Unearthing the Underground: Underrated Metal, Hidden Gems & the Ace of Spades Verdict

Welcome back to Tracks on Trial, the global music podcast where three hosts from three continents put songs in the dock and deliver one of two verdicts: Topper or Flopper.

In this episode, we head deep into the underground metal scene, spotlighting underrated bands and tracks that deserve far more attention than they get. From emotionally devastating performances to surgically precise production, this episode is all about the metal that flies under the radar - and why that’s often where the most exciting innovation lives.

Sam George, Amy Jo, and Andy explore what gives metal real emotional weight, why conviction matters as much as technical skill, and how female vocalists are reshaping the genre with power, range, and authenticity. Along the way, the jury faces quickfire rounds, tests their knowledge with a metal quiz, and tackles satirical metal-industry “news” that hits a little too close to home.

The episode builds toward a deeper discussion of Motörhead’s “Ace of Spades”, examining its legacy, influence, and why it still looms so large over modern heavy music.

In this episode:

• Underrated and underground metal bands
• Emotional weight vs technical proficiency
• Female vocalists redefining heavy music
• Quickfire instinct rounds
• A metal quiz to test genre knowledge
• Satirical metal industry news
• Production quality in modern metal
• The lasting influence of Ace of Spades
• Why discovering lesser-known bands matters

Whether you’re a lifelong metalhead or just starting to dig deeper, this episode proves that some of the most vital heavy music lives far away from the mainstream.

Topper or Flopper? Listen, judge, and tell us which underground bands deserve their day in court.