Machine Head frontman Robb Flynn shared his thoughts on metal’s current state and future in a recent interview with Full Metal Jackie.
“I think it’s in a much better place now. When Machine Head started out, it was almost like metal was kind of on this big downward slope. It wasn’t cool,” Flynn said. “There was some people flying the flag for sure – Pantera, Sepultura. But it was tough.”
“I think now that landscape changed mainly because the gatekeepers got pushed out. The magazines kind of didn’t become as important anymore. So much of it’s about the Internet,” he continued. “I think a lot of bands are much more in control of their own destiny. Bands got smart. People are like, ‘I don’t want to give away all my publishing and my merchandise. I can just do this myself.’ It’s awesome to see.”
“I genuinely believe that there’s going to be a time when we look back on this era of metal and even the previous era of thrash metal and extreme metal, and we’re going to have the same reverence for it that we have with the jazz, the Miles Davises and the jazz musicians of 50 years ago,” Flynn stated. “Because there is so much talent in metal right now, and it really is not appreciated by the music industry. It’s not appreciated by the Grammys. The Best Metal Grammy is still in the other building [pre-telecast], and it’s only on the Internet. They don’t get it.”
Flynn’s observations coincide with metal’s ongoing evolution in the changing music industry landscape.
A report from Kerrang revealed the metal scene’s significant transformation in 2025. New subgenres and fusion styles have emerged, including nu-metalcore and blackgaze. These developments showcase the genre’s creative expansion.
The metal community’s digital evolution reflects in modern release strategies and fan engagement. Loudwire highlighted how emerging acts like Sleep Token and Turnstile built dedicated followings through online platforms before their 2025 releases.
Research by Develop Device emphasized the unprecedented creative freedom in today’s metal landscape. Bands increasingly embrace independent distribution models. They connect with fans directly through platforms like Patreon and Bandcamp.
Flynn’s journey with Machine Head spans three decades and validates the evolution he describes. The band evolved from their 1994 debut ‘Burn My Eyes’ to become thrash-metal innovators. Their story mirrors the industry’s shift from traditional label structures to a digital-first approach.
