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.
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.
"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.