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Symphonic metal. Not to be confused with Neoclassical metal. Symphonic metal is a cross-generic style designation for the symphonic subsets of heavy metal music subgenres. It is used to denote any metal band that makes use of symphonic or orchestral elements. The style features the heavy drums and guitars of metal with different elements of ...
Symphonic Metal. Symphonic metal, sometimes known as operatic metal when referring to artists fronted by an (usually female) operatic singer, is a sub-genre of heavy metal music. Symphonic metal is heavily influenced by classical music, with bands creating symphonies to back a more traditional metal setup of vocals, guitars, bass and drums.
- Key Characteristics of Symphonic Metal
- Notable Symphonic Metal Bands
- The Evolution of Symphonic Metal
- Controversies and Criticisms
- Symphonic Metal in Popular Culture
- Conclusion
- FAQs
Orchestral Instrumentation
One of the defining characteristics of symphonic metal is its use of orchestral instrumentation. This can include everything from strings and brass to woodwinds and percussion. Many symphonic metal bands also incorporate choirs or operatic vocals, creating a truly grand and majestic sound.
Use of Operatic Vocals
Another hallmark of symphonic metal is its use of operatic vocals.Many symphonic metal vocalists have classically trained voices, and they use their range and power to create a dramatic and emotional impact. This can include everything from soaring high notes to haunting whispers.
Emphasis on Melody and Atmosphere
Finally, symphonic metal is characterized by its emphasis on melody and atmosphere.While other forms of metal may focus more on aggression and speed, symphonic metal is all about creating a sense of grandeur and awe. This is achieved through the use of orchestration, operatic vocals, and intricate arrangements that are designed to take the listener on an emotional journey.
Nightwish
One of the most famous and influential symphonic metal bands is Nightwish.Hailing from Finland, Nightwish has been around since the mid-1990s and has released a string of successful albums that have helped to define the genre. Their music is characterized by its use of orchestration, operatic vocals, and a strong emphasis on melody and atmosphere.
Epica
Another notable symphonic metal band is Epica, a Dutch group that has been active since the early 2000s. Epica’s music combines the grandeur of symphonic metal with the heaviness of death metal, creating a sound that is both epic and brutal. Their lyrics often deal with themes of spirituality, philosophy, and mythology.
Within Temptation
Finally, Within Temptation is a symphonic metal band from the Netherlands that has been around since the mid-1990s.Their music combines the grandeur of symphonic metal with the intensity of gothic metal, creating a sound that is both dark and beautiful. Their lyrics often deal with themes of love, loss, and redemption.
Early Pioneers of the Genre
Symphonic metal emerged in the mid-1990s, with bands like Therion and Nightwish being among the first to combine orchestral instrumentation with heavy metal. Therion’s album “Theli” (1996) is often cited as a key influence on the development of symphonic metal, as it featured a full choir and orchestral arrangements alongside heavy guitars and drums. Similarly, Nightwish’s album “Oceanborn” (1998) showcased the band’s unique blend of symphonic elements with heavy metal and helped to establish...
Symphonic Metal Subgenres
Today, symphonic metal has splintered into a variety of subgenres, each with its own unique sound and style. Some of the most notable subgenres of symphonic metal include: 1. Folk metal: This subgenre combines symphonic elements with traditional folk music from around the world. Bands like Eluveitie and Ensiferum are known for their use of traditional instruments like flutes, bagpipes, and hurdy-gurdies, as well as their incorporation of folk melodies and themes into their music. 1. Gothic me...
Influence on Other Genres of Music
Symphonic metal has also had an enormous influence on other genres of music. Many mainstream artists have incorporated symphonic elements into their work, including Metallica, who famously collaborated with the San Francisco Symphony Orchestra on the album “S&M.” Nightwish’s former vocalist, Tarja Turunen, has also collaborated with classical musicians on a number of occasions, including a performance with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra in London. Additionally, many classical composers have...
