MetalReviews

Awards 2007

13 reviewers shared their picks for 2007.

← 2006 2008 →

Chris

Top Albums

  1. 1.
  2. 1.
  3. 1.
  4. 1.
  5. 1.
  6. 1.
  7. 2.
  8. 2.
  9. 2.
  10. 2.
  11. 2.
  12. 2.
  13. 3.
  14. 3.
  15. 3.
  16. 3.
  17. 3.
  18. 3.
  19. 4.
  20. 4.
  21. 4.
  22. 4.
  23. 4.
  24. 4.
  25. 5.
  26. 5.
  27. 5.
  28. 5.
  29. 5.
  30. 5.
  31. 6.
  32. 6.
  33. 6.
  34. 6.
  35. 6.
  36. 6.
  37. 7.
  38. 7.
  39. 7.
  40. 7.
  41. 7.
  42. 7.
  43. 8.
  44. 8.
  45. 8.
  46. 8.
  47. 8.
  48. 8.
  49. 9.
  50. 9.
  51. 9.
  52. 9.
  53. 9.
  54. 9.
  55. 10.
  56. 10.
  57. 10.
  58. 10.
  59. 10.
  60. 10.
  61. 11.
  62. 11.
  63. 11.
  64. 11.
  65. 11.
  66. 11.
  67. 12.
    Gotthard - The Domino Effect
  68. 12.
    Gotthard - The Domino Effect
  69. 12.
    Gotthard - The Domino Effect

Surprises of the Year

  1. 1.
    Dragonslayer - Cronos
  2. 1.
    Dragonslayer - Cronos
  3. 1.
    Dragonslayer - Cronos
  4. 1.
    Dragonslayer - Cronos
  5. 1.
    Dragonslayer - Cronos
  6. 1.
    Dragonslayer - Cronos
  7. 2.
  8. 2.
  9. 2.
  10. 2.
  11. 2.
  12. 2.
  13. 3.
    Andre Matos - Letting Go
  14. 3.
    Andre Matos - Letting Go
  15. 3.
    Andre Matos - Letting Go
  16. 4.
    Powerwolf - Lupus Dei
  17. 4.
    Powerwolf - Lupus Dei

Disappointments

  1. 1.
  2. 1.
  3. 1.
  4. 1.
  5. 1.
  6. 1.
  7. 2.
  8. 2.
  9. 2.
  10. 2.
  11. 2.
  12. 2.
  13. 3.
  14. 3.
  15. 3.
  16. 3.
  17. 3.
  18. 3.
  19. 4.
    Gamma Ray - Land of the Free II
  20. 4.
    Gamma Ray - Land of the Free II
  21. 4.
    Gamma Ray - Land of the Free II
  22. 4.
    Gamma Ray - Land of the Free II

Words / Final Thoughts

  1. 0
    — Having spent a lot of time on the upcoming V2 of metalreviews I couldn't review all the albums on my list. I will do some of these review in the coming weeks hopefully. 2007 was another great metal year, but I sense 2008 might actually be even better, from the few awesome promos I've listened to already that is. Happy New Year 2008 and In Metal We Trust !
  2. 0
    — Having spent a lot of time on the upcoming V2 of metalreviews I couldn't review all the albums on my list. I will do some of these reviews in the coming weeks hopefully. 2007 was another great metal year, but I sense 2008 might actually be even better, from the few awesome promos I've listened to already that is. Happy New Year 2008 and In Metal We Trust !
  3. 0
    — Having spent a lot of time on the upcoming V2 of metalreviews I couldn't review all the albums on my list. I will do some of these reviews in the coming weeks hopefully. 2007 also marked the return of X-Japan with their new single IV, and I can't wait for more from them in 2008, hopefully, even though not announced, a new album would be great. 2007 was another great metal year, but I sense 2008 might actually be even better, from the few awesome promos I've listened to already that is. Happy New Year 2008 and In Metal We Trust !

Danny

Top Albums

  1. 1.
  2. 1.
  3. 1.
  4. 1.
  5. 1.
  6. 1.
  7. 1.
  8. 1.
  9. 1.
  10. 1.
  11. 1.
  12. 1.
  13. 1.
  14. 1.
  15. 1.
  16. 1.
  17. 1.
  18. 1.
  19. 1.
  20. 1.
  21. 1.
  22. 1.
  23. 1.
  24. 2.
    Powerwolf - Lupus Dei
  25. 2.
    Powerwolf - Lupus Dei
  26. 2.
    Powerwolf - Lupus Dei
  27. 2.
    Powerwolf - Lupus Dei
  28. 2.
    Powerwolf - Lupus Dei
  29. 2.
    Powerwolf - Lupus Dei
  30. 2.
    Powerwolf - Lupus Dei
  31. 2.
    Powerwolf - Lupus Dei
  32. 2.
    Powerwolf - Lupus Dei
  33. 2.
    Powerwolf - Lupus Dei
  34. 2.
    Powerwolf - Lupus Dei
  35. 2.
    Powerwolf - Lupus Dei
  36. 2.
    Powerwolf - Lupus Dei
  37. 2.
    Powerwolf - Lupus Dei
  38. 2.
    Powerwolf - Lupus Dei
  39. 2.
    Powerwolf - Lupus Dei
  40. 2.
    Powerwolf - Lupus Dei
  41. 2.
    Powerwolf - Lupus Dei
  42. 2.
    Powerwolf - Lupus Dei
  43. 2.
    Powerwolf - Lupus Dei
  44. 2.
    Powerwolf - Lupus Dei
  45. 2.
    Powerwolf - Lupus Dei
  46. 2.
    Powerwolf - Lupus Dei
  47. 3.
    Gotthard - Domino Effect
  48. 3.
    Gotthard - Domino Effect
  49. 3.
    Gotthard - Domino Effect
  50. 3.
  51. 3.
  52. 3.
  53. 3.
  54. 3.
  55. 3.
  56. 3.
  57. 3.
  58. 3.
  59. 3.
  60. 3.
  61. 3.
  62. 3.
  63. 3.
  64. 3.
  65. 3.
  66. 3.
  67. 3.
  68. 3.
  69. 3.
  70. 4.
  71. 4.
  72. 4.
  73. 4.
    Gotthard - Domino Effect
  74. 4.
    Gotthard - Domino Effect
  75. 4.
    Gotthard - Domino Effect
  76. 4.
    Gotthard - Domino Effect
  77. 4.
    Gotthard - Domino Effect
  78. 4.
    Gotthard - Domino Effect
  79. 4.
    Gotthard - Domino Effect
  80. 4.
    Gotthard - Domino Effect
  81. 4.
    Gotthard - Domino Effect
  82. 4.
    Gotthard - Domino Effect
  83. 4.
    Gotthard - Domino Effect
  84. 4.
    Gotthard - Domino Effect
  85. 4.
    Gotthard - Domino Effect
  86. 4.
    Gotthard - Domino Effect
  87. 4.
    Gotthard - Domino Effect
  88. 4.
    Gotthard - Domino Effect
  89. 4.
    Gotthard - Domino Effect
  90. 4.
    Gotthard - Domino Effect
  91. 4.
    Gotthard - Domino Effect
  92. 4.
    Gotthard - Domino Effect
  93. 5.
  94. 5.
  95. 5.
  96. 5.
  97. 5.
  98. 5.
  99. 5.
  100. 5.
  101. 5.
  102. 5.
  103. 5.
  104. 5.
  105. 5.
  106. 5.
  107. 5.
  108. 5.
  109. 5.
  110. 5.
  111. 5.
  112. 5.
  113. 5.
  114. 5.
  115. 5.
  116. 6.
  117. 6.
  118. 6.
  119. 6.
  120. 6.
  121. 6.
  122. 6.
  123. 6.
  124. 6.
  125. 6.
  126. 6.
  127. 6.
  128. 6.
  129. 6.
  130. 6.
  131. 6.
  132. 6.
  133. 6.
  134. 6.
  135. 6.
  136. 6.
  137. 6.
  138. 6.
  139. 7.
  140. 7.
  141. 7.
  142. 7.
  143. 7.
  144. 7.
  145. 7.
  146. 7.
  147. 7.
  148. 7.
  149. 7.
  150. 7.
  151. 7.
  152. 7.
  153. 7.
  154. 7.
  155. 7.
  156. 7.
  157. 7.
  158. 7.
  159. 7.
  160. 7.
  161. 7.
  162. 8.
  163. 8.
  164. 8.
  165. 8.
  166. 8.
  167. 8.
  168. 8.
  169. 8.
  170. 8.
  171. 8.
  172. 8.
  173. 8.
  174. 8.
  175. 8.
  176. 8.
  177. 8.
  178. 8.
  179. 8.
  180. 8.
  181. 8.
  182. 8.
  183. 8.
  184. 8.
  185. 9.
  186. 9.
  187. 9.
  188. 9.
  189. 9.
  190. 9.
  191. 9.
  192. 9.
  193. 9.
  194. 9.
  195. 9.
  196. 9.
  197. 9.
  198. 9.
  199. 9.
  200. 9.
  201. 9.
  202. 9.
  203. 9.
  204. 9.
  205. 9.
  206. 9.
  207. 9.
  208. 10.
  209. 10.
  210. 10.
  211. 10.
  212. 10.
  213. 10.
  214. 10.
  215. 10.
  216. 10.
  217. 10.
  218. 10.
  219. 10.
  220. 10.
  221. 10.
  222. 10.
  223. 10.
  224. 10.
  225. 10.
  226. 10.
  227. 10.
  228. 10.
  229. 11.
  230. 11.
    Jorn - Unlocking The Past — The Day The Earth Caught Fire (song of the year)
  231. 11.
    Jorn - Unlocking The Past — The Day The Earth Caught Fire (song of the year)
  232. 11.
  233. 11.
    Ministry - The Last Sucker — RIP.
  234. 11.
    Ministry - The Last Sucker — RIP.
  235. 11.
    Ministry - The Last Sucker — RIP.
  236. 11.
    Ministry - The Last Sucker — RIP.
  237. 11.
    Ministry - The Last Sucker — RIP.
  238. 11.
    Ministry - The Last Sucker — RIP.
  239. 11.
    Ministry - The Last Sucker — RIP.
  240. 11.
    Ministry - The Last Sucker — RIP.
  241. 11.
    Ministry - The Last Sucker — RIP.
  242. 11.
    Ministry - The Last Sucker — RIP.
  243. 11.
    Ministry - The Last Sucker — RIP.
  244. 11.
    Ministry - The Last Sucker — RIP.
  245. 11.
    Ministry - The Last Sucker — RIP.
  246. 11.
    Ministry - The Last Sucker — RIP.
  247. 11.
    Ministry - The Last Sucker — RIP.
  248. 11.
    Ministry - The Last Sucker — RIP.
  249. 11.
    Ministry - The Last Sucker — RIP.
  250. 12.
  251. 12.
  252. 12.
  253. 12.
    Gamma Ray - Land of the Free II
  254. 12.
    Gamma Ray - Land of the Free II
  255. 12.
    Gamma Ray - Land of the Free II
  256. 12.
  257. 12.
  258. 12.
  259. 12.
  260. 12.
  261. 12.
  262. 12.
  263. 12.
  264. 12.
  265. 12.
  266. 12.
  267. 12.
  268. 12.
  269. 12.
  270. 12.
  271. 12.
  272. 12.
  273. 13.
  274. 13.
  275. 13.
  276. 13.
  277. 13.
  278. 13.
  279. 13.
  280. 13.
  281. 13.
  282. 13.
  283. 13.
  284. 13.
  285. 13.
  286. 13.
  287. 13.
  288. 13.
  289. 13.
  290. 13.
  291. 13.
  292. 13.
  293. 13.
  294. 13.
  295. 13.
  296. 14.
  297. 14.
  298. 14.
  299. 14.
  300. 14.
  301. 14.
    Ministry - The Last Sucker
  302. 14.
  303. 14.
  304. 14.
  305. 14.
  306. 14.
  307. 14.
  308. 14.
  309. 14.
  310. 14.
  311. 14.
  312. 14.
  313. 14.
  314. 14.
  315. 14.
  316. 14.
  317. 14.
  318. 14.
  319. 15.
    Gamma Ray - Land of the Free II
  320. 15.
    Gamma Ray - Land of the Free II
  321. 15.
    Gamma Ray - Land of the Free II
  322. 15.
  323. 15.
  324. 15.
  325. 15.
    Gamma Ray - Land of the Free II
  326. 15.
    Gamma Ray - Land of the Free II
  327. 15.
    Gamma Ray - Land of the Free II
  328. 15.
    Gamma Ray - Land of the Free II
  329. 15.
    Gamma Ray - Land of the Free II
  330. 15.
    Gamma Ray - Land of the Free II
  331. 15.
    Gamma Ray - Land of the Free II
  332. 15.
    Gamma Ray - Land of the Free II
  333. 15.
    Gamma Ray - Land of the Free II
  334. 15.
    Gamma Ray - Land of the Free II
  335. 15.
    Gamma Ray - Land of the Free II
  336. 15.
    Gamma Ray - Land of the Free II
  337. 15.
  338. 15.
  339. 15.
  340. 15.
  341. 15.

Surprises of the Year

  1. 1.
    Volbeat - Rock the Rebel/Metal The Devil
  2. 1.
    Volbeat - Rock the Rebel/Metal The Devil
  3. 1.
    Volbeat - Rock the Rebel/Metal The Devil
  4. 1.
    Volbeat - Rock the Rebel/Metal The Devil
  5. 1.
    Volbeat - Rock the Rebel/Metal The Devil
  6. 1.
    Volbeat - Rock the Rebel/Metal The Devil
  7. 1.
  8. 1.
  9. 1.
  10. 1.
  11. 1.
  12. 1.
  13. 1.
  14. 1.
  15. 1.
  16. 1.
  17. 1.
  18. 1.
  19. 1.
  20. 1.
  21. 1.
  22. 1.
  23. 1.
  24. 2.
  25. 2.
  26. 2.
  27. 2.
  28. 2.
  29. 2.
  30. 2.
    Volbeat - Rock the Rebel/Metal The Devil
  31. 2.
    Volbeat - Rock the Rebel/Metal The Devil
  32. 2.
    Volbeat - Rock the Rebel/Metal The Devil
  33. 2.
    Volbeat - Rock the Rebel/Metal The Devil
  34. 2.
    Volbeat - Rock the Rebel/Metal The Devil
  35. 2.
    Volbeat - Rock the Rebel/Metal The Devil
  36. 2.
    Volbeat - Rock the Rebel/Metal The Devil
  37. 2.
    Volbeat - Rock the Rebel/Metal The Devil
  38. 2.
    Volbeat - Rock the Rebel/Metal The Devil
  39. 2.
    Volbeat - Rock the Rebel/Metal The Devil
  40. 2.
    Volbeat - Rock the Rebel/Metal The Devil
  41. 2.
    Volbeat - Rock the Rebel/Metal The Devil
  42. 2.
    Volbeat - Rock the Rebel/Metal The Devil
  43. 2.
    Volbeat - Rock the Rebel/Metal The Devil
  44. 2.
    Volbeat - Rock the Rebel/Metal The Devil
  45. 2.
    Volbeat - Rock the Rebel/Metal The Devil
  46. 2.
    Volbeat - Rock the Rebel/Metal The Devil
  47. 3.
    Airbourne - Runnin' Wild
  48. 3.
    Airbourne - Runnin' Wild
  49. 3.
    Airbourne - Runnin' Wild
  50. 3.
    Airbourne - Runnin' Wild
  51. 3.
    Airbourne - Runnin' Wild
  52. 3.
    Jorn - Unlocking The Past — The Day The Earth Caught Fire (song of the year)
  53. 3.
    Airbourne - Runnin' Wild
  54. 3.
    Airbourne - Runnin' Wild
  55. 3.
    Airbourne - Runnin' Wild
  56. 3.
    Airbourne - Runnin' Wild
  57. 3.
    Airbourne - Runnin' Wild
  58. 3.
    Airbourne - Runnin' Wild
  59. 3.
    Airbourne - Runnin' Wild
  60. 3.
    Airbourne - Runnin' Wild
  61. 3.
    Airbourne - Runnin' Wild
  62. 3.
    Airbourne - Runnin' Wild
  63. 3.
    Airbourne - Runnin' Wild
  64. 3.
    Airbourne - Runnin' Wild
  65. 3.
    Airbourne - Runnin' Wild
  66. 3.
    Airbourne - Runnin' Wild
  67. 3.
    Airbourne - Runnin' Wild
  68. 3.
  69. 3.
  70. 4.
  71. 4.
  72. 4.
  73. 4.
  74. 4.
  75. 4.
    Airbourne - Runnin' Wild
  76. 4.
    Jorn - Unlocking The Past — The Day The Earth Caught Fire (song of the year)
  77. 4.
    Jorn - Unlocking The Past — The Day The Earth Caught Fire (song of the year)
  78. 4.
    Jorn - Unlocking The Past — The Day The Earth Caught Fire (song of the year)
  79. 4.
    Jorn - Unlocking The Past — The Day The Earth Caught Fire (song of the year)
  80. 4.
    Jorn - Unlocking The Past — The Day The Earth Caught Fire (song of the year)
  81. 4.
    Jorn - Unlocking The Past — The Day The Earth Caught Fire (song of the year)
  82. 4.
    Jorn - Unlocking The Past — The Day The Earth Caught Fire (song of the year)
  83. 4.
    Jorn - Unlocking The Past — The Day The Earth Caught Fire (song of the year)
  84. 4.
    Jorn - Unlocking The Past — The Day The Earth Caught Fire (song of the year)
  85. 4.
    Jorn - Unlocking The Past — The Day The Earth Caught Fire (song of the year)
  86. 4.
    Jorn - Unlocking The Past — The Day The Earth Caught Fire (song of the year)
  87. 4.
    Jorn - Unlocking The Past — The Day The Earth Caught Fire (song of the year)
  88. 4.
    Jorn - Unlocking The Past — The Day The Earth Caught Fire (song of the year)
  89. 4.
    Jorn - Unlocking The Past — The Day The Earth Caught Fire (song of the year)
  90. 4.
    Jorn - Unlocking The Past — The Day The Earth Caught Fire (song of the year)
  91. 4.
    Jorn - Unlocking The Past — The Day The Earth Caught Fire (song of the year)
  92. 4.
    Jorn - Unlocking The Past — The Day The Earth Caught Fire (song of the year)
  93. 5.
  94. 5.
  95. 5.
  96. 5.
  97. 5.
  98. 5.
  99. 5.
  100. 5.
  101. 5.
  102. 5.
  103. 5.
  104. 5.
  105. 5.
  106. 5.
  107. 5.
  108. 5.
  109. 5.
  110. 5.
  111. 5.
  112. 5.
  113. 5.
  114. 5.
  115. 5.

Disappointments

  1. 1.
  2. 1.
  3. 1.
  4. 1.
  5. 1.
  6. 1.
  7. 1.
  8. 1.
  9. 1.
  10. 1.
  11. 1.
  12. 1.
  13. 1.
  14. 1.
  15. 1.
  16. 1.
  17. 1.
  18. 1.
  19. 1.
  20. 1.
  21. 1.
  22. 1.
  23. 1.
  24. 2.
  25. 2.
  26. 2.
  27. 2.
  28. 2.
  29. 2.
  30. 2.
  31. 2.
  32. 2.
  33. 2.
  34. 2.
  35. 2.
  36. 2.
  37. 2.
  38. 2.
  39. 2.
  40. 2.
  41. 2.
  42. 2.
  43. 2.
  44. 2.
  45. 2.
  46. 2.
  47. 3.
  48. 3.
  49. 3.
  50. 3.
  51. 3.
  52. 3.
  53. 3.
  54. 3.
  55. 3.
  56. 3.
  57. 3.
  58. 3.
  59. 3.
  60. 3.
  61. 3.
  62. 3.
  63. 3.
  64. 3.
  65. 3.
  66. 3.
  67. 3.
  68. 3.
  69. 3.
  70. 4.
  71. 4.
  72. 4.
  73. 4.
  74. 4.
  75. 4.
  76. 4.
  77. 4.
  78. 4.
  79. 4.
  80. 4.
  81. 4.
  82. 4.
  83. 4.
  84. 4.
  85. 4.
  86. 4.
  87. 4.
  88. 4.
  89. 4.
  90. 4.
  91. 4.
  92. 4.
  93. 5.
  94. 5.
  95. 5.
  96. 5.
  97. 5.
  98. 5.
  99. 5.
  100. 5.
  101. 5.
  102. 5.
  103. 5.
  104. 5.
  105. 5.
  106. 5.
  107. 5.
  108. 5.
  109. 5.
  110. 5.
  111. 5.
  112. 5.
  113. 5.
  114. 5.
  115. 5.

Joke of the Year

  1. 1.
  2. 1.
  3. 1.
  4. 1.
  5. 1.
  6. 1.
  7. 1.
  8. 1.
  9. 1.
  10. 1.
  11. 1.
  12. 1.
  13. 1.
  14. 1.
  15. 1.
  16. 1.
  17. 1.
  18. 1.
  19. 1.
  20. 1.
  21. 1.
  22. 1.
  23. 1.
  24. 2.
    ... no others can't compete this year with Manowar !!!
  25. 2.
    ... no others can't compete this year with Manowar !!!
  26. 2.
    ... no others can't compete this year with Manowar !!!
  27. 2.
    ... no others can't compete this year with Manowar !!!
  28. 2.
    ... no others can't compete this year with Manowar !!!
  29. 2.
    ... no others can't compete this year with Manowar !!!
  30. 2.
    ... no others can't compete this year with Manowar !!!
  31. 2.
    ... no others can't compete this year with Manowar !!!
  32. 2.
    ... no others can't compete this year with Manowar !!!
  33. 2.
    ... no others can't compete this year with Manowar !!!
  34. 2.
    No others can't compete with Manowar !!! — What a calamity ...
  35. 2.
    No others can't compete with Manowar !!! — What a calamity ...
  36. 2.
    No others can't compete with Manowar !!! — What a calamity ...
  37. 2.
    No others can't compete with Manowar !!! — What a calamity ...
  38. 2.
    No others can't compete with Manowar !!! — What a calamity ...
  39. 2.
    No others can't compete with Manowar !!! — What a calamity ...
  40. 2.
    No others can't compete with Manowar !!! — What a calamity ...
  41. 2.
  42. 2.
  43. 2.
  44. 2.
  45. 2.
  46. 2.
  47. 3.
  48. 3.
  49. 3.
  50. 3.
  51. 3.
  52. 3.
  53. 4.
  54. 4.
  55. 4.
  56. 4.
  57. 4.
  58. 4.
  59. 5.
    No others can't compete with Manowar !!! — What a calamity ...
  60. 5.
    No others can't compete with Manowar !!! — What a calamity ...
  61. 5.
    No others can't compete with Manowar !!! — What a calamity ...
  62. 5.
    No others can't compete with Manowar !!! — What a calamity ...
  63. 5.
    No others can't compete with Manowar !!! — What a calamity ...
  64. 5.
    No others can't compete with Manowar !!! — What a calamity ...

Words / Final Thoughts

  1. 0
    — The usual : The best for my family and my friends. Once again Metal renews itself: Volbeat (Metallica meets the Beatles), Turisas (Viking Metal Hammerfall), Helloween (still here), Powerwolf (the new hope), Dimmu Borgir (spreading black metal on earth) etc ... No Metal is not dead, not in 2007, nor in twenty years. HAIL METAL !!! The best for all our readers in 2008.
  2. 0
    — The usual : The best for my family and my friends. Once again Metal renews itself: Volbeat (Metallica meets the Beatles), Turisas (Viking Metal Hammerfall), Helloween (still here), Powerwolf (the new hope), Dimmu Borgir (spreading black metal on earth) Airbourne (old AC/DC at its best). etc ... No Metal is not dead, not in 2007, nor in twenty years. HAIL METAL !!! The best for all our readers in 2008.
  3. 0
    — The usual : The best for my family and my friends. Once again Metal renews itself: Volbeat (Metallica meets the Beatles), Turisas (Viking Metal Hammerfall), Helloween (still here), Powerwolf (the new hope), Dimmu Borgir (spreading black metal on earth) Airbourne (old AC/DC at its best). etc ... No Metal is not dead, not in 2007, nor in twenty years. HAIL METAL !!! The best for all our readers in 2008.
  4. 0
    — The usual : The best for my family and my friends. Once again Metal renews itself: Volbeat (Metallica meets the Beatles), Turisas (Viking Metal Hammerfall), Helloween (still here), Powerwolf (the new hope), Dimmu Borgir (spreading black metal on earth) Airbourne (old AC/DC at its best). etc ... No Metal is not dead, not in 2007, nor in twenty years. HAIL METAL !!! The best for all our readers in 2008.
  5. 0
    — The usual : The best for my family and my friends. Once again Metal renews itself: Volbeat (Metallica meets the Beatles), Turisas (Viking Metal Hammerfall), Helloween (still here), Powerwolf (the new hope), Dimmu Borgir (spreading black metal on earth) Airbourne (old AC/DC at its best). etc ... No Metal is not dead, not in 2007, nor in twenty years. HAIL METAL !!! The best for all our readers in 2008.
  6. 0
    — The usual : The best for my family and my friends. Once again Metal renews itself: Volbeat (Metallica meets the Beatles), Turisas (Viking Metal Hammerfall), Helloween (still here), Powerwolf (the new hope), Dimmu Borgir (spreading black metal on earth) Airbourne (old AC/DC at its best). etc ... No Metal is not dead, not in 2007, nor in twenty years. HAIL METAL !!! The best for all our readers in 2008.
  7. 0
    — The usual : The best for my family and my friends. Once again Metal renews itself: Volbeat (Metallica meets the Beatles), Turisas (Viking Metal Hammerfall), Helloween (still here), Powerwolf (the new hope), Dimmu Borgir (spreading black metal on earth) Airbourne (old AC/DC at its best). etc ... No Metal is not dead, not in 2007, nor in twenty years. HAIL METAL !!! Metallica at Wembley was AWESOME !!!! Can't wait anymore their new album. Bet a million it will blast us. The best for all our readers in 2008.
  8. 0
    — The usual : The best for my family, my friends and all our readers. Once again Metal renews itself: Volbeat (Metallica meets the Beatles), Turisas (Viking Metal Hammerfall), Helloween (still at the top), Powerwolf (the new hope), Dimmu Borgir (spreading black metal on earth) Airbourne (old AC/DC at its best). etc ... No Metal is not dead, not in 2007, nor in twenty years. HAIL METAL !!! Metallica at Wembley was AWESOME !!! Can't wait anymore their new album. Bet a million it will blast us.
  9. 0
    — The usual : The best for my family, my friends and all our readers. Once again Metal renews itself: Volbeat (Metallica meets the Beatles), Turisas (Viking Metal Hammerfall), Helloween (still at the top), Powerwolf (the new hope), Dimmu Borgir (spreading black metal on earth), Airbourne (old AC/DC at its best), etc ... No! Metal is not dead :-) Not in 2007, nor in twenty years. HAIL METAL! Metallica at Wembley was AWESOME !!! Can't wait anymore their new album. Bet a million it will blast us.
  10. 0
    — The usual : The best for my family, my friends and all our readers. Once again Metal renews itself: Volbeat (Metallica meets the Beatles), Turisas (Viking Metal Hammerfall), Helloween (still at the top), Powerwolf (the new hope), Dimmu Borgir (spreading black metal on earth), Airbourne (old AC/DC at its best), etc ... No! Metal is not dead :-) Not in 2007, nor in twenty years. HAIL METAL! Metallica at Wembley was AWESOME !!! Can't wait anymore their new album. Bet a million it will blast us.
  11. 0
    — The usual : The best for my family, my friends and all our readers. Once again Metal renews itself: Volbeat (Metallica meets the Beatles), Turisas (Viking Metal Hammerfall), Helloween (still at the top), Powerwolf (the new hope), Dimmu Borgir (spreading black metal on earth), Airbourne (old AC/DC at its best), etc ... No! Metal is not dead :-) Not in 2007, nor in twenty years. HAIL METAL! Metallica at Wembley was AWESOME !!! Can't wait anymore their new album. Bet a million it will blast us.
  12. 0
    — The usual : The best for my family, my friends and all our readers.

    Once again Metal renews itself: Volbeat (Metallica meets the Beatles), Turisas (Viking Metal Hammerfall), Helloween (still at the top), Powerwolf (the new hope), Dimmu Borgir (spreading black metal on earth), Airbourne (old AC/DC at its best), etc ...

    No! Metal is not dead :-) Not in 2007, nor in twenty years. HAIL METAL!

    Metallica at Wembley was AWESOME !!! Can't wait anymore their new album. Bet a million it will blast us.

  13. 0
    — The usual : The best for my family, my friends and all our readers.

    Once again Metal renews itself: Volbeat (Metallica meets the Beatles), Turisas (Viking Metal Hammerfall), Helloween (still at the top), Powerwolf (the new hope), Dimmu Borgir (spreading black metal on earth), Airbourne (old AC/DC at its best), etc ...

    No! Metal is not dead :-) Not in 2007, nor in twenty years. HAIL METAL!

    Metallica at Wembley was AWESOME !!! Can't wait anymore their new album. Bet a million it will blast us.

  14. 0
    — The usual : The best for my family, my friends and all our readers.

    Once again Metal renews itself: Volbeat (Metallica meets the Beatles), Turisas (Viking Metal Hammerfall), Helloween (still at the top), Powerwolf (the new hope), Dimmu Borgir (spreading black metal on earth), Airbourne (old AC/DC at its best), etc ...

    With the new promo-killers : Avantasia, Bullet for My Valentine, Machinae Supremacy, Stormwarrior ... Metal is not dead :-) Not in 2007, nor in twenty years. HAIL METAL!

    Metallica live at Wembley was AWESOME !!! Can't wait anymore their new album. Bet a million it will blast us.

  15. 0
    — The usual : The best for my family, my friends and all our readers.

    Once again Metal renews itself in 2007: Volbeat (Metallica meets the Beatles), Turisas (Viking Metal Hammerfall), Helloween (still at the top), Powerwolf (the new hope), Dimmu Borgir (spreading black metal on earth), Airbourne (old AC/DC at its best), etc ...

    With the new promo-killers : Avantasia, Bullet for My Valentine, Machinae Supremacy, Stormwarrior ... Metal is not dead :-) Not in 2007, nor in twenty years. HAIL METAL!

    Metallica live at Wembley was AWESOME !!! Can't wait anymore their new album. Bet a million it will blast us.

  16. 0
    — The usual : The best for my family, my friends and all our readers.

    Once again Metal renews itself in 2007: Volbeat (Metallica meets the Beatles), Turisas (Viking Metal Hammerfall), Helloween (still at the top), Powerwolf (the new hope), Dimmu Borgir (spreading black metal on earth), Airbourne (old AC/DC at its best), etc ...

    With the new promo-killers: Avantasia, Bullet for My Valentine, Machinae Supremacy, Stormwarrior ... Metal is not dead :-) Nor in 2008, nor in twenty years. HAIL METAL!

    Metallica live at Wembley was AWESOME !!! Can't wait anymore their new album. Bet a million it will blast us.

  17. 0
    — The usual : The best for my family, my friends and all our readers.

    Once again Metal renews itself in 2007: Volbeat (Metallica meets the Beatles), Turisas (Viking Metal Hammerfall), Helloween (still at the top), Powerwolf (the new hope), Dimmu Borgir (spreading black metal on earth), Airbourne (old AC/DC at its best), etc ...

    With the new promo-killers: Avantasia, Bullet for My Valentine, Machinae Supremacy, Stormwarrior ... Metal is not dead :-) Nor in 2008, nor in twenty years. HAIL METAL!

    Metallica live at Wembley was AWESOME !!! Can't wait anymore their new album. Bet a million it will blast us.

  18. 0
    — The usual : The best for my family, my friends and all our readers.

    Once again Metal renews itself in 2007: Volbeat (Metallica meets the Beatles), Turisas (Viking Metal Hammerfall), Helloween (still at the top), Powerwolf (the new hope), Dimmu Borgir (spreading black metal on earth), Airbourne (old AC/DC at its best), etc ...

    With the new promo-killers: Avantasia, Bullet for My Valentine, Machinae Supremacy, Stormwarrior ... Metal is not dead :-) Nor in 2008, nor in twenty years. HAIL METAL!

    Metallica live at Wembley was AWESOME !!! Can't wait anymore their new album. Bet a million it will blast us.

  19. 0
    — The usual : The best for my family, my friends and all our readers.

    Once again Metal renews itself in 2007: Volbeat (Metallica meets the Beatles), Turisas (Viking Metal Hammerfall), Helloween (still at the top), Powerwolf (the new hope), Dimmu Borgir (spreading black metal on earth), Airbourne (old AC/DC at its best), etc ...

    With the new promo-killers: Avantasia, Bullet for My Valentine, Machinae Supremacy, Stormwarrior ... Metal is not dead :-) Nor in 2008, nor in twenty years. HAIL METAL!

    Metallica live at Wembley was AWESOME !!! Can't wait anymore their new album. Bet a million it will blast us.

  20. 0
    — The usual : The best for my family, my friends and all our readers.

    Once again Metal renews itself in 2007: Volbeat (Metallica meets the Beatles), Turisas (Folk/Viking Metal), Powerwolf (the new hope), Airbourne (old AC/DC at its best), Helloween (still at the top), Dimmu Borgir (spreading black metal on earth), Gotthard (the Swiss flame), Nightwish (better than ever), etc ...

    With the new promo-killers: Avantasia, Bullet for My Valentine, Machinae Supremacy, Stormwarrior, Rage ... Metal is not dead :-) Nor in 2008, nor in twenty years. HAIL METAL!

    Metallica live at Wembley was AWESOME !!! Can't wait anymore their new album. Bet a million it will blast us.

  21. 0
    — The usual : The best for my family, my friends and all our readers.

    Once again Metal renews itself in 2007: Volbeat (Metallica meets the Beatles), Turisas (Folk/Viking Metal), Powerwolf (the new hope), Airbourne (old AC/DC at its best), Helloween (still at the top), Dimmu Borgir (spreading black metal on earth), Gotthard (the Swiss flame), Nightwish (better than ever), etc ...

    With the new promo-killers: Avantasia, Bullet for My Valentine, Machinae Supremacy, Stormwarrior, Rage ... Metal is not dead :-) Nor in 2008, nor in twenty years. HAIL METAL!

    Metallica live at Wembley was AWESOME !!! Can't wait anymore their new album. Bet a million it will blast us.

  22. 0
    — The usual : The best for my family, my friends and all our readers.

    Once again Metal renews itself in 2007: Volbeat (Metallica meets the Beatles), Turisas (Folk/Viking Metal), Powerwolf (the new hope), Airbourne (old AC/DC at its best), Helloween (still at the top), Dimmu Borgir (spreading black metal on earth), Gotthard (the Swiss flame), Nightwish (better than ever), etc ...

    With the new promo-killers: Avantasia, Bullet for My Valentine, Machinae Supremacy, Stormwarrior, Rage ... Metal is not dead :-) Nor in 2008, nor in twenty years. HAIL METAL!

    Metallica live at Wembley was AWESOME !!! Can't wait anymore their new album. Bet a million it will blast us.

