List of power metal bands

This is a dynamic list and may never be able to satisfy particular standards for completeness. You can help by adding missing items with reliable sources.

This is a list of power metal bands including notable bands that have at some point in their careers played power metal or heavily contributed to the genre's development. Power metal is a subgenre of heavy metal music combining characteristics of traditional metal with speed metal, often within symphonic context. Generally, power metal is characterized by a more uplifting sound, in contrast to the heaviness and dissonance prevalent in styles such as doom metal and death metal. Power metal bands usually have anthem-like songs with fantasy-based subject matter and strong choruses, thus creating a theatrical, dramatic and emotionally "powerful" sound.

Power metal has two distinct early styles, which developed in parallel. US Power Metal was developed in the mid/late 80s, pioneered by bands such as Omen and characterized by harsh thrashy sound and a focus on speed and soaring operatic vocals. It was directly influenced by speed metal and NWOBHM, and had a drop in popularity in the 90s. A more widespread and popular style, European Power Metal, was developed in the late 80s by key bands such as Helloween, and was more melodic, employing keyboards, synths and anthem-like songs.

Contents 0–9 A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z See also References External links

Proto-Power Metal (influences)   European Power Metal style   US Power Metal style

#

Name	Origin	Years active	Brief summary	Note
3 Inches of Blood	Canada	1999–2015	Style strongly influenced by NWOBHM, combining both operatic and growled vocals.	[1]

A

Amaranthe performing at the Wacken Open Air festival

Axxis concert at the Masters of Rock 2007 festival

Name	Origin	Years active	Brief summary	Note
Accept	Germany	1976–1989, 1992–1997, 2004–2005, 2009–present	Played an important role in the development of speed and thrash metal.	[2]
Adagio	France	2000–present	Known for technical precision and dark orchestration.	[3]
After Forever	Netherlands	1995–2009	Strong progressive metal influences, use of both soprano vocals and death grunts.	[4]
Agent Steel	United States	1984–1988, 1999–Present	Forged a reputation due to their lyrical themes of apocalyptic sci-fi.	[5]
Aina	various (supergroup)	2003–2004	Together created the metal opera Days of Rising Doom	[6]
Alestorm	Scotland	2004–present	Exclusively pirate themed band with folk metal incorporation.	[7]
Aldious	Japan	2008–present	Japanese all-female power metal band from Osaka. Aldious have been labelled pioneers of the Girls Metal Band Boom that began in Japan in the 2010s.	[8]
Almah	Brazil	2006–present	Side project from the singer of Angra, now a full-fledged band.	[9]
Altaria	Finland	2000–2016, 2020–present	Known for recruiting guitarist Jani Liimatainen of Sonata Arctica in their earlier years.	[10]
Amaran	Sweden	2000–2005	Gothic style with clean female vocals.	[11]
Amaranthe	Sweden	2009–present	Fuses melodic metal with pop melodies and vocals of Elize Ryd	[12]
Amberian Dawn	Finland	2006–present	Lyrics often influenced by Finnish and Norse mythology	[13]
Ancient Bards	Italy	2006–present	Their Black Crystal Sword Saga was said to be inspired by fellow Italian band Rhapsody of Fire's fantasy-styled concept albums.	[14]
Angband	Iran	2004−present	Conceived as a progressive instrumental band, the addition of a vocalist moved towards power metal.	[15]
Angel Dust	Germany	1984–1990, 1998–present	After 1998, moved away from thrash metal to a power/progressive metal style.	[16]
Angra	Brazil	1991–present	Known for symphonic interludes, technical instrumentation and Brazilian regional elements.	[17]
Antiquus	Canada	2000–present	Iron Maiden influenced band writes concept albums with unifying themes or stories.	[18]
Anubis Gate	Denmark	2003–present	Progressive band nominated for multiple Danish music awards in 2008 and 2009.	[19]
Anvil	Canada	1978–present	Their documentary illustrated how staying together as a band for them was more important than making as much money as possible.	[20]
Arktida	Russia	2003–present	One of the relatively few English-lyrics Russian power metal bands. Symphonic style.	[21]
Armageddon	Sweden	1997, 2000, 2002, 2012–present	Started as a melodic death metal band formed by Arch Enemy guitarist Christopher Amott.	[22]
Armored Saint	United States	1982–1992, 1999–present	Founders in close relation to members of Metallica, their lyrics helped shape today's power metal.	[23]
Artch	Norway	1983–Present	Early power/heavy metal band originating from Sarpsborg, Norway.	[5]
Arthemis	Italy	1994–present	Known for fusing neo-classical European style with the aggression of American Speed Metal.	[5]
A Sound of Thunder	United States	2008–present	A female-fronted band from Washington DC with varying styles.	[24]
Astral Doors	Sweden	2002–present	"Jerusalem", the sixth album by Astral Doors is a clear singing from vocalist Nils Patrik Johansson.	[25]
At Vance	Germany	1998–present	Their first album included covers of a Vivaldi piece Summer and ABBA's Money, Money, Money	[5]
Attacker	United States	1983–1989, 2001–present		[26]
Avalanch	Spain	1997–present	A leading Spanish-language power metal (particularly their first three albums) band, the ejection of some of its members led to the creation of WarCry in 2001.	[27]
Avantasia	Germany	1999–present	A metal opera hosted by Tobias Sammet, different renowned musicians/vocalists participate in every album.	[28]
Avian	United States	2002–present	Formed after being inspired by a metal festival that featured performances by Gamma Ray, Blind Guardian, Edguy, and others.	[29]
Axenstar	Sweden	1998–present	Originally formed as a cover band, now producing power metal that shies away from typical mythical themes.	[30][31]
Axxis	Germany	1988–present	Their debut album, "Kingdom of the Night", became the best-selling debut album ever by a hard rock band in Germany in 1989.	[32]
Ayreon	Netherlands	1995–2008, 2012–present	A rock-opera type solo project.	[5]

