Heavy metal in Russia began to emerge in the late 1970s and early 1980s, initially as an underground movement due to strict Soviet censorship. Western rock and metal albums were circulated on bootleg tapes, influencing early bands such as Aria (formed in 1985), often called “the Russian Iron Maiden” for their melodic heavy metal style. Another key early act was Master, who leaned toward thrash metal and gained a strong following in the late Soviet era.
The late 1980s saw the rise of Gorky Park, a hard rock/heavy metal band that achieved rare international success for a Soviet act, especially in the United States, with hits like Bang. Their MTV exposure and US tours made them a cultural bridge during the final years of the Cold War.
The fall of the Soviet Union in 1991 opened the floodgates for metal in Russia. Bands like Kipelov, Catharsis, and Black Obelisk became household names domestically, while extreme metal acts such as Grenouer and Hieronymus Bosch began reaching audiences abroad. The 2000s saw a rise in folk and pagan metal, with groups like Arkona and Alkonost incorporating Slavic mythology and traditional instruments into their sound.
Despite political restrictions and occasional bans on certain concerts, the country continues to produce internationally recognised bands and hosts festivals such as Big Gun and Metal Crowd, which attract both local and foreign acts.
CITIES
FAMOUS METAL BANDS FROM RUSSIA
Alkonost
Aria
Arkona
Black Obelisk
Catharsis
Gorky Park
Grenouer
Hieronymus Bosch
Kipelov
Master
Slaughter to Prevail
Tvangeste
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