Mike

Top Albums

  1. 1.
    Helloween - Gambling With The Devil — Ever since the disappointing Better Than Raw, Helloween has been on cruise crontrol with excellent album one after another.
  2. 1.
    Helloween - Gambling With The Devil — Ever since the disappointing Better Than Raw, Helloween has been on cruise crontrol with excellent album one after another.
  3. 1.
    Helloween - Gambling With The Devil — Ever since the disappointing Better Than Raw, Helloween has been on cruise crontrol with excellent album one after another.
  4. 1.
    Helloween - Gambling With The Devil — Ever since the disappointing Better Than Raw, Helloween has been on cruise crontrol with excellent album one after another.
  5. 1.
    Helloween - Gambling With The Devil — Ever since the disappointing Better Than Raw, Helloween has been on cruise crontrol with excellent album one after another.
  6. 1.
    Helloween - Gambling With The Devil — Ever since the disappointing Better Than Raw, Helloween has been on cruise crontrol with excellent album one after another.
  7. 1.
    Helloween - Gambling With The Devil — Ever since the disappointing Better Than Raw, Helloween has been on cruise crontrol with excellent album one after another.
  8. 1.
    Helloween - Gambling With The Devil — Ever since the disappointing Better Than Raw, Helloween has been on cruise crontrol with excellent album one after another.
  9. 1.
    Helloween - Gambling With The Devil — Ever since the disappointing Better Than Raw, Helloween has been on cruise crontrol with excellent album one after another.
  10. 2.
  11. 2.
    Grave Digger - Liberty Or Death — What an amazing and unexpected comeback from the subar Last Supper.
  12. 2.
    Grave Digger - Liberty Or Death — What an amazing and unexpected comeback from the subar Last Supper.
  13. 2.
    Grave Digger - Liberty Or Death — What an amazing and unexpected comeback from the subar Last Supper.
  14. 2.
    Grave Digger - Liberty Or Death — What an amazing and unexpected comeback from the subar Last Supper.
  15. 2.
    Grave Digger - Liberty Or Death — What an amazing and unexpected comeback from the subar Last Supper.
  16. 2.
    Grave Digger - Liberty Or Death — What an amazing and unexpected comeback from the subar Last Supper.
  17. 2.
    Grave Digger - Liberty Or Death — What an amazing and unexpected comeback from the subar Last Supper.
  18. 2.
    Grave Digger - Liberty Or Death — What an amazing and unexpected comeback from the subar Last Supper.
  19. 3.
    Cage - Hell Destroyer — This band just keeps getting better.
  20. 3.
    Cage - Hell Destroyer — This band just keeps getting better.
  21. 3.
    Cage - Hell Destroyer — This band just keeps getting better.
  22. 3.
    Cage - Hell Destroyer — This band just keeps getting better.
  23. 3.
    Cage - Hell Destroyer — This band just keeps getting better.
  24. 3.
    Cage - Hell Destroyer — This band just keeps getting better.
  25. 3.
    Cage - Hell Destroyer — This band just keeps getting better.
  26. 3.
    Cage - Hell Destroyer — This band just keeps getting better.
  27. 4.
    Bloodbound - Book Of The Dead — Losing Urban Breed had me worried about this band, but they came back with an exclamation point.
  28. 4.
    Bloodbound - Book Of The Dead — Losing Urban Breed had me worried about this band, but they came back with an exclamation point.
  29. 4.
    Bloodbound - Book Of The Dead — Losing Urban Breed had me worried about this band, but they came back with an exclamation point.
  30. 4.
    Bloodbound - Book Of The Dead — Losing Urban Breed had me worried about this band, but they came back with an exclamation point.
  31. 4.
    Bloodbound - Book Of The Dead — Losing Urban Breed had me worried about this band, but they came back with an exclamation point.
  32. 4.
    Bloodbound - Book Of The Dead — Losing Urban Breed had me worried about this band, but they came back with an exclamation point.
  33. 4.
    Bloodbound - Book Of The Dead — Losing Urban Breed had me worried about this band, but they came back with an exclamation point.
  34. 4.
    Bloodbound - Book Of The Dead — Losing Urban Breed had me worried about this band, but they came back with an exclamation point.
  35. 5.
    Iced Earth - Framing Armageddon - Something Wicked Part 1 — I'm sad to Ripper leave the band after this album, but I can't wait to see how Barlow delivers Part 2.
  36. 5.
    Iced Earth - Framing Armageddon - Something Wicked Part 1 — I'm sad to Ripper leave the band after this album, but I can't wait to see how Barlow delivers Part 2.
  37. 5.
    Iced Earth - Framing Armageddon - Something Wicked Part 1 — I'm sad to Ripper leave the band after this album, but I can't wait to see how Barlow delivers Part 2.
  38. 5.
    Iced Earth - Framing Armageddon - Something Wicked Part 1 — I'm sad to Ripper leave the band after this album, but I can't wait to see how Barlow delivers Part 2.
  39. 5.
    Iced Earth - Framing Armageddon - Something Wicked Part 1 — I'm sad to Ripper leave the band after this album, but I can't wait to see how Barlow delivers Part 2.
  40. 5.
    Iced Earth - Framing Armageddon - Something Wicked Part 1 — I'm sad to Ripper leave the band after this album, but I can't wait to see how Barlow delivers Part 2.
  41. 5.
    Iced Earth - Framing Armageddon - Something Wicked Part 1 — I'm sad to Ripper leave the band after this album, but I can't wait to see how Barlow delivers Part 2.
  42. 5.
    Iced Earth - Framing Armageddon - Something Wicked Part 1 — I'm sad to Ripper leave the band after this album, but I can't wait to see how Barlow delivers Part 2.
  43. 6.
  44. 6.
    Magnum - Alice And The Broken Arrow — I never thought Magnum would top Wings of Heaven or On A Storyteller's Night, but this album gives those 2 a serious run.
  45. 6.
    Magnum - Alice And The Broken Arrow — I never thought Magnum would top Wings of Heaven or On A Storyteller's Night, but this album gives those 2 a serious run.
  46. 6.
    Magnum - Alice And The Broken Arrow — I never thought Magnum would top Wings of Heaven or On A Storyteller's Night, but this album gives those 2 a serious run.
  47. 6.
    Magnum - Alice And The Broken Arrow — I never thought Magnum would top Wings of Heaven or On A Storyteller's Night, but this album gives those 2 a serious run.
  48. 6.
    Magnum - Alice And The Broken Arrow — I never thought Magnum would top Wings of Heaven or On A Storyteller's Night, but this album gives those 2 a serious run.
  49. 6.
    Magnum - Alice And The Broken Arrow — I never thought Magnum would top Wings of Heaven or On A Storyteller's Night, but this album gives those 2 a serious run.
  50. 6.
    Magnum - Alice And The Broken Arrow — I never thought Magnum would top Wings of Heaven or On A Storyteller's Night, but this album gives those 2 a serious run.
  51. 7.
    Saxon - The Inner Sanctum — Rocking harder than they did when the NWOBHM was just hitting the scene.
  52. 7.
    Saxon - The Inner Sanctum — Rocking harder than they did when the NWOBHM was just hitting the scene.
  53. 7.
    Saxon - The Inner Sanctum — Rocking harder than they did when the NWOBHM was just hitting the scene.
  54. 7.
    Saxon - The Inner Sanctum — Rocking harder than they did when the NWOBHM was just hitting the scene.
  55. 7.
    Saxon - The Inner Sanctum — Rocking harder than they did when the NWOBHM was just hitting the scene.
  56. 7.
    Saxon - The Inner Sanctum — Rocking harder than they did when the NWOBHM was just hitting the scene.
  57. 8.
    Wizard - Goochan — This is more like it. A fine comeback after their last album, more in line with the quality of Odin.
  58. 8.
    Wizard - Goochan — This is more like it. A fine comeback after their last album, more in line with the quality of Odin.
  59. 8.
    Wizard - Goochan — This is more like it. A fine comeback after their last album, more in line with the quality of Odin.
  60. 8.
    Wizard - Goochan — This is more like it. A fine comeback after their last album, more in line with the quality of Odin.
  61. 8.
    Wizard - Goochan — This is more like it. A fine comeback after their last album, more in line with the quality of Odin.
  62. 8.
    Wizard - Goochan — This is more like it. A fine comeback after their last album, more in line with the quality of Odin.
  63. 9.
    Megadeth - United Abominations — There may never be a true return to Rust in Peace, but I really like where the band is now.
  64. 9.
    Megadeth - United Abominations — There may never be a true return to Rust in Peace, but I really like where the band is now.
  65. 9.
    Megadeth - United Abominations — There may never be a true return to Rust in Peace, but I really like where the band is now.
  66. 9.
    Megadeth - United Abominations — There may never be a true return to Rust in Peace, but I really like where the band is now.
  67. 9.
    Megadeth - United Abominations — There may never be a true return to Rust in Peace, but I really like where the band is now.
  68. 9.
    Megadeth - United Abominations — There may never be a true return to Rust in Peace, but I really like where the band is now.
  69. 10.
    Masterplan - MK II — I know a lot of fans didn't warm up to this album, but as a huge Riot junky, I love it.
  70. 10.
    Masterplan - MK II — I know a lot of fans didn't warm up to this album, but as a huge Riot junky, I love it.
  71. 10.
    Masterplan - MK II — I know a lot of fans didn't warm up to this album, but as a huge Riot junky, I love it.
  72. 10.
    Masterplan - MK II — I know a lot of fans didn't warm up to this album, but as a huge Riot junky, I love it.
  73. 10.
    Masterplan - MK II — I know a lot of fans didn't warm up to this album, but as a huge Riot junky, I love it.
  74. 10.
    Masterplan - MK II — I know a lot of fans didn't warm up to this album, but as a huge Riot junky, I love it.
  75. 11.
    W.A.S.P. - Dominator — One of a handful of 80's mainstream US bands to still release worthwhile material.
  76. 11.
    W.A.S.P. - Dominator — One of a handful of 80's mainstream US bands to still release worthwhile material.
  77. 11.
    W.A.S.P. - Dominator — One of a handful of 80's mainstream US bands to still release worthwhile material.
  78. 11.
    W.A.S.P. - Dominator — One of a handful of 80's mainstream US bands to still release worthwhile material.
  79. 11.
    W.A.S.P. - Dominator — One of a handful of 80's mainstream US bands to still release worthwhile material.
  80. 11.
    W.A.S.P. - Dominator — One of a handful of 80's mainstream US bands to still release worthwhile material.
  81. 12.
    Rob Rock - Garden of Chaos — After Impeelitteri, Rob's solo career is really taking off.
  82. 12.
    Rob Rock - Garden of Chaos — After Impeelitteri, Rob's solo career is really taking off.
  83. 12.
    Rob Rock - Garden of Chaos — After Impeelitteri, Rob's solo career is really taking off.
  84. 12.
    Rob Rock - Garden of Chaos — After Impeelitteri, Rob's solo career is really taking off.
  85. 12.
    Rob Rock - Garden of Chaos — After Impeelitteri, Rob's solo career is really taking off.
  86. 13.
    Allen - Lande - The Revenge — Not quite as good as the debut in my opinion, but still excellent!
  87. 13.
    Allen - Lande - The Revenge — Not quite as good as the debut in my opinion, but still excellent!
  88. 13.
    Allen - Lande - The Revenge — Not quite as good as the debut in my opinion, but still excellent!
  89. 13.
    Allen - Lande - The Revenge — Not quite as good as the debut in my opinion, but still excellent!
  90. 13.
    Allen - Lande - The Revenge — Not quite as good as the debut in my opinion, but still excellent!
  91. 14.
    Astral Doors - New Revelation — A must for DIO and Rainbow fans. This band is off to a very good and consistent start, with some very good albums under their belt.
  92. 14.
    Astral Doors - New Revelation — A must for DIO and Rainbow fans. This band is off to a very good and consistent start, with some very good albums under their belt.
  93. 14.
    Astral Doors - New Revelation — A must for DIO and Rainbow fans. This band is off to a very good and consistent start, with some very good albums under their belt.
  94. 14.
    Astral Doors - New Revelation — A must for DIO and Rainbow fans. This band is off to a very good and consistent start, with some very good albums under their belt.
  95. 14.
    Astral Doors - New Revelation — A must for DIO and Rainbow fans. This band is off to a very good and consistent start, with some very good albums under their belt.
  96. 15.
    Thunderstone - Evolution 4.0 — I actually didn't like this album at first, but it didn't take too long for that to change.
  97. 15.
    Thunderstone - Evolution 4.0 — I actually didn't like this album at first, but it didn't take too long for that to change.
  98. 15.
    Thunderstone - Evolution 4.0 — I actually didn't like this album at first, but it didn't take too long for that to change.
  99. 15.
    Thunderstone - Evolution 4.0 — I actually didn't like this album at first, but it didn't take too long for that to change.
  100. 15.
    Gamma Ray - Land of the Free II — This appears to have been a true hit or miss album. I really enjoyed it, although it doesn't match the first LOTF.

Surprises of the Year

  1. 1.
    Steve Cone - In My Bones — Steve is a hard working musician who plays excellent traditional heavy metal without label support.
  2. 1.
    Steve Cone - In My Bones — Steve is a hard working musician who plays excellent traditional heavy metal without label support.
  3. 1.
    Steve Cone - In My Bones — Steve is a hard working musician who plays excellent traditional heavy metal without label support.
  4. 1.
    Steve Cone - In My Bones — Steve is a hard working musician who plays excellent traditional heavy metal without label support.
  5. 2.
    Iron Fire - Blade Of Triumph — Revenge was good, but Iron Fire have taken up a level with this release!
  6. 2.
    Iron Fire - Blade Of Triumph — Revenge was good, but Iron Fire have taken up a level with this release!
  7. 2.
    Iron Fire - Blade Of Triumph — Revenge was good, but Iron Fire have taken up a level with this release!
  8. 2.
    Iron Fire - Blade Of Triumph — Revenge was good, but Iron Fire have taken up a level with this release!
  9. 3.
    Ride The Sky - New Protection — I'll take a new band that plays quality any day of the week, even if it's not original. This has been done before, but Ride the Sky give the Masterplan / Allen - Lande fan base another solid band to enjoy.
  10. 3.
    Ride The Sky - New Protection — I'll take a new band that plays quality any day of the week, even if it's not original. This has been done before, but Ride the Sky give the Masterplan / Allen - Lande fan base another solid band to enjoy.
  11. 3.
    Ride The Sky - New Protection — I'll take a new band that plays quality any day of the week, even if it's not original. This has been done before, but Ride the Sky give the Masterplan / Allen - Lande fan base another solid band to enjoy.
  12. 3.
    Ride The Sky - New Protection — I'll take a new band that plays quality any day of the week, even if it's not original. This has been done before, but Ride the Sky give the Masterplan / Allen - Lande fan base another solid band to enjoy.

Disappointments

  1. 1.
    Iron Savior - Megatropolis — Going through the motions on their latest album, it's hard not to be concerned for the future of this once superpower of a band.
  2. 1.
    Iron Savior - Megatropolis — Going through the motions on their latest album, it's hard not to be concerned for the future of this once superpower of a band.
  3. 1.
    Iron Savior - Megatropolis — Going through the motions on their latest album, it's hard not to be concerned for the future of this once superpower of a band.
  4. 1.
    Iron Savior - Megatropolis — Going through the motions on their latest album, it's hard not to be concerned for the future of this once superpower of a band.
  5. 1.
    Iron Savior - Megatropolis — Going through the motions on their latest album, it's hard not to be concerned for the future of this once superpower of a band.
  6. 2.
    Night Ranger - Hole In The Sun — A classic example of how to try to hard to sound new and relevant. There's updating your sound the right way, and then there's this.
  7. 2.
    Night Ranger - Hole In The Sun — A classic example of how to try to hard to sound new and relevant. There's updating your sound the right way, and then there's this.
  8. 2.
    Night Ranger - Hole In The Sun — A classic example of how to try to hard to sound new and relevant. There's updating your sound the right way, and then there's this.
  9. 2.
    Night Ranger - Hole In The Sun — A classic example of how to try to hard to sound new and relevant. There's updating your sound the right way, and then there's this.
  10. 2.
    Night Ranger - Hole In The Sun — A classic example of how to try to hard to sound new and relevant. There's updating your sound the right way, and then there's this.
  11. 3.
    Primal Fear - New Religion — A few great songs, and way too many fillers.
  12. 3.
    Primal Fear - New Religion — A few great songs, and way too many fillers.
  13. 3.
    Primal Fear - New Religion — A few great songs, and way too many fillers.
  14. 3.
    Primal Fear - New Religion — A few great songs, and way too many fillers.
  15. 3.
    Primal Fear - New Religion — A few great songs, and way too many fillers.
  16. 4.
    TNT - The New Territory — Tony Harnell or not, these are just bad songs.
  17. 4.
    TNT - The New Territory — Tony Harnell or not, these are just bad songs.
  18. 4.
    TNT - The New Territory — Tony Harnell or not, these are just bad songs.
  19. 4.
    TNT - The New Territory — Tony Harnell or not, these are just bad songs.
  20. 4.
    TNT - The New Territory — Tony Harnell or not, these are just bad songs.
  21. 5.
    Scorpions - Humanity - Hour 1 — After Unbreakable, I'm very disappointed that the guys chose this path.
  22. 5.
    Scorpions - Humanity - Hour 1 — After Unbreakable, I'm very disappointed that the guys chose this path.
  23. 5.
    Scorpions - Humanity - Hour 1 — After Unbreakable, I'm very disappointed that the guys chose this path.
  24. 5.
    Scorpions - Humanity - Hour 1 — After Unbreakable, I'm very disappointed that the guys chose this path.
  25. 5.
    Scorpions - Humanity - Hour 1 — After Unbreakable, I'm very disappointed that the guys chose this path.

Joke of the Year

  1. 1.
    — Being that I'm originally from Maryland, USA, I have to say that the Baltimore sports scene is the biggest joke of 2007. It's sad to be an Orioles and Ravens fan right now.
  2. 1.
    — Being that I'm originally from Maryland, USA, I have to say that the Baltimore sports scene is the biggest joke of 2007. It's sad to be an Orioles and Ravens fan right now.
  3. 1.
    — Being that I'm originally from Maryland, USA, I have to say that the Baltimore sports scene is the biggest joke of 2007. It's sad to be an Orioles and Ravens fan right now.
  4. 2.
    — US Politics. For the people, by the people. Sure.
  5. 2.
    — US Politics. For the people, by the people. Sure.
  6. 2.
    — US Politics. For the people, by the people. Sure.
  7. 3.
    — Another year passes, and Chinese Democracy is still a "pending release." Yawn.
  8. 3.
    — Another year passes, and Chinese Democracy is still a "pending release." Yawn.
  9. 3.
    — Another year passes, and Chinese Democracy is still a "pending release." Yawn.

Words / Final Thoughts

  1. 0
    —

    After a very turbulent year for me on a personal level, it was great to have some great music to get me though. Some old favorites came back from lineup changes and/or subpar albums to release a gem in 2007. Looking over my list for this year, I've included some bands that I never thought would appear on one my "best of" lists 2 years ago, or even last year. I didn't hear anything bad enough to warrant a "joke" label. So, hopefully that will become a 2 year streak in 2008.

    I'd be remiss not to mention the sad passings of a couple musicians who have provided me with hours of listening enjoyment, and even a live show here and there.

    R.I.P. Brad Delp 3/9/2007
    R.I.P. Kevin Dubrow 11/19/2007

    Cheers to all our readers for a prosperous and safe 2008. Rock on!
  2. 0
    —

    After a very turbulent year for me on a personal level, it was great to have some great music to get me though. Some old favorites came back from lineup changes and/or subpar albums to release a gem in 2007. Looking over my list for this year, I've included some bands that I never thought would appear on one my "best of" lists 2 years ago, or even last year. I didn't hear anything bad enough to warrant a "joke" label. So, hopefully that will become a 2 year streak in 2008.

    I'd be remiss not to mention the sad passings of a couple musicians who have provided me with hours of listening enjoyment, and even a live show here and there.

    R.I.P. Brad Delp 3/9/2007
    R.I.P. Kevin Dubrow 11/19/2007

    Cheers to all our readers for a prosperous and safe 2008. Rock on!
  3. 0
    —

    After a very turbulent year for me on a personal level, it was great to have some great music to get me though. Some old favorites came back from lineup changes and/or subpar albums to release a gem in 2007. Looking over my list for this year, I've included some bands that I never thought would appear on one my "best of" lists 2 years ago, or even last year. I didn't hear anything bad enough to warrant a "joke" label. So, hopefully that will become a 2 year streak in 2008.

    I'd be remiss not to mention the sad passings of a couple musicians who have provided me with hours of listening enjoyment, and even a live show here and there.

    R.I.P. Brad Delp 3/9/2007
    R.I.P. Kevin Dubrow 11/19/2007

    Cheers to all our readers for a prosperous and safe 2008. Rock on!

Jeff

Top Albums

  1. 1.
    Starcastle - Song of Times — Almost thirty years later, this band reforms to give what is by far their best album. What's even more amazing is that this band sounds better than ever. Unfortunately the main songwriter and bass player of the band passed away prior to this release. This album had the most staying power out of any I listened to.
  2. 1.
    Starcastle - Song of Times — Almost thirty years later, this band reforms to give what is by far their best album. What's even more amazing is that this band sounds better than ever. Unfortunately the main songwriter and bass player of the band passed away prior to this release. This album had the most staying power out of any I listened to.
  3. 1.
    Starcastle - Song of Times — Almost thirty years later, this band reforms to give what is by far their best album. What's even more amazing is that this band sounds better than ever. Unfortunately the main songwriter and bass player of the band passed away prior to this release. This album had the most staying power out of any I listened to.
  4. 1.
    Starcastle - Song of Times — Almost thirty years later, this band reforms to give what is by far their best album. What's even more amazing is that this band sounds better than ever. Unfortunately the main songwriter and bass player of the band passed away prior to this release. This album had the most staying power out of any I listened to.
  5. 1.
    Starcastle - Song of Times — Almost thirty years later, this band reforms to give what is by far their best album. What's even more amazing is that this band sounds better than ever. Unfortunately the main songwriter and bass player of the band passed away prior to this release. This album had the most staying power out of any I listened to.
  6. 1.
    Starcastle - Song of Times — Almost thirty years later, this band reforms to give what is by far their best album. What's even more amazing is that this band sounds better than ever. Unfortunately the main songwriter and bass player of the band passed away prior to this release. This album had the most staying power out of any I listened to.
  7. 1.
    Starcastle - Song of Times — Almost thirty years later, this band reforms to give what is by far their best album. What's even more amazing is that this band sounds better than ever. Unfortunately the main songwriter and bass player of the band passed away prior to this release. This album had the most staying power out of any I listened to.
  8. 1.
    Starcastle - Song of Times — Almost thirty years later, this band reforms to give what is by far their best album. What's even more amazing is that this band sounds better than ever. Unfortunately the main songwriter and bass player of the band passed away prior to this release. This album had the most staying power out of any I listened to.
  9. 1.
    Starcastle - Song of Times — Almost thirty years later, this band reforms to give what is by far their best album. What's even more amazing is that this band sounds better than ever. Unfortunately the main songwriter and bass player of the band passed away prior to this release. This album had the most staying power out of any I listened to.
  10. 1.
    Starcastle - Song of Times — Almost thirty years later, this band reforms to give what is by far their best album. What's even more amazing is that this band sounds better than ever. Unfortunately the main songwriter and bass player of the band passed away prior to this release. This album had the most staying power out of any I listened to.
  11. 1.
    Starcastle - Song of Times — Almost thirty years later, this band reforms to give what is by far their best album. What's even more amazing is that this band sounds better than ever. Unfortunately the main songwriter and bass player of the band passed away prior to this release. This album had the most staying power out of any I listened to.
  12. 1.
    Starcastle - Song of Times — Almost thirty years later, this band reforms to give what is by far their best album. What's even more amazing is that this band sounds better than ever. Unfortunately the main songwriter and bass player of the band passed away prior to this release. This album had the most staying power out of any I listened to.
  13. 1.
    Starcastle - Song of Times — Almost thirty years later, this band reforms to give what is by far their best album. What's even more amazing is that this band sounds better than ever. Unfortunately the main songwriter and bass player of the band passed away prior to this release. This album had the most staying power out of any I listened to.
  14. 1.
    Starcastle - Song of Times — Almost thirty years later, this band reforms to give what is by far their best album. What's even more amazing is that this band sounds better than ever. Unfortunately the main songwriter and bass player of the band passed away prior to this release. This album had the most staying power out of any I listened to.
  15. 2.
    Wizard - Goochan — My first review of 2007 and what was very close to being an Album of the Year for me. This album grabbed me by the balls and never let go. Wizard's best to date!
  16. 2.
    Wizard - Goochan — My first review of 2007 and what was very close to being an Album of the Year for me. This album grabbed me by the balls and never let go. Wizard's best to date!
  17. 2.
    Wizard - Goochan — My first review of 2007 and what was very close to being an Album of the Year for me. This album grabbed me by the balls and never let go. Wizard's best to date!
  18. 2.
    Wizard - Goochan — My first review of 2007 and what was very close to being an Album of the Year for me. This album grabbed me by the balls and never let go. Wizard's best to date!
  19. 2.
    Wizard - Goochan — My first review of 2007 and what was very close to being an Album of the Year for me. This album grabbed me by the balls and never let go. Wizard's best to date!
  20. 2.
    Wizard - Goochan — My first review of 2007 and what was very close to being an Album of the Year for me. This album grabbed me by the balls and never let go. Wizard's best to date!
  21. 2.
    Wizard - Goochan — My first review of 2007 and what was very close to being an Album of the Year for me. This album grabbed me by the balls and never let go. Wizard's best to date!
  22. 2.
    Wizard - Goochan — My first review of 2007 and what was very close to being an Album of the Year for me. This album grabbed me by the balls and never let go. Wizard's best to date!
  23. 2.
    Wizard - Goochan — My first review of 2007 and what was very close to being an Album of the Year for me. This album grabbed me by the balls and never let go. Wizard's best to date!
  24. 2.
    Wizard - Goochan — My first review of 2007 and what was very close to being an Album of the Year for me. This album grabbed me by the balls and never let go. Wizard's best to date!
  25. 2.
    Wizard - Goochan — My first review of 2007 and what was very close to being an Album of the Year for me. This album grabbed me by the balls and never let go. Wizard's best to date!
  26. 2.
    Wizard - Goochan — My first review of 2007 and what was very close to being an Album of the Year for me. This album grabbed me by the balls and never let go. Wizard's best to date!
  27. 2.
    Wizard - Goochan — My first review of 2007 and what was very close to being an Album of the Year for me. This album grabbed me by the balls and never let go. Wizard's best to date!
  28. 3.
    Type O Negative - Dead Again — Type O Negative's most ambitious work so far. A nice mix of fast tempo songs with slower ones. Some very epic pieces as well. These guys out do themselves with every release.
  29. 3.
    Type O Negative - Dead Again — Type O Negative's most ambitious work so far. A nice mix of fast tempo songs with slower ones. Some very epic pieces as well. These guys out do themselves with every release.
  30. 3.
    Type O Negative - Dead Again — Type O Negative's most ambitious work so far. A nice mix of fast tempo songs with slower ones. Some very epic pieces as well. These guys out do themselves with every release.
  31. 3.
    Type O Negative - Dead Again — Type O Negative's most ambitious work so far. A nice mix of fast tempo songs with slower ones. Some very epic pieces as well. These guys out do themselves with every release.
  32. 3.
    Type O Negative - Dead Again — Type O Negative's most ambitious work so far. A nice mix of fast tempo songs with slower ones. Some very epic pieces as well. These guys out do themselves with every release.
  33. 3.
    Type O Negative - Dead Again — Type O Negative's most ambitious work so far. A nice mix of fast tempo songs with slower ones. Some very epic pieces as well. These guys out do themselves with every release.
  34. 3.
    Type O Negative - Dead Again — Type O Negative's most ambitious work so far. A nice mix of fast tempo songs with slower ones. Some very epic pieces as well. These guys out do themselves with every release.
  35. 3.
    Type O Negative - Dead Again — Type O Negative's most ambitious work so far. A nice mix of fast tempo songs with slower ones. Some very epic pieces as well. These guys out do themselves with every release.
  36. 3.
    Type O Negative - Dead Again — Type O Negative's most ambitious work so far. A nice mix of fast tempo songs with slower ones. Some very epic pieces as well. These guys out do themselves with every release.
  37. 3.
    Type O Negative - Dead Again — Type O Negative's most ambitious work so far. A nice mix of fast tempo songs with slower ones. Some very epic pieces as well. These guys out do themselves with every release.
  38. 3.
    Type O Negative - Dead Again — Type O Negative's most ambitious work so far. A nice mix of fast tempo songs with slower ones. Some very epic pieces as well. These guys out do themselves with every release.
  39. 3.
    Type O Negative - Dead Again — Type O Negative's most ambitious work so far. A nice mix of fast tempo songs with slower ones. Some very epic pieces as well. These guys out do themselves with every release.
  40. 3.
    Type O Negative - Dead Again — Type O Negative's most ambitious work so far. A nice mix of fast tempo songs with slower ones. Some very epic pieces as well. These guys out do themselves with every release.
  41. 4.
    Alter Bridge - Blackbird — The sophmore release from ex guitarist, bass player and drummer for Creed. An excellent modern rock release that even borders a more metal feel at times. Plenty of memorable hooks and choruses. This could have been a surprise as much as something on the Top 15. I highly recommend it!
  42. 4.
    Alter Bridge - Blackbird — The sophmore release from ex guitarist, bass player and drummer for Creed. An excellent modern rock release that even borders a more metal feel at times. Plenty of memorable hooks and choruses. This could have been a surprise as much as something on the Top 15. I highly recommend it!
  43. 4.
    Alter Bridge - Blackbird — The sophmore release from ex guitarist, bass player and drummer for Creed. An excellent modern rock release that even borders a more metal feel at times. Plenty of memorable hooks and choruses. This could have been a surprise as much as something on the Top 15. I highly recommend it!
  44. 4.
    Alter Bridge - Blackbird — The sophmore release from ex guitarist, bass player and drummer for Creed. An excellent modern rock release that even borders a more metal feel at times. Plenty of memorable hooks and choruses. This could have been a surprise as much as something on the Top 15. I highly recommend it!
  45. 4.
    Alter Bridge - Blackbird — The sophmore release from ex guitarist, bass player and drummer for Creed. An excellent modern rock release that even borders a more metal feel at times. Plenty of memorable hooks and choruses. This could have been a surprise as much as something on the Top 15. I highly recommend it!
  46. 4.
    Alter Bridge - Blackbird — The sophmore release from ex guitarist, bass player and drummer for Creed. An excellent modern rock release that even borders a more metal feel at times. Plenty of memorable hooks and choruses. This could have been a surprise as much as something on the Top 15. I highly recommend it!
  47. 4.
    Alter Bridge - Blackbird — The sophmore release from ex guitarist, bass player and drummer for Creed. An excellent modern rock release that even borders a more metal feel at times. Plenty of memorable hooks and choruses. This could have been a surprise as much as something on the Top 15. I highly recommend it!
  48. 4.
    Alter Bridge - Blackbird — The sophmore release from ex guitarist, bass player and drummer for Creed. An excellent modern rock release that even borders a more metal feel at times. Plenty of memorable hooks and choruses. This could have been a surprise as much as something on the Top 15. I highly recommend it!
  49. 4.
    Alter Bridge - Blackbird — The sophmore release from ex guitarist, bass player and drummer for Creed. An excellent modern rock release that even borders a more metal feel at times. Plenty of memorable hooks and choruses. This could have been a surprise as much as something on the Top 15. I highly recommend it!
  50. 4.
    Alter Bridge - Blackbird — The sophmore release from ex guitarist, bass player and drummer for Creed. An excellent modern rock release that even borders a more metal feel at times. Plenty of memorable hooks and choruses. This could have been a surprise as much as something on the Top 15. I highly recommend it!
  51. 4.
    Alter Bridge - Blackbird — The sophmore release from ex guitarist, bass player and drummer for Creed. An excellent modern rock release that even borders a more metal feel at times. Plenty of memorable hooks and choruses. This could have been a surprise as much as something on the Top 15. I highly recommend it!
  52. 4.
    Alter Bridge - Blackbird — The sophmore release from ex guitarist, bass player and drummer for Creed. An excellent modern rock release that even borders a more metal feel at times. Plenty of memorable hooks and choruses. This could have been a surprise as much as something on the Top 15. I highly recommend it!
  53. 4.
    Alter Bridge - Blackbird — The sophmore release from ex guitarist, bass player and drummer for Creed. An excellent modern rock release that even borders a more metal feel at times. Plenty of memorable hooks and choruses. This could have been a surprise as much as something on the Top 15. I highly recommend it!
  54. 5.
    Pink Steel - Out At The Devil — Some really funny parody hair metal with gay themes. Lots of insinuations without being directly vulgar. Very much in the tradition of Spinal Tap.
  55. 5.
    Pink Steel - Out At The Devil — Some really funny parody hair metal with gay themes. Lots of insinuations without being directly vulgar. Very much in the tradition of Spinal Tap.
  56. 5.
    Pink Steel - Out At The Devil — Some really funny parody hair metal with gay themes. Lots of insinuations without being directly vulgar. Very much in the tradition of Spinal Tap.
  57. 5.
    Pink Steel - Out At The Devil — Some really funny parody hair metal with gay themes. Lots of insinuations without being directly vulgar. Very much in the tradition of Spinal Tap.
  58. 5.
    Pink Steel - Out At The Devil — Some really funny parody hair metal with gay themes. Lots of insinuations without being directly vulgar. Very much in the tradition of Spinal Tap.
  59. 5.
    Pink Steel - Out At The Devil — Some really funny parody hair metal with gay themes. Lots of insinuations without being directly vulgar. Very much in the tradition of Spinal Tap.
  60. 5.
    Pink Steel - Out At The Devil — Some really funny parody hair metal with gay themes. Lots of insinuations without being directly vulgar. Very much in the tradition of Spinal Tap.
  61. 5.
    Pink Steel - Out At The Devil — Some really funny parody hair metal with gay themes. Lots of insinuations without being directly vulgar. Very much in the tradition of Spinal Tap.
  62. 5.
    Pink Steel - Out At The Devil — Some really funny parody hair metal with gay themes. Lots of insinuations without being directly vulgar. Very much in the tradition of Spinal Tap.
  63. 5.
    Pink Steel - Out At The Devil — Some really funny parody hair metal with gay themes. Lots of insinuations without being directly vulgar. Very much in the tradition of Spinal Tap.
  64. 5.
    Pink Steel - Out At The Devil — Some really funny parody hair metal with gay themes. Lots of insinuations without being directly vulgar. Very much in the tradition of Spinal Tap.
  65. 5.
    Pink Steel - Out At The Devil — Some really funny parody hair metal with gay themes. Lots of insinuations without being directly vulgar. Very much in the tradition of Spinal Tap.
  66. 6.
    King Diamond - Give Me Your Soul...Please — Another fantastic tale of terror from the master himself. Love the storyline and the music. King still has it!
  67. 6.
    King Diamond - Give Me Your Soul...Please — Another fantastic tale of terror from the master himself. Love the storyline and the music. King still has it!
  68. 6.
    King Diamond - Give Me Your Soul...Please — Another fantastic tale of terror from the master himself. Love the storyline and the music. King still has it!
  69. 6.
    King Diamond - Give Me Your Soul...Please — Another fantastic tale of terror from the master himself. Love the storyline and the music. King still has it!
  70. 6.
    King Diamond - Give Me Your Soul...Please — Another fantastic tale of terror from the master himself. Love the storyline and the music. King still has it!
  71. 6.
    King Diamond - Give Me Your Soul...Please — Another fantastic tale of terror from the master himself. Love the storyline and the music. King still has it!
  72. 6.
    King Diamond - Give Me Your Soul...Please — Another fantastic tale of terror from the master himself. Love the storyline and the music. King still has it!
  73. 6.
    King Diamond - Give Me Your Soul...Please — Another fantastic tale of terror from the master himself. Love the storyline and the music. King still has it!
  74. 6.
    King Diamond - Give Me Your Soul...Please — Another fantastic tale of terror from the master himself. Love the storyline and the music. King still has it!
  75. 6.
    King Diamond - Give Me Your Soul...Please — Another fantastic tale of terror from the master himself. Love the storyline and the music. King still has it!
  76. 6.
    King Diamond - Give Me Your Soul...Please — Another fantastic tale of terror from the master himself. Love the storyline and the music. King still has it!
  77. 6.
    King Diamond - Give Me Your Soul...Please — Another fantastic tale of terror from the master himself. Love the storyline and the music. King still has it!
  78. 7.
    Slough Feg - Hardworlder — Slough Feg continue to deliver some fantastic traditional heavy metal albums. I've really grown to love this band.
  79. 7.
    Slough Feg - Hardworlder — Slough Feg continue to deliver some fantastic traditional heavy metal albums. I've really grown to love this band.
  80. 7.
    Slough Feg - Hardworlder — Slough Feg continue to deliver some fantastic traditional heavy metal albums. I've really grown to love this band.
  81. 7.
    Slough Feg - Hardworlder — Slough Feg continue to deliver some fantastic traditional heavy metal albums. I've really grown to love this band.
  82. 7.
    Slough Feg - Hardworlder — Slough Feg continue to deliver some fantastic traditional heavy metal albums. I've really grown to love this band.
  83. 7.
    Slough Feg - Hardworlder — Slough Feg continue to deliver some fantastic traditional heavy metal albums. I've really grown to love this band.
  84. 7.
    Slough Feg - Hardworlder — Slough Feg continue to deliver some fantastic traditional heavy metal albums. I've really grown to love this band.
  85. 7.
    Slough Feg - Hardworlder — Slough Feg continue to deliver some fantastic traditional heavy metal albums. I've really grown to love this band.
  86. 7.
    Slough Feg - Hardworlder — Slough Feg continue to deliver some fantastic traditional heavy metal albums. I've really grown to love this band.
  87. 7.
    Slough Feg - Hardworlder — Slough Feg continue to deliver some fantastic traditional heavy metal albums. I've really grown to love this band.
  88. 7.
    Slough Feg - Hardworlder — Slough Feg continue to deliver some fantastic traditional heavy metal albums. I've really grown to love this band.
  89. 7.
    Slough Feg - Hardworlder — Slough Feg continue to deliver some fantastic traditional heavy metal albums. I've really grown to love this band.
  90. 8.
    Candlemass - King Of The Grey Islands — At first I had my doubts about this album. It even took me a while to accept it. But with time it as grown on me like the hair on my head. I look forward to their next release.
  91. 8.
    Candlemass - King Of The Grey Islands — At first I had my doubts about this album. It even took me a while to accept it. But with time it as grown on me like the hair on my head. I look forward to their next release.
  92. 8.
    Candlemass - King Of The Grey Islands — At first I had my doubts about this album. It even took me a while to accept it. But with time it as grown on me like the hair on my head. I look forward to their next release.
  93. 8.
    Candlemass - King Of The Grey Islands — At first I had my doubts about this album. It even took me a while to accept it. But with time it as grown on me like the hair on my head. I look forward to their next release.
  94. 8.
    Candlemass - King Of The Grey Islands — At first I had my doubts about this album. It even took me a while to accept it. But with time it as grown on me like the hair on my head. I look forward to their next release.
  95. 8.
    Candlemass - King Of The Grey Islands — At first I had my doubts about this album. It even took me a while to accept it. But with time it as grown on me like the hair on my head. I look forward to their next release.
  96. 8.
    Candlemass - King Of The Grey Islands — At first I had my doubts about this album. It even took me a while to accept it. But with time it as grown on me like the hair on my head. I look forward to their next release.
  97. 8.
    Candlemass - King Of The Grey Islands — At first I had my doubts about this album. It even took me a while to accept it. But with time it as grown on me like the hair on my head. I look forward to their next release.
  98. 8.
    Candlemass - King Of The Grey Islands — At first I had my doubts about this album. It even took me a while to accept it. But with time it as grown on me like the hair on my head. I look forward to their next release.
  99. 8.
    Candlemass - King Of The Grey Islands — At first I had my doubts about this album. It even took me a while to accept it. But with time it as grown on me like the hair on my head. I look forward to their next release.
  100. 8.
    Candlemass - King Of The Grey Islands — At first I had my doubts about this album. It even took me a while to accept it. But with time it as grown on me like the hair on my head. I look forward to their next release.
  101. 8.
    Candlemass - King Of The Grey Islands — At first I had my doubts about this album. It even took me a while to accept it. But with time it as grown on me like the hair on my head. I look forward to their next release.
  102. 9.
    Dream Theater - Systematic Chaos — This one almost missed my radar. One of the more digestable Dream Theater albums in recent years as well as their most aggressive.
  103. 9.
    Dream Theater - Systematic Chaos — This one almost missed my radar. One of the more digestable Dream Theater albums in recent years as well as their most aggressive.
  104. 9.
    Dream Theater - Systematic Chaos — This one almost missed my radar. One of the more digestable Dream Theater albums in recent years as well as their most aggressive.
  105. 9.
    Dream Theater - Systematic Chaos — This one almost missed my radar. One of the more digestable Dream Theater albums in recent years as well as their most aggressive.
  106. 9.
    Dream Theater - Systematic Chaos — This one almost missed my radar. One of the more digestable Dream Theater albums in recent years as well as their most aggressive.
  107. 9.
    Dream Theater - Systematic Chaos — This one almost missed my radar. One of the more digestable Dream Theater albums in recent years as well as their most aggressive.
  108. 9.
    Dream Theater - Systematic Chaos — This one almost missed my radar. One of the more digestable Dream Theater albums in recent years as well as their most aggressive.
  109. 9.
    Dream Theater - Systematic Chaos — This one almost missed my radar. One of the more digestable Dream Theater albums in recent years as well as their most aggressive.
  110. 9.
    Dream Theater - Systematic Chaos — This one almost missed my radar. One of the more digestable Dream Theater albums in recent years as well as their most aggressive.
  111. 9.
    Dream Theater - Systematic Chaos — This one almost missed my radar. One of the more digestable Dream Theater albums in recent years as well as their most aggressive.
  112. 9.
    Dream Theater - Systematic Chaos — This one almost missed my radar. One of the more digestable Dream Theater albums in recent years as well as their most aggressive.
  113. 10.
    Steel Seal - By the Power of Thunder — Exellent debut from these power metallists from Italy.
  114. 10.
    Steel Seal - By the Power of Thunder — Exellent debut from these power metallists from Italy.
  115. 10.
    Steel Seal - By the Power of Thunder — Exellent debut from these power metallists from Italy.
  116. 10.
    Steel Seal - By the Power of Thunder — Exellent debut from these power metallists from Italy.
  117. 10.
    Steel Seal - By the Power of Thunder — Exellent debut from these power metallists from Italy.
  118. 10.
    Steel Seal - By the Power of Thunder — Exellent debut from these power metallists from Italy.
  119. 10.
    Steel Seal - By the Power of Thunder — Exellent debut from these power metallists from Italy.
  120. 10.
    Steel Seal - By the Power of Thunder — Exellent debut from these power metallists from Italy.
  121. 10.
    Steel Seal - By the Power of Thunder — Exellent debut from these power metallists from Italy.
  122. 10.
    Steel Seal - By the Power of Thunder — Exellent debut from these power metallists from Italy.
  123. 11.
    Agent Steel - Alienigma — One of the original thrash/speed metal bands that has not only survived since the 80's but has managed to offer more now than they did back then. One of the best thrash albums of 2007.
  124. 11.
    Agent Steel - Alienigma — One of the original thrash/speed metal bands that has not only survived since the 80's but has managed to offer more now than they did back then. One of the best thrash albums of 2007.
  125. 11.
    Agent Steel - Alienigma — One of the original thrash/speed metal bands that has not only survived since the 80's but has managed to offer more now than they did back then. One of the best thrash albums of 2007.
  126. 11.
    Agent Steel - Alienigma — One of the original thrash/speed metal bands that has not only survived since the 80's but has managed to offer more now than they did back then. One of the best thrash albums of 2007.
  127. 11.
    Agent Steel - Alienigma — One of the original thrash/speed metal bands that has not only survived since the 80's but has managed to offer more now than they did back then. One of the best thrash albums of 2007.
  128. 11.
    Agent Steel - Alienigma — One of the original thrash/speed metal bands that has not only survived since the 80's but has managed to offer more now than they did back then. One of the best thrash albums of 2007.
  129. 11.
    Agent Steel - Alienigma — One of the original thrash/speed metal bands that has not only survived since the 80's but has managed to offer more now than they did back then. One of the best thrash albums of 2007.
  130. 11.
    Agent Steel - Alienigma — One of the original thrash/speed metal bands that has not only survived since the 80's but has managed to offer more now than they did back then. One of the best thrash albums of 2007.
  131. 11.
    Agent Steel - Alienigma — One of the original thrash/speed metal bands that has not only survived since the 80's but has managed to offer more now than they did back then. One of the best thrash albums of 2007.
  132. 11.
    Agent Steel - Alienigma — One of the original thrash/speed metal bands that has not only survived since the 80's but has managed to offer more now than they did back then. One of the best thrash albums of 2007.
  133. 12.
    Saxon - The Inner Sanctum — Another band that continues to survive and offer music that rarely disappoints.
  134. 12.
    Saxon - The Inner Sanctum — Another band that continues to survive and offer music that rarely disappoints.
  135. 12.
    Saxon - The Inner Sanctum — Another band that continues to survive and offer music that rarely disappoints.
  136. 12.
    Saxon - The Inner Sanctum — Another band that continues to survive and offer music that rarely disappoints.
  137. 12.
    Saxon - The Inner Sanctum — Another band that continues to survive and offer music that rarely disappoints.
  138. 12.
    Saxon - The Inner Sanctum — Another band that continues to survive and offer music that rarely disappoints.
  139. 12.
    Saxon - The Inner Sanctum — Another band that continues to survive and offer music that rarely disappoints.
  140. 12.
    Saxon - The Inner Sanctum — Another band that continues to survive and offer music that rarely disappoints.
  141. 12.
    Saxon - The Inner Sanctum — Another band that continues to survive and offer music that rarely disappoints.
  142. 12.
    Saxon - The Inner Sanctum — Another band that continues to survive and offer music that rarely disappoints.
  143. 13.
    3 Inches of Blood - Fire Up The Blades — Despite some major line up changes this band prevailed with an album that totally kicks ass!
  144. 13.
    3 Inches of Blood - Fire Up The Blades — Despite some major line up changes this band prevailed with an album that totally kicks ass!
  145. 13.
    3 Inches of Blood - Fire Up The Blades — Despite some major line up changes this band prevailed with an album that totally kicks ass!
  146. 13.
    3 Inches of Blood - Fire Up The Blades — Despite some major line up changes this band prevailed with an album that totally kicks ass!
  147. 13.
    3 Inches of Blood - Fire Up The Blades — Despite some major line up changes this band prevailed with an album that totally kicks ass!
  148. 13.
    3 Inches of Blood - Fire Up The Blades — Despite some major line up changes this band prevailed with an album that totally kicks ass!
  149. 13.
    3 Inches of Blood - Fire Up The Blades — Despite some major line up changes this band prevailed with an album that totally kicks ass!
  150. 13.
    3 Inches of Blood - Fire Up The Blades — Despite some major line up changes this band prevailed with an album that totally kicks ass!
  151. 13.
    3 Inches of Blood - Fire Up The Blades — Despite some major line up changes this band prevailed with an album that totally kicks ass!
  152. 13.
    3 Inches of Blood - Fire Up The Blades — Despite some major line up changes this band prevailed with an album that totally kicks ass!
  153. 14.
    Cage - Hell Destroyer — Another power metal album that did the genre justice. Great conceptual storyline with in your face riffs and drumming.
  154. 14.
    Cage - Hell Destroyer — Another power metal album that did the genre justice. Great conceptual storyline with in your face riffs and drumming.
  155. 14.
    Cage - Hell Destroyer — Another power metal album that did the genre justice. Great conceptual storyline with in your face riffs and drumming.
  156. 14.
    Cage - Hell Destroyer — Another power metal album that did the genre justice. Great conceptual storyline with in your face riffs and drumming.
  157. 14.
    Cage - Hell Destroyer — Another power metal album that did the genre justice. Great conceptual storyline with in your face riffs and drumming.
  158. 14.
    Cage - Hell Destroyer — Another power metal album that did the genre justice. Great conceptual storyline with in your face riffs and drumming.
  159. 14.
    Cage - Hell Destroyer — Another power metal album that did the genre justice. Great conceptual storyline with in your face riffs and drumming.
  160. 14.
    Cage - Hell Destroyer — Another power metal album that did the genre justice. Great conceptual storyline with in your face riffs and drumming.
  161. 14.
    Cage - Hell Destroyer — Another power metal album that did the genre justice. Great conceptual storyline with in your face riffs and drumming.
  162. 14.
    Cage - Hell Destroyer — Another power metal album that did the genre justice. Great conceptual storyline with in your face riffs and drumming.
  163. 15.
    Helloween - Gambling With The Devil — Within recent times I've become more familiar with Helloween's later releases. They still remain a force to be reckoned with in the speed/power metal world.
  164. 15.
    Helloween - Gambling With The Devil — Within recent times I've become more familiar with Helloween's later releases. They still remain a force to be reckoned with in the speed/power metal world.
  165. 15.
    Helloween - Gambling With The Devil — Within recent times I've become more familiar with Helloween's later releases. They still remain a force to be reckoned with in the speed/power metal world.
  166. 15.
    Helloween - Gambling With The Devil — Within recent times I've become more familiar with Helloween's later releases. They still remain a force to be reckoned with in the speed/power metal world.
  167. 15.
    Helloween - Gambling With The Devil — Within recent times I've become more familiar with Helloween's later releases. They still remain a force to be reckoned with in the speed/power metal world.
  168. 15.
    Helloween - Gambling With The Devil — Within recent times I've become more familiar with Helloween's later releases. They still remain a force to be reckoned with in the speed/power metal world.
  169. 15.
    Helloween - Gambling With The Devil — Within recent times I've become more familiar with Helloween's later releases. They still remain a force to be reckoned with in the speed/power metal world.
  170. 15.
    Helloween - Gambling With The Devil — Within recent times I've become more familiar with Helloween's later releases. They still remain a force to be reckoned with in the speed/power metal world.
  171. 15.
    Helloween - Gambling With The Devil — Within recent times I've become more familiar with Helloween's later releases. They still remain a force to be reckoned with in the speed/power metal world.
  172. 15.
    Helloween - Gambling With The Devil — Within recent times I've become more familiar with Helloween's later releases. They still remain a force to be reckoned with in the speed/power metal world.