B

Name	Origin	Years active	Brief summary	Note
Balance of Power	United Kingdom	1995–present	Christian power/progressive metal band from London.	[5]
Banshee	United States	1985–1993, 1999–2000, 2008-present	A mix between NWOBHM sound combined with US Power Metal style.	[33]
Battle Beast	Finland	2008–present	Known for winning two major band competitions prior to procuring a record contract.	[34]
Battlelore	Finland	1999–present	Folk mixed with power and melodic death metal, growled vocals with clean female accompaniment and lyrics inspired by Tolkien's TLOTR.	[35]
Beast in Black	Finland	2015–present	A five-piece Helsinki-based band founded by Anton Kabanen after parting ways with the band Battle Beast.	[36]
Benedictum	United States	2005–present	Female fronted harder style power metal from band members who were previously a Dio tribute band.	[37]
Beto Vázquez Infinity	Argentina	2000–present	Symphonic/gothic style band hailing from Buenos Aires, Argentina.	[38]
Beyond Fear	United States	2005–present	A side project band of Tim "Ripper" Owens.	[39]
Black Death	United States	1977-1984	Marketed their band as the first all-African-American heavy metal band.	[40]
Blackguard	Canada	2001–present	Melodic death metal with power/folk metal influences.	[41]
Black Majesty	Australia	2001–present	Formed by ex-members of prominent bands on the Australian metal scene	[42]
Blind Guardian	Germany	1984–present	Often credited as one of the seminal and most influential bands in the power metal and speed metal subgenres.	[43]
Bloodbound	Sweden	2004–present	Melodic power metal band that uses corpse paint in promotional photos, in a style similar to black metal acts.	[44]
Borealis	Canada	2005–present	Heavy and progressive with deep vocals, known for their excellent live performances.	[45]
Brainstorm	Germany	1989–present	Known to play a somewhat darker style of music than most power metal groups.	[46]
Brothers of Metal	Sweden	2012–present	Norse Mythology inspired heavy metal band from Falun, Sweden.	[47]
Brocas Helm	United States	1982–2013	Known for founding their own record label after disappointment with their affiliated labels.	[48]
Burning Point	Finland	1997–present	Originally doom-influenced, the band moved towards a power metal feel.	[5]

C

Children of Bodom at 2007's Masters of Rock

Name	Origin	Years active	Brief summary	Note
Cadacross	Finland	1997–2005	Their second album departed towards heavier viking metal.	[49]
Cain's Offering	Finland	2009–present	Formed by ex-Sonata Arctica members Jani Liimatainen, Mikko Härkin and Stratovarius vocalist Timo Kotipelto.	[50]
Catharsis	Russia	1996–present	Early demos the band played a style with a mix of death metal and doom metal.	[5]
Celesty	Finland	1998–2012, 2015–2016	Epic, fantasy-themed power metal.	[51]
Cellador	United States	2004–present	Contrasts the popular death metal and metalcore scenes of the American Midwest with melodic speed metal.	[52]
Chastain	United States	1984–present	Known for David Chastain's shred guitar work.	[53]
Children of Bodom	Finland	1993–2019	One of Finland's best selling artists of all time, incorporating power metal and melodic death metal.	[54]
Chinchilla	Germany	1988–present	A band with a reputation of being serious heavy performers, despite their ironic band name.	[5]
Circle II Circle	United States	2001–present	Formed by former Savatage lead vocalist, Zachary Stevens.	[55]
Cirith Ungol	United States	1972–1992	Sword and sorcery themed songs contributed to the development of power metal as a genre.	[56]
Cloven Hoof	United Kingdom	1979–1990, 2000–present	A NWOBHM band that helped carve a path for Power Metal. After a long departure in 1990, the band reformed in 2000.	[57]
Conception	Norway	1989–1998, 2005, 2018–present	Features ex-Kamelot vocalist Roy Khan.	[5]
Concerto Moon	Japan	1996–present	80s style Japanese symphonic rock specialists.	[5]
Crimson Glory	United States	1979–1992, 1998–present	A pioneer of the American progressive metal movement.	[58]
Crystal Eyes	Sweden	1992–present	Put their own studio together in order to improve the quality of their recordings after dissatisfaction with their first label.	[59]
Crystal Viper	Poland	2003–present	Polish band founded by singer/songwriter and recently guitarist Marta Gabriel	[60]

