The difference, by ear
Symphonic power metal replaces the keyboard with an actual orchestra and a soprano, which pushes the theatre past what the guitars are doing.
Both are sung cleanly and move at much the same pace, around 150 to 200 bpm. To hear the difference, play Helloween next to Rhapsody of Fire. Symphonic power metal grew out of power metal, twelve years later.
In figures
Power metal
Where it sits
In short
Galloping tempos, choral hooks and lyrics about dragons and battles. Optimistic by definition.
How it sounds
- Sustained galloping tempos with nearly continuous double kick.
- Choruses harmonised across many voices, choir style.
- Keyboards, neoclassical solos and lyrics about battles, dragons and hope.
Key acts
- Helloween
- Blind Guardian
- Gamma Ray
- DragonForce
Start here
The pickHelloween - Keeper of the Seven Keys Part II. The closing track runs thirteen minutes and deserves them.
Full page →Symphonic power metal
Where it sits
Heavy metal › Power metal › Symphonic power metal
In short
Power metal with orchestra, choir and a fantasy libretto. The more, the better.
How it sounds
- Full orchestra and choir, often recorded live rather than sampled.
- Film-score structures: overtures, interludes, recurring themes.
- Operatic or lyrical vocals carrying a narrative libretto across the album.
Key acts
- Rhapsody of Fire
- Nightwish
- Sonata Arctica
Start here
The pickRhapsody - Emerald Sword. Knowing kitsch, flawlessly executed.
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