Surprises of the Year

  1. 1.
    Ted Nugent - Love Grenade — I love how this guy went back to a sound and style that was missing for years.
  2. 1.
    Ted Nugent - Love Grenade — I love how this guy went back to a sound and style that was missing for years.
  3. 1.
    Ted Nugent - Love Grenade — I love how this guy went back to a sound and style that was missing for years.
  4. 1.
    Ted Nugent - Love Grenade — I love how this guy went back to a sound and style that was missing for years.
  5. 1.
    Ted Nugent - Love Grenade — I love how this guy went back to a sound and style that was missing for years.
  6. 1.
    Ted Nugent - Love Grenade — I love how this guy went back to a sound and style that was missing for years.
  7. 1.
    Ted Nugent - Love Grenade — I love how this guy went back to a sound and style that was missing for years.
  8. 1.
    Ted Nugent - Love Grenade — I love how this guy went back to a sound and style that was missing for years.
  9. 1.
    Ted Nugent - Love Grenade — I love how this guy went back to a sound and style that was missing for years.
  10. 1.
    Ted Nugent - Love Grenade — I love how this guy went back to a sound and style that was missing for years.
  11. 2.
  12. 2.
  13. 2.
  14. 2.
  15. 2.
  16. 2.
    Trimonium - Son of a Blizzard — More like the Sons of Immortal. These guys fill the void Immortal has left. Very good pagan metal.
  17. 2.
    Trimonium - Son of a Blizzard — More like the Sons of Immortal. These guys fill the void Immortal has left. Very good pagan metal.
  18. 2.
    Trimonium - Son of a Blizzard — More like the Sons of Immortal. These guys fill the void Immortal has left. Very good pagan metal.
  19. 2.
    Trimonium - Son of a Blizzard — More like the Sons of Immortal. These guys fill the void Immortal has left. Very good pagan metal.
  20. 2.
    Trimonium - Son of a Blizzard — More like the Sons of Immortal. These guys fill the void Immortal has left. Very good pagan metal.
  21. 3.
    Dr. Wily And The Robot Masters - It's Time For Revenge... Let's Attack Aggressively — Very interesting instrumentals inspired by video games. In the vein of bands like Iron Maiden.
  22. 3.
    Dr. Wily And The Robot Masters - It's Time For Revenge... Let's Attack Aggressively — Very interesting instrumentals inspired by video games. In the vein of bands like Iron Maiden.
  23. 3.
    Dr. Wily And The Robot Masters - It's Time For Revenge... Let's Attack Aggressively — Very interesting instrumentals inspired by video games. In the vein of bands like Iron Maiden.
  24. 3.
    Dr. Wily And The Robot Masters - It's Time For Revenge... Let's Attack Aggressively — Very interesting instrumentals inspired by video games. In the vein of bands like Iron Maiden.
  25. 3.
    Dr. Wily And The Robot Masters - It's Time For Revenge... Let's Attack Aggressively — Very interesting instrumentals inspired by video games. In the vein of bands like Iron Maiden.
  26. 3.
    Dr. Wily And The Robot Masters - It's Time For Revenge... Let's Attack Aggressively — Very interesting instrumentals inspired by video games. In the vein of bands like Iron Maiden.
  27. 3.
    Dr. Wily And The Robot Masters - It's Time For Revenge... Let's Attack Aggressively — Very interesting instrumentals inspired by video games. In the vein of bands like Iron Maiden.
  28. 3.
    Dr. Wily And The Robot Masters - It's Time For Revenge... Let's Attack Aggressively — Very interesting instrumentals inspired by video games. In the vein of bands like Iron Maiden.
  29. 3.
    Dr. Wily And The Robot Masters - It's Time For Revenge... Let's Attack Aggressively — Very interesting instrumentals inspired by video games. In the vein of bands like Iron Maiden.

Disappointments

  1. 1.
    Ozzy Osbourne - Black Rain — More down tuned than ever. The songs have a very short shelf life. Ozzy sounds uninspired and boring.
  2. 1.
    Ozzy Osbourne - Black Rain — More down tuned than ever. The songs have a very short shelf life. Ozzy sounds uninspired and boring.
  3. 1.
    Ozzy Osbourne - Black Rain — More down tuned than ever. The songs have a very short shelf life. Ozzy sounds uninspired and boring.
  4. 1.
    Ozzy Osbourne - Black Rain — More down tuned than ever. The songs have a very short shelf life. Ozzy sounds uninspired and boring.
  5. 1.
    Ozzy Osbourne - Black Rain — More down tuned than ever. The songs have a very short shelf life. Ozzy sounds uninspired and boring.
  6. 1.
    Ozzy Osbourne - Black Rain — More down tuned than ever. The songs have a very short shelf life. Ozzy sounds uninspired and boring.
  7. 1.
    Ozzy Osbourne - Black Rain — More down tuned than ever. The songs have a very short shelf life. Ozzy sounds uninspired and boring.
  8. 1.
    Ozzy Osbourne - Black Rain — More down tuned than ever. The songs have a very short shelf life. Ozzy sounds uninspired and boring.
  9. 2.
    Manowar - Gods of War — Manowar is venturing into Rhapsody territory more so now than ever. Expect a few more albums like this one.
  10. 2.
    Manowar - Gods of War — Manowar is venturing into Rhapsody territory more so now than ever. Expect a few more albums like this one.
  11. 2.
    Manowar - Gods of War — Manowar is venturing into Rhapsody territory more so now than ever. Expect a few more albums like this one.
  12. 2.
    Manowar - Gods of War — Manowar is venturing into Rhapsody territory more so now than ever. Expect a few more albums like this one.
  13. 2.
    Manowar - Gods of War — Manowar is venturing into Rhapsody territory more so now than ever. Expect a few more albums like this one.
  14. 2.
    Manowar - Gods of War — Manowar is venturing into Rhapsody territory more so now than ever. Expect a few more albums like this one.
  15. 2.
    Manowar - Gods of War — Manowar is venturing into Rhapsody territory more so now than ever. Expect a few more albums like this one.
  16. 3.
    W.A.S.P. - Dominator — This album was just OK for me. Blackie continues to recycle stuff that he did before. Probably the most straightforward release for him to date.
  17. 3.
    W.A.S.P. - Dominator — This album was just OK for me. Blackie continues to recycle stuff that he did before. Probably the most straightforward release for him to date.
  18. 3.
    W.A.S.P. - Dominator — This album was just OK for me. Blackie continues to recycle stuff that he did before. Probably the most straightforward release for him to date.
  19. 3.
    W.A.S.P. - Dominator — This album was just OK for me. Blackie continues to recycle stuff that he did before. Probably the most straightforward release for him to date.
  20. 3.
    W.A.S.P. - Dominator — This album was just OK for me. Blackie continues to recycle stuff that he did before. Probably the most straightforward release for him to date.
  21. 3.
    W.A.S.P. - Dominator — This album was just OK for me. Blackie continues to recycle stuff that he did before. Probably the most straightforward release for him to date.
  22. 4.
    Shadows Fall - Threads of Life — This album fell a bit short of my expectations. Not sure if the move to a major label affected how they wrote their music this time around. The albums does have it's moments but as a whole it is a bit weak.
  23. 4.
    Shadows Fall - Threads of Life — This album fell a bit short of my expectations. Not sure if the move to a major label affected how they wrote their music this time around. The albums does have it's moments but as a whole it is a bit weak.
  24. 4.
    Shadows Fall - Threads of Life — This album fell a bit short of my expectations. Not sure if the move to a major label affected how they wrote their music this time around. The albums does have it's moments but as a whole it is a bit weak.
  25. 4.
    Shadows Fall - Threads of Life — This album fell a bit short of my expectations. Not sure if the move to a major label affected how they wrote their music this time around. The albums does have it's moments but as a whole it is a bit weak.
  26. 4.
    Shadows Fall - Threads of Life — This album fell a bit short of my expectations. Not sure if the move to a major label affected how they wrote their music this time around. The albums does have it's moments but as a whole it is a bit weak.
  27. 5.
    Therion - Gothic Kabbalah — This album didn't grab me at all. After two fantastic albums like Lemuria and Sirius B, this one fell way short of my expectations.

Words / Final Thoughts

  1. 0
    — Every year it always seems there is so much to listen to with so little time to do it. As always, I base my lists on what I had a chance to listen to. I'm sure at some point I'll discover some gems from 2007 in 2008 like I did with The Who's "Endless Wire" from 2006!
  2. 0
    — Every year it always seems there is so much to listen to with so little time to do it. As always, I base my lists on what I had a chance to listen to. I'm sure at some point I'll discover some gems from 2007 in 2008 like I did with The Who's "Endless Wire" from 2006!
  3. 0
    — Every year it always seems there is so much to listen to with so little time to do it. As always, I base my lists on what I had a chance to listen to. I'm sure at some point I'll discover some gems from 2007 in 2008 like I did with The Who's "Endless Wire" from 2006!
  4. 0
    — Every year it always seems there is so much to listen to with so little time to do it. As always, I base my lists on what I had a chance to listen to. I'm sure at some point I'll discover some gems from 2007 in 2008 like I did with The Who's "Endless Wire" from 2006!
  5. 0
    — Every year it always seems there is so much to listen to with so little time to do it. As always, I base my lists on what I had a chance to listen to. I'm sure at some point I'll discover some gems from 2007 in 2008 like I did with The Who's "Endless Wire" from 2006!
  6. 0
    — Every year it always seems there is so much to listen to with so little time to do it. As always, I base my lists on what I had a chance to listen to. I'm sure at some point I'll discover some gems from 2007 in 2008 like I did with The Who's "Endless Wire" from 2006!
  7. 0
    — Every year it always seems there is so much to listen to with so little time to do it. As always, I base my lists on what I had a chance to listen to. I'm sure at some point I'll discover some gems from 2007 in 2008 like I did with The Who's "Endless Wire" from 2006!
  8. 0
    — Every year it always seems there is so much to listen to with so little time to do it. As always, I base my lists on what I had a chance to listen to. I'm sure at some point I'll discover some gems from 2007 in 2008 like I did with The Who's "Endless Wire" from 2006!
  9. 0
    — Every year it always seems there is so much to listen to with so little time to do it. As always, I base my lists on what I had a chance to listen to. I'm sure at some point I'll discover some gems from 2007 in 2008 like I did with The Who's "Endless Wire" from 2006!
  10. 0
    — Every year it always seems there is so much to listen to with so little time to do it. As always, I base my lists on what I had a chance to listen to. I'm sure at some point I'll discover some gems from 2007 in 2008 like I did with The Who's "Endless Wire" from 2006!
  11. 0
    — Every year it always seems there is so much to listen to with so little time to do it. As always, I base my lists on what I had a chance to listen to. I'm sure at some point I'll discover some more gems from 2007 in 2008 like I did with The Who's "Endless Wire" from 2006 in 2007!
  12. 0
    — Every year it always seems there is so much to listen to with so little time to do it. As always, I base my lists on what I had a chance to listen to. I'm sure at some point I'll discover some more gems from 2007 in 2008 like I did with The Who's "Endless Wire" from 2006 in 2007!
  13. 0
    — Every year it always seems there is so much to listen to with so little time to do it. As always, I base my lists on what I had a chance to listen to. I'm sure at some point I'll discover some more gems from 2007 in 2008 like I did with The Who's "Endless Wire" from 2006 in 2007!
  14. 0
    — Every year it always seems there is so much to listen to with so little time to do it. As always, I base my lists on what I had a chance to listen to. I'm sure at some point I'll discover some more gems from 2007 in 2008 like I did with The Who's "Endless Wire" from 2006 in 2007!

Marty

Top Albums

  1. 1.
  2. 1.
    Helloween - Gambling With The Devil — Even better than Keeper The Legacy, this one's one of the best Andi Deris era Helloween albums ever!
  3. 1.
    Helloween - Gambling With The Devil — Even better than Keeper The Legacy, this one's one of the best Andi Deris era Helloween albums ever!
  4. 2.
  5. 2.
    Rush - Snakes And Arrows — A very solid Rush album and very fresh sounding for these rock dinosaurs
  6. 2.
    Rush - Snakes And Arrows — A very solid Rush album and very fresh sounding for these rock dinosaurs
  7. 3.
  8. 3.
    Vanishing Point - The Fourth Season — Amazing melodic heavy metal with a progressive edge
  9. 3.
    Vanishing Point - The Fourth Season — Amazing melodic heavy metal with a progressive edge
  10. 4.
  11. 4.
    Nightwish - Dark Passion Play — They brought in a new vocalist with a whole new style and never missed a beat
  12. 4.
    Nightwish - Dark Passion Play — They brought in a new vocalist with a whole new style and never missed a beat
  13. 5.
  14. 5.
    Saxon - The Inner Sanctum — Yet another great Saxon album....these guys have been on a roll!
  15. 5.
    Saxon - The Inner Sanctum — Yet another great Saxon album....these guys have been on a roll!
  16. 6.
  17. 6.
    Symphony X - Paradise Lost — Much heavier than ever, these guys are becoming the new kings of prog metal
  18. 6.
    Symphony X - Paradise Lost — Much heavier than ever, these guys are becoming the new kings of prog metal
  19. 7.
  20. 7.
    Cage - Hell Destroyer — Crushing heavy metal and very old school...just the way it should be
  21. 7.
    Cage - Hell Destroyer — Crushing heavy metal and very old school...just the way it should be
  22. 8.
  23. 8.
    Mystic Prophecy - Satanic Curses — Killer and very heavy power metal, this band has yet to disappoint.
  24. 8.
    Mystic Prophecy - Satanic Curses — Killer and very heavy power metal, this band has yet to disappoint.
  25. 9.
  26. 9.
    Dark Moor - Tarot — The best album yet in the post Elisa Martin era of this band
  27. 9.
    Dark Moor - Tarot — The best album yet in the post Elisa Martin era of this band
  28. 10.
  29. 10.
    The Codex - The Codex — Everything Magnus Karlsson touches turns to gold and Mark Boals sings his ass off here!
  30. 10.
    The Codex - The Codex — Everything Magnus Karlsson touches turns to gold and Mark Boals sings his ass off here!
  31. 11.
  32. 11.
    Allen - Lande - The Revenge — The second part of this Magnus Karlsson project and another winner!
  33. 11.
    Allen - Lande - The Revenge — The second part of this Magnus Karlsson project and another winner!
  34. 12.
  35. 12.
    Evidence One - The Sky Is The Limit — Very solid melodic heavy metal
  36. 12.
    Evidence One - The Sky Is The Limit — Very solid melodic heavy metal
  37. 13.
  38. 13.
    DGM - Different Shapes — They really turned it up a notch for this album....awesome progressive metal
  39. 13.
    DGM - Different Shapes — They really turned it up a notch for this album....awesome progressive metal
  40. 14.
  41. 14.
    Deadsoul Tribe - A Lullaby For The Devil — Dark and even more moodier than before, Devon Graves is in a league of his own
  42. 14.
    Deadsoul Tribe - A Lullaby For The Devil — Dark and even more moodier than before, Devon Graves is in a league of his own
  43. 15.
  44. 15.
    Intense - As Our Army Grows — Great old school heavy/power metal from the U.K.....great job Sean!!
  45. 15.
    Intense - As Our Army Grows — Great old school heavy/power metal from the U.K.....great job Sean!!

Surprises of the Year

  1. 1.
  2. 1.
    Ted Nugent - Love Grenade — This album kicks serious ass.....I'm still surprised by it even after many months of listening to it
  3. 1.
    Ted Nugent - Love Grenade — This album kicks serious ass.....I'm still surprised by it even after many months of listening to it
  4. 2.
  5. 2.
    Beggar's Ball - 1321 — California Guns "N Roses/punk style sleaze rock that also kicks serious ass!
  6. 2.
    Beggar's Ball - 1321 — California Guns "N Roses/punk style sleaze rock that also kicks serious ass!
  7. 3.
  8. 3.
    Scorpions - Humanity - Hour 1 — It's a very good album yet the surprise is in the type of material.....better vocal melodies yet a very different and softer sound.
  9. 3.
    Scorpions - Humanity - Hour 1 — It's a very good album yet the surprise is in the type of material.....better vocal melodies yet a very different and softer sound.
  10. 4.
  11. 4.
    Heart Of Sun - Heart Of Sun — Great progressive rock/metal that captures the imagination
  12. 4.
    Heart Of Sun - Heart Of Sun — Great progressive rock/metal that captures the imagination
  13. 5.
  14. 5.
    Helix - The Power Of Rock And Roll — Party time 80's hard rock......I really miss that stuff!!
  15. 5.
    Helix - The Power Of Rock And Roll — Party time 80's hard rock......I really miss that stuff!!

Disappointments

  1. 1.
  2. 1.
    Sonata Arctica - Unia — Weird.....very weird
  3. 1.
    Sonata Arctica - Unia — Weird.....very weird
  4. 2.
  5. 2.
    Elvenking - The Scythe — What a mess.....especially after a couple of great albums
  6. 2.
    Elvenking - The Scythe — What a mess.....especially after a couple of great albums
  7. 3.
  8. 3.
    Freedom Call - Dimensions — Some good songs and a few "experiments" that just didn't work
  9. 3.
    Freedom Call - Dimensions — Some good songs and a few "experiments" that just didn't work
  10. 4.
  11. 4.
    Kamelot - Ghost Opera — Not a bad album by any means but where's the energy?
  12. 4.
    Kamelot - Ghost Opera — Not a bad album by any means but where's the energy?
  13. 5.
  14. 5.
    Twisted Tower Dire - Netherworlds — Stale, uninspired and terrible vocals by a previously good singer
  15. 5.
    Twisted Tower Dire - Netherworlds — Stale, uninspired and terrible vocals by a previously good singer

Joke of the Year

  1. 1.
  2. 1.
    Manowar - Gods of War — Loose the narration and concentrate more on the songwriting....these guys are only living on past glories
  3. 1.
    Manowar - Gods of War — Lose the narration and concentrate more on the songwriting....these guys are only living on past glories

Words / Final Thoughts

  1. 0
    — Well once again, there's simply not enough time to listen to everything so there are a few releases that likely would've made my best of list if I had given them some serious listens. 2007 was another great year for metal and the big highlight for me was the Heaven and Hell Tour with the Dio-era Sabbath line-up. 2008 is already shaping up to be another solid year with some very high profile releases coming out already. The biggest events are going to be the new Judas Priest epic and the new Metallica (if it even comes out this year)....as far as Chinese Democracy, I've given it so many Joke Of The Year awards that I'm going to retire it for good. I doubt it will ever see the light of day. It's also great that Rush is extending it's Snakes And Arrows tour to include South America once again as well as many other North American cities that they haven't played in a while.

    I would like to extend sincere thanks to all the labels, bands and PR people that are so helpful in supporting MetalReviews.com. Last but certainly not the least, thanks to the loyal readers and dedicated forumites...you are all part of this crazy and fun metal "community" that is unlike any other on the net...I continue to stand by that claim.

    Cheers and have a great (and heavy) 2008

    Marty

  2. 0
    — Well once again, there's simply not enough time to listen to everything so there are a few releases that likely would've made my best of list if I had given them some serious listens. 2007 was another great year for metal and the big highlight for me was the Heaven and Hell Tour with the Dio-era Sabbath line-up. 2008 is already shaping up to be another solid year with some very high profile releases coming out already. The biggest events are going to be the new Judas Priest epic and the new Metallica (if it even comes out this year)....as far as Chinese Democracy, I've given it so many Joke Of The Year awards that I'm going to retire it for good. I doubt it will ever see the light of day. It's also great that Rush is extending it's Snakes And Arrows tour to include South America once again as well as many other North American cities that they haven't played in a while.

    I would like to extend sincere thanks to all the labels, bands and PR people that are so helpful in supporting MetalReviews.com. Last but certainly not the least, thanks to the loyal readers and dedicated forumites...you are all part of this crazy and fun metal "community" that is unlike any other on the net...I continue to stand by that claim.

    Cheers and have a great (and heavy) 2008

    Marty

  3. 0
    — Well once again, there's simply not enough time to listen to everything so there are a few releases that likely would've made my best of list if I had given them some serious listens. 2007 was another great year for metal and the big highlight for me was the Heaven and Hell Tour with the Dio-era Sabbath line-up. 2008 is already shaping up to be another solid year with some very high profile releases coming out already. The biggest events are going to be the new Judas Priest epic and the new Metallica (if it even comes out this year)....as far as Chinese Democracy, I've given it so many Joke Of The Year awards that I'm going to retire it for good. I doubt it will ever see the light of day. It's also great that Rush is extending it's Snakes And Arrows tour to include South America once again as well as many other North American cities that they haven't played in a while.

    I would like to extend sincere thanks to all the labels, bands and PR people that are so helpful in supporting MetalReviews.com. Last but certainly not the least, thanks to the loyal readers and dedicated forumites...you are all part of this crazy and fun metal "community" that is unlike any other on the net...I continue to stand by that claim.

    Cheers and have a great (and heavy) 2008

    Marty

Crims

Top Albums

  1. 1.
    Cage - Hell Destroyer — Power/Speed Metal at it's finest. Sure, some didn't like the concept story but I did, and it also featured quite possibly the best vocal performance the entire year.
  2. 2.
    3 Inches of Blood - Fire Up The Blades — The addition of legimate Thrash riffs to an already excellent formula of traditional and modern elements made for one huge neck breaking piece of Metal
  3. 3.
    Axxis - Doom Of Destiny — Though a slight step down from the previous release, Doom Of Destiny has cemented Axxis as the water mark for every current and future band in the style.
  4. 4.
    Devin Townsend - Ziltoid The Omniscient — I've always appreciated Devin's creativity and willingness to push boundaries, but never before did it translate into music I actually enjoyed. Ziltoid is the one huge exception. A masterpiece to be sure. Can he top this though?
  5. 5.
    Agent Steel - Alienigma — Talk about face crushing. The riffs just never let up and totally crushed in every song. Oh yeah, the vocals were fairly good too.
  6. 6.
    Symphony X - Paradise Lost — I found this to be slightly more aggressive than previous releases and the result was one monster of a Power/Prog CD... one of their best yet.
  7. 7.
    DoomSword - My Name Will Live On — With Doom, Traditional, and Power Metal elements that soared with huge vocals, one can only say, long live pure Metal!
  8. 8.
    Candlemass - King Of The Grey Islands — If you have to replace the best singer in the genre you might as well replace with the 2nd best (in my opinion). Though it was weird at first to hear Lowe singing in Candlemass the result was nevertheless excellent.
  9. 9.
    Nightwish - Dark Passion Play — Though some what too self indulgent at times, I enjoyed the return to the Century Child sound that went further away from the electronic influenced Once.
  10. 10.
    Helloween - Gambling With The Devil — The ever consistent Helloween did it again. Unless they have a complete lapse of judgement again (Chameleon anyone?) I don't really see Helloween ever releasing something not top 15 worthy again.
  11. 11.
    Grave Digger - Liberty Or Death — Grave Digger did a nice job with this and Boltendahl is in a league of his own. No one can do such a melodic wizardry with such a gruff voice... no one.
  12. 12.
    Arch Enemy - Rise Of The Tyrant — A very pleasent return to the more aggressive side of the band that harkened back to the debut.
  13. 13.
    Astral Doors - New Revelation — It grew on me over time and is another fine addition to the ever-growing catalogue.
  14. 14.
    Kamelot - Ghost Opera — I never thought I'd rate a Kamelot CD not in the top 5 but here it is. The emphasis on mid-paced Gothic atmospheres was disappointing but still better than most releases out there this year.
  15. 15.
    Coheed & Cambria - No World For Tomorrow — Ok, it was a bit poppy at times and there's always going to be a debate about the "prog label" but it didn't change the fact that I really enjoyed the release and probably would have ranked higher if it wasn't for some drawn out songs.

Surprises of the Year

  1. 1.
    Chris Caffery - Pins And Needles — I usually don't expect much from solo releases but there was a surprising amount of riffage here.
  2. 2.
    Iron Fire - Blade Of Triumph — A nice comeback after the lack of focus that was On The Edge.
  3. 3.
    Machine Head - The Blackening — Ok, this was actually enjoyable. I heard some actual Thrash riffs and Metal aggression, instead of teenager with eye-liner aggression (re: angst). Where's the new Vio-lence?
  4. 4.
    Severe Torture - Sworn Vengeance — What was once Cannibal Corpse worship turned into a throw back to a lot of great Death Metal styles with Thrash influences. Yay!
  5. 5.
    The Dogma - A Good Day To Die — Not sure where this came from but combining Gothic Metal themes and overtones with riff focused Power Metal was a surprise indeed. The greater surprise was that it worked.

Disappointments

  1. 1.
    Ozzy Osbourne - Black Rain — Please retire.
  2. 2.
    Iced Earth - Framing Armageddon - Something Wicked Part 1 — I've always defended Iced Earth from all the naysayers but it stopped with this release. Though not awful, this is the 3rd release in a row that is killed by too much self-indulgence. I've always found reasons to look past the short comings before but I couldn't really find any here.
  3. 3.
    Iron Savior - Megatropolis — Is the magic gone? Condition Red is still one of my favorite releases in the genre, right up there with Power Plant, but this just went through the motions.
  4. 4.
    Nocturnal Rites - The 8th Sin — Another once great band releasing below average material. If releasing bad music is a sin, well, I guess it's not just a clever album title.
  5. 5.
    Elvenking - The Scythe — I should like this, but I don't. There's a lot going on here in the music and it kind of masks the fact the structure and melodies are lacking.

Words / Final Thoughts

  1. 0
    — This was a very interesting year for me. I got married in late September and that was quite the experience. I don't think I'll ever have the same combination of family members, friends, and colleagues in one place again and we made the most of it as I never partied quite like I did then. The idea is you only do it once so I made the most of it. Along with that I managed to re-arrange some priorities in order to return to full time reviews this year. Though a few weeks were missed due to internet issues, being out of town, or work related issues I managed to contribute practically every week, something I couldn't say of last year. Unfortunately the whole wedding thing and financial after math has perhaps lessened the amount of CDs I listened to this year (thus my list has a huge asterix as many prominent releases were never listened to). If 2006 was the year of the comeback release, 2007 was the year of the below average releases made by once excellent bands. Is it label pressure to release quick CDs? Is the well of fresh ideas and surpreme riffage run dry? Maybe it's something else but perhaps in 2008 we'll be discussing the year of the comeback again. Only time will tell. Stay Metal, Crims

Ben

Top Albums

  1. 1.
  2. 1.
  3. 1.
  4. 2.
  5. 2.
  6. 2.
  7. 3.
  8. 3.
  9. 3.
  10. 4.
  11. 4.
  12. 4.
  13. 5.
  14. 5.
  15. 5.
  16. 6.
  17. 6.
  18. 6.
  19. 7.
  20. 7.
  21. 7.
  22. 8.
  23. 8.
  24. 8.
  25. 9.
  26. 9.
  27. 9.
  28. 10.
  29. 10.
  30. 10.
  31. 11.
  32. 11.
  33. 11.
  34. 12.
  35. 12.
  36. 12.
  37. 13.
  38. 13.
  39. 13.
  40. 14.
  41. 14.
  42. 14.
  43. 15.
  44. 15.
  45. 15.

Surprises of the Year

  1. 1.
  2. 1.
  3. 1.
  4. 2.
  5. 2.
  6. 2.
  7. 3.
  8. 3.
  9. 3.
  10. 4.
  11. 4.
  12. 4.
  13. 5.
  14. 5.

Joke of the Year

  1. 1.
  2. 1.
  3. 1.

Words / Final Thoughts

  1. 0
    —

    Like always these year end lists are very difficult to compile. In 2007 my exposure to much new music was limited. I haven't even heard the new Vanishing Point which is something that I am chastising myself for. Some favorite bands from years past released albums that were pretty bland if not outright terrible. However, despite being put off by the majority of new releases in 2007, the ones that I did manage to enjoy I enjoyed wholeheartedly.

    Nightwish's Dark Passion Play shot to the top of the list by being the most played album of 2007 by a mile. This new era with Annette is going to be a pleasure to experience. Helloween managed to revive their career with one of the best Power Metal albums in ages. Just like with Iron Maiden, young bands need to look at these musical institutions to see the secret to longevity. You can try all you want to emulate something but when the originators come out with an assburner then you'd do best to hang in back in the shadows. Progressive Metal was actually healthy this year. Redemption, Symphony X, Circus Maximus, Coheed And Cambria, and Wuthering Heights all released stellar albums. Melodic Rock gets a few nods from the Harem Scarem and Pink Cream 69 corners. 2007 also saw several bands experimenting with their sounds. Nightrage took on a less Swedish sound and their more Americanized take on Melodic Death was a unique twist. Sonata Arctica and Tobias Sammet though were the big offenders to many. The common trait between these two? Both artists took away the speed and upped the "feeling" aspect of their music. This is what needs to be done though in order for this type of music to prevent stagnation.

    2008 is already looking bright. I'm blasting the hell out of The Scarecrow. Three releases that I am eagerly awaiting are Immortal from Pyramaze, We Are The Nightmare by Arsis, and Humanity Dethroned from Dark Empire. Seeing as how I've heard all but the Pyramaze I can safely say that you should expect these cd's to be mentioned again this time next year.

  2. 0
    —

    Like always these year end lists are very difficult to compile. In 2007 my exposure to much new music was limited. I haven't even heard the new Vanishing Point which is something that I am chastising myself for. Some favorite bands from years past released albums that were pretty bland if not outright terrible. However, despite being put off by the majority of new releases in 2007, the ones that I did manage to enjoy I enjoyed wholeheartedly.

    Nightwish's Dark Passion Play shot to the top of the list by being the most played album of 2007 by a mile. This new era with Annette is going to be a pleasure to experience. Helloween managed to revive their career with one of the best Power Metal albums in ages. Just like with Iron Maiden, young bands need to look at these musical institutions to see the secret to longevity. You can try all you want to emulate something but when the originators come out with an assburner then you'd do best to hang in back in the shadows. Progressive Metal was actually healthy this year. Redemption, Symphony X, Circus Maximus, Coheed And Cambria, and Wuthering Heights all released stellar albums. Melodic Rock gets a few nods from the Harem Scarem and Pink Cream 69 corners. 2007 also saw several bands experimenting with their sounds. Nightrage took on a less Swedish sound and their more Americanized take on Melodic Death was a unique twist. Sonata Arctica and Tobias Sammet though were the big offenders to many. The common trait between these two? Both artists took away the speed and upped the "feeling" aspect of their music. This is what needs to be done though in order for this type of music to prevent stagnation.

    2008 is already looking bright. I'm blasting the hell out of The Scarecrow. Three releases that I am eagerly awaiting are Immortal from Pyramaze, We Are The Nightmare by Arsis, and Humanity Dethroned from Dark Empire. Seeing as how I've heard all but the Pyramaze I can safely say that you should expect these cd's to be mentioned again this time next year.

  3. 0
    —

    Like always, these year end lists are very difficult to compile. In 2007 my exposure to much new music was limited. I haven't even heard the new Vanishing Point which is something that I am chastising myself for. Some favorite bands from years past released albums that were pretty bland if not outright terrible. However, despite being put off by the majority of new releases in 2007, the ones that I did manage to enjoy I enjoyed wholeheartedly.

    Nightwish's Dark Passion Play shot to the top of the list by being the most played album of 2007 by a mile. This new era with Annette is going to be a pleasure to experience. Helloween managed to revive their career with one of the best Power Metal albums in ages. Just like with Iron Maiden, young bands need to look at these musical institutions to see the secret to longevity. You can try all you want to emulate something but when the originators come out with an assburner then you'd do best to hang in back in the shadows. Progressive Metal was actually healthy this year. Redemption, Symphony X, Circus Maximus, Coheed And Cambria, and Wuthering Heights all released stellar albums. Melodic Rock gets a few nods from the Harem Scarem and Pink Cream 69 corners. 2007 also saw several bands experimenting with their sounds. Nightrage took on a less Swedish sound and their more Americanized take on Melodic Death was a unique twist. Sonata Arctica and Tobias Sammet though were the big offenders to many. The common trait between these two? Both artists took away the speed and upped the "feeling" aspect of their music. This is what needs to be done though in order for this type of music to prevent stagnation.

    2008 is already looking bright. I'm blasting the hell out of The Scarecrow. Three releases that I am eagerly awaiting are Immortal from Pyramaze, We Are The Nightmare by Arsis, and Humanity Dethroned from Dark Empire. Seeing as how I've heard all but the Pyramaze I can safely say that you should expect these cd's to be mentioned again this time next year.

    As I'm getting older I notice that heavy metal is still very much alive and well in 2008. I see more young people now wearing Iced Earth or Blind Guardian shirts more than when I was in high school. I've noticed that the culture of heavy metal is getting a little revival in a ways. Who would have thought that kids today would be rocking out on a PS3 playing along to Iron Maiden and Slayer? Plus everywhere I go I see Affliction clothing and while this is now more associated with UFC fighting and "tough guy" image, to me they look like band shirts without a band. My thoughts on this would be better put into an editorial.

    In 2008 I plan on finishing my tenure in higher education. Plans following my graduation include touring with some friends and then it's off to California to throw my hat into the label game. Times are tumultuous and exciting in the music industry. I want to do my best to keep it healthy.