D

Name	Origin	Years active	Brief summary	Note
Damien Thorne	United States	1983—present	One of the leading bands during the American power metal movement in the 80s.	[61]
Dark Empire	United States	2004–2013	Progressive, power, and thrash mix band originating from New Jersey.	[62]
Dark Moor	Spain	1993−present	Neo-classical and symphonic elements. One of the most prominent Spanish power metal acts.	[63]
DarkSun	Spain	2002–present	Spanish band influenced by bands such as Blind Guardian and Angra.	[64]
Demons and Wizards	Germany	1998–2021	Formed by the vocalist for Blind Guardian, Hansi Kürsch, and the guitarist of Iced Earth, Jon Schaffer.	[65]
Destroy Destroy Destroy	United States	2003–Present	Also demonstrates styles of Melodic Death Metal and Symphonic Black Metal.	[66]
DGM	Italy	1994–present	Started as a power metal oriented instrumental band, gradually moved towards a progressive feel.	[67]
Dio	United States	1982–1991, 1993-2010	The lyrics of renowned vocalist Ronnie James Dio greatly influenced development of power metal and heavy metal as a whole.	[68]
Dionysus	Sweden	1999–2008	Formed by the drummer of Sinergy.	[5]: 112
Divinefire	Finland	2004–present	Their style mixes power metal with both melodic and aggressive elements.	[69]
Domine	Italy	1984–present	Linked to heroic fantasy and sword and sorcery themes.	[70]
Doomsword	Italy	1997–present	Influences from themes such as ancient and medieval history, fantasy literature and European mythology.	[71]
DragonForce	United Kingdom	1999–present	Known for its long and fast guitar solos, fantasy-based lyrics, and electronic sounds in their music to add to their retro video game-influenced sound.	[58]
Dragonland	Sweden	1999–present	Most notable for basing their two first albums upon the self-produced The Dragonland Chronicles fantasy saga.	[72]
Dreamaker	Spain	2003-2011	Composed of former Dark Moor members.	[73]
Dream Evil	Sweden	1999–present	Known for their respect to classic heavy metal and their 1980s style sound.	[74]
Dreamtale	Finland	1999–present	Speedy and light style, with occasional accompaniments of symphonic instruments.	[75]
Dreamtone & Iris Mavraki's Neverland	Greece, Turkey	2005–present	Symphonic power metal collaboration between the Turkish band Dreamtone and Greek singer Iris Mavraki.	[76]
Dungeon	Australia	1989–2005	Australian heavy/power metal band formed in the mining town of Broken Hill, Australia.	[5]: 124
Dynazty	Sweden	2007–present	Swedish power metal band from Stockholm, Sweden. The lead vocalist, Nils Molin, is also a vocal contributor to Amaranthe.	[77]

E

Elixir performing in 2010

Name	Origin	Years active	Brief summary	Note
Edenbridge	Austria	1998–present	Symphonic power metal band with a female singer and considerable orchestration.	[78]
Edguy	Germany	1992–present	One of the most famous modern power metal bands, highly metaphorical lyrics and a style true to the power metal denomination.	[79]
Eidolon	Canada	1993–2007	On the heavier side of power metal, after the founding members became a part of Megadeth they stopped recording new albums.	[80]
Eldritch	Italy	1991–present	Prominent band within Italian progressive metal in the late 1990s.	[5]: 131
Elegy	Netherlands	1986–present	Pioneers of progressive/power metal mixture.	[5]: 132
Elixir	England	1983–2012	Notable for being associated with the New Wave of British Heavy Metal movement.	[81]
Elvenking	Italy	1997–present	Speed metal with rustic folk influence.	[5]: 133
Empyria	Canada	1991–present	Technical progressive power metal, their unique sound was one of the reasons they were reasonably received in the mid 1990s.	[5]: 135
Epica	Netherlands	2002–present	Known for their symphonic sound and the use of female vocals and male growls. Their lyrical themes include society, politics, science, and religion.	[82]
Epidemia	Russia	1995–present	Best known for its series of metal operas, Elven Manuscript.	[83]
Esprit D'Air	United Kingdom	2010–2013, 2016–present	Japanese lyrics and artwork are centered around ethereal and otherwordly themes and inspired by X Japan. In 2018 their album Constellations won the Independent Music Awards (IMAs) for Best Metal Album judged by Slayer, Sepultura and Amy Lee.	[84]
Excalion	Finland	2000–present	Lyrical themes originate in different moods and hardships, experiences of life.	[85]

F

Giada Etro from Frozen Crown.

Name	Origin	Years active	Brief summary	Note
Fairyland	France	1998–present	Formed by keyboardist Philippe Giordana with melodic and symphonic elements.	[86]
Falconer	Sweden	1999–2020	Utilizes folk instrumentation and melody to create a medieval sound and atmosphere.	[87]
Fifth Angel	United States	1983–1990, 2009–present	Band which brought guitarist James Byrd to prominence.	[5]: 148
Firewind	Greece	1998, 2002–present	Founded by guitarist Gus G, now also the guitarist for Ozzy Osbourne.	[88]
Forgotten Tales	Canada	1999–present	Fronted by powerful female vocalist Sonia Pineault. Neoclassical guitars with folk keys and effects.	[89]
Freedom Call	Germany	1998–present	Known for their upbeat, feel-good sound free from melancholy undertones or darker styles of some power metal groups.	[90]
Frozen Crown	Italy	2017-present	Led by Federico Mondelli and Giada Etro	[91]

G

Grave Digger at Metalcamp in 2007

Gloryhammer at Dong Open Air, 2017. Wearing their armor on stage.

