What is folk metal and what are its primary stylistic origins?

Folk metal is a fusion genre of heavy metal music and traditional folk music that emerged in Europe during the 1990s. Its stylistic origins lie in the combination of heavy metal and various folk music traditions, often incorporating elements from world music as well.

When and where did folk metal primarily develop?

Folk metal primarily developed in Europe during the early 1990s.

What are some key characteristics of folk metal music?

Folk metal is characterized by the widespread use of folk instruments, and to a lesser extent, traditional singing styles. It can also feature softer instrumentation influenced by folk rock.

Which bands are recognized as the earliest pioneers of the folk metal genre?

The earliest bands credited with pioneering folk metal are Skyclad from England and Cruachan from Ireland.

How did Skyclad contribute to the development of folk metal?

Skyclad, formed in 1990, began as a thrash metal band but incorporated violins on their 1991 debut album, 'The Wayward Sons of Mother Earth'. Their second album further featured a prominent 'folky jig style' with the fiddle playing lead melodies, establishing an early folk metal sound.

What is Cruachan's significance in the folk metal scene?

Cruachan, formed in Dublin, Ireland in 1992, aimed from the outset to blend Irish folk music with extreme metal. Their 1995 debut album, 'Tuatha Na Gael', is considered by some, including author Fabrizio Giosue, as the first true folk metal album, as they integrated folk music as a defining element rather than just adding folk-sounding parts.

Which other early bands were influential in the development of folk metal?

Besides Skyclad and Cruachan, other early developers included Mägo de Oz from Spain, who incorporated Celtic folk music into their power metal from their 1994 debut, and Amorphis from Finland, whose 1994 album 'Tales from the Thousand Lakes' drew heavily from Finnish folk music.

What is medieval metal, and which band is credited with spearheading it?

Medieval metal is a regional variation of folk metal that emerged in Germany. The band Subway to Sally spearheaded this style, which blends hard rock and heavy metal with medieval melodies, often incorporating instruments like bagpipes, hurdy-gurdy, and lute.

What instruments are commonly used in medieval metal?

Medieval metal commonly features instruments such as bagpipes, hurdy-gurdy, lute, mandolin, shawm, fiddle, and flute, integrated into a hard rock and heavy metal framework.

What is Celtic metal, and which bands are associated with it?

Celtic metal is a subgenre that combines Celtic music with heavy metal. Bands like Cruachan and Waylander from Ireland, as well as Mägo de Oz and Thanateros from outside the Celtic nations, are early representatives of this style.

How did Primordial contribute to the Celtic metal sound?

Primordial, an Irish black metal act, incorporated Irish music in a subtle way through their chord progressions and timings, contributing to the unique sound within the folk-meets-black metal field.

What is oriental metal, and which band is considered a leading performer?

Oriental metal is a style of folk metal characterized by heavy use of Middle Eastern music styles and traditional elements from Jewish and Arabic folk music. The Israeli progressive metal band Orphaned Land is considered a leading performer of this style.

What are the lyrical themes commonly explored in folk metal?

Common lyrical themes in folk metal encompass paganism, nature, fantasy, mythology, and history.

How did the folk metal genre expand in the early 2000s?

The folk metal genre experienced a significant expansion in the early 2000s, particularly in Finland, with bands like Finntroll, Ensiferum, Korpiklaani, Turisas, and Moonsorrow gaining prominence.

What is unique about Finntroll's musical style?

Finntroll is known for its innovative blend of black metal with a Finnish polka style called humppa, utilizing humppa's characteristic bass lines and drumbeats, often simulated with keyboards.

How did Korpiklaani evolve into a folk metal band?

Korpiklaani's roots trace back to a Sami folk music group called Shamaani Duo. After evolving into a band named Shaman, they transitioned to folk metal, eventually changing their name to Korpiklaani and replacing yoik vocals and Sami language with real folk instruments and a more metal-oriented sound.

What is Moonsorrow's approach to folk metal?

Moonsorrow blends folk metal with Viking metal, incorporating traditional Finnish folk music into symphonic arrangements reminiscent of Viking metal bands like Bathory and Enslaved.

What are some of the folk instruments frequently used in folk metal?

Folk metal bands commonly utilize instruments such as the violin, tin whistle, flute, bagpipes, hurdy-gurdy, lute, mandolin, and shawm.

