancholic metal tune, with a technical and dynamic ensemble that makes for a compelling listen.
Spirits of SkywardHeimdall
Heimdall, the Italian band that belts out epic metal, is a familiar name to fans of “kusa-melo” (cheesy melodic metal).
The moment you see their fantastically over-the-top cover art, some of you will instantly understand: this has got to be cheesy metal.
And indeed, they deliver the sound such listeners expect—but the vocals, with their quirky mannerisms, can be a bit of a sticking point… which, for those who love B-grade cheesy melodies, might actually be a selling point in its own way.
The track featured here, “Spirits Of Skyward,” is a killer tune from their second album, The Temple of Theil, released in 1999.
From the opening, the grandiose synths and choir, paired with relentless double bass, conjure a heroic atmosphere that stokes the listener’s excitement to the fullest.
Midway through, a beautiful piano accompaniment enters, and the dramatic structure—deftly shifting between intensity and respite—is sure to delight many fans of cheesy melodic metal.
Keep listening on repeat, and you might just end up loving it—including the vocals… maybe!
Scream Out LoudEmerald Sun
A song by Emerald Sun, a power metal band formed in 1998 and lauded as a gem of Greek melodic speed metal.
Featured on their second album, The Story Begins, it stands out with an intro marked by grand string sounds and a lyrical guitar riff highlighted by twin guitars.
Beyond the melody itself, the ensemble creates a somewhat nostalgic atmosphere—an arrangement that perfectly embodies what fans call “kusa-melo” (ultra-melodic, unabashedly sentimental metal).
An emotional metal tune whose highlights also include a melodious twin-lead guitar solo.
In conclusion
Were you overwhelmed by the oncoming wave of beautiful melodies—so much so that the sheer cheesiness gave you a bit of indigestion? Many of the songs introduced this time are staples of the “cheesy metal” scene, but if you dig deeper, you’ll find plenty of B-tier bands and lesser-known groups that consistently put out great work.
Use this article as a springboard to discover your own favorite brand of cheesy metal!