Imperia, a symphonic metal group led by Norwegian vocalist Helena Iren Michaelsen, was formed in 2004. Their debut album, The Ancient Dance of Qetesh, released in 2004, showcased an atmospheric blend of Egyptian sounds and speed metal, highlighted by Michaelsen's operatic vocals. The group followed with Queen of Light in 2007, which included the title track addressing childbirth. Between albums, Michaelsen also pursued a solo project under the name Angel. Imperia continued with Secret Passion in 2011 and later released Tears of Silence (2015) and Flames of Eternity (2019).