How do some folk metal bands replicate folk instrument sounds without using the actual instruments?

In the absence of actual folk instruments, some bands rely on keyboards to simulate the sounds of traditional folk instruments, as seen with bands like Storm, Empyrium, Finntroll, and Midnattsol.

What is the typical size of a folk metal band's lineup?

Due to the use of multiple folk instruments, it is common for folk metal bands to have six or more members in their regular lineup.

What variety of vocal styles can be found in folk metal?

Folk metal features a diverse range of vocal styles, including extreme vocals like death growls and black metal rasps, as well as clean singing, traditional folk singing (like yoik), chants, and choirs.

Are there specific languages commonly used in folk metal lyrics?

Yes, some bands sing predominantly or exclusively in their native language, such as Finntroll in Swedish, Moonsorrow in Finnish, Lumsk in Norwegian, and medieval metal bands often use German.

How is paganism associated with the folk metal genre?

Paganism has been linked to folk metal since its inception, with early bands like Skyclad and Cruachan exploring pagan themes in their lyrics and ideology.

Besides paganism, what other lyrical themes are prevalent in folk metal?

Nature is a significant influence, with many bands basing lyrics on natural themes. Fantasy, mythology, and historical events are also frequently explored subjects in folk metal lyrics.

How do bands like Elvenking and Turisas use fantasy themes in their lyrics?

Elvenking uses fantasy themes as metaphors to convey deeper meanings, while Turisas employs them to address significant issues, sometimes related to the glorification of war.

What role does mythology play in the lyrics of Celtic metal bands?

Celtic metal subgenre bands often base their lyrics on Celtic mythology and the history of the Celts, as seen with groups like Cruachan and Eluveitie.

How do bands from the Americas incorporate indigenous folk music into their metal sound?

Bands in the Americas blend metal with various indigenous and pre-Columbian folk music traditions, drawing from influences like Navajo, Mi'kmaq, Nahua, Mayan, and Andean music, often incorporating specific instruments and cultural themes.

What is the relationship between folk metal and National Socialist black metal (NSBM)?

Some NSBM bands have incorporated folk metal elements, leading to controversy. Several folk metal bands have had to distance themselves from Nazism, fascism, and racism due to the misappropriation of pagan symbols and associations, clarifying their own non-fascist ideals.

How do bands like Skyclad and Finntroll approach lyrical content differently?

While Skyclad, pioneers of the genre, avoided fantasy lyrics, preferring to address political subjects with puns and humor, Finntroll is known for its humorous lyrics and obsession with trolls.

What are some examples of folk metal bands that focus on specific ethnic or cultural backgrounds?

Bands like Finntroll and Korpiklaani draw heavily from Finnish folk music, Skyforger incorporates Latvian history and mythology, and Orphaned Land integrates Middle Eastern influences, reflecting their respective cultural backgrounds.

What is the significance of the term 'pagan metal' in relation to folk metal?

Some bands, including Cruachan and Eluveitie, prefer the term 'pagan metal' because it specifically describes the ideological aspects of their music, even though 'folk metal' refers more to the musical style.

How do bands like Glittertind and Agalloch incorporate non-traditional elements into their folk metal sound?

Glittertind incorporates punk rock elements, while Agalloch is known for its 'depressive ambient' sound and incorporates neofolk and post-rock tendencies, showcasing the genre's stylistic diversity.

What is the general atmosphere conveyed by different folk metal bands?

The atmosphere varies greatly, with bands like Finntroll and Korpiklaani often conveying a fun and cheerful mood suitable for dancing. In contrast, bands such as Thyrfing and Primordial are known for a more contemplative atmosphere, while others might present a mellow, depressive ambient, or epic mood.

How do bands like Ensiferum and Wintersun differ in their musical approach within folk metal?

Ensiferum and Wintersun are noted for having a melodious side within their folk metal sound, contrasting with bands like Finntroll and Månegarm, which favor a more blistering or brutal approach.

What is the role of keyboards in folk metal?

Keyboards are sometimes used to simulate the sound of folk instruments, especially when actual instruments are not available or practical for a band's lineup. They can also supplement existing folk instrumentation.

How do bands like Skyclad and Mägo de Oz use keyboards in conjunction with folk instruments?

