IoMP 106: Trans-Siberian Orchestra - Are They Rock or Metal?
Every so often, metal bands reinvent themselves — sometimes brilliantly, sometimes disastrously. In this episode of the Influencers of Metal Podcast, Collin and Tom dive headfirst into one of the wildest transformations in heavy music history: how a group with extreme metal roots became North America’s most successful Christmas concert juggernaut.
Enter: Trans-Siberian Orchestra.
Known for their massive holiday productions, orchestral arrangements, and family-friendly appeal, TSO has become synonymous with winter tours, packed arenas, and music that somehow pleases both metalheads and your aunt who thinks Slipknot is “too loud.” But beneath the snowflakes and laser lights lies a deeper question — does any of this actually count as metal?
The episode breaks down TSO’s musical structure, songwriting choices, use of orchestration, and rock foundations while openly debating whether their death metal past matters at all anymore. Tom approaches the band with cautious appreciation but admits to feeling underwhelmed after years of Christmas music overload. Collin, meanwhile, comes in hot — defending TSO as a genuinely moving, well-written, and refreshing alternative to the usual holiday nonsense.
Along the way, the conversation veers into retail horror stories, seasonal burnout, the cringe factor of forced joy, and why Trans-Siberian Orchestra works precisely because they don’t sound like typical Christmas music.
Want to join the debate and get in the holiday spirit? Click play to get your metal brains into the festivities.
DISCLAIMER: Copyright Exceptions under the Copyright Act (R.S.C., 1985, c. C-42), allowance is made for "fair dealing" for the purposes of criticism or review.
Check out more from the Influencers of Metal Podcast!
