Christian metal, also known as white metal, is a sub-genre derived from heavy metal.
Bands within this sub-genre include; Stryper, Ever Stays Red, Underoath and POD.
Evanescence were originally promoted in Christian stores however the band decided they didn't want to be considered part of the Christian metal genre.
Stryper: Stryper is classed as a Christian Glam Metal band from Orange County, California. Their name comes from the King James version of the Bible and they have a 'backronym';
SalvationThroughRedemption,YieldingPeace,Encouragement, andRighteousness
Stryper is apparently regongnised as being 'the first openly Christian metal band to gain recognition in the mainstream music world.' however there has been controversy regarding them being classed as Christian metal. After Rolling Stone magazine reported that the band had been 'disillusioned with Christian music', their songs began to be banned from Christian music stores.
Ever Stays Red: Ever Stays Red is another American Christian metal band however they have also been classed as 'Christian rock/pop'. The bands 'catchphrase' has become "To glorify God is all that we do".
Underoath: Underoath is also a Christian metal band from America (Tampa, Florida). However they don't class themselves as a traditional christian band 'We are Christian, but in a different way. We're not like your average Christian band.'
POD: POD or Payable on Death were formed in 1992 in San Diego.