Bands like Skyclad and Mägo de Oz supplement their use of folk instruments, such as the violin, with keyboards to further enrich their sound.

What challenges do folk metal bands face regarding live performances?

The large number of instruments some bands use in studio recordings can pose challenges for live performances, sometimes requiring the use of computers to replicate sounds or reducing the number of instruments played.

Are there folk metal bands that do not utilize folk instrumentation?

Yes, some bands, like Tharaphita, choose to rely solely on traditional metal instruments and discard the use of folk instrumentation altogether.

What are some examples of exotic or less common folk instruments used in folk metal?

Folk metal bands have incorporated instruments such as the Latvian kokles, Estonian torupill, Finnish kantele, and Middle Eastern oud and saz, showcasing a wide range of cultural influences.

How do vocal styles in folk metal vary?

Vocal styles range from extreme growls and rasps used by bands like Finntroll and Skyforger, to clean singing found in Mägo de Oz and Metsatöll, and traditional folk singing like the yoik used by Shaman.

What is the significance of yoik vocals in folk metal?

Yoik, a traditional Sami form of singing, has been featured by bands like Shaman, Finntroll, and Korpiklaani, adding a distinct cultural element to their music.

How do bands like Arkona and Turisas utilize choirs in their music?

Bands such as Arkona, Turisas, Lumsk, and Eluveitie incorporate choirs into their folk metal sound, adding an epic or atmospheric dimension to their music.

What political or social themes have been addressed by folk metal bands?

Some bands, like Skyclad, have addressed serious political subjects in their lyrics, while others, such as Glittertind, have expressed socialist sentiments. The genre has also seen controversy regarding associations with NSBM and the use of pagan symbols.

How do bands like Korpiklaani and Finntroll differ in their lyrical focus?

Korpiklaani's lyrics often focus on themes of enjoyment, drinking, and partying, contributing to a fun atmosphere. Finntroll, conversely, is noted for its obsession with trolls and humorous lyrical content.

What is the significance of regional folk music in shaping the sound of folk metal bands?

The folk elements in folk metal frequently reflect the musicians' ethnic backgrounds, incorporating specific traditions like Finnish, Baltic, East Asian, Mongolian, Middle Eastern, and Celtic music into their heavy metal sound.

How do bands like Ithilien and Yaotl Mictlan approach lyrical themes differently?

Ithilien focuses on personal subjects like loss and grief, using Elisabeth Kubler-Ross's mourning process as inspiration. Yaotl Mictlan, on the other hand, often adopts indigenismo postures influenced by far-left and Marxist views.

What is the role of history in the lyrical content of folk metal?

History is a common lyrical theme, with bands drawing inspiration from historical events and figures, such as the history of the Celts for Celtic metal bands or Latvian culture for Skyforger.

How did the early folk metal scene differ from its later development?

In the 1990s, folk metal was relatively niche with few representatives. However, by the early 2000s, it experienced an 'explosion' in popularity, particularly in Finland, with numerous bands emerging and achieving chart success.

What is the relationship between folk metal and Viking metal?

Folk metal and Viking metal often overlap, with bands like Falkenbach and Moonsorrow blending elements of both genres, incorporating Norse mythology and traditional Scandinavian folk music into their sound.

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The Genesis of Folk Metal

Skyclad: The Vanguard

Emerging from England in 1990, Skyclad is widely recognized as a foundational act. Their debut album, The Wayward Sons of Mother Earth (1991), incorporated violin, a significant departure from traditional thrash metal, laying early groundwork for the genre. Vocalist Martin Walkyier expressed a long-held dream to fuse metal energy with traditional styles.

Cruachan: Irish Roots

Formed in Dublin in 1992, Cruachan aimed from the outset to blend Irish folk music with extreme metal. Their 1995 debut, Tuatha Na Gael, is considered by some to be the first true folk metal album, fully integrating folk elements rather than merely adding them as embellishments.

Amorphis: Finnish Melodies

The Finnish band Amorphis, formed in 1990, began exploring folk influences in their early death metal sound. Their 1994 album, Tales from the Thousand Lakes, drew heavily from Finnish folk music, earning acclaim for its atmospheric and melodic approach, contributing significantly to the genre's development.