Name	Origin	Years active	Brief summary	Note
Galneryus	Japan	2001–present	Neo-classical power metal with many speed metal style songs.	[92]
Gamma Ray	Germany	1989–present	Known as one of the most prominent bands of the German heavy metal scene.	[43]
Gloryhammer	United Kingdom, Cyprus	2010–present	Presents themselves as a tongue-in-cheek, parody of stereotypical power metal groups as well as appearing on-stage in armour and costumes.	[93]
Grave Digger	Germany	1980–1987, 1991–present	One of the earlier heavy metal bands that contributed to the development of power metal as a genre.	[94]
Gwyllion	Belgium	2003–2009	Released two albums before splitting up, symphonic power metal group.	[95]

H

Name	Origin	Years active	Brief summary	Note
HammerFall	Sweden	1993–present	Cited as producing some of the highest acclaimed power metal albums,[58] HammerFall is a famous example of power metal as a whole.	[58]
Hawaii	United States	1981–1985	One of the first heavy metal bands that formed within Honolulu, Hawaii.	[96]
Heavenly	France	1994–present	They were signed by record label Noise Records after winning a competition sponsored by the label's website.	[97]
Heavens Gate	Germany	1982–1999	One of the earliest German power metal bands.	[5]: 186
Heavy Load	Sweden	1976–1985	The band is often hailed as the first Swedish heavy metal band,[98] and were known for their Viking themes.	[99]
Heir Apparent	United States	1983–1989, 2000–present	Technical style band from Seattle.	[5]: 188
Helloween	Germany	1984–present	Famous pioneers of power metal sound, their second and third studio albums, Keeper of the Seven Keys: Part I and Part II are considered masterpieces of the genre.	[43][100]
Helstar	United States	1982–present	A key band in the development of the American power metal scene emerging in the mid 1980s.	[101]
Hibria	Brazil	1996–present	Speed metal and technically influenced Brazilian band.	[102]
Highland Glory	Norway	2001–present	Their first album, From the Cradle to the Brave, was released in 2003.	[103]
Hittman	United States	1984–1994, 2017–present		[104]
Hollow	Sweden	1995–present	Highly technical progressive style.	[5]: 200
Holy Dragons	Kazakhstan	1992–present	Claimed to be Kazakhstan's first heavy metal band.	[5]: 201
Holy Knights	Italy	1998–2002, 2010–present	Symphonic accompaniment, choruses with many backing vocalists creating an epic ballad feel.	[105]
Human Fortress	Germany	1997–present	Strives for an epic feel with their music, calling their music "epic battle metal".	[106]

I

Iced Earth in December 2012

Name	Origin	Years active	Brief summary	Note
Iced Earth	United States	1985–present	Successful band that has played many different styles of metal with members changing constantly other than the founding guitarist Jon Schaffer.	[107]
Ilium	Australia	1998–present	In 2012 they recorded a music video dedicated to Greenpeace.	[5]: 209
Imperial Age	Russia	2012−present	Imperial Age have three singers (one male and two female) and blend power metal with symphonic metal. They are the most successful band in the genre from Russia.	[108]
Impulse	Bulgaria	1979–1991, 1995–1998, 2012-present	One of the first Bulgarian heavy metal bands.	[109]
Into Eternity	Canada	1997−present	Progressive/melodic death with a bit of power metal influence, from Regina, Saskatchewan.	[110]
Ion Vein	United States	1995–present	Progressive/Power metal band from Chicago.	[5]: 211,212
Iron Fire	Denmark	1995–present	Early speed metal style incorporated with recent power metal sounds.	[111]
Iron Maiden	England	1975–present	Not considered Power Metal, but often listed as a major influence.
Iron Mask	Belgium	2002–present	Contains ex-Yngwie Malmsteen members.	[112]
Iron Savior	Germany	1996–present	Blends power metal with a high-concept science fiction story, immediately embarking on a multiple-album tale of a fictional space vessel of the same name. Founded by Piet Sielck and Kai Hansen.	[113]

J

Name	Origin	Years active	Brief summary	Note
Jacobs Dream	United States	1997–present	Ohio originating technical power metal, known previously as Iron Angel.	[5]: 227
Jag Panzer	United States	1981–1988, 1994–2011, 2013-present	NWOBHM influenced band that influenced the development of thrash and power metal.	[114]
Judas Priest	United Kingdom	1969–present	One of the most famous heavy metal bands of all time, as well as the origin of many sounds that influenced the many subgenres of heavy metal today.	[2]
Judicator	United States	2012–present	The band mainly focuses on history and Existentialism.	[115]

K

Name	Origin	Years active	Brief summary	Note
Kalmah	Finland	1998–present	Their melodic death/power metal style sound is often compared to prominent Finnish band Children of Bodom.	[5]: 247
Kamelot	United States	1991–present	One of the more successful bands in the North American power metal scene. Symphonic, neo-classical, and progressive elements.	[116][117]
Katagory V	United States	1999–Present	American power metal band with thrash and progressive elements.	[118][119]
Keldian	Norway	2005—present	This band's digital release Outbound was voted the best power metal album of 2013 on Reddit.[120] Space exploration themes.	[121]
Kerion	France	2003–present	Features a choir directed by Phil Gordana of Fairyland. Mainly labelled as a symphonic metal band.	[122]
Kiuas	Finland	2000–2013, 2021–present	The name of the band is derived from the word 'hiidenkiuas', which means 'barrow consisting of a pile of rocks'.	[123]
Kotipelto	Finland	2001–present	Formed by Stratovarius member Timo Kotipelto while the aforementioned band was on hiatus.	[124]