Alex

Top Albums

  1. 1.
  2. 1.
    Primordial - To the Nameless Dead — This album simply invaded my listening space and surged to the top of the list
  3. 1.
    Primordial - To the Nameless Dead — This album simply invaded my listening space and surged to the top of the list
  4. 1.
    Primordial - To the Nameless Dead — This album simply invaded my listening space and surged to the top of the list
  5. 1.
    Primordial - To the Nameless Dead — This album simply invaded my listening space and surged to the top of the list
  6. 1.
    Primordial - To the Nameless Dead — This album simply invaded my listening space and surged to the top of the list
  7. 2.
  8. 2.
    Dark Tranquillity - Fiction — Everybody has a formula, theirs always works for me
  9. 2.
    Dark Tranquillity - Fiction — Everybody has a formula, theirs always works for me
  10. 2.
    Dark Tranquillity - Fiction — Everybody has a formula, theirs always works for me
  11. 2.
    Dark Tranquillity - Fiction — Everybody has a formula, theirs always works for me
  12. 2.
    Dark Tranquillity - Fiction — Everybody has a formula, theirs always works for me
  13. 3.
  14. 3.
    Sigh - Hangmans Hymn — Thrash meets Wagnerian symphony - nobody could have done it better
  15. 3.
    Sigh - Hangmans Hymn — Thrash meets Wagnerian symphony - nobody could have done it better
  16. 3.
    Sigh - Hangmans Hymn — Thrash meets Wagnerian symphony - nobody could have done it better
  17. 3.
    Sigh - Hangmans Hymn — Thrash meets Wagnerian symphony - nobody could have done it better
  18. 3.
    Sigh - Hangmans Hymn — Thrash meets Wagnerian symphony - nobody could have done it better
  19. 4.
  20. 4.
    Gire - Gire — Avant-garde means forward thinking
  21. 4.
    Gire - Gire — Avant-garde means forward thinking
  22. 4.
    Gire - Gire — Avant-garde means forward thinking
  23. 4.
    Gire - Gire — Avant-garde means forward thinking
  24. 4.
    Gire - Gire — Avant-garde means forward thinking
  25. 5.
  26. 5.
    Grayceon - Grayceon — Quirky and breathtaking all in one
  27. 5.
    Grayceon - Grayceon — Quirky and breathtaking all in one
  28. 5.
    Grayceon - Grayceon — Quirky and breathtaking all in one
  29. 5.
    Grayceon - Grayceon — Quirky and breathtaking all in one
  30. 5.
    Grayceon - Grayceon — Quirky and breathtaking all in one
  31. 6.
  32. 6.
    Wolves in the Throne Room - Two Hunters — Authentic, both in music and life
  33. 6.
    Wolves in the Throne Room - Two Hunters — Authentic, both in music and life
  34. 6.
    Wolves in the Throne Room - Two Hunters — Authentic, both in music and life
  35. 6.
    Wolves in the Throne Room - Two Hunters — Authentic, both in music and life
  36. 6.
    Wolves in the Throne Room - Two Hunters — Authentic, both in music and life
  37. 7.
  38. 7.
    Shining - Halmstad — Keep the razors away
  39. 7.
    Shining - Halmstad — Keep the razors away
  40. 7.
    Shining - Halmstad — Keep the razors away
  41. 7.
    Shining - Halmstad — Keep the razors away
  42. 7.
    Shining - Halmstad — Keep the razors away
  43. 8.
  44. 8.
    Immolation - Shadows in the Light — Defining death metal album of the last few years
  45. 8.
    Immolation - Shadows in the Light — Defining death metal album of the last few years
  46. 8.
    Immolation - Shadows in the Light — Defining death metal album of the last few years
  47. 8.
    Immolation - Shadows in the Light — Defining death metal album of the last few years
  48. 8.
    Immolation - Shadows in the Light — Defining death metal album of the last few years
  49. 9.
  50. 9.
    Lake of Tears - Moons and Mushrooms — ... and I am still hooked on their psychedelic brew
  51. 9.
    Lake of Tears - Moons and Mushrooms — ... and I am still hooked on their psychedelic brew
  52. 9.
    Lake of Tears - Moons and Mushrooms — ... and I am still hooked on their psychedelic brew
  53. 9.
    Lake of Tears - Moons and Mushrooms — ... and I am still hooked on their psychedelic brew
  54. 9.
    Lake of Tears - Moons and Mushrooms — ... and I am still hooked on their psychedelic brew
  55. 10.
  56. 10.
    Swallow The Sun - Hope — I was delighted to see this Finnish band live this year
  57. 10.
    Swallow The Sun - Hope — I was delighted to see this Finnish band live this year
  58. 10.
    Swallow The Sun - Hope — I was delighted to see this Finnish band live this year
  59. 10.
    Swallow The Sun - Hope — I was delighted to see this Finnish band live this year
  60. 10.
    Swallow The Sun - Hope — I was delighted to see this Finnish band live this year
  61. 11.
  62. 11.
    Sear Bliss - The Arcane Odyssey — If you want originality in your black metal, how about using a trombone
  63. 11.
    Sear Bliss - The Arcane Odyssey — If you want originality in your black metal, how about using a trombone
  64. 11.
    Sear Bliss - The Arcane Odyssey — If you want originality in your black metal, how about using a trombone
  65. 11.
    Sear Bliss - The Arcane Odyssey — If you want originality in your black metal, how about using a trombone
  66. 11.
    Sear Bliss - The Arcane Odyssey — If you want originality in your black metal, how about using a trombone
  67. 12.
    Amorphis - Silent Waters
  68. 12.
    Amorphis - Silent Waters — The Phoenix has resurrected itself from the ashes again
  69. 12.
    Amorphis - Silent Waters — The Phoenix has resurrected itself from the ashes again
  70. 12.
    Amorphis - Silent Waters — The Phoenix has resurrected itself from the ashes again
  71. 12.
    Amorphis - Silent Waters — The Phoenix has resurrected itself from the ashes again
  72. 12.
    Amorphis - Silent Waters — The Phoenix has resurrected itself from the ashes again
  73. 13.
  74. 13.
    DoomSword - My Name Will Live On — If this doesn't make you raise a sword, I don't know what will. One word - epic!
  75. 13.
    DoomSword - My Name Will Live On — If this doesn't make you raise a sword, I don't know what will. One word - epic!
  76. 13.
    DoomSword - My Name Will Live On — If this doesn't make you raise a sword, I don't know what will. One word - epic!
  77. 13.
    DoomSword - My Name Will Live On — If this doesn't make you raise a sword, I don't know what will. One word - epic!
  78. 13.
    DoomSword - My Name Will Live On — If this doesn't make you raise a sword, I don't know what will. One word - epic!
  79. 14.
  80. 14.
    Wuthering Heights - The Shadow Cabinet — It was tough to live up to Far from the Madding Crowd, but they tried
  81. 14.
    Wuthering Heights - The Shadow Cabinet — It was tough to live up to Far from the Madding Crowd, but they tried
  82. 14.
    Wuthering Heights - The Shadow Cabinet — It was tough to live up to Far from the Madding Crowd, but they tried
  83. 14.
    Wuthering Heights - The Shadow Cabinet — It was tough to live up to Far from the Madding Crowd, but they tried
  84. 14.
    Wuthering Heights - The Shadow Cabinet — It was tough to live up to Far from the Madding Crowd, but they tried
  85. 15.
  86. 15.
    Therion - Gothic Kabbalah — It made the list, eventually, but generally every Therion album has been Top 5 for me thus far
  87. 15.
    Therion - Gothic Kabbalah — It made the list, eventually, but generally every Therion album has been Top 5 for me thus far
  88. 15.
    Therion - Gothic Kabbalah — It made the list, eventually, but generally every Therion album has been Top 5 for me thus far
  89. 15.
    Therion - Gothic Kabbalah — It made the list, eventually, but generally every Therion album has been Top 5 for me thus far
  90. 15.
    Therion - Gothic Kabbalah — It made the list, eventually, but generally every Therion album has been Top 5 for me thus far

Surprises of the Year

  1. 1.
  2. 1.
    Laethora - March of the Parasite — In need of old-school Swedish DM, this delivers
  3. 1.
    Laethora - March of the Parasite — In need of old-school Swedish DM, this delivers
  4. 1.
    Laethora - March of the Parasite — In need of old-school Swedish DM, this delivers
  5. 1.
    Laethora - March of the Parasite — In need of old-school Swedish DM, this delivers
  6. 1.
    Laethora - March of the Parasite — In need of old-school Swedish DM, this delivers
  7. 2.
  8. 2.
    The Foreshadowing - Days of Nothing — Clean, melancholic, soothing, Italian
  9. 2.
    The Foreshadowing - Days of Nothing — Clean, melancholic, soothing, Italian
  10. 2.
    The Foreshadowing - Days of Nothing — Clean, melancholic, soothing, Italian
  11. 2.
    The Foreshadowing - Days of Nothing — Clean, melancholic, soothing, Italian
  12. 2.
    The Foreshadowing - Days of Nothing — Clean, melancholic, soothing, Italian
  13. 3.
  14. 3.
    Angantyr - Nasheim - Split — It is Nasheim side of the split that needs your ear
  15. 3.
    Angantyr - Nasheim - Split — It is Nasheim side of the split that needs your ear
  16. 3.
    Angantyr - Nasheim - Split — It is Nasheim side of the split that needs your ear
  17. 3.
    Angantyr - Nasheim - Split — It is Nasheim side of the split that needs your ear
  18. 3.
    Angantyr - Nasheim - Split — It is Nasheim side of the split that needs your ear
  19. 4.
  20. 4.
    Colosseum - Chapter 1: Delirium — Juhani Palomaki is back, now I need to go find that new Yearning album
  21. 4.
    Colosseum - Chapter 1: Delirium — Juhani Palomaki is back, now I need to go find that new Yearning album
  22. 4.
    Colosseum - Chapter 1: Delirium — Juhani Palomaki is back, now I need to go find that new Yearning album
  23. 4.
    Colosseum - Chapter 1: Delirium — Juhani Palomaki is back, now I need to go find that new Yearning album
  24. 4.
    Colosseum - Chapter 1: Delirium — Juhani Palomaki is back, now I need to go find that new Yearning album
  25. 5.
  26. 5.
    Blood Tsunami - Thrash Metal — Guitar-heavy old-school melodic thrash, from Norway, with defining album title to boot
  27. 5.
    Blood Tsunami - Thrash Metal — Guitar-heavy old-school melodic thrash, from Norway, with defining album title to boot
  28. 5.
    Blood Tsunami - Thrash Metal — Guitar-heavy old-school melodic thrash, from Norway, with defining album title to boot
  29. 5.
    Blood Tsunami - Thrash Metal — Guitar-heavy old-school melodic thrash, from Norway, with defining album title to boot
  30. 5.
    Blood Tsunami - Thrash Metal — Guitar-heavy old-school melodic thrash, from Norway, with defining album title to boot

Disappointments

  1. 1.
  2. 1.
    Crionics - Neuthrone — Turning into Behemoth Jr. was not my idea of progress
  3. 1.
    Crionics - Neuthrone — Turning into Behemoth Jr. was not my idea of progress
  4. 1.
    Crionics - Neuthrone — Turning into Behemoth Jr. was not my idea of progress
  5. 1.
    Crionics - Neuthrone — Turning into Behemoth Jr. was not my idea of progress
  6. 1.
    Crionics - Neuthrone — Turning into Behemoth Jr. was not my idea of progress
  7. 2.
  8. 2.
    U.D.O. - Mastercutor — The idol of my youth simply did not have it on this album
  9. 2.
    U.D.O. - Mastercutor — The idol of my youth simply did not have it on this album
  10. 2.
    U.D.O. - Mastercutor — The idol of my youth simply did not have it on this album
  11. 2.
    U.D.O. - Mastercutor — The idol of my youth simply did not have it on this album
  12. 2.
    U.D.O. - Mastercutor — The idol of my youth simply did not have it on this album
  13. 3.
  14. 3.
    Limbonic Art - Legacy Of Evil — Making a much better album than Dimmu Borgir does not qualify. Picking 6/6/06 for a comeback date is simply a gimmick
  15. 3.
    Limbonic Art - Legacy Of Evil — Making a much better album than Dimmu Borgir does not qualify. Picking 6/6/06 for a comeback date is simply a gimmick
  16. 3.
    Limbonic Art - Legacy Of Evil — Making a much better album than Dimmu Borgir does not qualify. Picking 6/6/06 for a comeback date is simply a gimmick
  17. 3.
    Limbonic Art - Legacy Of Evil — Making a much better album than Dimmu Borgir does not qualify. Picking 6/6/06 for a comeback date is simply a gimmick
  18. 3.
    Limbonic Art - Legacy Of Evil — Making a much better album than Dimmu Borgir does not qualify. Picking 6/6/06 for a comeback date is simply a gimmick
  19. 4.
  20. 4.
    Winds - Prominence and Demise — Should have bee
  21. 4.
    Winds - Prominence and Demise — It is rare that Winds don't completely capture me
  22. 4.
    Winds - Prominence and Demise — It is rare that Winds don't completely capture me
  23. 4.
    Winds - Prominence and Demise — It is rare that Winds don't completely capture me
  24. 4.
    Winds - Prominence and Demise — It is rare that Winds don't completely capture me
  25. 5.
  26. 5.
  27. 5.
    Therion - Gothic Kabbalah — See Top 15
  28. 5.
    Therion - Gothic Kabbalah — See Top 15
  29. 5.
    Therion - Gothic Kabbalah — See Top 15
  30. 5.
    Therion - Gothic Kabbalah — See Top 15

Joke of the Year

  1. 1.
  2. 1.
  3. 1.
  4. 1.
  5. 1.
  6. 1.
  7. 2.
    Abruptum - Evil Genius
  8. 2.
    Abruptum - Evil Genius
  9. 2.
    Abruptum - Evil Genius — I guess I don't understand what the hype is all about
  10. 2.
    Abruptum - Evil Genius — I guess I don't understand what the hype is all about
  11. 2.
    Abruptum - Evil Genius — I guess I don't understand what the hype is all about
  12. 2.
    Abruptum - Evil Genius — I guess I don't understand what the hype is all about

Words / Final Thoughts

  1. 0
    — This has not been the easiest year for me personally (I honestly forgot when was the last year when the sailing was smooth, senior year in high school?). My company has seen its share of its ups and downs, but most importantly my son was in need of my assistance and time. At one point I stood at the brink of leaving MR, but Mike, Chris and Marty have extended their collective hand and kept me from going over. Hey, it is difficult to predict what happens next, but for now things worked out ... Thanks to all the bands, labels and promoters who have been sending their material graciously, and then waited patiently while I unpiled and got to their creation. Thanks to the readers who took their time to peruse my opinion on various metal genre albums, hopefully I was able to steer you towards something you later enjoyed or, alternatively, saved you a few hard earned pennies from buying something which wasn't worth it.
  2. 0
    — This has not been the easiest year for me personally (I honestly forgot when was the last year when the sailing was smooth, senior year in high school?). My company has seen its share of ups and downs, but most importantly my son was in need of my assistance and time. At one point I stood at the brink of leaving MR, but Mike, Chris and Marty have extended their collective hand and kept me from going over. Hey, it is difficult to predict what happens next, but for now things worked out ... Thanks to all the bands, labels and promoters who have been sending their material graciously, and then waited patiently while I unpiled and got to their creation. Thanks to the readers who took their time to peruse my opinion on various metal genre albums, hopefully I was able to steer you towards something you later enjoyed or, alternatively, saved you a few hard earned pennies from buying something which wasn't worth it.
  3. 0
    — This has not been the easiest year for me personally (I honestly forgot when was the last year when the sailing was smooth, senior year in high school?). My company has seen its share of ups and downs, but most importantly my son was in need of my assistance and time. At one point I stood on the brink of leaving MR, but Mike, Chris and Marty have extended their collective hand and kept me from going over. Hey, it is difficult to predict what happens next, but for now things worked out ... Thanks to all the bands, labels and promoters who have been sending their material graciously, and then waited patiently while I unpiled and got to their creation. Thanks to the readers who took their time to peruse my opinion on various metal genre albums, hopefully I was able to steer you towards something you later enjoyed or, alternatively, saved you a few hard earned pennies from buying something which wasn't worth it.

Aleksie

Top Albums

  1. 1.
  2. 1.
  3. 1.
    Symphony X - Paradise Lost — One of the best bands in the world puts out the best album of their career. Scorching mixture of aggressive metal and proggy widdling. The top of a glorious year.
  4. 1.
    Symphony X - Paradise Lost — One of the best bands in the world puts out the best album of their career. Scorching mixture of aggressive metal and proggy widdling. The top of a glorious year.
  5. 1.
    Symphony X - Paradise Lost — One of the best bands in the world puts out the best album of their career. Scorching mixture of aggressive metal and proggy widdling. The top of a glorious year.
  6. 1.
    Symphony X - Paradise Lost — One of the best bands in the world puts out the best album of their career. Scorching mixture of aggressive metal and proggy widdling. The top of a glorious year.
  7. 1.
    Symphony X - Paradise Lost — One of the best bands in the world puts out the best album of their career. Scorching mixture of aggressive metal and proggy widdling. The top of a glorious year.
  8. 1.
    Symphony X - Paradise Lost — One of the best bands in the world puts out the best album of their career. Scorching mixture of aggressive metal and proggy widdling. The top of a glorious year.
  9. 1.
    Symphony X - Paradise Lost — One of the best bands in the world puts out the best album of their career. Scorching mixture of aggressive metal and proggy widdling. The top of a glorious year.
  10. 1.
    Symphony X - Paradise Lost — One of the best bands in the world puts out the best album of their career. Scorching mixture of aggressive metal and proggy widdling. The top of a glorious year.
  11. 1.
    Symphony X - Paradise Lost — One of the best bands in the world puts out the best album of their career. Scorching mixture of aggressive metal and proggy widdling. The top of a glorious year.
  12. 2.
  13. 2.
  14. 2.
    Machine Head - The Blackening — Yes, they dwarfed Burn My Eyes. Epic metal mayhem on a completely unexpected scale.
  15. 2.
    Machine Head - The Blackening — Yes, they dwarfed Burn My Eyes. Epic metal mayhem on a completely unexpected scale.
  16. 2.
    Machine Head - The Blackening — Yes, they dwarfed Burn My Eyes. Epic metal mayhem on a completely unexpected scale.
  17. 2.
    Machine Head - The Blackening — Yes, they dwarfed Burn My Eyes. Epic metal mayhem on a completely unexpected scale.
  18. 2.
    Machine Head - The Blackening — Yes, they dwarfed Burn My Eyes. Epic metal mayhem on a completely unexpected scale.
  19. 2.
    Machine Head - The Blackening — Yes, they dwarfed Burn My Eyes. Epic metal mayhem on a completely unexpected scale.
  20. 2.
    Machine Head - The Blackening — Yes, they dwarfed Burn My Eyes. Epic metal mayhem on a completely unexpected scale.
  21. 2.
    Machine Head - The Blackening — Yes, they dwarfed Burn My Eyes. Epic metal mayhem on a completely unexpected scale.
  22. 2.
    Machine Head - The Blackening — Yes, they dwarfed Burn My Eyes. Epic metal mayhem on a completely unexpected scale.
  23. 3.
  24. 3.
  25. 3.
  26. 3.
  27. 3.
    Nile - Ithyphallic — Bow down at the feet of the overlords of Pharao Metal and their latest epoch of awesomness!
  28. 3.
    Nile - Ithyphallic — Bow down at the feet of the overlords of Pharao Metal and their latest epoch of awesomness!
  29. 3.
    Nile - Ithyphallic — Bow down at the feet of the overlords of Pharao Metal and their latest epoch of awesomness!
  30. 3.
    Nile - Ithyphallic — Bow down at the feet of the overlords of Pharao Metal and their latest epoch of awesomness!
  31. 3.
    Nile - Ithyphallic — Bow down at the feet of the overlords of Pharao Metal and their latest epoch of awesomness!
  32. 3.
    Nile - Ithyphallic — Bow down at the feet of the overlords of Pharao Metal and their latest epoch of awesomness!
  33. 3.
    Nile - Ithyphallic — Bow down at the feet of the overlords of Pharao Metal and their latest epoch of awesomness!
  34. 4.
  35. 4.
  36. 4.
    Turisas - The Varangian Way — From a good debut album to a massively enjoyable, concept-driven slab of grandiose metal filled ith the will to take up a sword and head for the seas as a ravenous warrior. Brilliant!
  37. 4.
    Turisas - The Varangian Way — From a good debut album to a massively enjoyable, concept-driven slab of grandiose metal filled ith the will to take up a sword and head for the seas as a ravenous warrior. Brilliant!
  38. 4.
    Turisas - The Varangian Way — From a good debut album to a massively enjoyable, concept-driven slab of grandiose metal filled ith the will to take up a sword and head for the seas as a ravenous warrior. Brilliant!
  39. 4.
    Turisas - The Varangian Way — From a good debut album to a massively enjoyable, concept-driven slab of grandiose metal filled ith the will to take up a sword and head for the seas as a ravenous warrior. Brilliant!
  40. 4.
    Turisas - The Varangian Way — From a good debut album to a massively enjoyable, concept-driven slab of grandiose metal filled ith the will to take up a sword and head for the seas as a ravenous warrior. Brilliant!
  41. 4.
    Turisas - The Varangian Way — From a good debut album to a massively enjoyable, concept-driven slab of grandiose metal filled to the brim with the will to take up a sword and head for the seas as a ravenous warrior. Brilliant!
  42. 4.
    Turisas - The Varangian Way — From a good debut album to a massively enjoyable, concept-driven slab of grandiose metal filled to the brim with the will to take up a sword and head for the seas as a ravenous warrior. Brilliant!
  43. 4.
    Turisas - The Varangian Way — From a good debut album to a massively enjoyable, concept-driven slab of grandiose metal filled to the brim with the will to take up a sword and head for the seas as a ravenous warrior. Brilliant!
  44. 4.
    Turisas - The Varangian Way — From a good debut album to a massively enjoyable, concept-driven slab of grandiose metal filled to the brim with the will to take up a sword and head for the seas as a ravenous warrior. Brilliant!
  45. 5.
  46. 5.
  47. 5.
    Porcupine Tree - Fear Of A Blank Planet — A band whose name often popped up from the background in prog circles metals up their sound considerably and pulverizes both my hair and thought patterns. Dazzling!
  48. 5.
    Porcupine Tree - Fear Of A Blank Planet — A band whose name often popped up from the background in prog circles metals up their sound considerably and pulverizes both my hair and thought patterns. Dazzling!
  49. 5.
    Porcupine Tree - Fear Of A Blank Planet — A band whose name often popped up from the background in prog circles metals up their sound considerably and pulverizes both my hair and thought patterns. Dazzling!
  50. 5.
    Porcupine Tree - Fear Of A Blank Planet — A band whose name often popped up from the background in prog circles metals up their sound considerably and pulverizes both my hair and thought patterns. Dazzling!
  51. 5.
    Porcupine Tree - Fear Of A Blank Planet — A band whose name often popped up from the background in prog circles metals up their sound considerably and pulverizes both my hair and thought patterns. Dazzling!
  52. 5.
    Porcupine Tree - Fear Of A Blank Planet — A band whose name often popped up from the background in prog circles metals up their sound considerably and pulverizes both my hair and thought patterns. Dazzling!
  53. 5.
    Porcupine Tree - Fear Of A Blank Planet — A band whose name often popped up from the background in prog circles metals up their sound considerably and pulverizes both my hair and thought patterns. Dazzling!
  54. 5.
    Porcupine Tree - Fear Of A Blank Planet — A band whose name often popped up from the background in prog circles metals up their sound considerably and pulverizes both my hair and thought patterns. Dazzling!
  55. 5.
    Porcupine Tree - Fear Of A Blank Planet — A band whose name often popped up from the background in prog circles metals up their sound considerably and pulverizes both my hair and thought patterns. Dazzling!
  56. 6.
  57. 6.
  58. 6.
    Iced Earth - Framing Armageddon - Something Wicked Part 1 — Schaffer keeps it up and Ripper shines. The expansion of sound is suiting Iced Earth very well, can't wait for the drool-inducing Pt. 2 with Matt Barlow.
  59. 6.
    Iced Earth - Framing Armageddon - Something Wicked Part 1 — Schaffer keeps it up and Ripper shines. The expansion of sound is suiting Iced Earth very well, can't wait for the drool-inducing Pt. 2 with Matt Barlow.
  60. 6.
    Iced Earth - Framing Armageddon - Something Wicked Part 1 — Schaffer keeps it up and Ripper shines. The expansion of sound is suiting Iced Earth very well, can't wait for the drool-inducing Pt. 2 with Matt Barlow.
  61. 6.
    Iced Earth - Framing Armageddon - Something Wicked Part 1 — Schaffer keeps it up and Ripper shines. The expansion of sound is suiting Iced Earth very well, can't wait for the drool-inducing Pt. 2 with Matt Barlow.
  62. 6.
    Iced Earth - Framing Armageddon - Something Wicked Part 1 — Schaffer keeps it up and Ripper shines. The expansion of sound is suiting Iced Earth very well, can't wait for the drool-inducing Pt. 2 with Matt Barlow.
  63. 6.
    Iced Earth - Framing Armageddon - Something Wicked Part 1 — Schaffer keeps it up and Ripper shines. The expansion of sound is suiting Iced Earth very well, can't wait for the drool-inducing Pt. 2 with Matt Barlow.
  64. 6.
    Iced Earth - Framing Armageddon - Something Wicked Part 1 — Schaffer keeps it up and Ripper shines. The expansion of sound is suiting Iced Earth very well, can't wait for the drool-inducing Pt. 2 with Matt Barlow.
  65. 6.
    Iced Earth - Framing Armageddon - Something Wicked Part 1 — Schaffer keeps it up and Ripper shines. The expansion of sound is suiting Iced Earth very well, can't wait for the drool-inducing Pt. 2 with Matt Barlow.
  66. 6.
    Iced Earth - Framing Armageddon - Something Wicked Part 1 — Schaffer keeps it up and Ripper shines. The expansion of sound is suiting Iced Earth very well, can't wait for the drool-inducing Pt. 2 with Matt Barlow.
  67. 7.
  68. 7.
    CMX - Talvikuningas
  69. 7.
    CMX - Talvikuningas — One of the most successful Finnish rock bands with a cult-like following, CMX have gone from hardcore punk to proggy hardcore, to hard radio rock, to industrial rock, to full-tilt progressive rock-dabbling, to a mixture of all of the mentioned styles, to end up here with their latest: A 62-minute epic space rock concept record - consisting of one song, which is divided into 12 sub-sections - that tells us the saga of the Winterking - a story full of confusing technical terminology, time-travel, intergalactic battles in space and the lamentations of the soldiers caught in the middle of all of it. Mindblowingly awesome from a band who we Finnish rock fans have grown to expect a lot from no matter what styles they've done.
  70. 7.
    CMX - Talvikuningas — One of the most successful Finnish rock bands with a cult-like following, CMX have gone from hardcore punk to proggy hardcore, to hard radio rock, to industrial rock, to full-tilt progressive rock-dabbling, to a mixture of all of the mentioned styles, to end up here with their latest: A 62-minute epic space rock concept record - consisting of one song, which is divided into 12 sub-sections - that tells us the saga of the Winterking - a story full of confusing technical terminology, time-travel, intergalactic battles in space and the lamentations of the soldiers caught in the middle of all of it. Mindblowingly awesome from a band who we Finnish rock fans have grown to expect a lot from no matter what styles they've done.
  71. 7.
    CMX - Talvikuningas — One of the most successful Finnish rock bands with a cult-like following, CMX have gone from hardcore punk to proggy hardcore, to hard radio rock, to industrial rock, to full-tilt progressive rock-dabbling, to a mixture of all of the mentioned styles, to end up here with their latest: A 62-minute epic space rock concept record - consisting of one song, which is divided into 12 sub-sections - that tells us the saga of the Winterking - a story full of confusing technical terminology, time-travel, intergalactic battles in space and the lamentations of the soldiers caught in the middle of all of it. Mindblowingly awesome from a band who we Finnish rock fans have grown to expect a lot from no matter what styles they've done.
  72. 7.
    CMX - Talvikuningas — One of the most successful Finnish rock bands with a cult-like following, CMX have gone from hardcore punk to proggy hardcore, to hard radio rock, to industrial rock, to full-tilt progressive rock-dabbling, to a mixture of all of the mentioned styles, to end up here with their latest: A 62-minute epic space rock concept record - consisting of one song, which is divided into 12 sub-sections - that tells us the saga of the Winterking - a story full of confusing technical terminology, time-travel, intergalactic battles in space and the lamentations of the soldiers caught in the middle of all of it. Mindblowingly awesome from a band who we Finnish rock fans have grown to expect a lot from no matter what styles they've done.
  73. 7.
    CMX - Talvikuningas — One of the most successful Finnish rock bands with a cult-like following, CMX have gone from hardcore punk to proggy hardcore, to hard radio rock, to industrial rock, to full-tilt progressive rock-dabbling, to a mixture of all of the mentioned styles, to end up here with their latest: A 62-minute epic space rock concept record - consisting of one song, which is divided into 12 sub-sections - that tells us the saga of the Winterking - a story full of confusing technical terminology, time-travel, intergalactic battles in space and the lamentations of the soldiers caught in the middle of all of it. Mindblowingly awesome from a band who we Finnish rock fans have grown to expect a lot from no matter what styles they've done.
  74. 7.
    CMX - Talvikuningas — One of the most successful Finnish rock bands with a cult-like following, CMX have gone from hardcore punk to proggy hardcore, to hard radio rock, to industrial rock, to full-tilt progressive rock-dabbling, to a mixture of all of the mentioned styles, to end up here with their latest: A 62-minute epic space rock concept record - consisting of one song, which is divided into 12 sub-sections - that tells us the saga of the Winterking - a story full of confusing technical terminology, time-travel, intergalactic battles in space and the lamentations of the soldiers caught in the middle of all of it. Mindblowingly awesome from a band who we Finnish rock fans have grown to expect a lot from no matter what styles they've done.
  75. 7.
    CMX - Talvikuningas — One of the most successful Finnish rock bands with a cult-like following, CMX have gone from hardcore punk to proggy hardcore, to hard radio rock, to industrial rock, to full-tilt progressive rock-dabbling, to a mixture of all of the mentioned styles, to end up here with their latest: A 62-minute epic space rock concept record - consisting of one song, which is divided into 12 sub-sections - that tells us the saga of the Winterking - a story full of confusing technical terminology, time-travel, intergalactic battles in space and the lamentations of the soldiers caught in the middle of all of it. Mindblowingly awesome from a band who we Finnish rock fans have grown to expect a lot from no matter what styles they've done.
  76. 7.
    CMX - Talvikuningas — One of the most successful Finnish rock bands with a cult-like following, CMX have gone from hardcore punk to proggy hardcore, to hard radio rock, to industrial rock, to full-tilt progressive rock-dabbling, to a mixture of all of the mentioned styles, to end up here with their latest: A 62-minute epic space rock concept record - consisting of one song, which is divided into 12 sub-sections - that tells us the saga of the Winterking - a story full of confusing technical terminology, time-travel, intergalactic battles in space and the lamentations of the soldiers caught in the middle of all of it. Mindblowingly awesome from a band who we Finnish rock fans have grown to expect a lot from no matter what styles they've done.
  77. 7.
    CMX - Talvikuningas — One of the most successful Finnish rock bands with a cult-like following, CMX have gone from hardcore punk to proggy hardcore, to hard radio rock, to industrial rock, to full-tilt progressive rock-dabbling, to a mixture of all of the mentioned styles, to end up here with their latest: A 62-minute epic space rock concept record - consisting of one song, which is divided into 12 sub-sections - that tells us the saga of the Winterking - a story full of confusing technical terminology, time-travel, intergalactic battles in space and the lamentations of the soldiers caught in the middle of all of it. Mindblowingly awesome from a band who we Finnish rock fans have grown to expect a lot from no matter what styles they've done.
  78. 8.
  79. 8.
  80. 8.
    Waltari - Release Date — Psychedelic, progressive speed metaling madness from Finland's finest "freak out-ers".
  81. 8.
    Waltari - Release Date — Psychedelic, progressive speed metaling madness from Finland's finest "freak out-ers".
  82. 8.
    Waltari - Release Date — Psychedelic, progressive speed metaling madness from Finland's finest "freak out-ers".
  83. 8.
    Waltari - Release Date — Psychedelic, progressive speed metaling madness from Finland's finest "freak out-ers".
  84. 8.
    Waltari - Release Date — Psychedelic, progressive speed metaling madness from Finland's finest "freak out-ers".
  85. 8.
    Waltari - Release Date — Psychedelic, progressive speed metaling madness from Finland's finest "freak out-ers".
  86. 8.
    Waltari - Release Date — Psychedelic, progressive speed metaling madness from Finland's finest "freak out-ers".
  87. 8.
    Waltari - Release Date — Psychedelic, progressive speed metaling madness from Finland's finest "freak out-ers".
  88. 8.
    Waltari - Release Date — Psychedelic, progressive speed metaling madness from Finland's finest "freak out-ers".
  89. 9.
  90. 9.
  91. 9.
    Amorphis - Silent Waters — Proving that Eclipse was no fluke, Amorphis continues their rise to folky, dark, death dominance.
  92. 9.
    Amorphis - Silent Waters — Proving that Eclipse was no fluke, Amorphis continues their rise to folky, dark, death dominance.
  93. 9.
    Amorphis - Silent Waters — Proving that Eclipse was no fluke, Amorphis continues their rise to folky, dark, death dominance.
  94. 9.
    Amorphis - Silent Waters — Proving that Eclipse was no fluke, Amorphis continues their rise to folky, dark, death dominance.
  95. 9.
    Amorphis - Silent Waters — Proving that Eclipse was no fluke, Amorphis continues their rise to folky, dark, death dominance.
  96. 9.
    Amorphis - Silent Waters — Proving that Eclipse was no fluke, Amorphis continues their rise to folky, dark, death dominance.
  97. 9.
    Amorphis - Silent Waters — Proving that Eclipse was no fluke, Amorphis continues their rise to folky, dark, death dominance.
  98. 9.
    Amorphis - Silent Waters — Proving that Eclipse was no fluke, Amorphis continues their rise to folky, dark, death dominance.
  99. 9.
    Amorphis - Silent Waters — Proving that Eclipse was no fluke, Amorphis continues their rise to folky, dark, death dominance.
  100. 10.
  101. 10.
    The Flower Kings - The Sum Of No Evil
  102. 10.
    The Flower Kings - The Sum Of No Evil — The Swedish prog veterans come out with a wonderfully pop-drenched yet intricately progressive batch of rock that can reach almost half an hour on one song, a little under five on the next, making both types equally catchy and enjoyable.
  103. 10.
    The Flower Kings - The Sum Of No Evil — The Swedish prog veterans come out with a wonderfully pop-drenched yet intricately progressive batch of rock that can reach almost half an hour on one song, a little under five on the next, making both types equally catchy and enjoyable.
  104. 10.
    The Flower Kings - The Sum Of No Evil — The Swedish prog veterans come out with a wonderfully pop-drenched yet intricately progressive batch of rock that can reach almost half an hour on one song, a little under five on the next, making both types equally catchy and enjoyable.
  105. 10.
    The Flower Kings - The Sum Of No Evil — The Swedish prog veterans come out with a wonderfully pop-drenched yet intricately progressive batch of rock that can reach almost half an hour on one song, a little under five on the next, making both types equally catchy and enjoyable.
  106. 10.
    The Flower Kings - The Sum Of No Evil — The Swedish prog veterans come out with a wonderfully pop-drenched yet intricately progressive batch of rock that can reach almost half an hour on one song, a little under five on the next, making both types equally catchy and enjoyable.
  107. 10.
    The Flower Kings - The Sum Of No Evil — The Swedish prog veterans come out with a wonderfully pop-drenched yet intricately progressive batch of rock that can reach almost half an hour on one song, a little under five on the next, making both types equally catchy and enjoyable.
  108. 10.
    The Flower Kings - The Sum Of No Evil — The Swedish prog veterans come out with a wonderfully pop-drenched yet intricately progressive batch of rock that can reach almost half an hour on one song, a little under five on the next, making both types equally catchy and enjoyable.
  109. 10.
    The Flower Kings - The Sum Of No Evil — The Swedish prog veterans come out with a wonderfully pop-drenched yet intricately progressive batch of rock that can reach almost half an hour on one song, a little under five on the next, making both types equally catchy and enjoyable.
  110. 10.
    The Flower Kings - The Sum Of No Evil — The Swedish prog veterans come out with a wonderfully pop-drenched yet intricately progressive batch of rock that can reach almost half an hour on one song, a little under five on the next, making both types equally catchy and enjoyable.
  111. 11.
  112. 11.
  113. 11.
  114. 11.
  115. 11.
    Moonsorrow - V: Havitetty — Unparalelled in atmosphere by anything released this year, Moonsorrow just keeps getting better and better.
  116. 11.
    Moonsorrow - V: Havitetty — Unparalelled in atmosphere by anything released this year, Moonsorrow just keeps getting better and better.
  117. 11.
    Moonsorrow - V: Havitetty — Unparalelled in atmosphere by anything released this year, Moonsorrow just keeps getting better and better.
  118. 11.
    Moonsorrow - V: Havitetty — Unparalelled in atmosphere by anything released this year, Moonsorrow just keeps getting better and better.
  119. 11.
    Moonsorrow - V: Havitetty — Unparalelled in atmosphere by anything released this year, Moonsorrow just keeps getting better and better.
  120. 11.
    Moonsorrow - V: Havitetty — Unparalelled in atmosphere by anything released this year, Moonsorrow just keeps getting better and better.
  121. 11.
    Moonsorrow - V: Havitetty — Unparalelled in atmosphere by anything released this year, Moonsorrow just keeps getting better and better.
  122. 12.
  123. 12.
  124. 12.
  125. 12.
  126. 12.
    Arch Enemy - Rise Of The Tyrant — Blistering riffage galore with the finest air guitar album of the year - it ain't reinventing anything but it is just so good - the best Arch Enemy have put out yet.
  127. 12.
    Arch Enemy - Rise Of The Tyrant — Blistering riffage galore with the finest air guitar album of the year - it ain't reinventing anything but it is just so good - the best Arch Enemy have put out yet.
  128. 12.
    Arch Enemy - Rise Of The Tyrant — Blistering riffage galore with the finest air guitar album of the year - it ain't reinventing anything but it is just so good - the best Arch Enemy have put out yet.
  129. 12.
    Arch Enemy - Rise Of The Tyrant — Blistering riffage galore with the finest air guitar album of the year - it ain't reinventing anything but it is just so good - the best Arch Enemy have put out yet.
  130. 12.
    Arch Enemy - Rise Of The Tyrant — Blistering riffage galore with the finest air guitar album of the year - it ain't reinventing anything but it is just so good - the best Arch Enemy have put out yet.
  131. 12.
    Arch Enemy - Rise Of The Tyrant — Blistering riffage galore with the finest air guitar album of the year - it ain't reinventing anything but it is just so good - the best Arch Enemy have put out yet.
  132. 12.
    Arch Enemy - Rise Of The Tyrant — Blistering riffage galore with the finest air guitar album of the year - it ain't reinventing anything but it is just so good - the best Arch Enemy have put out yet.
  133. 13.
  134. 13.
  135. 13.
    Dream Theater - Systematic Chaos — Gimme that noodling, boys! Just keep it as catchy and/or heavy as this and I'm lapping it up!
  136. 13.
    Dream Theater - Systematic Chaos — Gimme that noodling, boys! Just keep it as catchy and/or heavy as this and I'm lapping it up!
  137. 13.
    Dream Theater - Systematic Chaos — Gimme that noodling, boys! Just keep it as catchy and/or heavy as this and I'm lapping it up!
  138. 13.
    Dream Theater - Systematic Chaos — Gimme that noodling, boys! Just keep it as catchy and/or heavy as this and I'm lapping it up!
  139. 13.
    Dream Theater - Systematic Chaos — Gimme that noodling, boys! Just keep it as catchy and/or heavy as this and I'm lapping it up!
  140. 13.
    Dream Theater - Systematic Chaos — Gimme that noodling, boys! Just keep it as catchy and/or heavy as this and I'm lapping it up!
  141. 13.
    Dream Theater - Systematic Chaos — Gimme that noodling, boys! Just keep it as catchy and/or heavy as this and I'm lapping it up!
  142. 13.
    Dream Theater - Systematic Chaos — Gimme that noodling, boys! Just keep it as catchy and/or heavy as this and I'm lapping it up!
  143. 13.
    Dream Theater - Systematic Chaos — Gimme that noodling, boys! Just keep it as catchy and/or heavy as this and I'm lapping it up!
  144. 14.
  145. 14.
  146. 14.
  147. 14.
  148. 14.
    Helloween - Gambling With The Devil — Moshtastic Pumpkin-actio FTW!
  149. 14.
    Helloween - Gambling With The Devil — Moshtastic Pumpkin-actio FTW!
  150. 14.
    Helloween - Gambling With The Devil — Moshtastic Pumpkin-action FTW!
  151. 14.
    Helloween - Gambling With The Devil — Moshtastic Pumpkin-action FTW!
  152. 14.
    Helloween - Gambling With The Devil — Moshtastic Pumpkin-action FTW!
  153. 14.
    Helloween - Gambling With The Devil — Moshtastic Pumpkin-action FTW!
  154. 15.
  155. 15.
    Nightwish - Dark Passion Play — A brilliant album full of epic movie-score induced metal after a very harsh period. The band survived without a scratch, and on stage, they have never been as good as now. When cosidering the total package, the singer change-up was the best thing that could have happened to Nightwish.
  156. 15.
    Nightwish - Dark Passion Play — A brilliant album full of epic movie-score induced metal after a very harsh period. The band survived without a scratch, and on stage, they have never been better. When cosidering the total package, the singer change was the best thing that could have happened to Nightwish.
  157. 15.
    Nightwish - Dark Passion Play — A brilliant album full of epic movie-score induced metal after a very harsh period. The band survived without a scratch, and on stage, they have never been better. When cosidering the total package, the singer change was the best thing that could have happened to Nightwish.
  158. 15.
    Nightwish - Dark Passion Play — A brilliant album full of epic movie-score induced metal after a very harsh period. The band survived without a scratch, and on stage, they have never been better. When cosidering the total package, the singer change was the best thing that could have happened to Nightwish.
  159. 15.
    Nightwish - Dark Passion Play — A brilliant album full of epic movie-score induced metal after a very harsh period. The band survived without a scratch, and on stage, they have never been better. When cosidering the total package, the singer change was the best thing that could have happened to Nightwish.
  160. 15.
    Nightwish - Dark Passion Play — A brilliant album full of epic movie-score induced metal after a very harsh period. The band survived without a scratch, and on stage, they have never been better. When cosidering the total package, the singer change was the best thing that could have happened to Nightwish.
  161. 15.
    Nightwish - Dark Passion Play — A brilliant album full of epic movie-score induced metal after a very harsh period. The band survived without a scratch, and on stage, they have never been better. When cosidering the total package, the singer change was the best thing that could have happened to Nightwish.
  162. 15.
    Nightwish - Dark Passion Play — A brilliant album full of epic movie-score induced metal after a very harsh period. The band survived without a scratch, and on stage, they have never been better. When cosidering the total package, the singer change was the best thing that could have happened to Nightwish.
  163. 15.
    Nightwish - Dark Passion Play — A brilliant album full of epic movie-score induced metal after a very harsh period. The band survived without a scratch, and on stage, they have never been better. When cosidering the total package, the singer change was the best thing that could have happened to Nightwish.

