9 Forgotten Heavy Metal Bands That Deserve A Comeback
Heavy metal has always roared with raw talent, yet some killer bands have been buried beneath the shadows of history. While giants like Metallica and Iron Maiden still command arenas, countless other warriors of riff and thunder shaped the sound but slipped past mainstream notice.
It is time to crank the amps, bang your heads, and give these overlooked pioneers the recognition and respect they have earned. Turn up the volume and meet the metal bands that history almost forgot.
1. Destiny
Gothenburg, Sweden gave birth to this melodic powerhouse back in the early 1980s. Destiny crafted a unique sound mixing rugged aggression with progressive twists that made headbangers think while they thrashed.
Albums like Beyond All Sense from 1985 showcased their technical prowess and songwriting genius. Fast forward to 2016, and Climate Change proved they still had the fire burning inside.
2. Elixir
London’s underground scene spawned this atmospheric beast during the tail end of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal. Power metal infused with moody soundscapes became their signature calling card.
Despite lineup shuffles that would break lesser groups, Elixir kept the dream alive through decades of dedication. Voyage Of The Eagle dropped in 2020, proving age is just a number when passion fuels your riffs.
3. Domine
Italy’s answer to epic metal storytelling emerged from the early 1980s with swords raised high. Intricate compositions wrapped in fantasy themes became their trademark approach to crushing riffs.
Consistency defined their career as they released album after album without compromising their vision. Even by 2020, they were demoing new material, proving the fire still burns hot.
Their unwavering commitment to sword-and-sorcery metal deserves celebration from fans craving authentic, passionate performances that transport listeners to mythical realms.
4. Brainstorm
German precision meets metal fury in this powerhouse that dropped 13 albums over 24 years. From sensitive ballads that tug heartstrings to raging thrashers that melt faces, they covered every emotional spectrum.
Wall Of Skulls hit shelves in 2020, maintaining their reputation for quality over quick cash grabs. Consistency like theirs is rarer than a guitarist who doesn’t own black leather.
5. Crimson Glory
Florida’s finest brought theatrical vocals and progressive complexity to American metal during the mid-1980s. Their self-titled debut exploded with technical mastery wrapped in mysterious stage personas featuring silver masks.
Transcendence elevated them to near-legendary status before tragedy struck. Vocalist Midnight’s passing left a hole impossible to fill, yet their legacy continues inspiring countless musicians.
6. Savatage
Tampa’s most ambitious metal outfit transformed from straightforward heavy metal into progressive rock opera pioneers. Brothers Jon and Criss Oliva crafted concept albums that told stories rivaling Broadway productions.
Streets: A Rock Opera and Dead Winter Dead showcased their willingness to push boundaries beyond typical metal formulas. Tragedy struck when guitarist Criss died, but the band persevered.
Their influence on symphonic and progressive metal cannot be overstated, making their relative obscurity absolutely criminal.
7. King Diamond
Though technically a solo project, King Diamond’s theatrical horror metal deserves way more mainstream recognition. After leaving Mercyful Fate, the Danish vocalist created concept albums about haunted mansions and supernatural terrors.
His falsetto screams and elaborate stage shows featuring props and costumes made concerts unforgettable experiences. Albums like Abigail and Them remain masterclasses in storytelling through metal.
8. Riot
New York’s Riot delivered classic American heavy metal with an emphasis on melody and dual guitar harmonies. Fire Down Under from 1981 remains a criminally underrated masterpiece that influenced countless bands.
Despite multiple lineup changes and the tragic loss of founding guitarist Mark Reale, they continued as Riot V. Their commitment to traditional metal values never wavered through changing trends.
9. Grim Reaper
British rockers Grim Reaper brought infectious hooks and Steve Grimmett’s soaring vocals to the NWOBHM movement. See You in Hell became an instant classic with its perfect balance of aggression and melody.
Their mascot, a skeletal reaper, became iconic in metal artwork across the globe. Unfortunately, they dissolved before reaching their full potential, leaving fans wondering what could have been.
Recent reunion attempts sparked hope, proving their fanbase remains loyal and hungry for more of their distinctive sound.