Criticisms of the Genre as Being Too Theatrical or Cheesy
One of the most common criticisms of symphonic metal is that it can be too theatrical or cheesy for some listeners. Critics argue that the grandiose orchestral arrangements and operatic vocals can come across as over-the-top or melodramaticand that the genre’s emphasis on melody and atmosphere can be seen as indulgent or self-indulgent. Furthermore, some critics argue that the use of orchestration and other symphonic elements can detract from the heaviness and intensity of the music, making i...
Defence of the Genre as a Form of Artistic Expression
Despite these criticisms, many fans and musicians argue that symphonic metal is a valid and important form of artistic expression. They point out that the genre’s use of orchestration and operatic vocals allows for a level of grandeur and emotional impact that is difficult to achieve with traditional heavy metal instrumentation. Moreover, they argue that symphonic metal offers a unique and powerful way to explore themes and ideas that might not be possible with other genres of music.Through t...
Use of Symphonic Metal in Movies and TV Shows
Symphonic metal has been featured in a number of movies and TV shows over the years, often as a way to create a sense of grandeur or intensity. One of the most notable examples is the movie “Underworld,” which features several songs by the band Lacuna Coil. Other movies that have featured symphonic metal include “Resident Evil: Apocalypse,” “Highlander: Endgame,” and “Queen of the Damned.” Symphonic metal has also been used in TV shows like “The Walking Dead,” “Supernatural,” and “Game of Thr...
Impact on Fashion and Merchandise
Symphonic metal has also had an impact on fashion and merchandise, inspiring a unique and distinctive aesthetic that is instantly recognizable to fans of the genre. Many symphonic metal bands have their own lines of merchandise, including t-shirts, hoodies, and accessories, which often feature striking artwork and designs that reflect the grandeur and majesty of the music. In addition, symphonic metal has also had an impact on fashion trends, particularly among female fans. Many symphonic met...
Fan Culture and Community
Finally, symphonic metal has a dedicated fan culture and community, with fans attending concerts and festivals all over the world and supporting their favourite bands through merchandise purchases and social media engagement. Fans of symphonic metal are known for their passion and dedication, and many have formed close bonds with fellow fans and with the bands themselves. Symphonic metal has also inspired a number of online communities and forums, where fans can connect with each other, share...
Symphonic metal may not be for everyone, but for those who appreciate the epic grandeur and power of heavy metal and classical music, it offers a unique and compelling listening experience. From its use of orchestral instrumentation and operatic vocals to its emphasis on melody and atmosphere, symphonic metal continues to push the boundaries of wha...
What is symphonic metal music? Symphonic metal is a subgenre of heavy metal that combines the elements of symphonic classical music with the aggressive and powerful sound of metal. The music typically features operatic vocals, complex orchestrations, and the use of instruments such as keyboards, guitars, and drums. Is symphonic metal real metal? Ye...
Jun 17, 2024 · Symphonic Metal History. Symphonic metal emerged in the mid-1990s, blending the power and aggression of heavy metal with the grandeur of classical music. Pioneers of this genre, such as Therion and Nightwish, set the stage with their innovative use of orchestral elements and operatic vocals. Therion’s “Theli” (1996) and Nightwish’s ...
May 23, 2024 · Origins of Symphonic Metal. Symphonic metal emerged in the mid-1990s, blending the aggressive guitar riffs and double bass drumming of heavy metal with the lush, cinematic elements of classical music. The genre owes much of its development to the European metal scene, particularly bands from Scandinavia and the Netherlands.
Symphonic metal bands can feature classically trained vocalists, in which case they can be attributed nicknames such as opera metal or operatic metal.Perhaps the most pioneering and prominent examples of symphonic metal bands are Swedish band Therion, Finnish band Nightwish, German band Xandria, Italian band Rhapsody of Fire, American bands Lorna Shore and Trans-Siberian Orchestra, and Dutch ...
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Jun 12, 2020 · Justin Smulison Jul 5, 2020. Symphonic metal is heavy without being noisy; this subgenre is similar to opera, since it is renowned for complex melodies and high-level vocalists who can emote and convey a sense of drama and journey. One of symphonic metal’s most promising voices is provided by Moonlight Haze singer Chiara Tricarico, an Italian ...
