Grab your drinking horn, sharpen your axe, and prepare to set sail—because we’re diving headfirst into the thunderous world of Viking metal. This epic subgenre of heavy metal blends myth, melody, and mayhem, drawing lyrical and visual inspiration from Norse mythology, Scandinavian folklore, and the brutal glory of Viking history.
While many Viking metal bands hail from Scandinavia, their reach stretches far beyond fjords and frozen shores. Whether you’re a battle-hardened warrior of the pit or a curious newcomer seeking epic soundscapes, here are 10 Viking metal bands you absolutely must listen to right now.
1. Amon Amarth (Sweden)
The undisputed kings of modern Viking metal. Blending melodic death metal with rich storytelling, Amon Amarth has been crushing skulls and stages since the ‘90s. Songs like “Twilight of the Thunder God” and “The Pursuit of Vikings” are practically anthems of the genre.
2. Enslaved (Norway)
Starting as a black metal band, Enslaved evolved into an atmospheric blend of progressive and Viking metal. Their lyrics dive deep into Norse cosmology, and albums like Eld and Below the Lights are absolute journeys.
3. Månegarm (Sweden)
Named after a mythical wolf, Månegarm fuses folklore and ferocity, incorporating traditional instruments like violins and flutes into their heavy onslaught. Think battle chants with the soul of Swedish forests.
4. Bathory (Sweden)
Often credited with inventing Viking metal with albums like Hammerheart and Twilight of the Gods, Bathory is a legendary name. The raw, atmospheric sound pioneered by Quorthon in the late ’80s still influences the scene today.
5. Falkenbach (Germany/Iceland)
While not Scandinavian, Falkenbach’s epic blend of black metal and folk is soaked in Viking lore. Expect clean vocals, sweeping melodies, and anthemic odes to the old gods.
6. TYR (Faroe Islands)
Named after the Norse god of war, TÝR blends power metal precision with Viking mythos. Their clean vocals and folk rhythms bring a distinct, almost regal, energy to the genre.
7. Einherjer (Norway)
True to their name (which refers to the fallen warriors in Valhalla), Einherjer delivers battle-hardened riffs and chilling atmospheres. They’ve been torchbearers of Viking metal since the early ’90s.
8. Helrunar (Germany)
With a darker edge, Helrunar delves into the grim mysticism of pre-Christian Europe. Their sound is more blackened, more ritualistic—but make no mistake, the Viking heart beats strong.
9. Leaves’ Eyes (Germany/Norway)
Blending symphonic metal with Norse themes, Leaves’ Eyes offers a more melodic, cinematic version of Viking metal. Think battlefields painted with orchestral beauty and female-fronted vocals that soar like Valkyries.
10. Battered (Norway)
Formed by members of Extol and Einherjer, Battered delivers a more thrashy, aggressive take on Viking themes. Though not always active, their 2006 self-titled release is a sleeper gem.
⚡ Bonus: Up-and-Coming Raider Bands ⚡
- Grimner (Sweden): Folk-infused and battle-ready.
- Hulder (US): Blackened pagan fury.
- King of Asgard (Sweden): Epic riffs worthy of Odin’s horn.
🤘 Why Viking Metal Still Rules
What makes Viking metal so timeless? It’s more than the riffs and war drums—it’s the immersion. The best Viking metal transports you, sword in hand, into another world. It’s a genre that celebrates identity, mythology, and rebellion against modern mundanity.
Whether you’re a shieldmaiden or just ready to rage, Viking metal is more than music—it’s a call to arms.
🔥 Crank it. Raid it. Live it.
Stay brutal, stay epic—only on MetalManiaLive.
Want playlist links, live performance recs, or deep-dives into Viking lore in metal lyrics? Just say the word.