with a fantasy-based subject matter, strong choruses and a dramatic / emotionally powerful sound power metal is shaping up in the late 80s. power metal has a faster, lighter, and more uplifting sound, in contrast with the heaviness and dissonance prevalent in other metal derivates. musically speaking power metal vocalists generally posses a high pitched voice and a wide vocal range. there's a strong melodic element in everything (vocal lines, guitar lines and sometimes symphonic elements).

• seminal power metal bands:

helloween, manowar, stratovarius, blind guardian

• important power metal album:

helloween - keeper of the seven keys part i (1987)