L

Name	Origin	Years active	Brief summary	Note
Lääz Rockit	United States	1982–1992, 2005–present	One of their signature elements were Ibanez guitars adorned with elaborate airbrushed scenes of warfare.	[125]
Labyrinth	Italy	1991–present	Progressive power metal from Italy.	[5]: 256
Last Tribe	Sweden	2000–2003	Melodic power metal from Sweden.	[126]
Leah	Canada	2011–present	Solo artist from Canada, known for fusing metal, including power metal, with Celtic and world music	[127]
Leatherwolf	United States	1981–present	Their three-guitarist setup for their band set them apart from other bands of similar style in early years.	[5]: 259
Lethal	United States	1982–1996, 2006–present	Early American progressive band with a style similar to Fates Warning.	[128]
Liege Lord	United States	1982–1989, 2000, 2012–present	Originated as a Judas Priest cover band, aided development of the power metal genre.	[129]
Lizzy Borden	United States	1983–2004, 2006–present	Both the band and the lead vocalist are named after Lizzie Borden, a woman accused and acquitted of murder in the late 19th century. Glam metal influence.	[130]
Lord	Australia	2003–present	Formed as a solo project for former Dungeon frontman Lord Tim.	[131]
Lords of the Trident	United States	2008–present	Known for its mixture of classic and modern heavy metal, expansive fantasy backstory, and energetic live shows.	[132]
Lost Horizon	Sweden	1990–1994, 1999–present	Known for taking the epic feel of power metal to new levels, having been described as "Metallica will make you feel angry, but Lost Horizon will make you feel like a god."[133]	[134][135]
Lovebites	Japan	2016–present	All-female power metal band formed by former members of Destrose. In 2018 they won the Metal Hammer Golden Gods Award for Best New Band.	[136]
Luca Turilli's Dreamquest	Italy	2005-2011	A past side project of Luca Turilli (known for his work in Rhapsody of Fire and Luca Turilli's Rhapsody).	[137]
Luca Turilli's Rhapsody	Italy	2011–2018	After a friendly split with band members of Rhapsody of Fire, guitarist/keyboardist Luca Turilli continued with this project.	[138]
Luna Mortis	United States	2001-2010, 2013–present	Combination of melodic death, power, thrash, and progressive, band with a female vocalist who sings/growls.	[139]
Lux Perpetua	Poland	2009–present	Power metal band from Poland. Their name is inspired by Andrzej Sapkowski's book and means "eternal light".	[140]

M

Machinae Supremacy performing

Name	Origin	Years active	Brief summary	Note
Machinae Supremacy	Sweden	2000–present	Combines modern heavy metal/power metal and alternative rock with chiptunes.	[141]
Magica	Romania	2002–present	A Romanian power metal band with mythical themes and gothic metal influences.	[142]
Majestic	Sweden	1997–2001	Recorded two albums in 1999 and 2000 with largely varied band members between albums, split up in 2001.	[5]: 272
Majestic res.ad	Sweden	2024-present	Peter Espinoza and two org members from former Majestic decided to continue to release the great neoclassical power metal that Peter did through the former Majestic.
Majestica	Sweden	2000-2019 (as ReinXeed), 2019-present	Symphonic power metal featuring Tommy Johansson of Sabaton on vocals.	[143]
Majesty	Germany	2000–present	Heavily influenced by Manowar both musically and lyrically.	[144]
Manigance	France	1995–present	A French-language band.	[145]
Manilla Road	United States	1977–1990, 2001–present	Early albums have more in common with progressive rock and proto-heavy metal than the band's later heavier speed/thrash metal sound.	[146]
Manticora	Denmark	1996–present	Progressive power metal with speed metal influences.	[147]
Manowar	United States	1980–present	Known for its lyrics based on fantasy (particularly sword and sorcery), and mythological topics (particularly Norse mythology).	[148][149]
Mary's Blood	Japan	2009–present	a Japanese all-female power metal band from Tokyo, formed in 2009 by four former members of Destrose.	[150]
Mastercastle	Italy	2008–present		[151]
Masterplan	Germany	2001–present	Founded by ex-Helloween members.	[152]
Meliah Rage	United States	1987–present	Characterized primarily by their thrash metal vibe married to more classical metal melodies.	[153][154]
Mercenary	Denmark	1991–present	Usually labelled as a melodic death metal band, they use aspects of power metal in their music, as well as thrash metal in their earlier work.	[155]
Metal Church	United States	1980–1994, 1998–2009, 2012–present	Lyrical topics such as conflict and paranoia later expanded into philosophical and social commentary.	[156]
Metalium	Germany	1998–2011	Traditional power metal sound which was pioneered in Hamburg by bands such as Helloween and Blind Guardian.	[157]
Mob Rules	Germany	1994–present	Melodic power metal from Germany.	[5]: 301–302
Moonlight Agony	Sweden	1999–present	Common usage of odd chord progressions and an eerie/dreamlike atmosphere produced via the keyboard track.	[158]
Morgana Lefay	Sweden	1989–1997, 1999–2001, 2004–2007, 2012–present	Named after Morgan Le Fay of the Arthurian cycle.	[159]
Morifade	Sweden	1992–2015	Symphonic power metal band hailing from the town of Vikingstad.	[5]: 305
Mystic Prophecy	Greece/Germany	2000–present	Described as a mixture between heavier US power metal and more melodic European power metal.	[5]: 306

