Northlane

Northlane is a cornerstone of the Australian heavy music scene, emerging from Sydney in 2009 to become global leaders in progressive metalcore. Their sound identity is characterized by highly technical, polyrhythmic guitar work (djent) and a sophisticated integration of electronic elements.

The band's career is marked by two distinct eras: the early Adrian Fitipaldes period, which defined the 'cosmic' metalcore aesthetic of the early 2010s, and the Marcus Bridge era, which saw the band pivot toward industrial, alternative, and electronic influences. Their 2019 album 'Alien' was a critical turning point, ditching abstract themes for raw, autobiographical lyrics regarding abuse and survival, paired with techno-influenced production. They are multi-time ARIA Award winners, cementing their status as a dominant force in heavy music. Influenced by Meshuggah and Linkin Park alike, they have influenced a new wave of 'nu-metalcore' and electronic-heavy acts like Thornhill and Void of Vision. Critical consensus views them as one of the few bands in the genre to successfully reinvent themselves without losing their core intensity.