Solo symphonic heavy metal project blending orchestral arrangement with traditional metal guitar work. An emerging artist with a cinematic approach to heavy music.

Prolific Hudson, Ohio solo project from composer Alexander Brandon, spanning heavy metal, electronic, and soundtrack work across a massive catalog. More video game composer than metal band, but the heaviest corners of the discography bring genuine riff worship.

Brandon, Florida heavy metal/hard rock project in its earliest stages. An emerging act from the Tampa Bay area metal scene.

Seattle grunge and heavy metal icons who helped define the sound of the Pacific Northwest alongside Nirvana and Pearl Jam. One of the most important bands in American rock history.

New York City heavy metal/hard rock project with an enormous 2025-2026 output — twelve releases in under two years. A hyper-prolific solo endeavor pushing out volume at a pace that dwarfs most full bands.

Detroit heavy metal act that arrived in 2025 with WRATHBERRY, a substantial debut full-length. Motor City metal with enough swagger and riff-driven energy to honor the city's hard rock legacy.

Wareham, Massachusetts heavy metal band channeling classic NWOBHM and traditional metal energy. Their self-titled debut and acoustic follow-up show a band comfortable both plugged in and stripped down.

New Jersey heavy metal/grunge act not to be confused with the pop-punk band of the same name. This heavier incarnation channels early 90s alternative metal through a grungy, riff-forward lens.

Grove City, Ohio heavy metal band from the early 2000s with a traditional metal approach. Three releases between 2002-2004 document a band paying tribute to classic heavy metal fundamentals.

Chula Vista, California NWOTHM project. Street-level heavy metal from the South Bay border region.

Urbana, Illinois heavy metal project with a burst of seven releases in 2024 alone. A prolific output suggesting a solo-driven endeavor fueled by restless creative energy.

San Diego heavy metal project with an eclectic, genre-bending approach across eight releases. The unconventional titling and rapid output point to an artist following their own creative compass without regard for convention.

Portland, Oregon NWOTHM project. Dominant devastation through classic heavy metal from the Pacific Northwest.

Beaverton, Oregon heavy metal project in its earliest stages. An emerging act from the Portland metro area's metal scene.

Wheeling, West Virginia heavy/speed metal act. A raw, underground entry from the Mountain State's sparse but dedicated metal scene.