Sometimes in music, great artists are overlooked. For whatever reason, fame bypasses them, and they never reach the heights of their peers, which is a tragedy because they have so much to offer. Their music, brash, inventive, and powerful, stands the test of time and anyone who takes the time to listen becomes an instant fan. Oz is one of those bands.

The Finnish metal group began their careers in the late seventies and after an excellent self-titled debut, released one of the best metal albums of the eighties with Fire in the Brain. Memorable vocal hooks, Priest-esque riffage, and attitude for days were Oz' trademarks and they turned more than a few heads with their fresh take on the NWOBHM sound. Despite the hype, Oz never really made it though, and the band sunk into obscurity by the nineties.

Fortunately for those of us that love metal, the group is back and doing their thing, which includes a current tour with October 31. October 31 is fronted by King Fowley of Deceased and are icons in their own right, which makes this tour all the more compelling.

Tonight these legends hit the Forum in Amherst ($13, 7pm), one of Oz' rare North American appearances. Sharing the bill are locals Herod, Pollock, and All to End. A great night of metal looms ahead. Make sure you're at the Forum to catch it.

Pollock is a name that resonates in Buffalo's underground hard rock and metal communities. The five piece ensemble have been playing together in one form or another for several years now, honing their craft and developing a sound that blends a somber, melodic approach with pure, brute, and heavy weight. The music is thoughtful and carefully crafted, a testament to the hard work the group has put in over the years, and a reflection of how they've matured since their inception. If you're a fan of Tool, Stabbing Westward or Vast chances are, you'll love Pollock.

Tonight marks the celebration of their new CD, The Moonlight Show, available for $12, along with several of Buffalo's other elite metal groups including the awesomely heavy Herod, Aspired Infliction, Super Killer Robots and Dangerous Green. Pollock will also have other merchandise available for sale. Broadway Joes is the place. 9pm is the time and $7 is the price. Get there early and stay late. Tonight promises to be one of the best showcases for heavy bands in some time.