Surprises of the Year

  1. 1.
  2. 1.
    De Lirium's Order - Diagnosis — Magnificent technical death metal from a band I'd never heard of before this monster.
  3. 1.
    De Lirium's Order - Diagnosis — Magnificent technical death metal from a band I'd never heard of before this monster.
  4. 1.
    De Lirium's Order - Diagnosis — Magnificent technical death metal from a band I'd never heard of before this monster.
  5. 1.
    De Lirium's Order - Diagnosis — Magnificent technical death metal from a band I'd never heard of before this monster.
  6. 1.
    De Lirium's Order - Diagnosis — Magnificent technical death metal from a band I'd never heard of before this monster.
  7. 1.
    De Lirium's Order - Diagnosis — Magnificent technical death metal from a band I'd never heard of before this monster.
  8. 1.
    De Lirium's Order - Diagnosis — Magnificent technical death metal from a band I'd never heard of before this monster.
  9. 1.
    De Lirium's Order - Diagnosis — Magnificent technical death metal from a band I'd never heard of before this monster.
  10. 1.
    De Lirium's Order - Diagnosis — Magnificent technical death metal from a band I'd never heard of before this monster.
  11. 2.
  12. 2.
    Megadeth - United Abominations — Mustaine & crew still have it - I wonder how it is that the presidential terms of war-mongering republican leaders in America have always brought out the best in Dave's pencil and guitar - especially the second terms, think Reagan '84-'88=Peace Sells and Bush jr. '04-'08=United Abominations. Excellent thrasy yumness.
  13. 2.
    Megadeth - United Abominations — Mustaine & crew still have it - I wonder how it is that the presidential terms of war-mongering republican leaders in America have always brought out the best in Dave's pencil and guitar - especially the second terms, think Reagan '84-'88=Peace Sells and Bush jr. '04-'08=United Abominations. Excellent thrasy yumness.
  14. 2.
    Megadeth - United Abominations — Mustaine & crew still have it - I wonder how it is that the presidential terms of war-mongering republican leaders in America have always brought out the best in Dave's pencil and guitar - especially the second terms, think Reagan '84-'88=Peace Sells and Bush jr. '04-'08=United Abominations. Excellent thrasy yumness.
  15. 2.
    Megadeth - United Abominations — Mustaine & crew still have it - I wonder how it is that the presidential terms of war-mongering republican leaders in America have always brought out the best in Dave's pencil and guitar - especially the second terms, think Reagan '84-'88=Peace Sells and Bush jr. '04-'08=United Abominations. Excellent thrasy yumness.
  16. 2.
    Megadeth - United Abominations — Mustaine still has it - I wonder how it is that the presidential terms of war-mongering republican leaders in America have always brought out the best in Dave's pencil and guitar - especially the second terms, think Reagan '84-'88=Peace Sells and Bush jr. '04-'08=United Abominations. Excellent thrashy yumness.
  17. 2.
    Megadeth - United Abominations — Mustaine still has it - I wonder how it is that the presidential terms of war-mongering republican leaders in America have always brought out the best in Dave's pencil and guitar - especially the second terms, think Reagan '84-'88=Peace Sells and Bush jr. '04-'08=United Abominations. Excellent thrashy yumness.
  18. 2.
    Megadeth - United Abominations — Mustaine still has it - I wonder how it is that the presidential terms of war-mongering republican leaders in America have always brought out the best in Dave's pencil and guitar - especially the second terms, think Reagan '84-'88=Peace Sells and Bush jr. '04-'08=United Abominations. Excellent thrashy yumness.
  19. 2.
    Megadeth - United Abominations — Mustaine still has it - I wonder how it is that the presidential terms of war-mongering republican leaders in America have always brought out the best in Dave's pencil and guitar - especially the second terms, think Reagan '84-'88=Peace Sells and Bush jr. '04-'08=United Abominations. Excellent thrashy yumness.
  20. 2.
    Megadeth - United Abominations — Mustaine still has it - I wonder how it is that the presidential terms of war-mongering republican leaders in America have always brought out the best in Dave's pencil and guitar - especially the second terms, think Reagan '84-'88=Peace Sells and Bush jr. '04-'08=United Abominations. Excellent thrashy yumness.
  21. 3.
  22. 3.
    Discard - Carrion — Another Finnish band catching me completely off guard with molten, aggressive metal.
  23. 3.
    Discard - Carrion — Another Finnish band catching me completely off guard with molten, aggressive metal.
  24. 3.
    Discard - Carrion — Another Finnish band catching me completely off guard with molten, aggressive metal.
  25. 3.
    Discard - Carrion — Another Finnish band catching me completely off guard with molten, aggressive metal.
  26. 3.
    Discard - Carrion — Another Finnish band catching me completely off guard with molten, aggressive metal.
  27. 3.
    Discard - Carrion — Another Finnish band catching me completely off guard with molten, aggressive metal.
  28. 3.
    Discard - Carrion — Another Finnish band catching me completely off guard with molten, aggressive metal.
  29. 3.
    Discard - Carrion — Another Finnish band catching me completely off guard with molten, aggressive metal.
  30. 3.
    Discard - Carrion — Another Finnish band catching me completely off guard with molten, aggressive metal.
  31. 4.
  32. 4.
    Dimmu Borgir - In Sorte Diaboli — Holy mother, a Demon Burger-album I'm actually enjoying. Can it be the catchy melodies, the perversly appealing operetta vocals, or the fact that I'm a concept-album -addict? Naaah, I'll blame it all on the fact that Blomberg is on drums. The man can do no wrong and makes every album he's on more enjoyable for me.
  33. 4.
    Dimmu Borgir - In Sorte Diaboli — Holy mother, a Demon Burger-album I'm actually enjoying. Can it be the catchy melodies, the perversly appealing operetta vocals, or the fact that I'm a concept-album -addict? Naaah, I'll blame it all on the fact that Blomberg is on drums. The man can do no wrong and makes every album he's on more enjoyable for me.
  34. 4.
    Dimmu Borgir - In Sorte Diaboli — Holy mother, a Demon Burger-album I'm actually enjoying. Can it be the catchy melodies, the perversly appealing operetta vocals, or the fact that I'm a concept-album -addict? Naaah, I'll blame it all on the fact that Blomberg is on drums. The man can do no wrong and makes every album he's on more enjoyable for me.
  35. 4.
    Dimmu Borgir - In Sorte Diaboli — Holy mother, a Demon Burger-album I'm actually enjoying. Can it be the catchy melodies, the perversly appealing operetta vocals, or the fact that I'm a concept-album -addict? Naaah, I'll blame it all on the fact that Blomberg is on drums. The man can do no wrong and makes every album he's on more enjoyable for me.
  36. 4.
    Dimmu Borgir - In Sorte Diaboli — Holy mother, a Demon Burger-album I'm actually enjoying. Can it be the catchy melodies, the perversly appealing operetta vocals, or the fact that I'm a concept-album -addict? Naaah, I'll blame it all on the fact that Blomberg is on drums. The man can do no wrong and makes every album he's on more enjoyable for me.
  37. 4.
    Dimmu Borgir - In Sorte Diaboli — Holy mother, a Demon Burger-album I'm actually enjoying. Can it be the catchy melodies, the perversly appealing operetta vocals, or the fact that I'm a concept-album -addict? Naaah, I'll blame it all on the fact that Blomberg is on drums. The man can do no wrong and makes every album he's on more enjoyable for me.
  38. 4.
    Dimmu Borgir - In Sorte Diaboli — Holy mother, a Demon Burger-album I'm actually enjoying. Can it be the catchy melodies, the perversly appealing operetta vocals, or the fact that I'm a concept-album -addict? Naaah, I'll blame it all on the fact that Blomberg is on drums. The man can do no wrong and makes every album he's on more enjoyable for me.
  39. 4.
    Dimmu Borgir - In Sorte Diaboli — Holy mother, a Demon Burger-album I'm actually enjoying. Can it be the catchy melodies, the perversly appealing operetta vocals, or the fact that I'm a concept-album -addict? Naaah, I'll blame it all on the fact that Blomberg is on drums. The man can do no wrong and makes every album he's on more enjoyable for me.
  40. 4.
    Dimmu Borgir - In Sorte Diaboli — Holy mother, a Demon Burger-album I'm actually enjoying. Can it be the catchy melodies, the perversely appealing operetta vocals, or the fact that I'm a concept-album -addict? Naaah, I'll blame it all on the fact that Blomberg is on drums. The man can do no wrong and makes every album he's on more enjoyable for me.
  41. 5.
  42. 5.
    Machine Men - Circus Of Fools — The Finnish melodic metal guard finally lives up to its potential with great blasts of action.
  43. 5.
    Machine Men - Circus Of Fools — The Finnish melodic metal guard finally lives up to its potential with great blasts of action.
  44. 5.
    Machine Men - Circus Of Fools — The Finnish melodic metal guard finally lives up to its potential with great blasts of action.
  45. 5.
    Machine Men - Circus Of Fools — The Finnish melodic metal guard finally lives up to its potential with great blasts of action.
  46. 5.
    Machine Men - Circus Of Fools — The Finnish melodic metal guard finally lives up to its potential with great blasts of action.
  47. 5.
    Machine Men - Circus Of Fools — The Finnish melodic metal guard finally lives up to its potential with great blasts of fury.
  48. 5.
    Machine Men - Circus Of Fools — The Finnish melodic metal guard finally lives up to its potential with great blasts of fury.
  49. 5.
    Machine Men - Circus Of Fools — The Finnish melodic metal guard finally lives up to its potential with great blasts of fury.
  50. 5.
    Machine Men - Circus Of Fools — The Finnish melodic metal guard finally lives up to its potential with great blasts of fury.

Disappointments

  1. 1.
  2. 1.
    Ozzy Osbourne - Black Rain — I was hoping sp hard that Down To Earth was mediocre because of the outside song writers - that just let Ozzy in a room with a pen, paper and Zakk Wylde, and everything will be magic once more. Oh, well, I guess there was still one more extra song writer/producer/whatever...
  3. 1.
    Ozzy Osbourne - Black Rain — I was hoping sp hard that Down To Earth was mediocre because of the outside song writers - that just let Ozzy in a room with a pen, paper and Zakk Wylde, and everything will be magic once more. Oh, well, I guess there was still one more extra song writer/producer/whatever...
  4. 1.
    Ozzy Osbourne - Black Rain — I was hoping sp hard that Down To Earth was mediocre because of the outside song writers - that just let Ozzy in a room with a pen, paper and Zakk Wylde, and everything will be magic once more. Oh, well, I guess there was still one more extra song writer/producer/whatever...
  5. 1.
    Ozzy Osbourne - Black Rain — I was hoping sp hard that Down To Earth was mediocre because of the outside song writers - that just let Ozzy in a room with a pen, paper and Zakk Wylde, and everything will be magic once more. Oh, well, I guess there was still one more extra song writer/producer/whatever...
  6. 1.
    Ozzy Osbourne - Black Rain — I was hoping sp hard that Down To Earth was mediocre because of the outside song writers - that just let Ozzy in a room with a pen, paper and Zakk Wylde, and everything will be magic once more. Oh, well, I guess there was still one more extra song writer/producer/whatever...
  7. 1.
    Ozzy Osbourne - Black Rain — I was hoping so hard that Down To Earth was mediocre because of the outside song writers - that just let Ozzy in a room with a pen, paper and Zakk Wylde, and everything will be magic once more. Oh, well, I guess there was still one more extra song writer/producer/whatever...
  8. 1.
    Ozzy Osbourne - Black Rain — I was hoping so hard that Down To Earth was mediocre because of the outside song writers - that just let Ozzy in a room with a pen, paper and Zakk Wylde, and everything will be magic once more. Oh, well, I guess there was still one more extra song writer/producer/whatever...
  9. 1.
    Ozzy Osbourne - Black Rain — I was hoping so hard that Down To Earth was mediocre because of the outside songwriters - just let Ozzy into a room with a pen, paper and Zakk Wylde, and everything will be magic once more. Oh well, I guess there was still one more extra songwriter/producer/whatever...
  10. 1.
    Ozzy Osbourne - Black Rain — I was hoping so hard that Down To Earth was mediocre because of the outside songwriters - just let Ozzy into a room with a pen, paper and Zakk Wylde, and everything will be magic once more. Oh well, I guess there was still one more extra songwriter/producer/whatever...
  11. 2.
  12. 2.
    Exodus - The Atrocity Exhibition... Exhibit A — Tempo was amazing, Shovel-Headed great with the throat-grabbing groove, but apart from a few songs, Exhibit A just didn't get into my head like Exodus should.
  13. 2.
    Exodus - The Atrocity Exhibition... Exhibit A — Tempo was amazing, Shovel-Headed great with the throat-grabbing groove, but apart from a few songs, Exhibit A just didn't get into my head like Exodus should.
  14. 2.
    Exodus - The Atrocity Exhibition... Exhibit A — Tempo was amazing, Shovel-Headed great with the throat-grabbing groove, but apart from a few songs, Exhibit A just didn't get into my head like Exodus should.
  15. 2.
    Exodus - The Atrocity Exhibition... Exhibit A — Tempo was amazing, Shovel-Headed great with the throat-grabbing groove, but apart from a few songs, Exhibit A just didn't get into my head like Exodus should.
  16. 2.
    Exodus - The Atrocity Exhibition... Exhibit A — Tempo was amazing, Shovel-Headed great with the throat-grabbing groove, but apart from a few songs, Exhibit A just didn't get into my head like Exodus should.
  17. 2.
    Exodus - The Atrocity Exhibition... Exhibit A — Tempo was amazing, Shovel-Headed was great with the throat-grabbing groove, but apart from a few songs, Exhibit A just didn't get into my head like Exodus should.
  18. 2.
    Exodus - The Atrocity Exhibition... Exhibit A — Tempo was amazing, Shovel-Headed was great with the throat-grabbing groove, but apart from a few songs, Exhibit A just didn't get into my head like Exodus should.
  19. 2.
    Exodus - The Atrocity Exhibition... Exhibit A — Tempo was amazing, Shovel-Headed was great with the throat-grabbing groove, but apart from a few songs, Exhibit A just didn't get into my head like Exodus should.
  20. 2.
    Exodus - The Atrocity Exhibition... Exhibit A — Tempo was amazing, Shovel-Headed was great with the throat-grabbing groove, but apart from a few songs, Exhibit A just didn't get into my head like Exodus should.
  21. 3.
  22. 3.
    Primal Fear - New Religion — Ralf basically saves the day from total disaster. Is it too lean overall? Can't say really, because I dig some really soft music given the right time, but this disc just didn't hit it.
  23. 3.
    Primal Fear - New Religion — Ralf basically saves the day from total disaster. Is it too lean overall? Can't say really, because I dig some really soft music given the right time, but this disc just didn't hit it.
  24. 3.
    Primal Fear - New Religion — Ralf basically saves the day from total disaster. Is it too lean overall? Can't say really, because I dig some really soft music given the right time, but this disc just didn't hit it.
  25. 3.
    Primal Fear - New Religion — Ralf basically saves the day from total disaster. Is it too lean overall? Can't say really, because I dig some really soft music given the right time, but this disc just didn't hit it.
  26. 3.
    Primal Fear - New Religion — Ralf basically saves the day from total disaster. Is it too lean overall? Can't say really, because I dig some really soft music given the right time, but this disc just didn't hit it.
  27. 3.
    Primal Fear - New Religion — Ralf basically saves the day from total disaster. Is it too lean overall? Can't say really, because I dig some really soft music given the right time, but this disc just didn't hit it.
  28. 3.
    Primal Fear - New Religion — Ralf basically saves the day from total disaster. Is it too lean overall? Can't say really, because I dig some really soft music given the right time, but this disc just didn't hit it.
  29. 3.
    Primal Fear - New Religion — Ralf basically saves the day from total disaster. Is it too lean overall? Can't say really, because I dig some really soft music given the right time, but this disc just didn't hit it.
  30. 3.
    Primal Fear - New Religion — Ralf basically saves the day from total disaster. Is it too lean overall? Can't say really, because I dig some really soft music given the right time, but this disc just didn't hit it.
  31. 4.
  32. 4.
    Annihilator - Metal — Not a bad album by any means, some killer tunes abound, but Jeff Waters can simply do so much better. I know it, I've heard it and still believe it...
  33. 4.
    Annihilator - Metal — Not a bad album by any means, some killer tunes abound, but Jeff Waters can simply do so much better. I know it, I've heard it and still believe it...
  34. 4.
    Annihilator - Metal — Not a bad album by any means, some killer tunes abound, but Jeff Waters can simply do so much better. I know it, I've heard it and still believe it...
  35. 4.
    Annihilator - Metal — Not a bad album by any means, some killer tunes abound, but Jeff Waters can simply do so much better. I know it, I've heard it and still believe it...
  36. 4.
    Annihilator - Metal — Not a bad album by any means, some killer tunes abound, but Jeff Waters can simply do so much better. I know it, I've heard it and still believe it...
  37. 4.
    Annihilator - Metal — Not a bad album by any means, some killer tunes abound, but Jeff Waters can simply do so much better. I know it, I've heard it and still believe it...
  38. 4.
    Annihilator - Metal — Not a bad album by any means, some killer tunes abound, but Jeff Waters can simply do so much better. I know it, I've heard it and still believe it...
  39. 4.
    Annihilator - Metal — Not a bad album by any means, some killer tunes abound, but Jeff Waters can simply do so much better. I know it, I've heard it and still believe it...
  40. 4.
    Annihilator - Metal — Not a bad album by any means, some killer tunes abound, but Jeff Waters can simply do so much better. I know it, I've heard it and still believe it...

Joke of the Year

  1. 1.
    — As shocking as it is, I encountered nothing that could be classified a joke all year. I guess I really should crawl under my Nordic rock.
  2. 1.
    — As shocking as it is, I encountered nothing that could be classified a joke all year. I guess I really should crawl under my Nordic rock.
  3. 1.
    — As shocking as it is, I encountered nothing that could be classified a joke all year. I guess I really should crawl under my Nordic boulder and take a look around.
  4. 1.
    — As shocking as it is, I encountered nothing that could be classified a joke all year. I guess I really should crawl out from under my Nordic boulder and take a look around.
  5. 1.
    — As shocking as it is, I encountered nothing that could be classified a joke all year. I guess I really should crawl out from under my Nordic boulder and take a look around.
  6. 1.
    — As shocking as it is, I encountered nothing that could be classified a joke all year. I guess I really should crawl out from under my Nordic boulder and take a look around.

Words / Final Thoughts

  1. 0
    — 2007 was a most excellent year for metal. Looking at my best of I can only conclude that my lust for proggy nerdiness only intensified from previous years and the adolescent power-love has given way to harsher classes of metallic expressions. Still, I found very much to enjoy all year from the most melodic epics to the most grinding quickies. 2008 doesn't seem to be letting the pace go with a swarm of new releases headed right at us with full speed - for me, the most lip-smacking anticipation is produced by the new discs from Ayreon, Stam1na and ICED EARTH WITH MATT BARLOW! Now if only Nevermore could get the gears rolling (at least with the ever-so-torturous-to-wait- -DVD) or Warrel Dane finalizes his solo record, my singer orgasms would propel me to the next decade. Metal on, in every way, shape and form possible! -Aleksi-
  2. 0
    — 2007 was a most excellent year for metal. Looking at my best of I can only conclude that my lust for proggy nerdiness only intensified from previous years and the adolescent power-love has given way to harsher classes of metallic expressions. Still, I found very much to enjoy all year from the most melodic epics to the most grinding quickies. 2008 doesn't seem to be letting the pace go with a swarm of new releases headed right at us with full speed - for me, the most lip-smacking anticipation is produced by the new discs from Ayreon, Stam1na and ICED EARTH WITH MATT BARLOW! Now if only Nevermore could get the gears rolling (at least with the ever-so-torturous-to-wait- -DVD) or Warrel Dane finalizes his solo record, my singer orgasms would propel me to the next decade. Metal on, in every way, shape and form possible! -Aleksi-
  3. 0
    — 2007 was a most excellent year for metal. Looking at my best of I can only conclude that my lust for proggy nerdiness only intensified from previous years and the adolescent power-love has given way to harsher classes of metallic expressions. Still, I found very much to enjoy all year from the most melodic epics to the most grinding quickies. 2008 doesn't seem to be letting the pace go with a swarm of new releases headed right at us with full speed - for me, the most lip-smacking anticipation is produced by the new discs from Ayreon, Stam1na and ICED EARTH WITH MATT BARLOW! Now if only Nevermore could get the gears rolling (at least with the ever-so-torturous-to-wait- -DVD) or Warrel Dane finalizes his solo record, my singer orgasms would propel me to the next decade. Metal on, in every way, shape and form possible! -Aleksi-
  4. 0
    — 2007 was a most excellent year for metal. Looking at my "best of" I can only conclude that my lust for proggy nerdiness only intensified from previous years and the adolescent power-love has given some way to much harsher classes of metallic expression. Still, I found very much to enjoy all year from the most melodic epics to the most grinding quickies. 2008 doesn't seem to be letting the pace go with a swarm of new releases headed right at us with full speed - for me, the most lip-smacking anticipation is produced by the new Ayreon, Stam1na and ICED EARTH WITH MATT BARLOW! Now if only Nevermore could get the gears rolling (at least with the ever-so-torturous-to-wait-DVD) or Warrel Dane finalizes his solo record, my singer-lover orgasms would propel me to the next decade. Metal on, comrads - in every way, shape and form possible! -Aleksi-
  5. 0
    — 2007 was a most excellent year for metal. Looking at my "best of" I can only conclude that my lust for proggy nerdiness only intensified from previous years and the adolescent power-love has given some way to much harsher classes of metallic expression. Still, I found very much to enjoy all year from the most melodic epics to the most grinding quickies. 2008 doesn't seem to be letting the pace go with a swarm of new releases headed right at us with full speed - for me, the most lip-smacking anticipation is produced by the new Ayreon, Stam1na and ICED EARTH WITH MATT BARLOW! Now if only Nevermore could get the gears rolling (at least with the ever-so-torturous-to-wait-DVD) or Warrel Dane finalizes his solo record, my singer-lover orgasms would propel me to the next decade. Metal on, comrads - in every way, shape and form possible! -Aleksi-
  6. 0
    — 2007 was a most excellent year for metal. Looking at my "best of" I can only conclude that my lust for proggy nerdiness only intensified from previous years and the adolescent power-love has given some way to much harsher classes of metallic expression. Still, I found very much to enjoy all year from the most melodic epics to the most grinding quickies. 2008 doesn't seem to be letting the pace go with a swarm of new releases headed right at us with full speed - for me, the most lip-smacking anticipation is produced by the new Ayreon, Stam1na and ICED EARTH WITH MATT BARLOW! Now if only Nevermore could get the gears rolling (at least with the ever-so-torturous-to-wait-DVD) or Warrel Dane finalizes his solo record, my singer-lover orgasms would propel me to the next decade. Metal on, comrads - in every way, shape and form possible! -Aleksi-

Adam

Top Albums

  1. 1.
    Reverend Bizarre - III: So Long Suckers — In time, this will be seen as one of the best doom albums ever recorded. A fantastic end to an amazing band.
  2. 1.
    Reverend Bizarre - III: So Long Suckers — In time, this will be seen as one of the best doom albums ever recorded. A fantastic end to an amazing band.
  3. 1.
    Reverend Bizarre - III: So Long Suckers — In time, this will be seen as one of the best doom albums ever recorded. A fantastic end to an amazing band.
  4. 1.
    Reverend Bizarre - III: So Long Suckers — In time, this will be seen as one of the best doom albums ever recorded. A fantastic end to an amazing band.
  5. 1.
    Reverend Bizarre - III: So Long Suckers — In time, this will be seen as one of the best doom albums ever recorded. A fantastic end to an amazing band.
  6. 1.
    Reverend Bizarre - III: So Long Suckers — In time, this will be seen as one of the best doom albums ever recorded. A fantastic end to an amazing band.
  7. 2.
    Deathspell Omega - Fas - Ite, Maledicti, in Ignem Aeternum — A beautifully chaotic black metal album, with a little death metal thrown in. This is as good as Kenose, and that's saying something in my book.
  8. 2.
    Deathspell Omega - Fas - Ite, Maledicti, in Ignem Aeternum — A beautifully chaotic black metal album, with a little death metal thrown in. This is as good as Kenose, and that's saying something in my book.
  9. 2.
    Deathspell Omega - Fas - Ite, Maledicti, in Ignem Aeternum — A beautifully chaotic black metal album, with a little death metal thrown in. This is as good as Kenose, and that's saying something in my book.
  10. 2.
    Deathspell Omega - Fas - Ite, Maledicti, in Ignem Aeternum — A beautifully chaotic black metal album, with a little death metal thrown in. This is as good as Kenose, and that's saying something in my book.
  11. 2.
    Deathspell Omega - Fas - Ite, Maledicti, in Ignem Aeternum — A beautifully chaotic black metal album, with a little death metal thrown in. This is as good as Kenose, and that's saying something in my book.
  12. 2.
    Deathspell Omega - Fas - Ite, Maledicti, in Ignem Aeternum — A beautifully chaotic black metal album, with a little death metal thrown in. This is as good as Kenose, and that's saying something in my book.
  13. 3.
    Neurosis - Given to the Rising — Their best album since Times of Grace, and a return to the top of the Sludge scene.
  14. 3.
    Neurosis - Given to the Rising — Their best album since Times of Grace, and a return to the top of the Sludge scene.
  15. 3.
    Neurosis - Given to the Rising — Their best album since Times of Grace, and a return to the top of the Sludge scene.
  16. 3.
    Neurosis - Given to the Rising — Their best album since Times of Grace, and a return to the top of the Sludge scene.
  17. 3.
    Neurosis - Given to the Rising — Their best album since Times of Grace, and a return to the top of the Sludge scene.
  18. 3.
    Neurosis - Given to the Rising — Their best album since Times of Grace, and a return to the top of the Sludge scene.
  19. 4.
    Evoken - Caress of the Void — A late entry that hasn't had time to fully sink in yet. This has the potential to be their best album yet.
  20. 4.
    Evoken - Caress of the Void — A late entry that hasn't had time to fully sink in yet. This has the potential to be their best album yet.
  21. 4.
    Evoken - Caress of the Void — A late entry that hasn't had time to fully sink in yet. This has the potential to be their best album yet.
  22. 4.
    Evoken - Caress of the Void — A late entry that hasn't had time to fully sink in yet. This has the potential to be their best album yet.
  23. 4.
    Evoken - Caress of the Void — A late entry that hasn't had time to fully sink in yet. This has the potential to be their best album yet.
  24. 4.
    Evoken - A Caress of the Void — A late entry that hasn't had time to fully sink in yet. This has the potential to be their best album yet.
  25. 5.
    Therion - Gothic Kabbalah — A bit of a stylistic change that was pulled off nearly flawlessly, and a second straight strong 2-disc release.
  26. 5.
    Therion - Gothic Kabbalah — A bit of a stylistic change that was pulled off nearly flawlessly, and a second straight strong 2-disc release.
  27. 5.
    Therion - Gothic Kabbalah — A bit of a stylistic change that was pulled off nearly flawlessly, and a second straight strong 2-disc release.
  28. 5.
    Therion - Gothic Kabbalah — A bit of a stylistic change that was pulled off nearly flawlessly, and a second straight strong 2-disc release.
  29. 5.
    Therion - Gothic Kabbalah — A bit of a stylistic change that was pulled off nearly flawlessly, and a second straight strong 2-disc release.
  30. 5.
    Therion - Gothic Kabbalah — A bit of a stylistic change that was pulled off nearly flawlessly, and a second straight strong 2-disc release.
  31. 6.
    Immolation - Shadows in the Light — This release catapults them to the forefront of death metal for me. It is just as interesting as it is brutal.
  32. 6.
    Immolation - Shadows in the Light — This release catapults them to the forefront of death metal for me. It is just as interesting as it is brutal.
  33. 6.
    Immolation - Shadows in the Light — This release catapults them to the forefront of death metal for me. It is just as interesting as it is brutal.
  34. 6.
    Immolation - Shadows in the Light — This release catapults them to the forefront of death metal for me. It is just as interesting as it is brutal.
  35. 6.
    Immolation - Shadows in the Light — This release catapults them to the forefront of death metal for me. It is just as interesting as it is brutal.
  36. 6.
    Immolation - Shadows in the Light — This release catapults them to the forefront of death metal for me. It is just as interesting as it is brutal.
  37. 7.
    Coheed & Cambria - No World For Tomorrow — While I liked the last album better, this one is still outstanding in its own right.
  38. 7.
    Coheed & Cambria - No World For Tomorrow — While I liked the last album better, this one is still outstanding in its own right.
  39. 7.
    Coheed & Cambria - No World For Tomorrow — While I liked the last album better, this one is still outstanding in its own right.
  40. 7.
    Coheed & Cambria - No World For Tomorrow — While I liked the last album better, this one is still outstanding in its own right.
  41. 7.
    Coheed & Cambria - No World For Tomorrow — While I liked the last album better, this one is still outstanding in its own right.
  42. 7.
    Coheed & Cambria - No World For Tomorrow — While I liked the last album better, this one is still outstanding in its own right.
  43. 8.
    Candlemass - King Of The Grey Islands — Messiah who? Lowe's emotional performance mixed with a slightly darker sound make for great doom.
  44. 8.
    Candlemass - King Of The Grey Islands — Messiah who? Lowe's emotional performance mixed with a slightly darker sound make for great doom.
  45. 8.
    Candlemass - King Of The Grey Islands — Messiah who? Lowe's emotional performance mixed with a slightly darker sound make for great doom.
  46. 8.
    Candlemass - King Of The Grey Islands — Messiah who? Lowe's emotional performance mixed with a slightly darker sound make for great doom.
  47. 8.
    Candlemass - King Of The Grey Islands — Messiah who? Lowe's emotional performance mixed with a slightly darker sound make for great doom.
  48. 8.
    Candlemass - King Of The Grey Islands — Messiah who? Lowe's emotional performance mixed with a slightly darker sound make for great doom.
  49. 9.
    Devin Townsend - Ziltoid The Omniscient — The comical and unique storyline was a enjoyable break from the typical metal lyrical subject matter.
  50. 9.
    Devin Townsend - Ziltoid The Omniscient — The comical and unique storyline was a enjoyable break from the typical metal lyrical subject matter.
  51. 9.
    Devin Townsend - Ziltoid The Omniscient — The comical and unique storyline was a enjoyable break from the typical metal lyrical subject matter.
  52. 9.
    Devin Townsend - Ziltoid The Omniscient — The comical and unique storyline was a enjoyable break from the typical metal lyrical subject matter.
  53. 9.
    Devin Townsend - Ziltoid The Omniscient — The comical and unique storyline was a enjoyable break from the typical metal lyrical subject matter.
  54. 9.
    Devin Townsend - Ziltoid The Omniscient — The comical and unique storyline was a enjoyable break from the typical metal lyrical subject matter. Oh, and Devin is still a kickass songwriter.
  55. 10.
    Pig Destroyer - Phantom Limb — A bit more polished than Terrifyer, but still more chaotic than just about everyone else.
  56. 10.
    Pig Destroyer - Phantom Limb — A bit more polished than Terrifyer, but still more chaotic than just about everyone else.
  57. 10.
    Pig Destroyer - Phantom Limb — A bit more polished than Terrifyer, but still more chaotic than just about everyone else.
  58. 10.
    Pig Destroyer - Phantom Limb — A bit more polished than Terrifyer, but still more chaotic than just about everyone else.
  59. 10.
    Pig Destroyer - Phantom Limb — A bit more polished than Terrifyer, but still more chaotic than just about everyone else.
  60. 11.
    Manticora - The Black Circus Part 2 - Disclosure — This band deserves way more recognition. This is a step up from Part 1 which was one of the best albums of '06.
  61. 11.
    Manticora - The Black Circus Part 2 - Disclosure — This band deserves way more recognition. This is a step up from Part 1 which was one of the best albums of '06.
  62. 11.
    Manticora - The Black Circus Part 2 - Disclosure — This band deserves way more recognition. This is a step up from Part 1 which was one of the best albums of '06.
  63. 11.
    Manticora - The Black Circus Part 2 - Disclosure — This band deserves way more recognition. This is a step up from Part 1 which was one of the best albums of '06.
  64. 11.
    Manticora - The Black Circus Part 2 - Disclosure — This band deserves way more recognition. This is a step up from Part 1 which was one of the best albums of '06.
  65. 12.
    Cage - Hell Destroyer — This album is the first I have heard from Cage, and what a first impression it is!
  66. 12.
    Cage - Hell Destroyer — This album is the first I have heard from Cage, and what a first impression it is!
  67. 12.
    Cage - Hell Destroyer — This album is the first I have heard from Cage, and what a first impression it is!
  68. 12.
    Cage - Hell Destroyer — This album is the first I have heard from Cage, and what a first impression it is!
  69. 12.
    Cage - Hell Destroyer — This album is the first I have heard from Cage, and what a first impression it is!
  70. 13.
    High on Fire - Death is this Communion — Matt Pike, the riffmaster, keeps going strong. As long as he's around, the future of High on Fire looks very bright.
  71. 13.
    High on Fire - Death is this Communion — Matt Pike, the riffmaster, keeps going strong. As long as he's around, the future of High on Fire looks very bright.
  72. 13.
    High on Fire - Death is this Communion — Matt Pike, the riffmaster, keeps going strong. As long as he's around, the future of High on Fire looks very bright.
  73. 13.
    High on Fire - Death is this Communion — Matt Pike, the riffmaster, keeps going strong. As long as he's around, the future of High on Fire looks very bright.
  74. 13.
    High on Fire - Death is this Communion — Matt Pike, the riffmaster, keeps going strong. As long as he's around, the future of High on Fire looks very bright.
  75. 14.
    Electric Wizard - Witchcult Today — This is what EW fans needed after a bit of a decline with their last couple albums.
  76. 14.
    Electric Wizard - Witchcult Today — This is what EW fans needed after a bit of a decline with their last couple albums.
  77. 14.
    Electric Wizard - Witchcult Today — This is what EW fans needed after a bit of a decline with their last couple albums.
  78. 14.
    Electric Wizard - Witchcult Today — This is what EW fans needed after a bit of a decline with their last couple albums.
  79. 14.
    Electric Wizard - Witchcult Today — This is what the fans of this band needed after a bit of a decline with their last couple albums.
  80. 15.
    Sigh - Hangmans Hymn — A wonderful mix of styles and a definite step up from Gallows Gallery.
  81. 15.
    Sigh - Hangmans Hymn — A wonderful mix of styles and a definite step up from Gallows Gallery.
  82. 15.
    Sigh - Hangmans Hymn — A wonderful mix of styles and a definite step up from Gallows Gallery.
  83. 15.
    Sigh - Hangmans Hymn — A wonderful mix of styles and a definite step up from Gallows Gallery.
  84. 15.
    Sigh - Hangmans Hymn — A wonderful mix of styles and a definite step up from Gallows Gallery.

Surprises of the Year

  1. 1.
  2. 1.
  3. 1.
  4. 1.
  5. 1.
  6. 2.
    Dekapitator - The Storm Before The Calm — 2007 was a great year for thrash, and this is one of the main reasons.
  7. 2.
    Dekapitator - The Storm Before The Calm — 2007 was a great year for thrash, and this is one of the main reasons.
  8. 2.
    Dekapitator - The Storm Before The Calm — 2007 was a great year for thrash, and this is one of the main reasons.
  9. 2.
    Dekapitator - The Storm Before The Calm — 2007 was a great year for thrash, and this is one of the main reasons.
  10. 2.
    Dekapitator - The Storm Before The Calm — 2007 was a great year for thrash, and this is one of the main reasons.
  11. 3.
    Direwolf - Beyond the Lands of Human Existence — A unique blend of black metal with technical and progressive elements.
  12. 3.
    Direwolf - Beyond the Lands of Human Existence — A unique blend of black metal with technical and progressive elements.
  13. 3.
    Direwolf - Beyond the Lands of Human Existence — A unique blend of black metal with technical and progressive elements.
  14. 3.
    Direwolf - Beyond the Lands of Human Existence — A unique blend of black metal with technical and progressive elements.
  15. 3.
    Direwolf - Beyond the Lands of Human Existence — A unique blend of black metal with technical and progressive elements.
  16. 4.
    Gire - Gire — After hearing Thy Catafalque, but being that this was better, I was.
  17. 4.
    Gire - Gire — After hearing Thy Catafalque, I probably shouldn't have been surprised, but being that this was better, I was.
  18. 4.
    Gire - Gire — After hearing Thy Catafalque, I probably shouldn't have been surprised, but being that this was better, I was.
  19. 4.
    Gire - Gire — After hearing Thy Catafalque, I probably shouldn't have been surprised, but being that this was better, I was.
  20. 4.
    Gire - Gire — After hearing Thy Catafalque, I probably shouldn't have been surprised, but being that this was better, I was.
  21. 5.
    Machine Head - The Blackening — A surprising change in sound that worked very well.
  22. 5.
    Machine Head - The Blackening — A surprising change in sound that worked very well.
  23. 5.
    Machine Head - The Blackening — A surprising change in sound that worked very well.
  24. 5.
    Machine Head - The Blackening — A surprising change in sound that worked very well.
  25. 5.
    Machine Head - The Blackening — A surprising change in sound that worked very well.

