So, whilst the May showers continue to pour we have lovingly crafted issue 223 for your rainy day.
Our coverstar Robb Flynn stands proud as he reflects on his life and the career he’s achieved over the last 18 years with his band Machine Head and the (thankfully still) living legend King Diamond talks to us about surviving open heart surgery and rediscovering his voice.
Norwegian metal maestro Ihsahn comes out from under his rock and tells us why an Emperor reuinion isn’t on the cards and the inspiration behind his fourth opus 'Eremita'. If that wasn't enough, we talk to Sabaton’s frontman Joakim Brodén at London’s Imperial War Museum, celebrate 13 years of Watain and find out exactly what has calmed down High On Fire’s Matt Pike.
We also help you decide if you should be going to Download or Hellfest, or maybe both! Plus there are plenty of album reviews to check out where you should spend your hard earned cash.
Have you got your hands on our digital edition with even more extreme content? Exclusive To Our Digital Readers: Hear the story behind Corrosion Of Conformity's legendary skull logo and a two-page review on Portugal's SWR Festival.