Self-released, 2010

Like a bastard son of Protest The Hero, Dillinger Escape Plan, and something decidedly pop (yes, hypothetical musical bastards can have three progenitors), the six tracks on here boast plenty in the way of erratic technicality and histrionic vocals. The unpredictable genre-flitting causes some inconsistency as well as enjoyment though, making it an EP of brilliant moments rather than a brilliant EP.

Self-released, 2009

Highly atmospheric, technically coherent, and intoxicatingly groove-laden, this taster EP from French/Swedish outfit Uneven Structure presents 21mins of extremely convincing modern metal. Taken alongside Periphery, Chimp Spanner, Animals as Leaders, etc, Uneven Structure are flag bearers for the more sophisticated and purposeful metal we yearn for. Pragmatic note: any Meshuggah references only evoke I and Catch 33, material so enigmatic and complicated Meshuggah themselves rarely discuss or perform it. Enjoy 8 free now from band’s website before full-length debut Februus arrives later this year.

A Wolf At Your Door, 2009

Hugely heavy, dual-vocalled, and relentlessly complex, this UK sextet’s impressive debut is like twenty variously-angled fists all intent on meeting your face. Closest to the sadly defunct Sikth – though they still need to fine-tune the balance between technicality and listenability to reach the heights of that band.

Unreleased track, 2009

One track review? Needs must. This is ‘no prisoners’ stuff, making the essentially inaccessible accessible. Uncompromising and esoteric, Danza now take a bold step towards progressive integration of concepts and listeners anew. Clawing at the future of experimental metal? New album will present as many questions as answers.

Victory, 2009

Eye-watering innovation, instrumental dexterity, and ambition never taint BTBAM’s instinct to create a cohesive album. Treading confidently in territories known and new, their integrity rewards listeners with music both rare and strong. A rock-evolving triumph, accessible to all.

Prosthetic, 2009

The debut from 7- and 8-string guitar-wielding Tosin Abasi (ex-Reflux), this is instrumental metal of a high calibre: technical, progressive, jazzy and exuberant, with some electronic/ambient doohickery providing substantial atmosphere. It’s a touch overindulgent at times, but its imagination and sheer proficiency always impress.