Dimmu Borgir (pronounced Dim-moo-bore-gear, IPA: /ˌdɪmuːˈbɔːrɡɪr/) is a black metal band from Norway. "Dimmu Borgir" means "Dark Cities" or "Dark Fortresses" in Icelandic and Old Norse; the name is derived from a volcanic formation found in Iceland, Dimmuborgir.

Iron Maiden are an English heavy metal band from east London. The band were formed in 1975 by bassist Steve Harris, formerly a member of Gypsy's Kiss and Smiler. Iron Maiden are one of the most successful and influential bands in the heavy metal genre, having sold 80 million albums worldwide. The band won the Ivor Novello award for international achievement in 2002.

Judas Priest are an English heavy metal band formed in 1970 in Birmingham. Originally formed by guitarist K.K. Downing and bassist Ian Hill, Judas Priest's classic line-up consists of Downing, Hill, vocalist Rob Halford and guitarist Glenn Tipton. They have been cited as an influence on many heavy metal musicians and bands. Their popularity and status as one of the definitive heavy metal bands has earned them the nickname "Metal Gods."They have sold over 35 million albums worldwide.

Lamb of God is a Grammy-nominated five-piece metal band from Richmond, Virginia, formerly known as Burn the Priest. They have sold over 1 million albums in the U.S. alone (see discography).

Mudvayne is an American metal band. Their music has been described by vocalist Chad Gray as Math Metal. "Determined" was included on the Need for Speed: Underground 2 soundtrack.

It's no exaggeration to call the Massachusetts metail quintet: Shadows Fall one of the most important and best loved acts in modern metal: one impressive enough that fans and journalists outside of the tight circle of metal culture can't help but notice and be impressed.