N

Nightwish in 2009

Name	Origin	Years active	Brief summary	Note
Narnia	Sweden	1996–2010, 2014–present	Christian power metal with speed metal guitar styles.	[5]: 308
Nevermore	United States	1991–2011	Technical speed metal from Seattle, USA.	[5]: 311
Nightmare	France	1979–1987, 1999–present	Veteran French power metal group.	[5]: 314
NightMare World	England	2006–present	Standard melodic power metal with some progressive influences. Their first full-length album was released in 2015.	[160]
Nightwish	Finland	1996–present	Nightwish performs symphonic metal with soaring female operatic vocals. One of the most successful symphonic/power metal acts.	[161][162]
Nocturna	Italy	2021–present	Symphonic power metal with gothic influences.	[163]
Nocturnal Rites	Sweden	1990–present	Power metal with melodic influences such as Iron Maiden.	[164]
Nostradameus	Sweden	1998–2016	Melodic speed metal style.	[5]: 317

O

Name	Origin	Years	Brief summary	Note
Obsession	United States	1982–1989, 2004–present	Famous for spawning the career of singer Michael Vescera.	[5]: 318
Omen	United States	1983–1988, 1996–present	One of the forefathers of power metal acts, launched with groups such as Metallica, Anthrax, Megadeth, and Slayer.	[165][166]
Orden Ogan	Germany	1996–present	Progressive and folk metal elements.	[167]
Ostrogoth	Belgium	1980-1988, 2002, 2010-present	Heavy metal band from Belgium.	[168]
Oz	Finland	1977-1991, 2010–present	Part of the group of early Finnish power metal bands.	[5]: 326

P

Primal Fear in 2009

Name	Origin	Years active	Brief summary	Note
Pagan's Mind	Norway	2000−present	Their music is influenced by Stargate, especially the theatrical film.	[169]
Paradox	Germany	1986–1991, 1998–present	Late 80s speed metal band from Würzburg, Bavaria.	[5]: 328
Paragon	Germany	1990–present	Hamburg based power metal act.	[5]: 329
Pathfinder	Poland	2007–present	Referred to as "the world’s best epic power metal band" and "multiple styles of power metal are pulled off while still retaining Pathfinder’s signature symphonic sound".	[170][171]
Pegazus	Australia	1993–present	90s power metal band who wished to revive studs and leather in a straightforward metal act, rather than fantasy themes.	[5]: 332
Persuader	Sweden	1997–present	Sound similar to bands such as early Blind Guardian, Iron Savior, and Nocturnal Rites.	[172]
Pharaoh	United States	1997–present	Known for multi-layered instrumentation and well produced albums.	[173]
Phoenix Rising	Spain	2007–present	Spanish symphonic power metal similar to bands such as Rhapsody Of Fire, Heavenly and Dark Moor.	[174]
Powerglove	United States	2005–present	One of the more prominent nintendocore bands, Powerglove covers classic video game tracks in an epic technical power metal style.	[175]
Powermad	United States	1984–1990	An innovative early American speed metal act that mixed progressive and European styles in their sound.	[176]
Power Quest	England	2001–2013, 2016–present	The founder of the band being the keyboardist, the songs are more key driven than typical power metal bands.	[58]
Powersurge	United States	1984–1991	Band which attempted to emulate acts such as Queensrÿche and Crimson Glory.	[177]
Power Symphony	Italy	1991–2005	Female fronted Italian power/progressive metal.	[5]: 337
Powerwolf	Germany	2003–present	Notable for having dark themes and images, both musically and lyrically, both counteractions to traditional power metal music and including usage of corpse paint, gothic-tinged compositions and songs about Romanian werewolf and vampire legends.	[178]
Primal Fear	Germany	1997–present	Main lyrical themes are science fiction, often metaphorical. Founded by ex-Gamma Ray vocalist Ralf Scheepers and Mat Sinner.	[179]
Pyramaze	Denmark	2001–present	Collaborated with Iced Earth singer Matt Barlow for their third album.	[180]

R

Running Wild live on stage in Bonn in 2005

Name	Origin	Years active	Brief summary	Note
Rage	Germany	1984–present	Part of the German heavy/speed/power metal scene to emerge in the early to mid-1980s, along with bands such as Helloween, Running Wild, Blind Guardian and Grave Digger.	[181]
Rainbow	England	1975–1984, 1994–1997, 2015-present	Started out combining mystical lyric themes with neo-classical metal prior to Dio's departure from the group.	[2]
Raintime	Italy	1999–2012	Greatly influenced by Dream Theater in their initial releases.	[182]
Rebellion	Germany	2001–present	Their first album was a concept album about William Shakespeare's work Macbeth.	[183]
Reverend	United States	1989–1993, 2000–present	Part of the "holy trinity" of US thrash metal, as well as Metal Church and Heretic.	[5]: 362
Redshark	Spain	2012–present	The most famous Spanish Heavy metal band of the new wave.	[184]
Revolution Renaissance	Finland	2008–2010	Formed by a former Stratovarius member.	[185]
Rhapsody of Fire	Italy	1993–present	One of the most prominent symphonic style power metal bands, recording with orchestras and involving vocalists such as Christopher Lee.	[186][187]
Riot V	United States	1975–1984, 1988–2012, 2013-present	Initially started out as straightforward heavy metal, upon revival in 1988 they began a departure towards power metal styles.	[188][189]
Rob Rock	United States	1983–present	Robert "Rob" Rock is best known for his guitar virtuoso acts.	[5]: 370
Royal Hunt	Denmark	1989–present	Heavily keyboard-oriented power metal from Copenhagen.	[5]: 372
Running Wild	Germany	1976–2009, 2011–present	Most famous for pioneering the idea of pirate themed metal, after initial satanic themes in their first two albums.	[190]

