Bulgarian-led metal project Brainmaze is born out of a long and interesting backstory that's finally seeing the light of day with an "aggressive, progressive and heavy" sound.
New Band of the Week: Calvaria
Bristol band Calvaria offer up a tribute to 2000s metalcore and nu-metal with elements of progressive metal in a thrilling sound they describe as "melodic, loud and riffy."
Introducing: Dyspläcer
If you're looking for a band that's a bit different from the norm, then the Kung Fu heavy metal sound of Dyspläcer may be your perfect solution. The mysterious American band offers up tales of epic battles and forbidden techniques in an entertaining sound that delivers a firm Karate chop to the jaw.
Introducing: VISAVIS
French band VISAVIS take us on a wild groove metal ride that flows through catchy riffs and vocals with unexpected electronic elements along the way, in a sound they describe as "Fresh Heavy Sludge."
Introducing: Loaded Deck
North Carolina band Loaded Deck aim to pay homage to the metal gods and heroes of the past, especially the 70s and 80s new wave of British heavy metal, in a sound they describe as Old School Metal.
Introducing: Vessel
Israeli band Vessel have crafted a thrilling heavy metal sound that harks back to the good old days of rock'n'roll.
New Band of the Week: Kensei
West Midlands band Kensei lead us on a high energy into classic heavy metal, fusing powerful vocals and crushing riffs in a sound they fittingly describe as "raw brutality."
New Band of the Week: Tiberius
Edinburgh band Tiberius have crafted an engaging fusion of anthemic rock, progressive metal and hooky metalcore in a sound they describe as "thought-provoking chaos."
Introducing: Skies Turn Black
British band Skies Turn Black offer up a fun and approachable power metal sound that boasts powerful vocals, infectious melodies, intricate guitar solos and, in what we're pretty sure is a GigRadar first, a keytar.
Introducing: Wolvera
Texas band Wolvera aim to leave an impression on people that hear the metal sound they describe as "powerful, creative, and deep." And it's safe to say their attempts to modernise everything that was good about 1980s heavy metal - namely chugging riffs, vicious vocals, searing solos and powerful rhythms - are pretty memorable.