I'm looking for symphonic metal but on a particular end of the spectrum that few seem to populate.

I want to find more bands that use abrasive and over-the-top symphonic elements. Basically something where the strings and horns aren't there to be pretty. The absolute best example I can give is middle period Anorexia Nervosa, tons of blasting, shrieking on top of intricate and unsettling melodies. The latest albums from Sigh and Septicflesh would be good starting off points but I'd really like to find something even more aggressive and over-the-top.

All in all it's hard to describe, I want symphonic metal that's just as terrifying as it is beautiful.

This song is what inspired me to post this thread and it sums up the feeling I'm looking for better than anything I could type out:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jYNE0tkmmVQ

Maybe not extremely aggressive and fast, but the symphonic elements that Emperor use can be fucking intense and add a lot to the songs. A lot of the time it's dark, evil and menacing shit.

Emperor are actually the only band I know (besides maybe Kamelot) that actually intricately weave symphonic shit into their songs (as opposed to so many bands that have gay simple chord progressions in the background played on a 20$ Casio keyboard)

Scars of Chaos are some kind of an Anorexia Nervosa clone, you might like them.

Carriers of Dust by Mirrorthrone

Emperor and Mirrorthrone are amazing bands I own the discographies of, I'm looking for something more symphonic than the former and nastier than the latter.

Scars of Chaos is pretty cool, I can definitely see the AN similarities. I think this fits into things nicely. Thanks Belial!

Warthrone - "Ghost Storm Eulogy" EP. They are the best extreme symphonic black metal i've ever heard hands down. Its really fast blasting, very heavy riffs and vocals and the atmosphere is incredibile. Extreme black metal that's basically drenched in thick epic and very effective used keys. Very well written songs and excellent musicianship. I don't usually enjoy symphonic black metal but this is the real deal.

I don't know whats up with them, they have two "new" songs on myspace which kick equal amount of ass. I once emailed Erik Sayenga (the drummer, ex Dying Fetus) and he replied very politely. I probably should ask him again about the status of the band.

I've been enjoying Diabolical Breed lately.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7kS4we2yCxw

At times that album sounds like a better version of 'In the Nightside Eclipse'.

Warthrone was cool, but I'm looking for something with more intrusive keyboard arrangements if that makes sense.

Okay Diabolical Breed is FUCKING GREAT. It might take me a little bit to get used to the sound of it, there's a lot going on and the guitar tone is really opposite from most black metal. I know I've heard of them before, never checked them out though. Thanks!

Not sure if this is exactly what you are looking for, but I would also give Sigh - "Hangman's Hymn" and anything by Hollenthon a try. Very bombastic, very aggressive, and with harsh vocals.

Transending Bizzare? may be up your alley....

Ceremonial Castings