S

Name	Origin	Years active	Brief summary	Note
Sabaton	Sweden	1999–present	Known for historical lyrical themes and a heavy but still European sound.	[191]
Sacred Oath	United States	1985–1988, 2005–present	The original four band members reformed after disbanding for 17 years, releasing successful new material.	[192]
Sacred Steel	Germany	1996–present	They intended to use the words "metal" and "steel" at least once in every song on their first album.	[5]: 376
Sanctuary	United States	1985–1992, 2010–present	Their first recording was produced by Dave Mustaine of Megadeth.	[5]: 380
Saratoga	Spain	1992–present	Pioneered the speed metal and power metal genres in Spain. Founded by former Baron Rojo and Obús musicians, their most successful era took place with Leo Jiménez as their singer (1999-2006).	[193]
Savage Circus	Germany	2004–present	Formed by drummer Thomen Stauch as a side project before leaving Blind Guardian.	[194]
Savage Grace	United States	1981–1993, 2009-2010	Early power/speed metal style band from Los Angeles.	[5]: 382
Savatage	United States	1978–2002, 2014–present	Known for the frequent usage of counterpoint style vocals.	[195]
Scanner	Germany	1986–present	Known for early forms of science-fiction based power metal.	[196]
Scorpions	Germany	1965–present	One of the best selling heavy metal bands of all time, influencing many of the 1980s subgenres including power metal.	[2]
Secret Sphere	Italy	1997–present	Italian symphonic power metal band brought together by guitarist Aldo Lonobile.	[5]: 395
Seraphim	Taiwan	2001–present	Female-fronted power metal band from Taiwan. Their debut album was originally recorded in Chinese, later in English.	[5]: 396
Serenity	Austria	2001−present	Started as power metal then gravitated towards a more pure symphonic metal.	[197]
Seven Kingdoms	United States	2007–present	A mix of European power metal and thrash.	[198]
Seventh Avenue	Germany	1989 - 2012	Traditional metal from a Christian band, melodic inclinations.	[5]: 396
Seventh Wonder	Sweden	2000–present	Progressive power metal with overarching story-based concept albums.	[199]
Seven Thorns	Denmark	1998-2005; 2007−present	A mix of Scandinavian and German power metal with neoclassical influences	[200]
Seven Witches	United States	1998–present	Composed of members of Symphony X, Savatage, and Helstar.	[201]
Shadowkeep	England	1999–present	One of the small amount of late 90s power metal bands to become prominent quickly.	[5]: 398 [202]
Shadowside	Brazil	2001–present	Band with female vocals from Brazil drawing from influences of Thrash metal and Hard rock.	[203]
Shaman	Brazil	2000–present	A successful spinoff of the largely popular Brazilian power metal band Angra.	[5]: 400
Silent Force	Germany	1999–present	Formed by D. C. Cooper of Royal Hunt.	[5]: 402
Sinergy	Finland	1997–2004	Features strong female vocalist Kimberly Goss who has a deeper vocal range than normal.	[204]
Six Magics	Chile	1996–present	Band known for leading the Chilean Metal scene.	[5]: 408
Slough Feg	United States	1990−present	Also known as The Lord Weird Slough Feg.	[205]
Skull & Bones	Argentina	2011−present	Pirate styled power metal.	[206]
Sonata Arctica	Finland	1995−present	One of the most successful power metal groups of post 1990s. Known for their usage of keys and tenor/falsetto vocals, as well as emotional themes and wide-ranging style.	[207]
Steel Attack	Sweden	1997–present	Evolved from typical power metal medieval themes to more mature, mystical themes, including religion.	[5]: 414
Steel Prophet	United States	1984–present	After ten years from their previous album, the band released new work in 2014.	[208]
Stormwarrior	Germany	1998–present	Their debut album was produced by members of Gamma Ray.	[5]: 420
Stratovarius	Finland	1984–present	Considered one of the leading groups of the power metal and symphonic metal genre.	[58]
Sunrise	Ukraine	2003–present	One of the most famous power metal bands from Ukraine.	[209]
Symfonia	Finland	2010–2011	Short-lived band formed by well-known Finnish power metal musicians as a new project.	[210]
Symphony X	United States	1994–present	Popularized the mixing of progressive metal sounds with power metal themes, influenced by pure progressive bands such as Dream Theater.	[211]
Symphorce	Germany	1998–2011	Symphonic power metal band upheld by vocalist Andy B. Franck.	[5]: 431

