My Favorite Historically Themed Metal Albums

Metal music and history are like a longsword and its scabbard. They are complimentary, need one another and belong together. A few months ago, we put together a video talking about albums that drew their lyrical themes or inspirations from historical events or time periods.

Nile - The Underworld Awaits Us All

When I first learned about what Nile was doing, I went NUTS. As a young student learning about world history and ancient civilizations, I was awestruck by the social complexities and technology of ancient Egypt. Throw in some brutal, extreme death metal, and I’m ALL aboard, baby.

George Kollias and Karl Sanders have taken their newest members under their wing, showed them just how high the pyramids reach, and MAN do these guys step into their respective roles flawlessly. This album tests the musical technicality of every member, showcasing mind boggling riffs and rhythms that the band is known for.

This album is more than just a collection of fast-paced riffs, technical wizardry, and grooving slam riffs; it's a journey into the heart of darkness. Nile has once again proven why they are the undisputed kings of death metal.

Seth - La France Des Maudits

Forget the romanticized ideals of liberté, égalité, fraternité. Seth delves into the darker underbelly of the French Revolution, exploring themes of defiance, authoritarianism, and mob mentality

Formed in 1998, Seth has been a cornerstone of the French black metal scene for over two decades. Their latest offering isn't a mere history lesson; it's a declaration of war. La France Des Maudits is a call to arms, urging listeners to question authority and the status quo.

Expect aural brutality laced with icy melodies; characteristic of the French black metal sound. If you're looking for a black metal album that challenges historical narratives and isn't afraid to confront the darker aspects of humanity, then this is a must-listen.

Melechesh - Emissaries

One of the OGs on this list, whenever you pick the Assyrians on whatever strategy or 4X game you’re playing, this band’s music should blare in the background. The band is currently working on their seventh album (and launching a crowdfunding campaign for it, check out their website for more details or to support them.)

This is one of the first extreme metal bands from Jerusalem to be signed to a label, which is quite a remarkable historical fact itself. If you’re seeking ancient demonic wisdom from Mesapotamia, stuck this album in your ears and prepare to become a DJINN. Melechesh isn't just about sound; their music is a portal to a bygone era.

Their lyrics delve into Sumerian and Akkadian mythology, breathing life into forgotten deities and epic tales. Whether you're a metalhead or a history buff, Melechesh offers a unique and captivating experience.

1914 - Where Fear And Weapons Meet

Much like Nile, this band has taken their historical flair and made it a very integral part of the band. They are often seen in WW1 era combat garb and their albums, as a whole, tell the tale of the first all-consuming conflict in the early 20th century.

Their latest offering, Where Fear and Weapons Meet, isn't merely glorification of conflict. It's a brutal and unflinching portrayal of the horror and tragedy of the first global war. Imagine the crushing weight of blackened death metal fused with the mournful melodies of doom. This is the soundscape 1914 creates.It's a poignant and harrowing experience, a testament to the power of music to evoke emotions and preserve history.

If you're looking for an extreme metal album that delivers both musical brilliance and historical depth, then Where Fear and Weapons Meet is essential listening. It's a powerful reminder of the devastating consequences of war, a fitting eulogy for the millions who perished in the trenches and field hospitals during that gruesome conflict.

Bolt Thrower - The IVth Crusade

This 1992 album isn't just brutal – it's a musical journey through the horrors of the Fourth Crusade, a Christian military campaign in the 13th Century that wreaked havoc on the Byzantine Empire in an effort to retake the city of Jerusalem.

Gone are the breakneck tempos of their grind era. This album employs a slower, doomier approach, perfectly capturing the oppressive atmosphere of the siege of Constantinople. Crushing riffs and Karl Willetts' signature guttural vocals paint a picture of religious fanaticism and torture of “heretics.”

The album isn't just a historical retelling; it's a scathing indictment of war's brutality. These songs are testaments to Bolt Thrower's ability to blend musical aggression with social commentary. The IVth Crusade is a landmark release in death metal history. It's a testament to the power of Bolt Thrower’s music to leave people hundreds of years in the future pondering the atrocities of the past.

Honorable mentions:

Kannonenfieber

German metal musician NOISE has been creating some amazing metal, between his acts Non Est Deus and Kannonenfieber. Be sure to check out their most recent album - it was one of our favorites from 2025.