A technical death metal band started by a drummer who grew up in Oak Bay, has received a Juno nomination for metal/hard music album of the year.

Read moreDeath metal blows tweed curtain wide open with Juno nomination

These days, metal has more subgenres than you can shake a stick at. As the form continues to splinter and hybridize in a million different directions, the old ways are being kept alive by a rising vanguard of true believers: The classic blues-based riffs and distorted guitars; the soaring melodic vocals and fantasy or sci-fi based lyrics; the occasional galloping bass line. You’ll probably even hear a twin guitar harmony or ten.

Read more5 NEW WAVE OF TRADITIONAL HEAVY METAL BANDS YOU NEED TO KNOW

The beginnings of punk rock are often furiously debated. This is partially because everyone has a different definition of punk rock, and partially because its foundation stones are found in several places.

Read moreThe History and Evolution of Punk Rock Music

You know the feeling. You’re tired, fed-up, and feeling like you’re ready to quit. Your bones are aching. Your muscles are fatigued. You need something to unlock that extra mile; to spur you through one more rep.

Read moreCM PUNK’S ULTIMATE WORKOUT PLAYLIST

For those fond of middle-aged men in short trousers belting out double entendres, there is joyful news. AC/DC flew in this week for five dates taking in London, Dublin, Manchester and the home of heavy metal itself, Birmingham.

Read moreA handy guide to heavy metal

Let’s face it, at some point in our lives we’ve turned to music to help reduce stress – and the internet knows it. Simply search for words such as ‘chill’ or ‘relax’ on Spotify, and you will find a rich digital library of playlists devoted to our wellbeing and precious downtime.

Read moreCan music reduce stress?