Disappointments

  1. 1.
    Primal Fear - New Religion — Seven Seals to this?! Hopefully they will get back on track next time out.
  2. 1.
    Primal Fear - New Religion — Seven Seals to this?! Hopefully they will get back on track next time out.
  3. 1.
    Primal Fear - New Religion — Seven Seals to this?! Hopefully they will get back on track next time out.
  4. 1.
    Primal Fear - New Religion — Seven Seals to this?! Hopefully they will get back on track next time out.
  5. 1.
    Primal Fear - New Religion — Seven Seals to this?! Hopefully they will get back on track next time out.
  6. 2.
    Nile - Ithyphallic — Death metal had the most disappointing major releases. None of them were awful, but they weren't great either.
  7. 2.
    Nile - Ithyphallic — Death metal had the most disappointing major releases. None of them were awful, but they weren't great either.
  8. 2.
    Nile - Ithyphallic — Death metal had the most disappointing major releases. None of them were awful, but they weren't great either.
  9. 2.
    Nile - Ithyphallic — Death metal had the most disappointing major releases. None of them were awful, but they weren't great either. Obituary or Malevolent Creation could have just as easily been inserted here.
  10. 2.
    Nile - Ithyphallic — Death metal had the most disappointing major releases. None of them were awful, but they weren't great either. Obituary or Malevolent Creation could have just as easily been inserted here.
  11. 3.
    Obituary - Xecutioners Return — See previous comment.
  12. 3.
    Obituary - Xecutioners Return — See previous comment.
  13. 3.
    Obituary - Xecutioners Return — See previous comment.
  14. 3.
    Pelican - City of Echoes — Their pendulum is tipping more and more toward post-rock, which has me missing the harder approach of Australasia more and more.
  15. 3.
    Pelican - City of Echoes — Their pendulum is tipping more and more toward post-rock, which has me missing the harder approach of Australasia more and more.
  16. 4.
    Blut Aus Nord - Odinist: The Destruction of Reason by Illumination — Just not up to par. They have shown they can do much, much better.
  17. 4.
    Blut Aus Nord - Odinist: The Destruction of Reason by Illumination — The decline continues in earnest. They have shown they can do much, much better.
  18. 4.
    Blut Aus Nord - Odinist: The Destruction of Reason by Illumination — The decline continues in earnest. They have shown they can do much, much better.
  19. 4.
    Blut Aus Nord - Odinist: The Destruction of Reason by Illumination — The decline continues in earnest. They have shown they can do much, much better.
  20. 4.
    Blut Aus Nord - Odinist: The Destruction of Reason by Illumination — The decline continues in earnest. They have shown they can do much, much better.
  21. 5.
    Mekong Delta — The disappointment of my year is that I haven't heard this album yet! Upon hearing it, I seriously doubt it will still be on this list.
  22. 5.
    Mekong Delta — The disappointment of my year is that I haven't heard this album yet! Upon hearing it, I seriously doubt it will still be on this list.
  23. 5.
    Mekong Delta - Lurking Fear — The disappointment of my year is that I haven't heard this album yet! Upon hearing it, I seriously doubt it will still be on this list.
  24. 5.
    Mekong Delta - Lurking Fear — The disappointment of my year is that I haven't heard this album yet! Upon hearing it, I seriously doubt it will still be on this list.
  25. 5.
    Mekong Delta - Lurking Fear — The disappointment of my year is that I haven't heard this album yet! Upon hearing it, I seriously doubt it will still be on this list.

Joke of the Year

  1. 1.
    The price of gasoline — I have a feeling this will continue to be an unusually cruel running joke for years to come.
  2. 1.
    The price of gasoline - — I have a feeling this will continue to be an unusually cruel running joke for years to come.
  3. 1.
    The price of gasoline -- — I have a feeling this will continue to be an unusually cruel running joke for years to come.
  4. 1.
    The price of gasoline -- — I have a feeling this will continue to be an unusually cruel running joke for years to come.
  5. 1.
    The price of gasoline -- — I have a feeling this will continue to be an unusually cruel running joke for years to come.
  6. 2.
    Guns N' Roses - Chinese Democracy — Is this damn thing ever coming out?
  7. 2.
    Guns N' Roses - Chinese Democracy - — Is this damn thing ever coming out?
  8. 2.
    Guns N' Roses - Chinese Democracy — Is this damn thing ever coming out?
  9. 2.
    Guns N' Roses - Chinese Democracy — Is this damn thing ever coming out?
  10. 2.
    Guns N' Roses - Chinese Democracy — Is this damn thing ever coming out?
  11. 3.
    The BCS of college football — Another repeat from last year, and it was an even bigger joke this year.
  12. 3.
    The BCS of college football - — Another repeat from last year, and it was an even bigger joke this year.
  13. 3.
    The BCS of college football -- — Another repeat from last year, and it was an even bigger joke this year.
  14. 3.
    The BCS of college football -- — Another repeat from last year, and it was an even bigger joke this year.
  15. 3.
    The BCS of college football -- — Another repeat from last year, and it was an even bigger joke this year.

Words / Final Thoughts

  1. 0
    — As special as last year was, this year was even better. Seeing my daughter born was the greatest experience of my life. Watching her grow has given me less time to listen to music, and there were no shortage of great releases this year that didn't make the top 15. Dark Tranquillity - Fiction, Municipal Waste - The Art of Partying, and Redemption - The Origins of Ruin just to name a few. As always, thanks to the MR.com staff for being a wonderful group to work with and be a part of, thanks to the readers, and thanks to the forum members for another year of interesting banter. Adam
  2. 0
    — As special as last year was, this year was even better. Seeing my daughter born was the greatest experience of my life. Watching her grow has given me less time to listen to music, and there were no shortage of great releases this year that didn't make the top 15. Dark Tranquillity - Fiction, Municipal Waste - The Art of Partying, and Redemption - The Origins of Ruin just to name a few. As always, thanks to the MR.com staff for being a wonderful group to work with and be a part of, thanks to the readers, and thanks to the forum members for another year of interesting banter. Adam
  3. 0
    — As special as last year was, this year was even better. Seeing my daughter born was the greatest experience of my life. Watching her grow has given me less time to listen to music, and there were no shortage of great releases this year that didn't make the top 15. Dark Tranquillity - Fiction, Municipal Waste - The Art of Partying, and Redemption - The Origins of Ruin just to name a few. As always, thanks to the MR.com staff for being a wonderful group to work with and be a part of, thanks to the readers, and thanks to the forum members for another year of interesting banter. Adam
  4. 0
    — As special as last year was, this year was even better. Seeing my daughter born was the greatest experience of my life. Watching her grow has given me less time to listen to music, and there were no shortage of great releases this year that didn't make the top 15. Dark Tranquillity - Fiction, Municipal Waste - The Art of Partying, and Redemption - The Origins of Ruin just to name a few. As always, thanks to the MR.com staff for being a wonderful group to work with and be a part of, thanks to the readers, and thanks to the forum members for another year of interesting banter. Adam
  5. 0
    — As special as last year was, this year was even better. Seeing my daughter born was the greatest experience of my life. Watching her grow has given me less time to listen to music, and there were no shortage of great releases this year that didn't make the top 15. Dark Tranquillity - Fiction, Municipal Waste - The Art of Partying, 3 Inches of Blood - Fire Up the Blades, and Redemption - The Origins of Ruin just to name a few. As always, thanks to the MR.com staff for being a wonderful group to work with and be a part of, thanks to the readers, and thanks to the forum members for another year of interesting banter. Adam

Dylan

Top Albums

  1. 1.
    Devin Townsend - Ziltoid The Omniscient — An amazing combination of all the things that make Townsend's sound so infectious and recognizable. Wacky as hell to boot.
  2. 1.
    Devin Townsend - Ziltoid The Omniscient — An amazing combination of all the things that make Townsend's sound so infectious and recognizable. Wacky as hell to boot.
  3. 1.
    Devin Townsend - Ziltoid The Omniscient — An amazing combination of all the things that make Townsend's sound so infectious and recognizable. Wacky as hell to boot.
  4. 1.
    Devin Townsend - Ziltoid The Omniscient — An amazing combination of all the things that make Townsend's sound so infectious and recognizable. Wacky as hell to boot.
  5. 1.
    Devin Townsend - Ziltoid The Omniscient — An amazing combination of all the things that make Townsend's sound so infectious and recognizable. Wacky as hell to boot.
  6. 1.
    Devin Townsend - Ziltoid The Omniscient — An amazing combination of all the things that make Townsend's sound so infectious and recognizable. Wacky as hell to boot.
  7. 1.
    Devin Townsend - Ziltoid The Omniscient — An amazing combination of all the things that make Townsend's sound so infectious and recognizable. Wacky as hell to boot.
  8. 1.
    Devin Townsend - Ziltoid The Omniscient — An amazing combination of all the things that make Townsend's sound so infectious and recognizable. Wacky as hell to boot.
  9. 1.
    Devin Townsend - Ziltoid The Omniscient — An amazing combination of all the things that make Townsend's sound so infectious and recognizable. Wacky as hell to boot.
  10. 1.
    Devin Townsend - Ziltoid The Omniscient — An amazing combination of all the things that make Townsend's sound so infectious and recognizable. Wacky as hell to boot.
  11. 1.
    Devin Townsend - Ziltoid The Omniscient — An amazing combination of all the things that make Townsend's sound so infectious and recognizable. Wacky as hell to boot.
  12. 1.
    Devin Townsend - Ziltoid The Omniscient — An amazing combination of all the things that make Townsend's sound so infectious and recognizable. Wacky as hell to boot.
  13. 1.
    Devin Townsend - Ziltoid The Omniscient — An amazing combination of all the things that make Townsend's sound so infectious and recognizable. Wacky as hell to boot.
  14. 1.
    Devin Townsend - Ziltoid The Omniscient — An amazing combination of all the things that make Townsend's sound so infectious and recognizable. Wacky as hell to boot.
  15. 2.
    Coheed & Cambria - No World For Tomorrow — This band just won't stop impressing me. Probably the catchiest album I've heard all year. The songs grabbed me after my second listen or two, but I kept hearing something new many listens after that.
  16. 2.
    Coheed & Cambria - No World For Tomorrow — This band just won't stop impressing me. Probably the catchiest album I've heard all year. The songs grabbed me after my second listen or two, but I kept hearing something new many listens after that.
  17. 2.
    Coheed & Cambria - No World For Tomorrow — This band just won't stop impressing me. Probably the catchiest album I've heard all year. The songs grabbed me after my second listen or two, but I kept hearing something new many listens after that.
  18. 2.
    Coheed & Cambria - No World For Tomorrow — This band just won't stop impressing me. Probably the catchiest album I've heard all year. The songs grabbed me after my second listen or two, but I kept hearing something new many listens after that.
  19. 2.
    Coheed & Cambria - No World For Tomorrow — This band just won't stop impressing me. Probably the catchiest album I've heard all year. The songs grabbed me after my second listen or two, but I kept hearing something new many listens after that.
  20. 2.
    Coheed & Cambria - No World For Tomorrow — This band just won't stop impressing me. Probably the catchiest album I've heard all year. The songs grabbed me after my second listen or two, but I kept hearing something new many listens after that.
  21. 2.
    Coheed & Cambria - No World For Tomorrow — This band just won't stop impressing me. Probably the catchiest album I've heard all year. The songs grabbed me after my second listen or two, but I kept hearing something new many listens after that.
  22. 2.
    Coheed & Cambria - No World For Tomorrow — This band just won't stop impressing me. Probably the catchiest album I've heard all year. The songs grabbed me after my second listen or two, but I kept hearing something new many listens after that.
  23. 2.
    Coheed & Cambria - No World For Tomorrow — This band just won't stop impressing me. Probably the catchiest album I've heard all year. The songs grabbed me after my second listen or two, but I kept hearing something new many listens after that.
  24. 2.
    Coheed & Cambria - No World For Tomorrow — This band just won't stop impressing me. Probably the catchiest album I've heard all year. The songs grabbed me after my second listen or two, but I kept hearing something new many listens after that.
  25. 2.
    Coheed & Cambria - No World For Tomorrow — This band just won't stop impressing me. Probably the catchiest album I've heard all year. The songs grabbed me after my second listen or two, but I kept hearing something new many listens after that.
  26. 2.
    Coheed & Cambria - No World For Tomorrow — This band just won't stop impressing me. Probably the catchiest album I've heard all year. The songs grabbed me after my second listen or two, but I kept hearing something new many listens after that.
  27. 2.
    Coheed & Cambria - No World For Tomorrow — This band just won't stop impressing me. Probably the catchiest album I've heard all year. The songs grabbed me after my second listen or two, but I kept hearing something new many listens after that.
  28. 2.
    Coheed & Cambria - No World For Tomorrow — This band just won't stop impressing me. Probably the catchiest album I've heard all year. The songs grabbed me after my second listen or two, but I kept hearing something new many listens after that.
  29. 3.
    Vital Remains - Icons of Evil — Everything that Dechristianize had, this thing has bigger and better versions of it. A truly relentless album tinged with the right amount of melody to keep it from killing you.
  30. 3.
    Vital Remains - Icons of Evil — Everything that Dechristianize had, this thing has bigger and better versions of it. A truly relentless album tinged with the right amount of melody to keep it from killing you.
  31. 3.
    Vital Remains - Icons of Evil — Everything that Dechristianize had, this thing has bigger and better versions of it. A truly relentless album tinged with the right amount of melody to keep it from killing you.
  32. 3.
    Vital Remains - Icons of Evil — Everything that Dechristianize had, this thing has bigger and better versions of it. A truly relentless album tinged with the right amount of melody to keep it from killing you.
  33. 3.
    Vital Remains - Icons of Evil — Everything that Dechristianize had, this thing has bigger and better versions of it. A truly relentless album tinged with the right amount of melody to keep it from killing you.
  34. 3.
    Vital Remains - Icons of Evil — Everything that Dechristianize had, this thing has bigger and better versions of it. A truly relentless album tinged with the right amount of melody to keep it from killing you.
  35. 3.
    Vital Remains - Icons of Evil — Everything that Dechristianize had, this thing has bigger and better versions of it. A truly relentless album tinged with the right amount of melody to keep it from killing you.
  36. 3.
    Vital Remains - Icons of Evil — Everything that Dechristianize had, this thing has bigger and better versions of it. A truly relentless album tinged with the right amount of melody to keep it from killing you.
  37. 3.
    Vital Remains - Icons of Evil — Everything that Dechristianize had, this thing has bigger and better versions of it. A truly relentless album tinged with the right amount of melody to keep it from killing you.
  38. 3.
    Vital Remains - Icons of Evil — Everything that Dechristianize had, this thing has bigger and better versions of it. A truly relentless album tinged with the right amount of melody to keep it from killing you.
  39. 3.
    Vital Remains - Icons of Evil — Everything that Dechristianize had, this thing has bigger and better versions of it. A truly relentless album tinged with the right amount of melody to keep it from killing you.
  40. 3.
    Vital Remains - Icons of Evil — Everything that Dechristianize had, this thing has bigger and better versions of it. A truly relentless album tinged with the right amount of melody to keep it from killing you.
  41. 3.
    Vital Remains - Icons of Evil — Everything that Dechristianize had, this thing has bigger and better versions of it. A truly relentless album tinged with the right amount of melody to keep it from killing you.
  42. 3.
    Vital Remains - Icons of Evil — Everything that Dechristianize had, this thing has bigger and better versions of it. A truly relentless album tinged with the right amount of melody to keep it from killing you.
  43. 4.
  44. 4.
    The Black Dahlia Murder - Nocturnal — This is the best band's best work by far. Fantastic drumming by Shannon Lucas pushes this one into the stratosphere. It's a short ride, but that just makes the sickness seem that much sicker.
  45. 4.
    The Black Dahlia Murder - Nocturnal — This is the best band's best work by far. Fantastic drumming by Shannon Lucas pushes this one into the stratosphere. It's a short ride, but that just makes the sickness seem that much sicker.
  46. 4.
    The Black Dahlia Murder - Nocturnal — This is the best band's best work by far. Fantastic drumming by Shannon Lucas pushes this one into the stratosphere. It's a short ride, but that just makes the sickness seem that much sicker.
  47. 4.
    The Black Dahlia Murder - Nocturnal — This is the best band's best work by far. Fantastic drumming by Shannon Lucas pushes this one into the stratosphere. It's a short ride, but that just makes the sickness seem that much sicker.
  48. 4.
    The Black Dahlia Murder - Nocturnal — This is the best band's best work by far. Fantastic drumming by Shannon Lucas pushes this one into the stratosphere. It's a short ride, but that just makes the sickness seem that much sicker.
  49. 4.
    The Black Dahlia Murder - Nocturnal — This is the best band's best work by far. Fantastic drumming by Shannon Lucas pushes this one into the stratosphere. It's a short ride, but that just makes the sickness seem that much sicker.
  50. 4.
    The Black Dahlia Murder - Nocturnal — This is the best band's best work by far. Fantastic drumming by Shannon Lucas pushes this one into the stratosphere. It's a short ride, but that just makes the sickness seem that much sicker.
  51. 4.
    The Black Dahlia Murder - Nocturnal — This is the best band's best work by far. Fantastic drumming by Shannon Lucas pushes this one into the stratosphere. It's a short ride, but that just makes the sickness seem that much sicker.
  52. 4.
    The Black Dahlia Murder - Nocturnal — This is the best band's best work by far. Fantastic drumming by Shannon Lucas pushes this one into the stratosphere. It's a short ride, but that just makes the sickness seem that much sicker.
  53. 4.
    The Black Dahlia Murder - Nocturnal — This is the best band's best work by far. Fantastic drumming by Shannon Lucas pushes this one into the stratosphere. It's a short ride, but that just makes the sickness seem that much sicker.
  54. 4.
    The Black Dahlia Murder - Nocturnal — This is the best band's best work by far. Fantastic drumming by Shannon Lucas pushes this one into the stratosphere. It's a short ride, but that just makes the sickness seem that much sicker.
  55. 4.
    The Black Dahlia Murder - Nocturnal — This is the best band's best work by far. Fantastic drumming by Shannon Lucas pushes this one into the stratosphere. It's a short ride, but that just makes the sickness seem that much sicker.
  56. 4.
    The Black Dahlia Murder - Nocturnal — This is the best band's best work by far. Fantastic drumming by Shannon Lucas pushes this one into the stratosphere. It's a short ride, but that just makes the sickness seem that much sicker.
  57. 5.
  58. 5.
    3 Inches of Blood - Fire Up The Blades — All thirteen songs here kill, period. The new lineup seemed to only make the band stronger, and this album shows it. Painkiller x 10.
  59. 5.
  60. 5.
  61. 5.
  62. 5.
  63. 5.
  64. 5.
  65. 5.
  66. 5.
  67. 5.
    Aeon - Rise To Dominate — Straightforward in the best sense of the word. A greta improvement over Bleeding The False, it's about as catchy as brutal death metal can get.
  68. 5.
    Aeon - Rise To Dominate — Straightforward in the best sense of the word. A greta improvement over Bleeding The False, it's about as catchy as brutal death metal can get.
  69. 5.
    Aeon - Rise To Dominate — Straightforward in the best sense of the word. A great improvement over Bleeding The False, it's about as catchy as brutal death metal can get.
  70. 6.
  71. 6.
    Helloween - Gambling With The Devil — Fantastic aggressive power metal. I never really checked out the band before this album, so once Kill It began roaring through my speakers, I knew I had a good bit of backtracking to do.
  72. 6.
  73. 6.
  74. 6.
  75. 6.
  76. 6.
  77. 6.
  78. 6.
  79. 6.
  80. 6.
    Blood Red Throne - Come Death — Altered Genesis is still one of my favorite death metal albums ever, but this is still an above average output from the Norwegians. Getting a new singer and drummer doesn't seem to have phased them at all.
  81. 6.
    Blood Red Throne - Come Death — Altered Genesis is still one of my favorite death metal albums ever, but this is still an above average output from the Norwegians. Getting a new singer and drummer doesn't seem to have phased them at all.
  82. 6.
    Blood Red Throne - Come Death — Altered Genesis is still one of my favorite death metal albums ever, but this is still an above average output from the Norwegians. Getting a new singer and drummer doesn't seem to have phased them at all.
  83. 7.
  84. 7.
    Aeon - Rise To Dominate — Absolutely awesome death metal. From the musicianship, to the production, to the slightly toned down lyrics, everything about this album hits you on your first listen. Trust me, you'll be back
  85. 7.
  86. 7.
  87. 7.
  88. 7.
  89. 7.
  90. 7.
  91. 7.
  92. 7.
  93. 7.
    Akercocke - Antichrist — Another one of those albums that jumps all over the place stylistically. Normally I don't like that, but Akercoke really seem to know what they are doing hear. Takes a few listens to get into, but it's a very interesting listen once you "get" it.
  94. 7.
    Akercocke - Antichrist — Another one of those albums that jumps all over the place stylistically. Normally I don't like that, but Akercoke really seem to know what they are doing hear. Takes a few listens to get into, but it's a very interesting listen once you "get" it.
  95. 7.
    Akercocke - Antichrist — Another one of those albums that jumps all over the place stylistically. Normally I don't like that, but Akercoke really seem to know what they are doing here. Takes a few listens to get into, but it's a very interesting listen once you "get" it.
  96. 8.
    Blood Red Throne - Come Death — Tchort and friends strike again!!
  97. 8.
  98. 8.
  99. 8.
  100. 8.
  101. 8.
  102. 8.
  103. 8.
  104. 8.
    Candlemass - King Of The Grey Islands — Robert Lowe should be the vocalist for every doom metal band. Candlemass were established as doom metal legends long, long ago, but the modern production, thick-ass riffs, and Lowe's godly voice makes this a fantastic addition to the band's seminal discography.
  105. 8.
    Candlemass - King Of The Grey Islands — Robert Lowe should be the vocalist for every doom metal band. Candlemass were established as doom metal legends long, long ago, but the modern production, thick-ass riffs, and Lowe's godly voice makes this a fantastic addition to the band's seminal discography.
  106. 8.
    Candlemass - King Of The Grey Islands — Robert Lowe should be the vocalist for every doom metal band. Candlemass were established as doom metal legends long, long ago, but the modern production, thick-ass riffs, and Lowe's godly voice makes this a fantastic addition to the band's seminal discography.
  107. 9.
    Behemoth - The Apostasy — Not on par with Demigod, but still a great slab of the blackened death metal that the band is so well known for. The collaboration with Warrel Dane on Inner Sanctum turned out better than I was expecting.
  108. 9.
  109. 9.
  110. 9.
  111. 9.
  112. 9.
  113. 9.
  114. 9.
  115. 9.
  116. 9.
    Symphony X - Paradise Lost — Absolutely awesome prog / power metal.
  117. 9.
    Symphony X - Paradise Lost — Absolutely awesome prog / power metal.
  118. 10.
  119. 10.
  120. 10.
  121. 10.
  122. 10.
  123. 10.
  124. 10.
  125. 10.
    Down - III: Over The Under — It may show a more mellow side of Down, but this record still posses those southern-fried riffs and Phil's instantly recognizable voice. Down is obviously a band to choose quality over quantity, with this being only their third album in over a decade. As long as a IV gets released before I die, I'll be spinning this one for quite a while.
  126. 10.
    Down - III: Over The Under — It may show a more mellow side of Down, but this record still posses those southern-fried riffs and Phil's instantly recognizable voice. Down is obviously a band to choose quality over quantity, with this being only their third album in over a decade. As long as a IV gets released before I die, I'll be spinning this one for quite a while.
  127. 10.
    Down - III: Over The Under — It may show a more mellow side of Down, but this record still posses those southern-fried riffs and Phil's instantly recognizable voice. Down is obviously a band to choose quality over quantity, with this being only their third album in over a decade. As long as a IV gets released before I die, I'll be spinning this one for quite a while.
  128. 11.
  129. 11.
  130. 11.
  131. 11.
  132. 11.
  133. 11.
  134. 11.
  135. 11.
  136. 11.
    Susperia - Cut From Stone — Not quite as godly as Unlimited, but it comes close!
  137. 11.
    Susperia - Cut From Stone — Not quite as godly as Unlimited, but it comes close!
  138. 12.
  139. 12.
  140. 12.
  141. 12.
    Mithras - Behind The Shadows Lie Madness — Very interesting death metal. It has a very gliding-through-space-while-tripping-off-acid sorta feel to it.
  142. 12.
    Mithras - Behind The Shadows Lie Madness — Very interesting death metal. It has a very gliding-through-space-while-tripping-off-acid sorta feel to it.
  143. 12.
    Mithras - Behind The Shadows Lie Madness — Very interesting death metal. It has a very gliding-through-space-while-tripping-off-acid sorta feel to it.
  144. 12.
    Mithras - Behind The Shadows Lie Madness — Very interesting death metal. It has a very gliding-through-space-while-tripping-off-acid sorta feel to it.
  145. 12.
    Mithras - Behind The Shadows Lie Madness — Very interesting death metal. It has a very gliding-through-space-while-tripping-off-acid sorta feel to it.
  146. 12.
    Mithras - Behind The Shadows Lie Madness — Very interesting death metal. It has a very gliding-through-space-while-tripping-off-acid sorta feel to it.
  147. 12.
    Mithras - Behind The Shadows Lie Madness — Very interesting death metal. It has a very gliding-through-space-while-tripping-off-acid sorta feel to it.
  148. 13.
  149. 13.
    Gire - Gire — This is a really cool album from a unique metal band. Read Alex's review for the best description of their sound.
  150. 13.
    Akercocke - Antichrist — Another one of those albums that jumps all over the place stylistically. Normally I don't like that, but Akercoke really seem to know what they are doing hear. Takes a few listens to get into, but it's a very interesting listen once you "get" it.
  151. 13.
    Akercocke - Antichrist — Another one of those albums that jumps all over the place stylistically. Normally I don't like that, but Akercoke really seem to know what they are doing hear. Takes a few listens to get into, but it's a very interesting listen once you "get" it.
  152. 13.
    Akercocke - Antichrist — Another one of those albums that jumps all over the place stylistically. Normally I don't like that, but Akercoke really seem to know what they are doing hear. Takes a few listens to get into, but it's a very interesting listen once you "get" it.
  153. 13.
    Akercocke - Antichrist — Another one of those albums that jumps all over the place stylistically. Normally I don't like that, but Akercoke really seem to know what they are doing hear. Takes a few listens to get into, but it's a very interesting listen once you "get" it.
  154. 13.
    Akercocke - Antichrist — Another one of those albums that jumps all over the place stylistically. Normally I don't like that, but Akercoke really seem to know what they are doing hear. Takes a few listens to get into, but it's a very interesting listen once you "get" it.
  155. 13.
    Akercocke - Antichrist — Another one of those albums that jumps all over the place stylistically. Normally I don't like that, but Akercoke really seem to know what they are doing hear. Takes a few listens to get into, but it's a very interesting listen once you "get" it.
  156. 13.
    Behemoth - The Apostasy — The Apostasy doesn't really start clicking until the middle of the album, but once it does, you just have to stand back in awe. The mid and closing section of this disc are as strong as anything the band has done in a while. I still think Demigod is their finest, most consistent album to date, but this one isn't far behind.
  157. 13.
    Behemoth - The Apostasy — The Apostasy doesn't really start clicking until the middle of the album, but once it does, you just have to stand back in awe. The mid and closing section of this disc are as strong as anything the band has done in a while. I still think Demigod is their finest, most consistent album to date, but this one isn't far behind.
  158. 13.
    Behemoth - The Apostasy — The Apostasy doesn't really start clicking until the middle of the album, but once it does, you just have to stand back in awe. The mid and closing section of this disc are as strong as anything the band has done in a while. I still think Demigod is their finest, most consistent album to date, but this one isn't far behind.
  159. 14.
  160. 14.
  161. 14.
  162. 14.
  163. 14.
  164. 14.
  165. 14.
  166. 14.
  167. 14.
  168. 14.
    High on Fire - Death is this Communion — A step up from Blessed Black Wings. The album is as heavy as the cover art.
  169. 14.
    High on Fire - Death is this Communion — A step up from Blessed Black Wings. The album is as heavy as the cover art.
  170. 15.
    Naglfar - Vittra — Looking back, I might have over-quoted this thing. Still, its a more than solid slab of polished black metal.
  171. 15.
    Naglfar - Vittra — Looking back, I might have over-quoted this thing. Still, its a more than solid slab of polished black metal.
  172. 15.
    Naglfar - Vittra — Looking back, I might have over-quoted this thing. Still, its a more than solid slab of polished black metal.
  173. 15.
    Naglfar - Vittra — Looking back, I might have over-quoted this thing. Still, its a more than solid slab of polished black metal.
  174. 15.
    Naglfar - Harvest — Looking back, I might have over-quoted this thing. Still, its a more than solid slab of polished black metal.
  175. 15.
    Naglfar - Harvest — Looking back, I might have over-quoted this thing. Still, its a more than solid slab of polished black metal.
  176. 15.
    Naglfar - Harvest — Looking back, I might have over-quoted this thing. Still, its a more than solid slab of polished black metal.
  177. 15.
    Naglfar - Harvest — Looking back, I might have over-quoted this thing. Still, its a more than solid slab of polished black metal.
  178. 15.
    Naglfar - Harvest — Looking back, I might have over-quoted this thing. Still, its a more than solid slab of polished black metal.
  179. 15.
    Naglfar - Harvest — Looking back, I might have over-quoted this thing. Still, its a more than solid slab of polished black metal.
  180. 15.
    Naglfar - Harvest — Looking back, I might have over-quoted this thing. Still, its a more than solid slab of polished black metal.
  181. 15.
    Naglfar - Harvest — Looking back, I might have over-quoted this thing. Still, its a more than solid slab of polished black metal.
  182. 15.
    Naglfar - Harvest — Looking back, I might have over-quoted this thing. Still, its a more than solid slab of polished black metal.
  183. 15.
    Naglfar - Harvest — Looking back, I might have over-quoted this thing. Still, its a more than solid slab of polished black metal.

Surprises of the Year

  1. 1.
  2. 1.
    Dimmu Borgir - In Sorte Diaboli — The best thing the band has put out in years.
  3. 1.
    Dimmu Borgir - In Sorte Diaboli — The best thing the band has put out in years.
  4. 1.
    Dimmu Borgir - In Sorte Diaboli — The best thing the band has put out in years.
  5. 1.
    Dimmu Borgir - In Sorte Diaboli — The best thing the band has put out in years.
  6. 1.
    Dimmu Borgir - In Sorte Diaboli — The best thing the band has put out in years.
  7. 1.
    Dimmu Borgir - In Sorte Diaboli — The best thing the band has put out in years.
  8. 1.
    Dimmu Borgir - In Sorte Diaboli — The best thing the band has put out in years.
  9. 1.
    Dimmu Borgir - In Sorte Diaboli — The best thing the band has put out in years.
  10. 1.
    Dimmu Borgir - In Sorte Diaboli — The best thing the band has put out in years.
  11. 2.
  12. 2.
    DevilDriver - The Last Kind Words — Again, another band that once wandered in mediocrity comes out and slays critics like me. If you weren't already a fan of DevilDriver, you've got to at least respect them after this fury.
  13. 2.
    DevilDriver - The Last Kind Words — Again, another band that once wandered in mediocrity comes out and slays critics like me. If you weren't already a fan of DevilDriver, you've got to at least respect them after this fury.
  14. 2.
    DevilDriver - The Last Kind Words — Again, another band that once wandered in mediocrity comes out and slays critics like me. If you weren't already a fan of DevilDriver, you've got to at least respect them after this fury.
  15. 2.
    DevilDriver - The Last Kind Words — Again, another band that once wandered in mediocrity comes out and slays critics like me. If you weren't already a fan of DevilDriver, you've got to at least respect them after this fury.
  16. 2.
    DevilDriver - The Last Kind Words — Again, another band that once wandered in mediocrity comes out and slays critics like me. If you weren't already a fan of DevilDriver, you've got to at least respect them after this fury.
  17. 2.
    DevilDriver - The Last Kind Words — Again, another band that once wandered in mediocrity comes out and slays critics like me. If you weren't already a fan of DevilDriver, you've got to at least respect them after this fury.
  18. 2.
    DevilDriver - The Last Kind Words — Again, another band that once wandered in mediocrity comes out and slays critics like me. If you weren't already a fan of DevilDriver, you've got to at least respect them after this fury.
  19. 2.
    DevilDriver - The Last Kind Words — Again, another band that once wandered in mediocrity comes out and slays critics like me. If you weren't already a fan of DevilDriver, you've got to at least respect them after this fury.
  20. 2.
    DevilDriver - The Last Kind Words — Again, another band that once wandered in mediocrity comes out and slays critics like me. If you weren't already a fan of DevilDriver, you've got to at least respect them after this fury.
  21. 3.
    Gire - Gire — This band came out of nowhere for me. Thanks Alex!!
  22. 3.
    Gire - Gire — This band came out of nowhere for me. Thanks Alex!!
  23. 3.
    Gire - Gire — This band came out of nowhere for me. Thanks Alex!!
  24. 3.
    Gire - Gire — This band came out of nowhere for me. Thanks Alex!!
  25. 3.
    Gire - Gire — This band came out of nowhere for me. Thanks Alex!!
  26. 3.
    Gire - Gire — This band came out of nowhere for me. Thanks Alex!!
  27. 3.
    Gire - Gire — This band came out of nowhere for me. Thanks Alex!!
  28. 3.
    Gire - Gire — This band came out of nowhere for me. Thanks Alex!!
  29. 3.
    Gire - Gire — This band came out of nowhere for me. Thanks Alex!!
  30. 4.
    Iced Earth - Framing Armageddon - Something Wicked Part 1 — They still have it left in them! The entire metal-loving community and I will all be waiting Pt. 2 anxiously now.
  31. 4.
    Iced Earth - Framing Armageddon - Something Wicked Part 1 — They still have it left in them! The entire metal-loving community and I will all be waiting Pt. 2 anxiously now.
  32. 4.
    Iced Earth - Framing Armageddon - Something Wicked Part 1 — They still have it left in them! The entire metal-loving community and I will all be waiting Pt. 2 anxiously now.
  33. 4.
    Iced Earth - Framing Armageddon - Something Wicked Part 1 — They still have it left in them! The entire metal-loving community and I will all be waiting Pt. 2 anxiously now.
  34. 4.
    Iced Earth - Framing Armageddon - Something Wicked Part 1 — They still have it left in them! The entire metal-loving community and I will all be waiting Pt. 2 anxiously now.
  35. 4.
    Iced Earth - Framing Armageddon - Something Wicked Part 1 — They still have it left in them! The entire metal-loving community and I will all be waiting Pt. 2 anxiously now.
  36. 4.
    Iced Earth - Framing Armageddon - Something Wicked Part 1 — They still have it left in them! The entire metal-loving community and I will all be waiting Pt. 2 anxiously now.
  37. 4.
    Iced Earth - Framing Armageddon - Something Wicked Part 1 — They still have it left in them! The entire metal-loving community and I will all be waiting Pt. 2 anxiously now.
  38. 4.
    Iced Earth - Framing Armageddon - Something Wicked Part 1 — They still have it left in them! The entire metal-loving community and I will all be waiting Pt. 2 anxiously now.
  39. 5.
  40. 5.
  41. 5.
  42. 5.
  43. 5.
  44. 5.
  45. 5.
  46. 5.

Disappointments

  1. 1.
    Exodus - The Atrocity Exhibition... Exhibit A — Shovel Headed Kill Machine v 1.1
  2. 1.
    Exodus - The Atrocity Exhibition... Exhibit A — Shovel Headed Kill Machine v 1.1
  3. 1.
    Exodus - The Atrocity Exhibition... Exhibit A — Shovel Headed Kill Machine v 1.1
  4. 1.
    Exodus - The Atrocity Exhibition... Exhibit A — Shovel Headed Kill Machine v 1.1
  5. 1.
    Exodus - The Atrocity Exhibition... Exhibit A — Shovel Headed Kill Machine v 1.1
  6. 1.
    Exodus - The Atrocity Exhibition... Exhibit A — Shovel Headed Kill Machine v 1.1
  7. 1.
    Exodus - The Atrocity Exhibition... Exhibit A — Shovel Headed Kill Machine v 1.1
  8. 1.
    Exodus - The Atrocity Exhibition... Exhibit A — Shovel Headed Kill Machine v 1.1
  9. 1.
    Exodus - The Atrocity Exhibition... Exhibit A — Shovel Headed Kill Machine v 1.1
  10. 1.
    Exodus - The Atrocity Exhibition... Exhibit A — Shovel Headed Kill Machine v 1.1
  11. 1.
    Exodus - The Atrocity Exhibition... Exhibit A — Shovel Headed Kill Machine v 1.1
  12. 1.
    Exodus - The Atrocity Exhibition... Exhibit A — Shovel Headed Kill Machine v 1.1
  13. 1.
    Exodus - The Atrocity Exhibition... Exhibit A — Shovel Headed Kill Machine v 1.1
  14. 1.
    Exodus - The Atrocity Exhibition... Exhibit A — Shovel Headed Kill Machine v 1.1
  15. 2.
    Six Feet Under - Commandment — Will these guys ever grow?!
  16. 2.
    Six Feet Under - Commandment — Will these guys ever grow?!
  17. 2.
    Six Feet Under - Commandment — Will these guys ever grow?!
  18. 2.
    Six Feet Under - Commandment — Will these guys ever grow?!
  19. 2.
    Six Feet Under - Commandment — Will these guys ever grow?!
  20. 2.
    Six Feet Under - Commandment — Will these guys ever grow?!
  21. 2.
    Six Feet Under - Commandment — Will these guys ever grow?!
  22. 2.
    Six Feet Under - Commandment — Will these guys ever grow?!
  23. 2.
    Six Feet Under - Commandment — Will these guys ever grow?!
  24. 2.
    Shadows Fall - Threads of Life — By far their weakest album. Hopefully they will be able to relive the glory days of The War Within with their next release.
  25. 2.
    Shadows Fall - Threads of Life — By far their weakest album. Hopefully they will be able to relive the glory days of The War Within with their next release.
  26. 2.
    Shadows Fall - Threads of Life — By far their weakest album. Hopefully they will be able to relive the glory days of The War Within with their next release.
  27. 2.
    Shadows Fall - Threads of Life — By far their weakest album. Hopefully they will be able to relive the glory days of The War Within with their next release.
  28. 2.
    Shadows Fall - Threads of Life — By far their weakest album. Hopefully they will be able to relive the glory days of The War Within with their next release.
  29. 3.
    The Absence - Riders Of The Plague — The hype machine strikes again.
  30. 3.
    The Absence - Riders Of The Plague — The hype machine strikes again.
  31. 3.
    The Absence - Riders Of The Plague — The hype machine strikes again.
  32. 3.
    The Absence - Riders Of The Plague — The hype machine strikes again.
  33. 3.
    The Absence - Riders Of The Plague — The hype machine strikes again.
  34. 3.
    The Absence - Riders Of The Plague — The hype machine strikes again.
  35. 3.
    The Absence - Riders Of The Plague — The hype machine strikes again.
  36. 3.
    The Absence - Riders Of The Plague — The hype machine strikes again.
  37. 3.
    The Absence - Riders Of The Plague — The hype machine strikes again.
  38. 3.
    The Absence - Riders Of The Plague — The hype machine strikes again.
  39. 3.
    The Absence - Riders Of The Plague — The hype machine strikes again.
  40. 3.
    The Absence - Riders Of The Plague — The hype machine strikes again.
  41. 3.
    The Absence - Riders Of The Plague — The hype machine strikes again.
  42. 3.
    The Absence - Riders Of The Plague — The hype machine strikes again.
  43. 4.
  44. 4.
    Nightrage - A New Disease Is Born — I never realized how important Gus G. and Tomas Lindberg were until they left.
  45. 4.
    Nightrage - A New Disease Is Born — I never realized how important Gus G. and Tomas Lindberg were until they left.
  46. 4.
    Nightrage - A New Disease Is Born — I never realized how important Gus G. and Tomas Lindberg were until they left.
  47. 4.
    Nightrage - A New Disease Is Born — I never realized how important Gus G. and Tomas Lindberg were until they left.
  48. 4.
    Nightrage - A New Disease Is Born — I never realized how important Gus G. and Tomas Lindberg were until they left.
  49. 4.
    Nightrage - A New Disease Is Born — I never realized how important Gus G. and Tomas Lindberg were until they left.
  50. 4.
    Nightrage - A New Disease Is Born — I never realized how important Gus G. and Tomas Lindberg were until they left.
  51. 4.
    Nightrage - A New Disease Is Born — I never realized how important Gus G. and Tomas Lindberg were until they left.
  52. 4.
    Nightrage - A New Disease Is Born — I never realized how important Gus G. and Tomas Lindberg were until they left.
  53. 5.
  54. 5.
  55. 5.
  56. 5.
  57. 5.
  58. 5.

