Heavy-metal music is quite a generic term to describe a much broader world, animated by a wide variety of influences. The “building blocks” that allowed metal to become what it is today can be traced back to various musical genres, ranging from 70s hard rock and punk, down to other stuff that you would not expect, such as classical music and progressive. There are many different approaches to metal, each leaning towards a specific set of sounds and influences.
Certain branches of heavy metal were not only influenced by other music that came before, but also by other media, including social and political commentary, religious views, as well as literature. The latter played an extraordinary role in the inception of various subgenera of metal, including Epic Metal, Power, and Folk Metal.
In particular, the works of J.R.R. Tolkien, known for his acclaimed trilogy, “Lord of The Rings,” as well as “The Hobbit” and “Silmarillion,” helped shape to tone and feel of the music of many bands, influencing their lyrics as well as concepts and themes. A good example? Groups such as Cirith Ungol, Morgoth or the infamous Burzum owe their names directly to Tolkien’s work!
This playlist barely scratches the surface: Tolkien’s exciting and distinctive literary universe is credited by some to have kickstarted the fantasy genre alone, and many metal bands found a particular affinity with the characters, worlds, and stories of the English author.
Below you’ll find not only great works from Folk Metal acts such as Cruachan and Battlelore, but a wind rage of genres and bands such as Sabaton, Nightwish, Blind Guardian, and many more. You can preview the tracks below, but be sure to open up Spotify and follow ours list for updates as well.