The Best Symphonic Metal Artists to Know

Symphonic metal has produced a consistent body of acclaimed artists since its commercial emergence in the late 1990s. The genre's leading names have sold millions of albums globally and maintain active touring careers, mostly based in Europe. These are the artists who define what the genre sounds like and who new listeners should explore first.

Nightwish

Nightwish are the most internationally recognised name in symphonic metal. Founded in Kitee, Finland in 1996, they developed a sound built on a classically trained soprano vocalist, melodic guitar work and full orchestral arrangements. Their albums Oceanborn, Wishmaster, Century Child and Once represent the peak of the genre's commercial and critical achievement. After replacing original vocalist Tarja Turunen with Anette Olzon and then Floor Jansen, the band continued to produce acclaimed work. Floor Jansen — a Dutch singer with an exceptional classical range — is now considered one of the finest vocalists in the genre.

Within Temptation

Within Temptation from the Netherlands are the most commercially successful symphonic metal band outside Finland, with albums such as Mother Earth, The Silent Force and The Heart of Everything selling millions across Europe. Their sound is more accessible and radio-friendly than Nightwish — less extreme in the metal elements, more focused on melodic songwriting. Lead vocalist Sharon den Adel has become one of the genre's most recognisable figures.

Epica

Epica, also Dutch, take a more progressive and philosophically engaged approach to the genre. Their albums consistently incorporate dense orchestral and choral arrangements with technically demanding guitar work. Simone Simons is their lead vocalist. Albums such as The Phantom Agony, Consign to Oblivion and The Divine Conspiracy are considered essential genre listening for more experienced fans.

Evanescence

Evanescence from the United States brought orchestral and cinematic metal to a global mainstream audience with Fallen in 2003, which sold over 17 million copies. Amy Lee's piano playing and soprano vocals over atmospheric, orchestral metal arrangements reached audiences well beyond the symphonic metal fanbase. Their classification within the genre is debated, but their influence on it is significant.

Newer Artists to Follow

Delain, formed in 2002 by Epica's founding keyboardist Mark Jansen and composer Martijn Westerholt, developed a more streamlined and radio-friendly approach to the genre. Amaranthe from Sweden blend metal with electronic and pop elements to create one of the most commercially accessible variants of the style. Battle Beast from Finland take a more power metal approach with symphonic elements, while Xandria have built a consistent following through a series of well-crafted albums across two decades. All four represent active, currently touring acts worth exploring after establishing familiarity with the genre's founding bands.

For the genre's history, see the history. For essential albums, see essential albums.

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