Joke of the Year

  1. 1.
    Beneath The Massacre - Mechanics of Dysfunction — How the hell are they doing that?
  2. 1.
    Beneath The Massacre - Mechanics of Dysfunction — How the hell are they doing that?
  3. 1.
    Beneath The Massacre - Mechanics of Dysfunction — How the hell are they doing that?
  4. 1.
    Beneath The Massacre - Mechanics of Dysfunction — How the hell are they doing that?
  5. 1.
    Beneath The Massacre - Mechanics of Dysfunction — How the hell are they doing that?
  6. 1.
    Beneath The Massacre - Mechanics of Dysfunction — How the hell are they doing that?
  7. 1.
    Beneath The Massacre - Mechanics of Dysfunction — How the hell are they doing that?
  8. 1.
    Beneath The Massacre - Mechanics of Dysfunction — How the hell are they doing that?
  9. 1.
    Beneath The Massacre - Mechanics of Dysfunction — How the hell are they doing that?
  10. 1.
    Beneath The Massacre - Mechanics of Dysfunction — How the hell are they doing that?
  11. 1.
    Beneath The Massacre - Mechanics of Dysfunction — How the hell are they doing that?
  12. 1.
    Beneath The Massacre - Mechanics of Dysfunction — How the hell are they doing that?
  13. 1.
    Beneath The Massacre - Mechanics of Dysfunction — How the hell are they doing that?

Words / Final Thoughts

  1. 0
    — This was a fucking crazy year, both for the metal world and in my personal life. Bands, both new and seasoned, keep churning out stellar material seemingly every week. The past five years have been a fantastic time to be a metalhead. I'd like to thank all of my fellow reviewers who keep this site going. It takes a lot of work, but in the end it is definitely worth it! And of course, everyone who comes to this site and takes the time to read the reviews has my sincere thanks. Don't go away!
  2. 0
    — This was a fucking crazy year, both for the metal world and in my personal life. Bands, both new and seasoned, keep churning out stellar material seemingly every week. The past five years have been a fantastic time to be a metalhead. I'd like to thank all of my fellow reviewers who keep this site going. It takes a lot of work, but in the end it is definitely worth it! And of course, everyone who comes to this site and takes the time to read the reviews has my sincere thanks. Don't go away!

Goat

Top Albums

  1. 1.
    Mayhem - Ordo Ad Chao —

    The album that pretty much every Black Metal fan under the sun has been waiting for, this is the fulfilment of years of underachievement from the Norwegian legend. You want hope? You want light? You want happiness? You won’t find them here. It gains the top spot of 2007 for a simple reason – it affected me deeply, reminding of things I’d much rather have forgotten, and in a scene where most people respond to Metal in the same way (headbang… now! air guitar… now!) a piece of deliberately difficult art like this that speaks to each of us in a different way is special indeed. You can’t escape your dark side, however far you may run…
  2. 1.
    Mayhem - Ordo Ad Chao —

    The album that pretty much every Black Metal fan under the sun has been waiting for, this is the fulfilment of years of underachievement from the Norwegian legend. You want hope? You want light? You want happiness? You won’t find them here. It gains the top spot of 2007 for a simple reason – it affected me deeply, reminding of things I’d much rather have forgotten, and in a scene where most people respond to Metal in the same way (headbang… now! air guitar… now!) a piece of deliberately difficult art like this that speaks to each of us in a different way is special indeed. You can’t escape your dark side, however far you may run…
  3. 1.
    Mayhem - Ordo Ad Chao —

    The album that pretty much every Black Metal fan under the sun has been waiting for, this is the fulfilment of years of underachievement from the Norwegian legend. You want hope? You want light? You want happiness? You won’t find them here. It gains the top spot of 2007 for a simple reason – it affected me deeply, reminding of things I’d much rather have forgotten, and in a scene where most people respond to Metal in the same way (headbang… now! air guitar… now!) a piece of deliberately difficult art like this that speaks to each of us in a different way is special indeed. You can’t escape your dark side, however far you may run…
  4. 1.
    Mayhem - Ordo Ad Chao —

    The album that pretty much every Black Metal fan under the sun has been waiting for, this is the fulfilment of years of underachievement from the Norwegian legend. You want hope? You want light? You want happiness? You won’t find them here. It gains the top spot of 2007 for a simple reason – it affected me deeply, reminding of things I’d much rather have forgotten, and in a scene where most people respond to Metal in the same way (headbang… now! air guitar… now!) a piece of deliberately difficult art like this that speaks to each of us in a different way is special indeed. You can’t escape your dark side, however far you may run…
  5. 1.
    Mayhem - Ordo Ad Chao —

    The album that pretty much every Black Metal fan under the sun has been waiting for, this is the fulfilment of years of underachievement from the Norwegian legend. You want hope? You want light? You want happiness? You won’t find them here. It gains the top spot of 2007 for a simple reason – it affected me deeply, reminding of things I’d much rather have forgotten, and in a scene where most people respond to Metal in the same way (headbang… now! air guitar… now!) a piece of deliberately difficult art like this that speaks to each of us in a different way is special indeed. You can’t escape your dark side, however far you may run…
  6. 1.
    Mayhem - Ordo Ad Chao —

    The album that pretty much every Black Metal fan under the sun has been waiting for, this is the fulfilment of years of underachievement from the Norwegian legend. You want hope? You want light? You want happiness? You won’t find them here. It gains the top spot of 2007 for a simple reason – it affected me deeply, reminding of things I’d much rather have forgotten, and in a scene where most people respond to Metal in the same way (headbang… now! air guitar… now!) a piece of deliberately difficult art like this that speaks to each of us in a different way is special indeed. You can’t escape your dark side, however far you may run…
  7. 1.
    Mayhem - Ordo Ad Chao —

    The album that pretty much every Black Metal fan under the sun has been waiting for, this is the fulfilment of years of underachievement from the Norwegian legend. You want hope? You want light? You want happiness? You won’t find them here. It gains the top spot of 2007 for a simple reason – it affected me deeply, reminding of things I’d much rather have forgotten, and in a scene where most people respond to Metal in the same way (headbang… now! air guitar… now!) a piece of deliberately difficult art like this that speaks to each of us in a different way is special indeed. You can’t escape your dark side, however far you may run…
  8. 1.
    Mayhem - Ordo Ad Chao — The album that pretty much every Black Metal fan under the sun has been waiting for, this is the fulfilment of years of underachievement from the Norwegian legend. You want hope? You want light? You want happiness? You won’t find them here. It gains the top spot of 2007 for a simple reason – it affected me deeply, reminding of things I’d much rather have forgotten, and in a scene where most people respond to Metal in the same way (headbang… now! air guitar… now!) a piece of deliberately difficult art like this that speaks to each of us in a different way is special indeed. You can’t escape your dark side, however far you may run…
  9. 1.
    Mayhem - Ordo Ad Chao — The album that pretty much every Black Metal fan under the sun has been waiting for, this is the fulfilment of years of underachievement from the Norwegian legend. You want hope? You want light? You want happiness? You won’t find them here. It gains the top spot of 2007 for a simple reason – it affected me deeply, reminding of things I’d much rather have forgotten, and in a scene where most people respond to Metal in the same way (headbang… now! air guitar… now!) a piece of deliberately difficult art like this that speaks to each of us in a different way is special indeed. You can’t escape your dark side, however far you may run…
  10. 1.
    Mayhem - Ordo Ad Chao — The album that pretty much every Black Metal fan under the sun has been waiting for, this is the fulfilment of years of underachievement from the Norwegian legend. You want hope? You want light? You want happiness? You won’t find them here. It gains the top spot of 2007 for a simple reason – it affected me deeply, reminding of things I’d much rather have forgotten, and in a scene where most people respond to Metal in the same way (headbang… now! air guitar… now!) a piece of deliberately difficult art like this that speaks to each of us in a different way is special indeed. You can’t escape your dark side, however far you may run…
  11. 2.
    Rotting Christ - Theogonia —

    The Greeks prove that there’s more to Greece than, um… yeah, Theogonia’s really good, an atmospheric mix of Black Metal and Folksy Goth, ten songs of passion that’ll bring out the Achilles in all of us. Perfect writing, perfect flow, my introduction to a band that deserve far more attention than it gets - I’ll definitely be chasing past works down. Some might call it an odd choice for second-best with other deserving possibilities in the running, but it’s a classic piece of Metal and deserves every compliment that it gets. With albums like this being released in the here and now, Metal’s future is assured.
  12. 2.
    Rotting Christ - Theogonia —

    The Greeks prove that there’s more to Greece than, um… yeah, Theogonia’s really good, an atmospheric mix of Black Metal and Folksy Goth, ten songs of passion that’ll bring out the Achilles in all of us. Perfect writing, perfect flow, my introduction to a band that deserve far more attention than it gets - I’ll definitely be chasing past works down. Some might call it an odd choice for second-best with other deserving possibilities in the running, but it’s a classic piece of Metal and deserves every compliment that it gets. With albums like this being released in the here and now, Metal’s future is assured.
  13. 2.
    Rotting Christ - Theogonia —

    The Greeks prove that there’s more to Greece than, um… yeah, Theogonia’s really good, an atmospheric mix of Black Metal and Folksy Goth, ten songs of passion that’ll bring out the Achilles in all of us. Perfect writing, perfect flow, my introduction to a band that deserve far more attention than it gets - I’ll definitely be chasing past works down. Some might call it an odd choice for second-best with other deserving possibilities in the running, but it’s a classic piece of Metal and deserves every compliment that it gets. With albums like this being released in the here and now, Metal’s future is assured.
  14. 2.
    Rotting Christ - Theogonia —

    The Greeks prove that there’s more to Greece than, um… yeah, Theogonia’s really good, an atmospheric mix of Black Metal and Folksy Goth, ten songs of passion that’ll bring out the Achilles in all of us. Perfect writing, perfect flow, my introduction to a band that deserve far more attention than it gets - I’ll definitely be chasing past works down. Some might call it an odd choice for second-best with other deserving possibilities in the running, but it’s a classic piece of Metal and deserves every compliment that it gets. With albums like this being released in the here and now, Metal’s future is assured.
  15. 2.
    Rotting Christ - Theogonia —

    The Greeks prove that there’s more to Greece than, um… yeah, Theogonia’s really good, an atmospheric mix of Black Metal and Folksy Goth, ten songs of passion that’ll bring out the Achilles in all of us. Perfect writing, perfect flow, my introduction to a band that deserve far more attention than it gets - I’ll definitely be chasing past works down. Some might call it an odd choice for second-best with other deserving possibilities in the running, but it’s a classic piece of Metal and deserves every compliment that it gets. With albums like this being released in the here and now, Metal’s future is assured.
  16. 2.
    Rotting Christ - Theogonia —

    The Greeks prove that there’s more to Greece than, um… yeah, Theogonia’s really good, an atmospheric mix of Black Metal and Folksy Goth, ten songs of passion that’ll bring out the Achilles in all of us. Perfect writing, perfect flow, my introduction to a band that deserve far more attention than it gets - I’ll definitely be chasing past works down. Some might call it an odd choice for second-best with other deserving possibilities in the running, but it’s a classic piece of Metal and deserves every compliment that it gets. With albums like this being released in the here and now, Metal’s future is assured.
  17. 2.
    Rotting Christ - Theogonia —

    The Greeks prove that there’s more to Greece than, um… yeah, Theogonia’s really good, an atmospheric mix of Black Metal and Folksy Goth, ten songs of passion that’ll bring out the Achilles in all of us. Perfect writing, perfect flow, my introduction to a band that deserve far more attention than it gets - I’ll definitely be chasing past works down. Some might call it an odd choice for second-best with other deserving possibilities in the running, but it’s a classic piece of Metal and deserves every compliment that it gets. With albums like this being released in the here and now, Metal’s future is assured.
  18. 2.
    Rotting Christ - Theogonia — The Greeks prove that there’s more to Greece than, um… yeah, Theogonia’s really good, an atmospheric mix of Black Metal and Folksy Goth, ten songs of passion that’ll bring out the Achilles in all of us. Perfect writing, perfect flow, my introduction to a band that deserve far more attention than it gets - I’ll definitely be chasing past works down. Some might call it an odd choice for second-best with other deserving possibilities in the running, but it’s a classic piece of Metal and deserves every compliment that it gets. With albums like this being released in the here and now, Metal’s future is assured.
  19. 2.
    Rotting Christ - Theogonia — The Greeks prove that there’s more to Greece than, um… yeah, Theogonia’s really good, an atmospheric mix of Black Metal and Folksy Goth, ten songs of passion that’ll bring out the Achilles in all of us. Perfect writing, perfect flow, my introduction to a band that deserve far more attention than it gets - I’ll definitely be chasing past works down. Some might call it an odd choice for second-best with other deserving possibilities in the running, but it’s a classic piece of Metal and deserves every compliment that it gets. With albums like this being released in the here and now, Metal’s future is assured.
  20. 2.
    Rotting Christ - Theogonia — The Greeks prove that there’s more to Greece than, um… yeah, Theogonia’s really good, an atmospheric mix of Black Metal and Folksy Goth, ten songs of passion that’ll bring out the Achilles in all of us. Perfect writing, perfect flow, my introduction to a band that deserve far more attention than it gets - I’ll definitely be chasing past works down. Some might call it an odd choice for second-best with other deserving possibilities in the running, but it’s a classic piece of Metal and deserves every compliment that it gets. With albums like this being released in the here and now, Metal’s future is assured.
  21. 3.
    Iced Earth - Framing Armageddon - Something Wicked Part 1 —

    Concept albums about aliens? Yes, please! Tim ‘Ripper’ Owens has never sounded better, and the fact that Iced Earth seems headed in a more Progressive direction is great news. Sure, Schaeffer and co. were awesome in the past as an OTT riff-heavy Power Metal band – let’s hope he ramps up the experimental Progginess with part II, due next year, even without Ripper on vocals. In the meantime, Framing Armageddon is an excellent album that rewards your time tenfold.
  22. 3.
    Iced Earth - Framing Armageddon - Something Wicked Part 1 —

    Concept albums about aliens? Yes, please! Tim ‘Ripper’ Owens has never sounded better, and the fact that Iced Earth seems headed in a more Progressive direction is great news. Sure, Schaeffer and co. were awesome in the past as an OTT riff-heavy Power Metal band – let’s hope he ramps up the experimental Progginess with part II, due next year, even without Ripper on vocals. In the meantime, Framing Armageddon is an excellent album that rewards your time tenfold.
  23. 3.
    Iced Earth - Framing Armageddon - Something Wicked Part 1 —

    Concept albums about aliens? Yes, please! Tim ‘Ripper’ Owens has never sounded better, and the fact that Iced Earth seems headed in a more Progressive direction is great news. Sure, Schaeffer and co. were awesome in the past as an OTT riff-heavy Power Metal band – let’s hope he ramps up the experimental Progginess with part II, due next year, even without Ripper on vocals. In the meantime, Framing Armageddon is an excellent album that rewards your time tenfold.
  24. 3.
    Iced Earth - Framing Armageddon - Something Wicked Part 1 —

    Concept albums about aliens? Yes, please! Tim ‘Ripper’ Owens has never sounded better, and the fact that Iced Earth seems headed in a more Progressive direction is great news. Sure, Schaeffer and co. were awesome in the past as an OTT riff-heavy Power Metal band – let’s hope he ramps up the experimental Progginess with part II, due next year, even without Ripper on vocals. In the meantime, Framing Armageddon is an excellent album that rewards your time tenfold.
  25. 3.
    Iced Earth - Framing Armageddon - Something Wicked Part 1 —

    Concept albums about aliens? Yes, please! Tim ‘Ripper’ Owens has never sounded better, and the fact that Iced Earth seems headed in a more Progressive direction is great news. Sure, Schaeffer and co. were awesome in the past as an OTT riff-heavy Power Metal band – let’s hope he ramps up the experimental Progginess with part II, due next year, even without Ripper on vocals. In the meantime, Framing Armageddon is an excellent album that rewards your time tenfold.
  26. 3.
    Iced Earth - Framing Armageddon - Something Wicked Part 1 —

    Concept albums about aliens? Yes, please! Tim ‘Ripper’ Owens has never sounded better, and the fact that Iced Earth seems headed in a more Progressive direction is great news. Sure, Schaeffer and co. were awesome in the past as an OTT riff-heavy Power Metal band – let’s hope he ramps up the experimental Progginess with part II, due next year, even without Ripper on vocals. In the meantime, Framing Armageddon is an excellent album that rewards your time tenfold.
  27. 3.
    Iced Earth - Framing Armageddon - Something Wicked Part 1 —

    Concept albums about aliens? Yes, please! Tim ‘Ripper’ Owens has never sounded better, and the fact that Iced Earth seems headed in a more Progressive direction is great news. Sure, Schaeffer and co. were awesome in the past as an OTT riff-heavy Power Metal band – let’s hope he ramps up the experimental Progginess with part II, due next year, even without Ripper on vocals. In the meantime, Framing Armageddon is an excellent album that rewards your time tenfold.
  28. 3.
    Iced Earth - Framing Armageddon - Something Wicked Part 1 — Concept albums about aliens? Yes, please! Tim ‘Ripper’ Owens has never sounded better, and the fact that Iced Earth seems headed in a more Progressive direction is great news. Sure, Schaeffer and co. were awesome in the past as an OTT riff-heavy Power Metal band – let’s hope he ramps up the experimental Progginess with part II, due next year, even without Ripper on vocals. In the meantime, Framing Armageddon is an excellent album that rewards your time tenfold.
  29. 3.
    Iced Earth - Framing Armageddon - Something Wicked Part 1 — Concept albums about aliens? Yes, please! Tim ‘Ripper’ Owens has never sounded better, and the fact that Iced Earth seems headed in a more Progressive direction is great news. Sure, Schaeffer and co. were awesome in the past as an OTT riff-heavy Power Metal band – let’s hope he ramps up the experimental Progginess with part II, due next year, even without Ripper on vocals. In the meantime, Framing Armageddon is an excellent album that rewards your time tenfold.
  30. 3.
    Iced Earth - Framing Armageddon - Something Wicked Part 1 — Concept albums about aliens? Yes, please! Tim ‘Ripper’ Owens has never sounded better, and the fact that Iced Earth seems headed in a more Progressive direction is great news. Sure, Schaeffer and co. were awesome in the past as an OTT riff-heavy Power Metal band – let’s hope he ramps up the experimental Progginess with part II, due next year, even without Ripper on vocals. In the meantime, Framing Armageddon is an excellent album that rewards your time tenfold.
  31. 4.
    Nightwish - Dark Passion Play —

    Fine, they’ve got a new singer and she’s not Tarja. Yet the talent shines through, and Marco and co. have produced another million-dollar winner, with some supreme songwriting skills going into creating a classic for the band. The changes are for the better, I think, and with luck this band will be as good for many years to come.
  32. 4.
    Nightwish - Dark Passion Play —

    Fine, they’ve got a new singer and she’s not Tarja. Yet the talent shines through, and Marco and co. have produced another million-dollar winner, with some supreme songwriting skills going into creating a classic for the band. The changes are for the better, I think, and with luck this band will be as good for many years to come.
  33. 4.
    Nightwish - Dark Passion Play —

    Fine, they’ve got a new singer and she’s not Tarja. Yet the talent shines through, and Marco and co. have produced another million-dollar winner, with some supreme songwriting skills going into creating a classic for the band. The changes are for the better, I think, and with luck this band will be as good for many years to come.
  34. 4.
    Nightwish - Dark Passion Play —

    Fine, they’ve got a new singer and she’s not Tarja. Yet the talent shines through, and Marco and co. have produced another million-dollar winner, with some supreme songwriting skills going into creating a classic for the band. The changes are for the better, I think, and with luck this band will be as good for many years to come.
  35. 4.
    Nightwish - Dark Passion Play —

    Fine, they’ve got a new singer and she’s not Tarja. Yet the talent shines through, and Marco and co. have produced another million-dollar winner, with some supreme songwriting skills going into creating a classic for the band. The changes are for the better, I think, and with luck this band will be as good for many years to come.
  36. 4.
    Nightwish - Dark Passion Play —

    Fine, they’ve got a new singer and she’s not Tarja. Yet the talent shines through, and Marco and co. have produced another million-dollar winner, with some supreme songwriting skills going into creating a classic for the band. The changes are for the better, I think, and with luck this band will be as good for many years to come.
  37. 4.
    Nightwish - Dark Passion Play —

    Fine, they’ve got a new singer and she’s not Tarja. Yet the talent shines through, and Marco and co. have produced another million-dollar winner, with some supreme songwriting skills going into creating a classic for the band. The changes are for the better, I think, and with luck this band will be as good for many years to come.
  38. 4.
    Nightwish - Dark Passion Play — Fine, they’ve got a new singer and she’s not Tarja. Yet the talent shines through, and Marco and co. have produced another million-dollar winner, with some supreme songwriting skills going into creating a classic for the band. The changes are for the better, I think, and with luck this band will be as good for many years to come.
  39. 4.
    Nightwish - Dark Passion Play — Fine, they’ve got a new singer and she’s not Tarja. Yet the talent shines through, and Marco and co. have produced another million-dollar winner, with some supreme songwriting skills going into creating a classic for the band. The changes are for the better, I think, and with luck this band will be as good for many years to come.
  40. 4.
    Nightwish - Dark Passion Play — Fine, they’ve got a new singer and she’s not Tarja. Yet the talent shines through, and Marco and co. have produced another million-dollar winner, with some supreme songwriting skills going into creating a classic for the band. The changes are for the better, I think, and with luck this band will be as good for many years to come.
  41. 5.
    L'Acephale - Mord und Totschlag —

    Who cares when it was released, the best Black Metal is timeless, and L’Acephale will still be putting fear in peoples’ hearts in a hundred years’ time if this blast from the sewer proves anything. Like staring into the abyss and having something cold and slimy stare back…
  42. 5.
    L'Acephale - Mord und Totschlag —

    Who cares when it was released, the best Black Metal is timeless, and L’Acephale will still be putting fear in peoples’ hearts in a hundred years’ time if this blast from the sewer proves anything. Like staring into the abyss and having something cold and slimy stare back…
  43. 5.
    L'Acephale - Mord und Totschlag —

    Who cares when it was released, the best Black Metal is timeless, and L’Acephale will still be putting fear in peoples’ hearts in a hundred years’ time if this blast from the sewer proves anything. Like staring into the abyss and having something cold and slimy stare back…
  44. 5.
    L'Acephale - Mord und Totschlag —

    Who cares when it was released, the best Black Metal is timeless, and L’Acephale will still be putting fear in peoples’ hearts in a hundred years’ time if this blast from the sewer proves anything. Like staring into the abyss and having something cold and slimy stare back…
  45. 5.
    L'Acephale - Mord und Totschlag —

    Who cares when it was released, the best Black Metal is timeless, and L’Acephale will still be putting fear in peoples’ hearts in a hundred years’ time if this blast from the sewer proves anything. Like staring into the abyss and having something cold and slimy stare back…
  46. 5.
    L'Acephale - Mord und Totschlag —

    Who cares when it was released, the best Black Metal is timeless, and L’Acephale will still be putting fear in peoples’ hearts in a hundred years’ time if this blast from the sewer proves anything. Like staring into the abyss and having something cold and slimy stare back…
  47. 5.
    L'Acephale - Mord und Totschlag —

    Who cares when it was released, the best Black Metal is timeless, and L’Acephale will still be putting fear in peoples’ hearts in a hundred years’ time if this blast from the sewer proves anything. Like staring into the abyss and having something cold and slimy stare back…
  48. 5.
    L'Acephale - Mord und Totschlag — Who cares when it was released, the best Black Metal is timeless, and L’Acephale will still be putting fear in peoples’ hearts in a hundred years’ time if this blast from the sewer proves anything. Like staring into the abyss and having something cold and slimy stare back…
  49. 5.
    L'Acephale - Mord und Totschlag — Who cares when it was released, the best Black Metal is timeless, and L’Acephale will still be putting fear in peoples’ hearts in a hundred years’ time if this blast from the sewer proves anything. Like staring into the abyss and having something cold and slimy stare back…
  50. 5.
    L'Acephale - Mord und Totschlag — Who cares when it was released, the best Black Metal is timeless, and L’Acephale will still be putting fear in peoples’ hearts in a hundred years’ time if this blast from the sewer proves anything. Like staring into the abyss and having something cold and slimy stare back…
  51. 6.
    Akercocke - Antichrist —

    Mendonca, Gray and the gang have never disappointed me, and Antichrist is no exception. It might not be as immediately outstanding as Words… but give it time and you’ll see this is the Satanic Londoners’ best and most experimental platter o’splatter yet.
  52. 6.
    Akercocke - Antichrist —

    Mendonca, Gray and the gang have never disappointed me, and Antichrist is no exception. It might not be as immediately outstanding as Words… but give it time and you’ll see this is the Satanic Londoners’ best and most experimental platter o’splatter yet.
  53. 6.
    Akercocke - Antichrist —

    Mendonca, Gray and the gang have never disappointed me, and Antichrist is no exception. It might not be as immediately outstanding as Words… but give it time and you’ll see this is the Satanic Londoners’ best and most experimental platter o’splatter yet.
  54. 6.
    Akercocke - Antichrist —

    Mendonca, Gray and the gang have never disappointed me, and Antichrist is no exception. It might not be as immediately outstanding as Words… but give it time and you’ll see this is the Satanic Londoners’ best and most experimental platter o’splatter yet.
  55. 6.
    Akercocke - Antichrist —

    Mendonca, Gray and the gang have never disappointed me, and Antichrist is no exception. It might not be as immediately outstanding as Words… but give it time and you’ll see this is the Satanic Londoners’ best and most experimental platter o’splatter yet.
  56. 6.
    Akercocke - Antichrist —

    Mendonca, Gray and the gang have never disappointed me, and Antichrist is no exception. It might not be as immediately outstanding as Words… but give it time and you’ll see this is the Satanic Londoners’ best and most experimental platter o’splatter yet.
  57. 6.
    Akercocke - Antichrist —

    Mendonca, Gray and the gang have never disappointed me, and Antichrist is no exception. It might not be as immediately outstanding as Words… but give it time and you’ll see this is the Satanic Londoners’ best and most experimental platter o’splatter yet.
  58. 6.
    Akercocke - Antichrist — Mendonca, Gray and the gang have never disappointed me, and Antichrist is no exception. It might not be as immediately outstanding as Words… but give it time and you’ll see this is the Satanic Londoners’ best and most experimental platter o’splatter yet.
  59. 6.
    Akercocke - Antichrist — Mendonca, Gray and the gang have never disappointed me, and Antichrist is no exception. It might not be as immediately outstanding as Words… but give it time and you’ll see this is the Satanic Londoners’ best and most experimental platter o’splatter yet.
  60. 6.
    Akercocke - Antichrist — Mendonca, Gray and the gang have never disappointed me, and Antichrist is no exception. It might not be as immediately outstanding as Words… but give it time and you’ll see this is the Satanic Londoners’ best and most experimental platter o’splatter yet.
  61. 7.
    Corpsing - The Stench Of Humanity —

    Death Metal with style, with skill, and with variation, album number two from this English crew is more than a match for the big names this year. This brute is as much about the brain as the brawn…
  62. 7.
    Corpsing - The Stench Of Humanity —

    Death Metal with style, with skill, and with variation, album number two from this English crew is more than a match for the big names this year. This brute is as much about the brain as the brawn…
  63. 7.
    Corpsing - The Stench Of Humanity —

    Death Metal with style, with skill, and with variation, album number two from this English crew is more than a match for the big names this year. This brute is as much about the brain as the brawn…
  64. 7.
    Corpsing - The Stench Of Humanity —

    Death Metal with style, with skill, and with variation, album number two from this English crew is more than a match for the big names this year. This brute is as much about the brain as the brawn…
  65. 7.
    Corpsing - The Stench Of Humanity —

    Death Metal with style, with skill, and with variation, album number two from this English crew is more than a match for the big names this year. This brute is as much about the brain as the brawn…
  66. 7.
    Corpsing - The Stench Of Humanity —

    Death Metal with style, with skill, and with variation, album number two from this English crew is more than a match for the big names this year. This brute is as much about the brain as the brawn…
  67. 7.
    Corpsing - The Stench Of Humanity —

    Death Metal with style, with skill, and with variation, album number two from this English crew is more than a match for the big names this year. This brute is as much about the brain as the brawn…
  68. 7.
    Corpsing - The Stench Of Humanity — Death Metal with style, with skill, and with variation, album number two from this English crew is more than a match for the big names this year. This brute is as much about the brain as the brawn…
  69. 7.
    Corpsing - The Stench Of Humanity — Death Metal with style, with skill, and with variation, album number two from this English crew is more than a match for the big names this year. This brute is as much about the brain as the brawn…
  70. 7.
    Corpsing - The Stench Of Humanity — Death Metal with style, with skill, and with variation, album number two from this English crew is more than a match for the big names this year. This brute is as much about the brain as the brawn…
  71. 8.
    Ulver - Shadows Of The Sun —

    Norway’s finest prove they can do subtle as well as overbearing with this heartbreaking album. If they were American they’d be superstars, as it is, well, they’re stars to us. Another slice of genius from the Ulver pie – long may it feed us all.
  72. 8.
    Ulver - Shadows Of The Sun —

    Norway’s finest prove they can do subtle as well as overbearing with this heartbreaking album. If they were American they’d be superstars, as it is, well, they’re stars to us. Another slice of genius from the Ulver pie – long may it feed us all.
  73. 8.
    Ulver - Shadows Of The Sun —

    Norway’s finest prove they can do subtle as well as overbearing with this heartbreaking album. If they were American they’d be superstars, as it is, well, they’re stars to us. Another slice of genius from the Ulver pie – long may it feed us all.
  74. 8.
    Ulver - Shadows Of The Sun —

    Norway’s finest prove they can do subtle as well as overbearing with this heartbreaking album. If they were American they’d be superstars, as it is, well, they’re stars to us. Another slice of genius from the Ulver pie – long may it feed us all.
  75. 8.
    Ulver - Shadows Of The Sun —

    Norway’s finest prove they can do subtle as well as overbearing with this heartbreaking album. If they were American they’d be superstars, as it is, well, they’re stars to us. Another slice of genius from the Ulver pie – long may it feed us all.
  76. 8.
    Ulver - Shadows Of The Sun —

    Norway’s finest prove they can do subtle as well as overbearing with this heartbreaking album. If they were American they’d be superstars, as it is, well, they’re stars to us. Another slice of genius from the Ulver pie – long may it feed us all.
  77. 8.
    Ulver - Shadows Of The Sun —

    Norway’s finest prove they can do subtle as well as overbearing with this heartbreaking album. If they were American they’d be superstars, as it is, well, they’re stars to us. Another slice of genius from the Ulver pie – long may it feed us all.
  78. 8.
    Ulver - Shadows Of The Sun — Norway’s finest prove they can do subtle as well as overbearing with this heartbreaking album. If they were American they’d be superstars, as it is, well, they’re stars to us. Another slice of genius from the Ulver pie – long may it feed us all.
  79. 8.
    Ulver - Shadows Of The Sun — Norway’s finest prove they can do subtle as well as overbearing with this heartbreaking album. If they were American they’d be superstars, as it is, well, they’re stars to us. Another slice of genius from the Ulver pie – long may it feed us all.
  80. 8.
    Ulver - Shadows Of The Sun — Norway’s finest prove they can do subtle as well as overbearing with this heartbreaking album. If they were American they’d be superstars, as it is, well, they’re stars to us. Another slice of genius from the Ulver pie – long may it feed us all.
  81. 9.
    End Of Level Boss - Inside The Difference Engine —

    Voivod meets Kyuss in an explosion of riffs, taking in influences from Meshuggah to Led Zeppelin without losing touch with the music’s foundation. Anyone that appreciates the zanier Doom bands will love this.
  82. 9.
    End Of Level Boss - Inside The Difference Engine —

    Voivod meets Kyuss in an explosion of riffs, taking in influences from Meshuggah to Led Zeppelin without losing touch with the music’s foundation. Anyone that appreciates the zanier Doom bands will love this.
  83. 9.
    End Of Level Boss - Inside The Difference Engine —

    Voivod meets Kyuss in an explosion of riffs, taking in influences from Meshuggah to Led Zeppelin without losing touch with the music’s foundation. Anyone that appreciates the zanier Doom bands will love this.
  84. 9.
    End Of Level Boss - Inside The Difference Engine —

    Voivod meets Kyuss in an explosion of riffs, taking in influences from Meshuggah to Led Zeppelin without losing touch with the music’s foundation. Anyone that appreciates the zanier Doom bands will love this.
  85. 9.
    End Of Level Boss - Inside The Difference Engine —

    Voivod meets Kyuss in an explosion of riffs, taking in influences from Meshuggah to Led Zeppelin without losing touch with the music’s foundation. Anyone that appreciates the zanier Doom bands will love this.
  86. 9.
    End Of Level Boss - Inside The Difference Engine —

    Voivod meets Kyuss in an explosion of riffs, taking in influences from Meshuggah to Led Zeppelin without losing touch with the music’s foundation. Anyone that appreciates the zanier Doom bands will love this.
  87. 9.
    End Of Level Boss - Inside The Difference Engine —

    Voivod meets Kyuss in an explosion of riffs, taking in influences from Meshuggah to Led Zeppelin without losing touch with the music’s foundation. Anyone that appreciates the zanier Doom bands will love this.
  88. 9.
    End Of Level Boss - Inside The Difference Engine — Voivod meets Kyuss in an explosion of riffs, taking in influences from Meshuggah to Led Zeppelin without losing touch with the music’s foundation. Anyone that appreciates the zanier Doom bands will love this.
  89. 9.
    End Of Level Boss - Inside The Difference Engine — Voivod meets Kyuss in an explosion of riffs, taking in influences from Meshuggah to Led Zeppelin without losing touch with the music’s foundation. Anyone that appreciates the zanier Doom bands will love this.
  90. 9.
    End Of Level Boss - Inside The Difference Engine — Voivod meets Kyuss in an explosion of riffs, taking in influences from Meshuggah to Led Zeppelin without losing touch with the music’s foundation. Anyone that appreciates the zanier Doom bands will love this.
  91. 10.
    Therion - Gothic Kabbalah —

    Cinematic Metal doesn’t get much better. Think you know epic? Think again, as this band of Swedes prove there’s more to Kabbalah than ropey pop stars and add another shining star to their collection.

  92. 10.
    Therion - Gothic Kabbalah —

    Cinematic Metal doesn’t get much better. Think you know epic? Think again, as this band of Swedes prove there’s more to Kabbalah than ropey pop stars and add another shining star to their collection.

  93. 10.
    Therion - Gothic Kabbalah —

    Cinematic Metal doesn’t get much better. Think you know epic? Think again, as this band of Swedes prove there’s more to Kabbalah than ropey pop stars and add another shining star to their collection.

  94. 10.
    Therion - Gothic Kabbalah —

    Cinematic Metal doesn’t get much better. Think you know epic? Think again, as this band of Swedes prove there’s more to Kabbalah than ropey pop stars and add another shining star to their collection.

  95. 10.
    Therion - Gothic Kabbalah —

    Cinematic Metal doesn’t get much better. Think you know epic? Think again, as this band of Swedes prove there’s more to Kabbalah than ropey pop stars and add another shining star to their collection.

  96. 10.
    Therion - Gothic Kabbalah —

    Cinematic Metal doesn’t get much better. Think you know epic? Think again, as this band of Swedes prove there’s more to Kabbalah than ropey pop stars and add another shining star to their collection.

  97. 10.
    Therion - Gothic Kabbalah —

    Cinematic Metal doesn’t get much better. Think you know epic? Think again, as this band of Swedes prove there’s more to Kabbalah than ropey pop stars and add another shining star to their collection.

