Inside this issue of Metal Hammer, Machine Head mastermind Robb Flynn gives us a tour of his beloved hometown of Oakland. From the storied dive bars to the studio where the band wrote ‘The Blackening’, it’s all here. He also takes us inside the making of the band’s brilliant new album, ‘UNATØNED’.

Plus, to honour both Machine Head’s latest album, and this limited-edition 400th Metal Hammer Issue, we’ve joined forces with the band to offer a world-exclusive 7” orange and black galaxy vinyl, featuring agonised rager ‘BØNESCRAPER’ (Side A) and ferocious lead single ‘UNBØUND’ (Side B). Each bundle also comes with a numbered art card. There are only 400 of these bundles anywhere in the world – in honour of Metal Hammer’s latest milestone – so get yours now.

Elsewhere in the Issue… 

• We uncover Sleep Token’s secret origin story, via the people who were there during their earliest days. With new album ‘Even In Arcadia’ on the way, it’s a fascinating insight into the hard work and creativity that’s seen them land a Download headline slot this summer.
• Also this month, we revisit the first appearance in the mag of some of our favourite bands, to see what they were like then, and how they’ve grown since.
• Meanwhile, Sharon Osbourne explains how she helped turn Ozzy's career around and shape modern metal with Ozzfest, and Sharon den Adel looks back on the dramatic history of Within Temptation, and how it nearly broke up her marriage.
• Aussies Thornhill talk about why they’re bringing 90s cool to a new generation, The Used’s Bert McCracken imparts his life lessons, and we reveal the tale behind Tobias Forge’s favourite cult-horror metal band, Death SS.
• Coheed And Cambria’s Claudio Sanchez reflects on the making of ‘The Suffering’, Nightwish man turned solo artist Marko Hietala invites us into his record collection, and Svalbard/Noctule frontwoman Serena Cherry answers your questions.
• We also meet Neckbreakker, the Danish upstarts who are supporting Slayer, and Knocked Loose’s Bryan Garris talks Grammys, his biggest fear, and making pig squeals mainstream.

...all this, plus all the essential gigs and reviews from the world of metal!

* vinyl image for display purposes only.