Diverse Regional Expressions

Medieval Metal

Spearheaded by German bands like Subway to Sally (from 1995 onwards), this variation emphasizes medieval melodies and instrumentation such as bagpipes, hurdy-gurdy, and lute, often combined with hard rock and gothic metal elements. Other notable acts include In Extremo and Schandmaul.

Celtic Metal

Originating with Irish bands like Cruachan and Waylander, Celtic metal fuses heavy metal with the traditional folk music of Ireland and other Celtic nations. It often incorporates themes of Celtic mythology, history, and nature. Primordial also features subtle Celtic influences.

Oriental Metal

Characterized by the integration of Middle Eastern and West Asian musical styles, this subgenre is exemplified by Israeli band Orphaned Land, who blend progressive metal with Jewish and Arabic folk traditions. Other contributors include Melechesh and Tengger Cavalry (Mongolian influences).

Americas Folk Metal

In North and South America, bands incorporate indigenous musical traditions. Examples include Canadian and US bands drawing from Native American, Navajo, Mi'kmaq, and Nahua influences (e.g., Blackbraid), and Mexican bands blending metal with Mesoamerican instruments (e.g., Mictlan, Cemican). South American acts often feature Andean folk music.

Defining Elements of Folk Metal

Musical Fusion

Folk metal is a highly diverse genre, blending various heavy metal subgenres (thrash, black, death, power, gothic metal) with traditional folk music from different cultures. Bands often employ extensive use of folk instruments, sometimes supplemented by keyboards simulating these sounds. The overall atmosphere can range from cheerful and danceable to epic and contemplative.

Instrumentation

Beyond the standard metal lineup (guitars, bass, drums, vocals), folk metal frequently features traditional instruments. Prominent examples include violins, flutes, bagpipes, hurdy-gurdies, kokles, kantele, oud, and saz. This often leads to larger band lineups, with six or more members being common. Some bands rely on keyboards to replicate these sounds, especially in live performances.

Vocal Styles

Vocal approaches in folk metal are as varied as its instrumentation. They encompass extreme metal vocals like death growls and shrieks (e.g., Finntroll, Moonsorrow), clean singing (e.g., Metsatöll), traditional folk singing styles (like the Sami yoik used by Shaman), chants, and choirs. Many bands utilize a combination of these styles, often singing in their native languages.

Lyrical Themes

Common lyrical subjects draw heavily from folklore, mythology, history, and nature. Paganism is a frequent theme, leading some bands to identify as "pagan metal" (e.g., Cruachan, Skyforger). Fantasy, historical narratives, and national identity are also prevalent. Some bands explore political, social, humorous, or deeply personal themes.

The Folk Metal Orchestra

String & Wind Instruments

The violin is a staple, featured by bands like Skyclad, Korpiklaani, and Eluveitie. Flutes, tin whistles, and bagpipes add distinct textures, particularly in Celtic and Medieval metal subgenres (e.g., Cruachan, Subway to Sally). The hurdy-gurdy also appears in Medieval metal.

Folk & Exotic Instruments

Bands often incorporate instruments specific to their cultural heritage. Examples include the Latvian kokles (Skyforger), Estonian torupill (Metsatöll), Finnish kantele (Korpiklaani), Middle Eastern oud and saz (Orphaned Land), and the Mongolian throat singing technique (Tengger Cavalry).

Keyboard Emulation

When traditional instruments are unavailable or impractical for live performance, keyboards are frequently used to simulate their sounds. This technique is employed by bands such as Finntroll, Storm, and Midnattsol, allowing for the characteristic folk melodies to be integrated into the metal soundscape.

Vocal Tapestry

Extreme & Folk Vocals

The genre embraces a wide spectrum of vocal styles. Extreme vocals like death growls and shrieks are common in black and death metal-influenced folk metal (e.g., Finntroll, Moonsorrow). Traditional folk singing, such as the Sami yoik (Shaman), adds an authentic cultural layer.

Clean & Choral Elements

Clean singing is prevalent, often used for melodic passages or narrative storytelling (e.g., Metsatöll, Mägo de Oz). Chants and choirs are also employed to enhance the epic or ritualistic atmosphere, heard in bands like Arkona, Turisas, and Eluveitie.

Linguistic Diversity

While English is common, many bands sing in their native languages, such as Finnish (Korpiklaani, Moonsorrow), Swedish (Finntroll), German (Subway to Sally), or Estonian (Metsatöll). This linguistic choice reinforces the cultural identity central to the genre.

