I’ve mentioned my love of Heavy Metal on this blog a couple of times in the past. Specifically, I’m a fan of the Power Metal subgenre, which is characterized by operatic themes, epic fantasy storytelling, and often employs classical instrumentation. While I’m not an aficionado on the subject, I thought since I had an extra Tuesday left in the month, it would be fun to give my top 5 favorite bands.
5. Dio
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the guy who basically invented the subgenre. Ronnie James Dio (born Ronald Padavona) was a front man for several different Metal bands throughout his lengthy career, including Rainbow, Black Sabbath and his own project, Dio. His lyrics focused heavily on fantastic elements such as dragons and wizards, and his powerful voice lent itself to an almost operatic style of music.
This song, Sacred Heart, is a favorite of mine, and characteristic of Dio’s style:
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="
title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
4. Blind Guardian
Blind Guard took what Dio had brought to Heavy Metal and just ran with it. Between Hansi Kurch’s powerful vocals and epic songwriting, they defined German Power Metal for a generation. Their songs include subject matter from traditional German folklore to the Silmarillion.
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="
title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
3. Ironflame
Ironflame is probably my favorite recent Power Metal band. Powerful vocals, sick guitar riffs, epic stories; they have it all. Just give this a listen:
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="
title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
As you may know, I have four epic fantasy novellas inspired by power metal available on Amazon right now. They take readers on an exciting journey through a magical land filled with dragons, knights, and sorcerers, all while exploring themes of courage, justice, and loyalty.
You're about to enter a world lost in time where mighty kings face powerful monsters and gods! The bard Taliesin tells the thrilling tale of King Emrys of Camelot, as he fights to defend his people from black magic and evil gods. With each twist and turn, King Emrys must use all his bravery, strength and cunning to overcome the darkness that threatens to engulf the world and restore peace to the realm.
Click or tap the image to order them now!
2. Nightwish
No Power Metal playlist would be complete without Nightwish. This was the first Metal band I was really into in my teens, and I still consider them a favorite. Their operatic vocals and expert instrumentation have given them a unique sound that has set them apart for nearly three decades. Even after having listened to it 100 times, this song still gives me goosebumps:
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="
title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
1. Rhapsody of Fire
My Dad introduced me to this band when I was much younger, and we still love to rock out to their epic ballads on long car rides. They are the definitive Power Metal band, in my opinion. Few others really capture the spirit of the subgenre in the same way.
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="
title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
So what are your favorite Power Metal bands, if you have any? Did you enjoy any particular song or artist on the list? For $5/month, you can tell me all about it in the comments.