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Not only is the mainstream scene in its rudest health in years, it's also more diverse than ever and guitar-fans are spoilt for choice. We felt it was important to stick our oar in and highlight our top five picks for the 2010 festival season.

Sonisphere

30 July – 1 August - full line up - tickets

Another new kid on the block, this metal-fest takes place in the grounds of the Knebworth estate, which has had enough rock-history carved in its turf to engrain the event with a sense of authenticity.

Definitely one for fans of all things heavy, spiky and generally epic, this year's event has been expanded to a full three-day festival schedule and will feature a headline set from Iron Maiden (that's THREE guitarists).

Along with 'Maiden there will be appearances from Slayer, Alice In Chains, Anthrax, Gallows, Iggy and the Stooges and, err… Europe. We mock, but 'The Final Countdown' solo live will be a moment to behold.