Narratives of Myth and Metal

Fantasy & Mythology

Themes of fantasy, mythology (Celtic, Norse, Slavic, etc.), and folklore are central to many folk metal bands. These narratives often explore ancient legends, epic battles, and mystical realms, creating immersive sonic worlds.

Nature & Paganism

A strong connection to nature and pagan beliefs permeates the genre. Lyrics often celebrate the natural world, ancient rituals, and pre-Christian spiritual traditions, reflecting a reverence for the earth and ancestral heritage.

History & Culture

Historical events, cultural traditions, and national identity frequently inspire lyrical content. Bands explore the history of their respective regions, from Celtic migrations to Viking sagas and Slavic folklore, often with a patriotic or celebratory tone.

Social & Personal Themes

Beyond traditional themes, some bands address political commentary, social issues, personal struggles, and even humor. Skyclad, for instance, infused political commentary with puns, while bands like Ithilien focus on introspective and emotional subjects.

Evolution and Expansion

Early Seeds (1990s)

The genre's roots trace back to the early 1990s with pioneers like Skyclad and Cruachan. While folk metal remained niche throughout the decade, bands like Amorphis and Mägo de Oz also began incorporating folk elements, setting the stage for future growth.

The 2000s Explosion

The turn of the millennium saw a significant surge in folk metal's popularity, particularly in Finland. Bands like Finntroll, Korpiklaani, Ensiferum, Turisas, and Moonsorrow achieved considerable success, defining the genre's sound and expanding its reach across Europe and beyond.

Global Reach

Folk metal has since spread globally, with notable scenes emerging in the Americas (incorporating indigenous music), Eastern Europe, and Asia. This diversification reflects the genre's adaptability and its capacity to integrate a vast array of cultural musical traditions.

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References

'Saloma', una banda peruana con identidad Ãºnica Exitosa Noticias. 23 September 2023.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Folk metal Wikipedia page

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Echoes of Ages: The Folk Metal Tapestry

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

The Genesis of Folk Metal 🌱

🇬🇧 Skyclad: The Vanguard

🇮🇪 Cruachan: Irish Roots

🇫🇮 Amorphis: Finnish Melodies

Diverse Regional Expressions 🌍

🏰 Medieval Metal

☘️ Celtic Metal

🕌 Oriental Metal

🗿 Americas Folk Metal

Defining Elements of Folk Metal 🎼

🎶 Musical Fusion

🎻 Instrumentation

🗣️ Vocal Styles

📜 Lyrical Themes

The Folk Metal Orchestra 🪕

🎻 String & Wind Instruments

🪕 Folk & Exotic Instruments

🎹 Keyboard Emulation

Vocal Tapestry 🎤

😱 Extreme & Folk Vocals

🗣️ Clean & Choral Elements

🌐 Linguistic Diversity

Narratives of Myth and Metal 📖

✨ Fantasy & Mythology

🌳 Nature & Paganism

⚔️ History & Culture

🤔 Social & Personal Themes

Evolution and Expansion ⏳

🚀 Early Seeds (1990s)

💥 The 2000s Explosion

🌐 Global Reach

Related Genres and Topics 🔗

🌲 Pagan Metal

🛡️ Viking Metal

📚 Band Lists

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📜 References

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

The Genesis of Folk Metal

Skyclad: The Vanguard

Cruachan: Irish Roots

Amorphis: Finnish Melodies

Diverse Regional Expressions

Medieval Metal

Celtic Metal

Oriental Metal

Americas Folk Metal

Defining Elements of Folk Metal

Musical Fusion

Instrumentation

Vocal Styles

Lyrical Themes

The Folk Metal Orchestra

String & Wind Instruments

Folk & Exotic Instruments

Keyboard Emulation

Vocal Tapestry

Extreme & Folk Vocals

Clean & Choral Elements

Linguistic Diversity

Narratives of Myth and Metal

Fantasy & Mythology

Nature & Paganism

History & Culture

Social & Personal Themes

Evolution and Expansion

Early Seeds (1990s)

The 2000s Explosion

Global Reach

Related Genres and Topics

Pagan Metal

Viking Metal

Band Lists

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice