Taiwanese extreme metal outfit Chthonic has truly been one of the most unique bands around since their inception more than 15 years ago. They combine elements of black metal and traditional Taiwanese music to convey the story of their ancient history and culture. It is this hugely artistic and exotic touch that separates them from the often bland and generic world of extreme metal.

Hard work, determination, Ramen noodles — these components, along with solid songwriting and live shows, fuel Dallas rock band Adakain: drummer Ryan Carroll, bassist Jason Schauer, guitarist Derrick Carter, vocalist Travis Buck.

On July 12, Emphatic, a rocking Midwest six-piece currently tearing through the US as part of the 2011 Carnival of Madness tour -- released their major-label debut, Damage, on Atlantic Records.

Jesse Hughes embodies the full scope of rock ’n’ roll: His career is crafted on a tasty recipe of three parts skill and one part dick-swinging madman antics. The Eagles of Death Metal frontman has jumped headlong into a sexy and audacious new project called Boots Electric. The band is a funky, post-modern nod to funk pioneers George Clinton and Bootsy Collins, but also pays homage to classic rockers such as Led Zeppelin and Creedence Clearwater Revival.