This is simply any type of metal with folk-inspired influences.  Folksy instruments such as fiddles, flutes and acoustic guitars are used. Skyclad, Elvenking, In Extremo
	ELVENKING Power metal with folk instruments; such as fiddles, flutes and acoustic guitars.  The result is really enjoyable high-energy HELLOWEEN style power metal with the rural, sing-along feel of folk tunes.  The vocals are high and clean They have only one album released and have since disbanded (unfortunately) so your ELVENKING collection can be complete rather easily. SKYCLAD As far as I know, SKYCLAD was the first folk metal band. However, don't take that as the gospel truth.  I'm not totally certain.  ELVENKING was likely influenced by SKYCLAD and they sound similar at times.  IN EXTREMO These Germans style themselves as "Mittelhalter" or Medieval metal, but it is basically Folk metal, as they utilize bagpipes, fiddles etc.  They also sing in the German language which makes for an interesting listening experience if you are used to hearing English.  Especially if you can't understand German (like me).  Additionally, they sing in a number of other dead languages including: old Swedish, Spanish and Latin! Verehrt Und Angespien (Worshipped & Spat At) Is an excellent choice for IN EXTREMO and features a hilarious picture of the bandmembers on the cover.