This is an exhaustive international guide to Heavy Metal performers and bands, offering information on HM's famous and obscure bands and performers, with details of country of origin, personnel, band history, recordings, awards, record chartings and more. The book retrospectively surveys the entire history of Heavy Metal from its beginnings to the present, ranging back over the careers of HM's giants, but also including available information on little known bands mentioned in the HM press. Additionally, pertinent aspects of the careers of a few non-metal groups and performers whose influence has been important in the development of HM music are highlighted.