Gardarika

Gardarika is a Russian folk metal band that’s been carving out a unique space in the metal scene since the early 2000s by blending traditional Slavic melodies with heavy, riff-driven instrumentation. Known for weaving mythology, nature, and ancient folklore into their music, they often incorporate instruments like the balalaika and gusli to create a rich, earthy sound. Recent releases like *Chthonica* and *Kupava* showcase their knack for pairing thunderous guitar work with haunting, folk-inspired vocals, while tracks like *Khemosynthesis* and *Celticiad* highlight their experimental edge and storytelling flair. Though they fly under the radar internationally, Gardarika has cultivated a dedicated following for their immersive, genre-blurring approach to metal.