T

Name	Origin	Years active	Brief summary	Note
Tad Morose	Sweden	1991–present	Swedish power metal band with steadily growing support from European countries.	[5]: 432
Taramis	Australia	1983–1993	Technical instrumentation style, originally the band was called Prowler.	[5]: 433
Tarantula	Portugal	1981–present	Classical and symphonic focusing on dark and epic themes.	[212]
Tarot	Finland	1984–present	Frontman Marko Hietala was considered as the next-in-line for vocalist of Iron Maiden.	[5]: 434
Theocracy	United States	2002–present	Originally a one-man project, the band mixes heavier power metal style with progressive metal.	[58]
Thunderstone	Finland	2000–present	Created by ex-Antidote guitarist Nino Laurenne.	[213]
Thy Majestie	Italy	1999–present	Symphonic power metal with a darker tone than the norm.	[214]
Tierra Santa	Spain	1997–2008, 2010–present	Epic power metal, supported Dio in Spanish tours in the 90s.	[5]: 439
Time Requiem	Sweden	2001–present	Created by Richard Andersson after he felt his previous project, Majestic had come to and end.	[215]
Timeless Miracle	Sweden	1995, 2001–2008, 2014–present	Originally named Trapped. Trapped was a traditional heavy metal band, whose sound evolved to become the melodies-driven power metal with influences of the classical and folk music; the lyrics are inspired by the horror movies and the Nordic tales.	[216]
Trauma	United States	1981–1985, 2011–present	Known for being the original band of Cliff Burton, the original bassist of Metallica.	[217]
Turilli / Lione Rhapsody	Italy	2018–present	Created by former Rhapsody of Fire members Luca Turilli and Fabio Lione. Prior to the band's formation, the same lineup performed under the Rhapsody moniker for the 20th Anniversary Farewell Tour, which celebrated 20 years of the original band's existence.	[218]
Twilight Force	Sweden	2011–present	Known for heavy usage of symphonic elements and writing announcements in fantasy-style text.	[219]
Twilightning	Finland	1998–2009	Split up after the band's sound slowly shifted from power metal to a more 1980s rock sound.	[220]

U

Name	Origin	Years active	Brief summary	Note
U.D.O.	Germany	1987–present	Traditional heavy metal founded by vocalist Udo Dirkschneider of veteran metal band Accept.	[5]: 451
Unisonic	Germany	2009–present	A supergroup formed by former Helloween singer Michael Kiske and Gamma Ray leader Kai Hansen.	[221]
Unleash the Archers	Canada	2007–present	A modern melodic death/power metal band from British Columbia with a female vocalist.	[222]
Unlucky Morpheus	Japan	2008–present		[223]

V

Name	Origin	Years active	Brief summary	Note
Van Canto	Germany	2006–present	An a cappella group employing a drummer, they sing what they call "hero metal a capella".	[224]
Vanishing Point	Australia	1995–present	Symphonic and progressive with power metal influence.	[225]
Versailles	Japan	2007–2012, 2015–present	This Symphonic Power Metal band's concept is "the absolute youshikibi (beauty of form) sound and extremes of aestheticism".	[226][227]
Viathyn	Canada	2006–present	Progressive/power with a natural folkish feel likenable to Falconer. Themes of existentialism, storytelling, and natural beauty.	[228]
Vicious Rumors	United States	1979–present	Recognized for their guitar works and harmonies, as well as the variety of their music	[229]
Viper	Brazil	1985–1996, 2004–2009, 2012–present	Heavily European-influenced speed metal style act which started in 1985.	[5]: 465
Virgin Steele	United States	1981–present	In recent years, they have enriched their sound with elements of musical theatre, metal and symphonic metal.	[230]
Vision Divine	Italy	1998–present	Power/progressive style.	[5]: 470
Visions of Atlantis	Austria	2000–present	Their equal combination of male and female vocals distinguishes the band and is reminiscent of bands such as Lacuna Coil.	[231]

W

Name	Origin	Years active	Brief summary	Note
WarCry	Spain	2001–present	One of Spain's most famous metal acts.	[232]
Warlord	United States	1980–present		[233]
Warmen	Finland	1999–present	Brainchild of the keyboardist of Children of Bodom Janne Wirman.	[234]
Warrior	United States	1983–present	One of the earlier US acts that developed a power metal style.	[5]: 476
White Skull	Italy	1988–present	Retro-style female-fronted Italian act.	[5]: 476
Wisdom	Hungary	2001–2018	The band has a mascot "Wiseman" whom stories they often told over their songs.	[211]
Wizard	Germany	1989–present	The band was often called "Germany's answer to Manowar".	[235]
Wind Rose	Italy	2009–present	Wind Rose's aesthetic is based around Dwarves in a fantasy setting (notably from Warhammer Fantasy and The Lord of the Rings).	[236]
Winter's Bane	United States	1990–present	Tim "Ripper" Owens's first successful act prior to joining Judas Priest or Iced Earth.	[5]: 486
Wintersun	Finland	2003–present	Wintersun contains elements of melodic death metal, and was formed as a side project to Ensiferum.	[237][238]
Winter's Verge	Cyprus	2004–present	Songs often have pirate themes and local character. Pioneers of the modern Cyprus metal stage.	[239]
Wuthering Heights	Denmark	1989–present	Songs often feature traditional folk instruments such as bagpipes, violins, and flutes.	[240]

X

Name	Origin	Years active	Brief summary	Note
X Japan	Japan	1982–1997, 2007–present	Pioneers of the Japanese heavy metal movement promoting a shift towards western glam style.	[241]

Y

Yngwie Malmsteen performing in Barcelona

Name	Origin	Years active	Brief summary	Note
Yngwie Malmsteen	Sweden	1978–present	The virtuosity of his guitar work in any lineup aided the development of neoclassical metal.	[242]

Z

Name	Origin	Years active	Brief summary	Note
Zonata	Sweden	1998–2003	Known for heavy classical influences on both guitar and keyboard parts.	[243]

See also

• List of heavy metal bands