Metal After Midnight

Believe it or not there's a genre called "Folk Metal" and Italy's Elvenking is one of the biggest names.

Norwegian Jorn Lande is one of Metal and Hard Rock's most respected vocalists.  He's worked the biggest and best around the world.

"Nitro" only had two releases out but their completely over-the-top style made a lasting impression on the world of Rock and Metal.

If 'Dream Theater' had started in 1975 instead of 1985 they would probably be more well-known in their home country of the USA.

People may be surprised to hear that Finland has been a hot-bed for Metal for well over a decade, and Stratovarius is one of the biggest names in Power Metal.

Believe it or not "Anvil" had a big influence on a lot of up and coming Metal bands in the early 80's including Metallica.

South America has always been very supportive of Heavy Metal over the years.  Bands like Iron Maiden do shows there that attract crowds as big as any mainstream act.

Annihilator is one of the most underrated Metal bands for the past couple decades thanks to the amazing guitar work and writing of founding member Jeff Waters.

George Lynch found success in "Dokken" back in the 80's and was quickly touted as one of the genre's best guitarists.

"Mercyful Fate", for better or worse, was one of the biggest influences of the Black Metal scene that openly worships Satan. The Danish band is mostly knows at the leaping point for lead singer "King Diamond" who wore the face paint that was a demonic version of Kiss...

"Grim Reaper" was technically a product of the New Wave Of British Heavy Metal as guitarist Nick Bowcott put the original band together in 1979.

"Warrior" was an Los Angeles-based band that had very limited success and exposure but  they became an amazing example of the strength of Heavy Metal and it's reach.