Biomechanical

Although fronted by Greek vocalist and keyboardist John K., whose prior credits include Balance of Power, the progressive metal outfit Biomechanical took shape in England after its leader assembled the initial lineup at the millennium’s outset. Jamie Hunt and Chris Webb handled guitars, Jon Collins played bass, and Matt C occupied the drum seat. Contrary to the mechanized implication of the band’s name, the first two releases—2002’s Eight Moons and 2005’s The Empires of the Worlds—delivered an aggressively intense yet technically sophisticated strain of extreme power metal whose lyrics frequently explored arcane themes. Shortly before tracking the third album, Cannibalised, John K. dismissed his bandmates to assume complete creative authority, then brought in Gus Drax on guitar, ex-Dragonforce bassist Adrian Lambert, and drummer Jonno Lodge to complete the sessions.