Power metal

Uncommon card · No. 94210

Power metal is a subgenre of heavy metal music combining characteristics of traditional heavy metal with speed metal. It developed along two main branches: a traditional branch that emerged in the early to mid-1980s (Manowar, Warlord, Helloween) characterized by mid-to-fast tempos, heavy and epic atmospheres and anthemic choruses; and a symphonic branch that emerged in the late 1990s (Rhapsody, Nightwish) which incorporates symphonic and orchestral elements and tends toward a lighter, more uplifting sound in contrast with the heaviness and dissonance prevalent in extreme metal. Both branches tend to create a theatrical, dramatic, and emotionally "powerful" sound. It's often associated with fantasy themes, but it also encompasses social, historical and introspective subjects. The term was first used in the mid-1980s and refers to two different but related styles: the first pioneered in North America and Europe with a harder sound similar to speed metal; and a later, more widespread and popular...

Read on Wikipedia