  98. 10.
    Therion - Gothic Kabbalah — Cinematic Metal doesn’t get much better. Think you know epic? Think again, as this band of Swedes prove there’s more to Kabbalah than ropey pop stars and add another shining star to their collection.
  99. 10.
    Therion - Gothic Kabbalah — Cinematic Metal doesn’t get much better. Think you know epic? Think again, as this band of Swedes prove there’s more to Kabbalah than ropey pop stars and add another shining star to their collection.
  100. 10.
    Therion - Gothic Kabbalah — Cinematic Metal doesn’t get much better. Think you know epic? Think again, as this band of Swedes prove there’s more to Kabbalah than ropey pop stars and add another shining star to their collection.
  101. 11.
    Lugubrum - De Ware Hond —

    True genius lies in the hands of a bunch of Jazzy Black Metallers from Belgium, it seems, and their seventh album of 'Boersk Blek Metle’ is amazing. Blue-skinned dwarves have never been so creepy…
  102. 11.
    Lugubrum - De Ware Hond —

    True genius lies in the hands of a bunch of Jazzy Black Metallers from Belgium, it seems, and their seventh album of 'Boersk Blek Metle’ is amazing. Blue-skinned dwarves have never been so creepy…
  103. 11.
    Lugubrum - De Ware Hond —

    True genius lies in the hands of a bunch of Jazzy Black Metallers from Belgium, it seems, and their seventh album of 'Boersk Blek Metle’ is amazing. Blue-skinned dwarves have never been so creepy…
  104. 11.
    Lugubrum - De Ware Hond —

    True genius lies in the hands of a bunch of Jazzy Black Metallers from Belgium, it seems, and their seventh album of 'Boersk Blek Metle’ is amazing. Blue-skinned dwarves have never been so creepy…
  105. 11.
    Lugubrum - De Ware Hond —

    True genius lies in the hands of a bunch of Jazzy Black Metallers from Belgium, it seems, and their seventh album of 'Boersk Blek Metle’ is amazing. Blue-skinned dwarves have never been so creepy…
  106. 11.
    Lugubrum - De Ware Hond —

    True genius lies in the hands of a bunch of Jazzy Black Metallers from Belgium, it seems, and their seventh album of 'Boersk Blek Metle’ is amazing. Blue-skinned dwarves have never been so creepy…
  107. 11.
    Lugubrum - De Ware Hond —

    True genius lies in the hands of a bunch of Jazzy Black Metallers from Belgium, it seems, and their seventh album of 'Boersk Blek Metle’ is amazing. Blue-skinned dwarves have never been so creepy…
  108. 11.
    Lugubrum - De Ware Hond — True genius lies in the hands of a bunch of Jazzy Black Metallers from Belgium, it seems, and their seventh album of 'Boersk Blek Metle’ is amazing. Blue-skinned dwarves have never been so creepy…
  109. 11.
    Lugubrum - De Ware Hond — True genius lies in the hands of a bunch of Jazzy Black Metallers from Belgium, it seems, and their seventh album of 'Boersk Blek Metle’ is amazing. Blue-skinned dwarves have never been so creepy…
  110. 11.
    Lugubrum - De Ware Hond — True genius lies in the hands of a bunch of Jazzy Black Metallers from Belgium, it seems, and their seventh album of 'Boersk Blek Metle’ is amazing. Blue-skinned dwarves have never been so creepy…
  111. 12.
    Red Harvest - A Greater Darkness —

    “Someone has found the antidote!” screams Ofu Khan on the ripping opening track. The antidote to the new Nine Inch Nails album, perhaps? Fear Factory’s heavier, scarier sibling proves Industrial Metal doesn’t mean Wimpy Metal yet again, with intriguing hints of a progressive slant meaning that this band isn’t going to run out of ideas any time soon.
  112. 12.
    Red Harvest - A Greater Darkness —

    “Someone has found the antidote!” screams Ofu Khan on the ripping opening track. The antidote to the new Nine Inch Nails album, perhaps? Fear Factory’s heavier, scarier sibling proves Industrial Metal doesn’t mean Wimpy Metal yet again, with intriguing hints of a progressive slant meaning that this band isn’t going to run out of ideas any time soon.
  113. 12.
    Red Harvest - A Greater Darkness —

    “Someone has found the antidote!” screams Ofu Khan on the ripping opening track. The antidote to the new Nine Inch Nails album, perhaps? Fear Factory’s heavier, scarier sibling proves Industrial Metal doesn’t mean Wimpy Metal yet again, with intriguing hints of a progressive slant meaning that this band isn’t going to run out of ideas any time soon.
  114. 12.
    Red Harvest - A Greater Darkness —

    “Someone has found the antidote!” screams Ofu Khan on the ripping opening track. The antidote to the new Nine Inch Nails album, perhaps? Fear Factory’s heavier, scarier sibling proves Industrial Metal doesn’t mean Wimpy Metal yet again, with intriguing hints of a progressive slant meaning that this band isn’t going to run out of ideas any time soon.
  115. 12.
    Red Harvest - A Greater Darkness —

    “Someone has found the antidote!” screams Ofu Khan on the ripping opening track. The antidote to the new Nine Inch Nails album, perhaps? Fear Factory’s heavier, scarier sibling proves Industrial Metal doesn’t mean Wimpy Metal yet again, with intriguing hints of a progressive slant meaning that this band isn’t going to run out of ideas any time soon.
  116. 12.
    Red Harvest - A Greater Darkness —

    “Someone has found the antidote!” screams Ofu Khan on the ripping opening track. The antidote to the new Nine Inch Nails album, perhaps? Fear Factory’s heavier, scarier sibling proves Industrial Metal doesn’t mean Wimpy Metal yet again, with intriguing hints of a progressive slant meaning that this band isn’t going to run out of ideas any time soon.
  117. 12.
    Red Harvest - A Greater Darkness —

    “Someone has found the antidote!” screams Ofu Khan on the ripping opening track. The antidote to the new Nine Inch Nails album, perhaps? Fear Factory’s heavier, scarier sibling proves Industrial Metal doesn’t mean Wimpy Metal yet again, with intriguing hints of a progressive slant meaning that this band isn’t going to run out of ideas any time soon.
  118. 12.
    Red Harvest - A Greater Darkness — “Someone has found the antidote!” screams Ofu Khan on the ripping opening track. The antidote to the new Nine Inch Nails album, perhaps? Fear Factory’s heavier, scarier sibling proves Industrial Metal doesn’t mean Wimpy Metal yet again, with intriguing hints of a progressive slant meaning that this band isn’t going to run out of ideas any time soon.
  119. 12.
    Red Harvest - A Greater Darkness — “Someone has found the antidote!” screams Ofu Khan on the ripping opening track. The antidote to the new Nine Inch Nails album, perhaps? Fear Factory’s heavier, scarier sibling proves Industrial Metal doesn’t mean Wimpy Metal yet again, with intriguing hints of a progressive slant meaning that this band isn’t going to run out of ideas any time soon.
  120. 12.
    Red Harvest - A Greater Darkness — “Someone has found the antidote!” screams Ofu Khan on the ripping opening track. The antidote to the new Nine Inch Nails album, perhaps? Fear Factory’s heavier, scarier sibling proves Industrial Metal doesn’t mean Wimpy Metal yet again, with intriguing hints of a progressive slant meaning that this band isn’t going to run out of ideas any time soon.
  121. 13.
    Entombed - Serpent Saints - The Ten Amendments —

    These plucky Swedes are the original and best, and it’s about time that people start speaking of them with the respect they deserve. Serpent Saints is a ridiculously good collection of Death Metal anthems, and anyone that appreciates the genre should love it.
  122. 13.
    Entombed - Serpent Saints - The Ten Amendments —

    These plucky Swedes are the original and best, and it’s about time that people start speaking of them with the respect they deserve. Serpent Saints is a ridiculously good collection of Death Metal anthems, and anyone that appreciates the genre should love it.
  123. 13.
    Entombed - Serpent Saints - The Ten Amendments —

    These plucky Swedes are the original and best, and it’s about time that people start speaking of them with the respect they deserve. Serpent Saints is a ridiculously good collection of Death Metal anthems, and anyone that appreciates the genre should love it.
  124. 13.
    Entombed - Serpent Saints - The Ten Amendments —

    These plucky Swedes are the original and best, and it’s about time that people start speaking of them with the respect they deserve. Serpent Saints is a ridiculously good collection of Death Metal anthems, and anyone that appreciates the genre should love it.
  125. 13.
    Entombed - Serpent Saints - The Ten Amendments —

    These plucky Swedes are the original and best, and it’s about time that people start speaking of them with the respect they deserve. Serpent Saints is a ridiculously good collection of Death Metal anthems, and anyone that appreciates the genre should love it.
  126. 13.
    Entombed - Serpent Saints - The Ten Amendments —

    These plucky Swedes are the original and best, and it’s about time that people start speaking of them with the respect they deserve. Serpent Saints is a ridiculously good collection of Death Metal anthems, and anyone that appreciates the genre should love it.
  127. 13.
    Entombed - Serpent Saints - The Ten Amendments —

    These plucky Swedes are the original and best, and it’s about time that people start speaking of them with the respect they deserve. Serpent Saints is a ridiculously good collection of Death Metal anthems, and anyone that appreciates the genre should love it.
  128. 13.
    Entombed - Serpent Saints - The Ten Amendments — These plucky Swedes are the original and best, and it’s about time that people start speaking of them with the respect they deserve. Serpent Saints is a ridiculously good collection of Death Metal anthems, and anyone that appreciates the genre should love it.
  129. 13.
    Entombed - Serpent Saints - The Ten Amendments — These plucky Swedes are the original and best, and it’s about time that people start speaking of them with the respect they deserve. Serpent Saints is a ridiculously good collection of Death Metal anthems, and anyone that appreciates the genre should love it.
  130. 13.
    Entombed - Serpent Saints - The Ten Amendments — These plucky Swedes are the original and best, and it’s about time that people start speaking of them with the respect they deserve. Serpent Saints is a ridiculously good collection of Death Metal anthems, and anyone that appreciates the genre should love it.
  131. 14.
    The Dillinger Escape Plan - Ire Works —

    Ire works, indeed, so well that you’ll be wondering how in the hell Justin Timberlake went Grindcore. Before remembering you are, in fact, listening to The Dillinger Escape Plan and they’re awesome.
  132. 14.
    The Dillinger Escape Plan - Ire Works —

    Ire works, indeed, so well that you’ll be wondering how in the hell Justin Timberlake went Grindcore. Before remembering you are, in fact, listening to The Dillinger Escape Plan and they’re awesome.
  133. 14.
    The Dillinger Escape Plan - Ire Works —

    Ire works, indeed, so well that you’ll be wondering how in the hell Justin Timberlake went Grindcore. Before remembering you are, in fact, listening to The Dillinger Escape Plan and they’re awesome.
  134. 14.
    The Dillinger Escape Plan - Ire Works —

    Ire works, indeed, so well that you’ll be wondering how in the hell Justin Timberlake went Grindcore. Before remembering you are, in fact, listening to The Dillinger Escape Plan and they’re awesome.
  135. 14.
    The Dillinger Escape Plan - Ire Works —

    Ire works, indeed, so well that you’ll be wondering how in the hell Justin Timberlake went Grindcore. Before remembering you are, in fact, listening to The Dillinger Escape Plan and they’re awesome.
  136. 14.
    The Dillinger Escape Plan - Ire Works —

    Ire works, indeed, so well that you’ll be wondering how in the hell Justin Timberlake went Grindcore. Before remembering you are, in fact, listening to The Dillinger Escape Plan and they’re awesome.
  137. 14.
    The Dillinger Escape Plan - Ire Works —

    Ire works, indeed, so well that you’ll be wondering how in the hell Justin Timberlake went Grindcore. Before remembering you are, in fact, listening to The Dillinger Escape Plan and they’re awesome.
  138. 14.
    The Dillinger Escape Plan - Ire Works — Ire works, indeed, so well that you’ll be wondering how in the hell Justin Timberlake went Grindcore. Before remembering you are, in fact, listening to The Dillinger Escape Plan and they’re awesome.
  139. 14.
    The Dillinger Escape Plan - Ire Works — Ire works, indeed, so well that you’ll be wondering how in the hell Justin Timberlake went Grindcore. Before remembering you are, in fact, listening to The Dillinger Escape Plan and they’re awesome.
  140. 14.
    The Dillinger Escape Plan - Ire Works — Ire works, indeed, so well that you’ll be wondering how in the hell Justin Timberlake went Grindcore. Before remembering you are, in fact, listening to The Dillinger Escape Plan and they’re awesome.
  141. 15.
    Megadeth - United Abominations —

    Whatever you think of Dave’s politics, it’s impossible to deny that he’s still got it, and that this (eleventh!) album is the best his band’s put out for a while. There’s no way he can end his band when releases of this quality are ripping up stereos – let’s hope we’ll still be headbanging in another eleven albums’ time.
  142. 15.
    Megadeth - United Abominations —

    Whatever you think of Dave’s politics, it’s impossible to deny that he’s still got it, and that this (eleventh!) album is the best his band’s put out for a while. There’s no way he can end his band when releases of this quality are ripping up stereos – let’s hope we’ll still be headbanging in another eleven albums’ time.
  143. 15.
    Megadeth - United Abominations —

    Whatever you think of Dave’s politics, it’s impossible to deny that he’s still got it, and that this (eleventh!) album is the best his band’s put out for a while. There’s no way he can end his band when releases of this quality are ripping up stereos – let’s hope we’ll still be headbanging in another eleven albums’ time.
  144. 15.
    Megadeth - United Abominations —

    Whatever you think of Dave’s politics, it’s impossible to deny that he’s still got it, and that this (eleventh!) album is the best his band’s put out for a while. There’s no way he can end his band when releases of this quality are ripping up stereos – let’s hope we’ll still be headbanging in another eleven albums’ time.
  145. 15.
    Megadeth - United Abominations —

    Whatever you think of Dave’s politics, it’s impossible to deny that he’s still got it, and that this (eleventh!) album is the best his band’s put out for a while. There’s no way he can end his band when releases of this quality are ripping up stereos – let’s hope we’ll still be headbanging in another eleven albums’ time.
  146. 15.
    Megadeth - United Abominations —

    Whatever you think of Dave’s politics, it’s impossible to deny that he’s still got it, and that this (eleventh!) album is the best his band’s put out for a while. There’s no way he can end his band when releases of this quality are ripping up stereos – let’s hope we’ll still be headbanging in another eleven albums’ time.
  147. 15.
    Megadeth - United Abominations —

    Whatever you think of Dave’s politics, it’s impossible to deny that he’s still got it, and that this (eleventh!) album is the best his band’s put out for a while. There’s no way he can end his band when releases of this quality are ripping up stereos – let’s hope we’ll still be headbanging in another eleven albums’ time.
  148. 15.
    Megadeth - United Abominations — Whatever you think of Dave’s politics, it’s impossible to deny that he’s still got it, and that this (eleventh!) album is the best his band’s put out for a while. There’s no way he can end his band when releases of this quality are ripping up stereos – let’s hope we’ll still be headbanging in another eleven albums’ time.
  149. 15.
    Megadeth - United Abominations — Whatever you think of Dave’s politics, it’s impossible to deny that he’s still got it, and that this (eleventh!) album is the best his band’s put out for a while. There’s no way he can end his band when releases of this quality are ripping up stereos – let’s hope we’ll still be headbanging in another eleven albums’ time.
  150. 15.
    Megadeth - United Abominations — Whatever you think of Dave’s politics, it’s impossible to deny that he’s still got it, and that this (eleventh!) album is the best his band’s put out for a while. There’s no way he can end his band when releases of this quality are ripping up stereos – let’s hope we’ll still be headbanging in another eleven albums’ time.

Surprises of the Year

  1. 1.
    Dãm - The Difference Engine —

    Progressive Death Metal that’s actually Progressive? That doesn’t rip other bands off? That’s fun to listen to? The queue starts here as London’s finest drop their second album of twisty riffs into our collective skull – damn, indeed.
  2. 1.
    Dãm - The Difference Engine —

    Progressive Death Metal that’s actually Progressive? That doesn’t rip other bands off? That’s fun to listen to? The queue starts here as London’s finest drop their second album of twisty riffs into our collective skull – damn, indeed.
  3. 1.
    Dãm - The Difference Engine —

    Progressive Death Metal that’s actually Progressive? That doesn’t rip other bands off? That’s fun to listen to? The queue starts here as London’s finest drop their second album of twisty riffs into our collective skull – damn, indeed.
  4. 1.
    Dãm - The Difference Engine —

    Progressive Death Metal that’s actually Progressive? That doesn’t rip other bands off? That’s fun to listen to? The queue starts here as London’s finest drop their second album of twisty riffs into our collective skull – damn, indeed.
  5. 1.
    Dãm - The Difference Engine —

    Progressive Death Metal that’s actually Progressive? That doesn’t rip other bands off? That’s fun to listen to? The queue starts here as London’s finest drop their second album of twisty riffs into our collective skull – damn, indeed.
  6. 1.
    Dãm - The Difference Engine —

    Progressive Death Metal that’s actually Progressive? That doesn’t rip other bands off? That’s fun to listen to? The queue starts here as London’s finest drop their second album of twisty riffs into our collective skull – damn, indeed.
  7. 1.
    Dãm - The Difference Engine — Progressive Death Metal that’s actually Progressive? That doesn’t rip other bands off? That’s fun to listen to? The queue starts here as London’s finest drop their second album of twisty riffs into our collective skull – damn, indeed.
  8. 1.
    Dãm - The Difference Engine — Progressive Death Metal that’s actually Progressive? That doesn’t rip other bands off? That’s fun to listen to? The queue starts here as London’s finest drop their second album of twisty riffs into our collective skull – damn, indeed.
  9. 2.
    Ava Inferi - The Silhouette —

    Well, did you know that Rune from Mayhem even had a gentle side, let alone that he was capable of masterminding some of the best Gothic Doom ever made? Or even that his partner Carmen had a voice that single-handedly makes Lisa Gerrard sound like the drunken singing of a gangrenous tramp? OK, so that’s exaggerating, but it’s not far off it. The next time someone tells you that female-fronted bands are rubbish, hit them in the face with a copy of this, then play it for them.
  10. 2.
    Ava Inferi - The Silhouette —

    Well, did you know that Rune from Mayhem even had a gentle side, let alone that he was capable of masterminding some of the best Gothic Doom ever made? Or even that his partner Carmen had a voice that single-handedly makes Lisa Gerrard sound like the drunken singing of a gangrenous tramp? OK, so that’s exaggerating, but it’s not far off it. The next time someone tells you that female-fronted bands are rubbish, hit them in the face with a copy of this, then play it for them.
  11. 2.
    Ava Inferi - The Silhouette —

    Well, did you know that Rune from Mayhem even had a gentle side, let alone that he was capable of masterminding some of the best Gothic Doom ever made? Or even that his partner Carmen had a voice that single-handedly makes Lisa Gerrard sound like the drunken singing of a gangrenous tramp? OK, so that’s exaggerating, but it’s not far off it. The next time someone tells you that female-fronted bands are rubbish, hit them in the face with a copy of this, then play it for them.
  12. 2.
    Ava Inferi - The Silhouette —

    Well, did you know that Rune from Mayhem even had a gentle side, let alone that he was capable of masterminding some of the best Gothic Doom ever made? Or even that his partner Carmen had a voice that single-handedly makes Lisa Gerrard sound like the drunken singing of a gangrenous tramp? OK, so that’s exaggerating, but it’s not far off it. The next time someone tells you that female-fronted bands are rubbish, hit them in the face with a copy of this, then play it for them.
  13. 2.
    Ava Inferi - The Silhouette —

    Well, did you know that Rune from Mayhem even had a gentle side, let alone that he was capable of masterminding some of the best Gothic Doom ever made? Or even that his partner Carmen had a voice that single-handedly makes Lisa Gerrard sound like the drunken singing of a gangrenous tramp? OK, so that’s exaggerating, but it’s not far off it. The next time someone tells you that female-fronted bands are rubbish, hit them in the face with a copy of this, then play it for them.
  14. 2.
    Ava Inferi - The Silhouette —

    Well, did you know that Rune from Mayhem even had a gentle side, let alone that he was capable of masterminding some of the best Gothic Doom ever made? Or even that his partner Carmen had a voice that single-handedly makes Lisa Gerrard sound like the drunken singing of a gangrenous tramp? OK, so that’s exaggerating, but it’s not far off it. The next time someone tells you that female-fronted bands are rubbish, hit them in the face with a copy of this, then play it for them.
  15. 2.
    Ava Inferi - The Silhouette — Well, did you know that Rune from Mayhem even had a gentle side, let alone that he was capable of masterminding some of the best Gothic Doom ever made? Or even that his partner Carmen had a voice that single-handedly makes Lisa Gerrard sound like the drunken singing of a gangrenous tramp? OK, so that’s exaggerating, but it’s not far off it. The next time someone tells you that female-fronted bands are rubbish, hit them in the face with a copy of this, then play it for them.
  16. 2.
    Ava Inferi - The Silhouette — Well, did you know that Rune from Mayhem even had a gentle side, let alone that he was capable of masterminding some of the best Gothic Doom ever made? Or even that his partner Carmen had a voice that single-handedly makes Lisa Gerrard sound like the drunken singing of a gangrenous tramp? OK, so that’s exaggerating, but it’s not far off it. The next time someone tells you that female-fronted bands are rubbish, hit them in the face with a copy of this, then play it for them.
  17. 3.
    Centurions Ghost - The Great Work —

    Cathedral ain’t the only limeys around reshaping Doom in their own, spectacular image. An excellent album that lasts well beyond a few listens.
  18. 3.
    Centurions Ghost - The Great Work —

    Cathedral ain’t the only limeys around reshaping Doom in their own, spectacular image. An excellent album that lasts well beyond a few listens.
  19. 3.
    Centurions Ghost - The Great Work —

    Cathedral ain’t the only limeys around reshaping Doom in their own, spectacular image. An excellent album that lasts well beyond a few listens.
  20. 3.
    Centurions Ghost - The Great Work —

    Cathedral ain’t the only limeys around reshaping Doom in their own, spectacular image. An excellent album that lasts well beyond a few listens.
  21. 3.
    Centurions Ghost - The Great Work —

    Cathedral ain’t the only limeys around reshaping Doom in their own, spectacular image. An excellent album that lasts well beyond a few listens.
  22. 3.
    Centurions Ghost - The Great Work —

    Cathedral ain’t the only limeys around reshaping Doom in their own, spectacular image. An excellent album that lasts well beyond a few listens.
  23. 3.
    Centurions Ghost - The Great Work — Cathedral ain’t the only limeys around reshaping Doom in their own, spectacular image. An excellent album that lasts well beyond a few listens.
  24. 3.
    Centurions Ghost - The Great Work — Cathedral ain’t the only limeys around reshaping Doom in their own, spectacular image. An excellent album that lasts well beyond a few listens.
  25. 4.
    The Chronicles Of Israfel - Starborn, Tome I —

    Yes, it’s a silly name, but it’s an excellent modernized journey through Prog Metal. The first of hopefully many from these Canadian upstarts, let’s hope someone takes notice and this band gets the rewards it deserves.

  26. 4.
    The Chronicles Of Israfel - Starborn, Tome I —

    Yes, it’s a silly name, but it’s an excellent modernized journey through Prog Metal. The first of hopefully many from these Canadian upstarts, let’s hope someone takes notice and this band gets the rewards it deserves.

  27. 4.
    The Chronicles Of Israfel - Starborn, Tome I —

    Yes, it’s a silly name, but it’s an excellent modernized journey through Prog Metal. The first of hopefully many from these Canadian upstarts, let’s hope someone takes notice and this band gets the rewards it deserves.

  28. 4.
    The Chronicles Of Israfel - Starborn, Tome I —

    Yes, it’s a silly name, but it’s an excellent modernized journey through Prog Metal. The first of hopefully many from these Canadian upstarts, let’s hope someone takes notice and this band gets the rewards it deserves.

  29. 4.
    The Chronicles Of Israfel - Starborn, Tome I —

    Yes, it’s a silly name, but it’s an excellent modernized journey through Prog Metal. The first of hopefully many from these Canadian upstarts, let’s hope someone takes notice and this band gets the rewards it deserves.

  30. 4.
    The Chronicles Of Israfel - Starborn, Tome I —

    Yes, it’s a silly name, but it’s an excellent modernized journey through Prog Metal. The first of hopefully many from these Canadian upstarts, let’s hope someone takes notice and this band gets the rewards it deserves.

  31. 4.
    The Chronicles Of Israfel - Starborn, Tome I — Yes, it’s a silly name, but it’s an excellent modernized journey through Prog Metal. The first of hopefully many from these Canadian upstarts, let’s hope someone takes notice and this band gets the rewards it deserves.
  32. 4.
    The Chronicles Of Israfel - Starborn, Tome I — Yes, it’s a silly name, but it’s an excellent modernized journey through Prog Metal. The first of hopefully many from these Canadian upstarts, let’s hope someone takes notice and this band gets the rewards it deserves.
  33. 5.
    Nuclear Blast Allstars - Into The Light —

    After the ‘heavy’ side of this project proved itself not much more than passable I wasn’t expecting much from the ‘light’ side, but the guys from Rage managed to make this a riff-heavy exercise in Power Metal goodness.

  34. 5.
    Nuclear Blast Allstars - Into The Light —

    After the ‘heavy’ side of this project proved itself not much more than passable I wasn’t expecting much from the ‘light’ side, but the guys from Rage managed to make this a riff-heavy exercise in Power Metal goodness.

  35. 5.
    Nuclear Blast Allstars - Into The Light —

    After the ‘heavy’ side of this project proved itself not much more than passable I wasn’t expecting much from the ‘light’ side, but the guys from Rage managed to make this a riff-heavy exercise in Power Metal goodness.

  36. 5.
    Nuclear Blast Allstars - Into The Light —

    After the ‘heavy’ side of this project proved itself not much more than passable I wasn’t expecting much from the ‘light’ side, but the guys from Rage managed to make this a riff-heavy exercise in Power Metal goodness.

  37. 5.
    Nuclear Blast Allstars - Into The Light —

    After the ‘heavy’ side of this project proved itself not much more than passable I wasn’t expecting much from the ‘light’ side, but the guys from Rage managed to make this a riff-heavy exercise in Power Metal goodness.

  38. 5.
    Nuclear Blast Allstars - Into The Light —

    After the ‘heavy’ side of this project proved itself not much more than passable I wasn’t expecting much from the ‘light’ side, but the guys from Rage managed to make this a riff-heavy exercise in Power Metal goodness.

  39. 5.
    Nuclear Blast Allstars - Into The Light — After the ‘heavy’ side of this project proved itself not much more than passable I wasn’t expecting much from the ‘light’ side, but the guys from Rage managed to make this a riff-heavy exercise in Power Metal goodness.
  40. 5.
    Nuclear Blast Allstars - Into The Light — After the ‘heavy’ side of this project proved itself not much more than passable I wasn’t expecting much from the ‘light’ side, but the guys from Rage managed to make this a riff-heavy exercise in Power Metal goodness.

Disappointments

  1. 1.
    Blut Aus Nord - Odinist: The Destruction of Reason by Illumination —

    One of the most out-there bands on the Black Metal front shoots itself in the foot by turning formulaic. Sure, bonkers kvltsters who put style over substance will love it, but those who care more for music than image will be as saddened as I was.

  2. 1.
    Blut Aus Nord - Odinist: The Destruction of Reason by Illumination —

    One of the most out-there bands on the Black Metal front shoots itself in the foot by turning formulaic. Sure, bonkers kvltsters who put style over substance will love it, but those who care more for music than image will be as saddened as I was.

  3. 1.
    Blut Aus Nord - Odinist: The Destruction of Reason by Illumination —

    One of the most out-there bands on the Black Metal front shoots itself in the foot by turning formulaic. Sure, bonkers kvltsters who put style over substance will love it, but those who care more for music than image will be as saddened as I was.

  4. 1.
    Blut Aus Nord - Odinist: The Destruction of Reason by Illumination —

    One of the most out-there bands on the Black Metal front shoots itself in the foot by turning formulaic. Sure, bonkers kvltsters who put style over substance will love it, but those who care more for music than image will be as saddened as I was.

  5. 1.
    Blut Aus Nord - Odinist: The Destruction of Reason by Illumination —

    One of the most out-there bands on the Black Metal front shoots itself in the foot by turning formulaic. Sure, bonkers kvltsters who put style over substance will love it, but those who care more for music than image will be as saddened as I was.

  6. 1.
    Blut Aus Nord - Odinist: The Destruction of Reason by Illumination — One of the most out-there bands on the Black Metal front shoots itself in the foot by turning formulaic. Sure, bonkers kvltsters who put style over substance will love it, but those who care more for music than image will be as saddened as I was.
  7. 1.
    Blut Aus Nord - Odinist: The Destruction of Reason by Illumination — One of the most out-there bands on the Black Metal front shoots itself in the foot by turning formulaic. Sure, bonkers kvltsters who put style over substance will love it, but those who care more for music than image will be as saddened as I was.
  8. 2.
    Nile - Ithyphallic —

    After the awe-inspiring epic pyramids of riffs to be found on Annihilation Of The Wicked, Nile abruptly turned around and produced… this. Although after many listens I’ve started to accept it as not being completely awful, it’s not an instant classic like, ooh, any of the past albums. People have been suggesting that this band has been running out of ideas for a while, and I didn’t believe it until Ithyphallic came along.
  9. 2.
    Nile - Ithyphallic —

    After the awe-inspiring epic pyramids of riffs to be found on Annihilation Of The Wicked, Nile abruptly turned around and produced… this. Although after many listens I’ve started to accept it as not being completely awful, it’s not an instant classic like, ooh, any of the past albums. People have been suggesting that this band has been running out of ideas for a while, and I didn’t believe it until Ithyphallic came along.
  10. 2.
    Nile - Ithyphallic —

    After the awe-inspiring epic pyramids of riffs to be found on Annihilation Of The Wicked, Nile abruptly turned around and produced… this. Although after many listens I’ve started to accept it as not being completely awful, it’s not an instant classic like, ooh, any of the past albums. People have been suggesting that this band has been running out of ideas for a while, and I didn’t believe it until Ithyphallic came along.
  11. 2.
    Nile - Ithyphallic —

    After the awe-inspiring epic pyramids of riffs to be found on Annihilation Of The Wicked, Nile abruptly turned around and produced… this. Although after many listens I’ve started to accept it as not being completely awful, it’s not an instant classic like, ooh, any of the past albums. People have been suggesting that this band has been running out of ideas for a while, and I didn’t believe it until Ithyphallic came along.
  12. 2.
    Nile - Ithyphallic —

    After the awe-inspiring epic pyramids of riffs to be found on Annihilation Of The Wicked, Nile abruptly turned around and produced… this. Although after many listens I’ve started to accept it as not being completely awful, it’s not an instant classic like, ooh, any of the past albums. People have been suggesting that this band has been running out of ideas for a while, and I didn’t believe it until Ithyphallic came along.
  13. 2.
    Nile - Ithyphallic — After the awe-inspiring epic pyramids of riffs to be found on Annihilation Of The Wicked, Nile abruptly turned around and produced… this. Although after many listens I’ve started to accept it as not being completely awful, it’s not an instant classic like, ooh, any of the past albums. People have been suggesting that this band has been running out of ideas for a while, and I didn’t believe it until Ithyphallic came along.
  14. 2.
    Nile - Ithyphallic — After the awe-inspiring epic pyramids of riffs to be found on Annihilation Of The Wicked, Nile abruptly turned around and produced… this. Although after many listens I’ve started to accept it as not being completely awful, it’s not an instant classic like, ooh, any of the past albums. People have been suggesting that this band has been running out of ideas for a while, and I didn’t believe it until Ithyphallic came along.
  15. 3.
    Arch Enemy - Rise Of The Tyrant —

    Following two underrated experimental albums with a riff-heavy blast may be the way to go. What a pity the riffs are all at least ten years old and the experience in total is about as engrossing as watching paint dry.

  16. 3.
    Arch Enemy - Rise Of The Tyrant —

    Following two underrated experimental albums with a riff-heavy blast may be the way to go. What a pity the riffs are all at least ten years old and the experience in total is about as engrossing as watching paint dry.

  17. 3.
    Arch Enemy - Rise Of The Tyrant —

    Following two underrated experimental albums with a riff-heavy blast may be the way to go. What a pity the riffs are all at least ten years old and the experience in total is about as engrossing as watching paint dry.

  18. 3.
    Arch Enemy - Rise Of The Tyrant —

    Following two underrated experimental albums with a riff-heavy blast may be the way to go. What a pity the riffs are all at least ten years old and the experience in total is about as engrossing as watching paint dry.

  19. 3.
    Arch Enemy - Rise Of The Tyrant —

    Following two underrated experimental albums with a riff-heavy blast may be the way to go. What a pity the riffs are all at least ten years old and the experience in total is about as engrossing as watching paint dry.

  20. 3.
    Arch Enemy - Rise Of The Tyrant — Following two underrated experimental albums with a riff-heavy blast may be the way to go. What a pity the riffs are all at least ten years old and the experience in total is about as engrossing as watching paint dry.
  21. 3.
    Arch Enemy - Rise Of The Tyrant — Following two underrated experimental albums with a riff-heavy blast may be the way to go. What a pity the riffs are all at least ten years old and the experience in total is about as engrossing as watching paint dry.
  22. 4.
    Forgotten Woods - Race Of Cain —

    In which it is proven that not every Black Metal legend that has split up should reform. The sound of men stuck ten years in the past, trying to sound as if they’re in the present.

  23. 4.
    Forgotten Woods - Race Of Cain —

    In which it is proven that not every Black Metal legend that has split up should reform. The sound of men stuck ten years in the past, trying to sound as if they’re in the present.

  24. 4.
    Forgotten Woods - Race Of Cain —

    In which it is proven that not every Black Metal legend that has split up should reform. The sound of men stuck ten years in the past, trying to sound as if they’re in the present.

  25. 4.
    Forgotten Woods - Race Of Cain —

    In which it is proven that not every Black Metal legend that has split up should reform. The sound of men stuck ten years in the past, trying to sound as if they’re in the present.

  26. 4.
    Forgotten Woods - Race Of Cain —

    In which it is proven that not every Black Metal legend that has split up should reform. The sound of men stuck ten years in the past, trying to sound as if they’re in the present.

  27. 4.
    Forgotten Woods - Race Of Cain — In which it is proven that not every Black Metal legend that has split up should reform. The sound of men stuck ten years in the past, trying to sound as if they’re in the present.
  28. 4.
    Forgotten Woods - Race Of Cain — In which it is proven that not every Black Metal legend that has split up should reform. The sound of men stuck ten years in the past, trying to sound as if they’re in the present.
  29. 5.
    Epica - The Divine Conspiracy —

    An exercise in cutting through hype, actually listening to music, and being disappointed to find that if not for their shapely fire-haired singer, none of you would ever have heard of Epica because they’d be lost in a sea of similarly mediocre bands.
  30. 5.
    Epica - The Divine Conspiracy —

    An exercise in cutting through hype, actually listening to music, and being disappointed to find that if not for their shapely fire-haired singer, none of you would ever have heard of Epica because they’d be lost in a sea of similarly mediocre bands.
  31. 5.
    Epica - The Divine Conspiracy —

    An exercise in cutting through hype, actually listening to music, and being disappointed to find that if not for their shapely fire-haired singer, none of you would ever have heard of Epica because they’d be lost in a sea of similarly mediocre bands.
  32. 5.
    Epica - The Divine Conspiracy —

    An exercise in cutting through hype, actually listening to music, and being disappointed to find that if not for their shapely fire-haired singer, none of you would ever have heard of Epica because they’d be lost in a sea of similarly mediocre bands.
  33. 5.
    Epica - The Divine Conspiracy —

    An exercise in cutting through hype, actually listening to music, and being disappointed to find that if not for their shapely fire-haired singer, none of you would ever have heard of Epica because they’d be lost in a sea of similarly mediocre bands.
  34. 5.
    Epica - The Divine Conspiracy — An exercise in cutting through hype, actually listening to music, and being disappointed to find that if not for their shapely fire-haired singer, none of you would ever have heard of Epica because they’d be lost in a sea of similarly mediocre bands.
  35. 5.
    Epica - The Divine Conspiracy — An exercise in cutting through hype, actually listening to music, and being disappointed to find that if not for their shapely fire-haired singer, none of you would ever have heard of Epica because they’d be lost in a sea of similarly mediocre bands.

Joke of the Year

  1. 1.
    Atreyu, Avenged Sevenfold, Trivium, Bullet For My Valentine, Bring Me The Horizon —

    What Amy Winehouse is to Jazz and Ben Stiller is to comedy, these are to Metal. Mock them with harsh words, mock them with scornful laughs, mock their very existence and mock people that enjoy listening to them. It’s not that they aren’t extreme or underground enough, oh no. It’s that each and every song they’ve written is exactly the sort of rubbish that mainstream toe-dippers and day-trippers seize upon as being proof that Metal isn’t dead, that Limp Bizkit and Nirvana didn’t kill us after all. Welcome to the real world, cretins, we’ve known that for years. The above five make metal for the scum, the sheep, those that paddle at the edge of the sea of steel whilst the rest of us dive to its depths, and if you’re reading this rage-filled at this casual trashing of the five bands that have given you a new outlook on life, then may I respectfully suggest spending a shitload more time at this site because, heck, you sure need it.

  2. 1.
    Atreyu, Avenged Sevenfold, Trivium, Bullet For My Valentine, Bring Me The Horizon —

    What Amy Winehouse is to Jazz and Ben Stiller is to comedy, these are to Metal. Mock them with harsh words, mock them with scornful laughs, mock their very existence and mock people that enjoy listening to them. It’s not that they aren’t extreme or underground enough, oh no. It’s that each and every song they’ve written is exactly the sort of rubbish that mainstream toe-dippers and day-trippers seize upon as being proof that Metal isn’t dead, that Limp Bizkit and Nirvana didn’t kill us after all. Welcome to the real world, cretins, we’ve known that for years. The above five make metal for the scum, the sheep, those that paddle at the edge of the sea of steel whilst the rest of us dive to its depths, and if you’re reading this rage-filled at this casual trashing of the five bands that have given you a new outlook on life, then may I respectfully suggest spending a shitload more time at this site because, heck, you sure need it.

  3. 1.
    Atreyu, Avenged Sevenfold, Trivium, Bullet For My Valentine, Bring Me The Horizon —

    What Amy Winehouse is to Jazz and Ben Stiller is to comedy, these are to Metal. Mock them with harsh words, mock them with scornful laughs, mock their very existence and mock people that enjoy listening to them. It’s not that they aren’t extreme or underground enough, oh no. It’s that each and every song they’ve written is exactly the sort of rubbish that mainstream toe-dippers and day-trippers seize upon as being proof that Metal isn’t dead, that Limp Bizkit and Nirvana didn’t kill us after all. Welcome to the real world, cretins, we’ve known that for years. The above five make Metal for the scum, the sheep, those that paddle at the edge of the sea of steel whilst the rest of us dive to its depths, and if you’re reading this full of rage at such a casual trashing of the five bands that have changed your life, then may I respectfully suggest spending a shitload more time at this site because you sure as hell need it.

  4. 1.
    Atreyu, Avenged Sevenfold, Trivium, Bullet For My Valentine, Bring Me The Horizon —

    What Amy Winehouse is to Jazz and Ben Stiller is to comedy, these are to Metal. Mock them with harsh words, mock them with scornful laughs, mock their very existence and mock people that enjoy listening to them. It’s not that they aren’t extreme or underground enough, oh no. It’s that each and every song they’ve written is exactly the sort of rubbish that mainstream toe-dippers and day-trippers seize upon as being proof that Metal isn’t dead, that Limp Bizkit and Nirvana didn’t kill us after all. Welcome to the real world, cretins, we’ve known that for years. The above five make Metal for the scum, the sheep, those that paddle at the edge of the sea of steel whilst the rest of us dive to its depths, and if you’re reading this full of rage at such a casual trashing of the five bands that have changed your life, then may I respectfully suggest spending a shitload more time at this site because you sure as hell need it.

  5. 1.
    Atreyu, Avenged Sevenfold, Trivium, Bullet For My Valentine, Bring Me The Horizon —

    What Amy Winehouse is to Jazz and Ben Stiller is to comedy, these are to Metal. Mock them with harsh words, mock them with scornful laughs, mock their very existence and mock people that enjoy listening to them. It’s not that they aren’t extreme or underground enough, oh no. It’s that each and every song they’ve written is exactly the sort of rubbish that mainstream toe-dippers and day-trippers seize upon as being proof that Metal isn’t dead, that Limp Bizkit and Nirvana didn’t kill us after all. Welcome to the real world, cretins, we’ve known that for years. The above five make Metal for the scum, the sheep, those that paddle at the edge of the sea of steel whilst the rest of us dive to its depths, and if you’re reading this full of rage at such a casual trashing of the five bands that have changed your life, then may I respectfully suggest spending a shitload more time at this site because you sure as hell need it.

  6. 1.
    — 1. Atreyu 2. Avenged Sevenfold 3. Trivium 4. Bullet For My Valentine 5. Bring Me The Horizon What Amy Winehouse is to Jazz and Ben Stiller is to comedy, these are to Metal. Mock them with harsh words, mock them with scornful laughs, mock their very existence and mock people that enjoy listening to them. It’s not that they aren’t extreme or underground enough, oh no. It’s that each and every song they’ve written is exactly the sort of rubbish that mainstream toe-dippers and day-trippers seize upon as being proof that Metal isn’t dead, that Limp Bizkit and Nirvana didn’t kill us after all. Welcome to the real world, cretins, we’ve known that for years. The above five make metal for the scum, the sheep, those that paddle at the edge of the sea of steel whilst the rest of us dive to its depths, and if you’re reading this rage-filled at this casual trashing of the five bands that have given you a new outlook on life, then may I respectfully suggest spending a shitload more time at this site because, heck, you sure need it.
  7. 1.
    — 1. Atreyu 2. Avenged Sevenfold 3. Trivium 4. Bullet For My Valentine 5. Bring Me The Horizon What Amy Winehouse is to Jazz and Ben Stiller is to comedy, these are to Metal. Mock them with harsh words, mock them with scornful laughs, mock their very existence and mock people that enjoy listening to them. It’s not that they aren’t extreme or underground enough, oh no. It’s that each and every song they’ve written is exactly the sort of rubbish that mainstream toe-dippers and day-trippers seize upon as being proof that Metal isn’t dead, that Limp Bizkit and Nirvana didn’t kill us after all. Welcome to the real world, cretins, we’ve known that for years. The above five make metal for the scum, the sheep, those that paddle at the edge of the sea of steel whilst the rest of us dive to its depths, and if you’re reading this rage-filled at this casual trashing of the five bands that have given you a new outlook on life, then may I respectfully suggest spending a shitload more time at this site because, heck, you sure need it.

Words / Final Thoughts

  1. 0
    —

    2007’s been more than an interesting year for me, both on the musical and personal fronts. Of course, I joined MR late in the year as a reviewer, fulfilling an ambition that’s been hovering near the surface since I first joined the forum as someone who’d gotten into Metal through Evanescence and for whom all this ‘Metal’ stuff was a bit heavy. Thankfully, all it took was a few Iron Maiden albums, a chance Darkthrone purchase and many long hours spent exploring the steel world online to bring me around, and although at first I took the whole Black Metal thing too seriously, more recently I’ve realised that life’s as much about the greys as the black and whites and branched out a little.

    This didn’t help stop my Top Fifteen from being a real pain to choose! Those tearfully culled include Behemoth – The Apostasy (Nergal and co. really pushed themselves on this one, producing a fine set of songs that are leaps and bounds above the decent but rather more straightforward Demigod), Municipal Waste – The Art Of Partying (Thrash never sounded so good), Angelcorpse – Of Lucifer And Lightning (reformation of the decade? Old-school Death Metal proves it can still kick serious ass!), Machine Head – The Blackening (call it Metalcore if you want, it’s still a great album), Mithras – Behind The Shadows Lie Madness (not as good as the first two but, heck, if it gets the punters in who’s complaining? Still ten times better than most Death Metal bands could ever hope to be), Alchemist – Tripsis (I underrated this in my review. Excellent band), Vital Remains – Icons Of Evil (never let anyone tell you that Glen Benton is an embarrassment to Metal – just play them this and watch their feeble Christian souls melt away!), Coheed & Cambria – No World For Tomorrow (yet another masterly effort from these alt-prog-whateverers), Obituary – Xecutioner’s Return (the epitome of solid, these guys have never disappointed me, and this is another fine slice of Floridian Death), Deathspell Omega – Fas – Ite, Maledicti, In Ignem Aeturnum (possibly slightly overrated by the kvlt krew, but still a remarkable achievement), and Ministry – The Last Sucker (I can’t believe Al’s bringing this band to an end, but it’s one hell of a final album).

    Not only did I find it impossible to whittle my list of best albums down to fifteen but also the ordering itself was near impossible. Is Dark Passion Play a better piece of music than Mord Und Totschlag? Impossible to answer without being biased one way or another, and as I equally enjoy poppy Symphonic Metal and underground Black Metal, not a choice I feel comfortable with. So, the order given above is the one that ultimately made most sense to me at the time of writing – it doesn’t mean that one album is better than another.

    I’d like to thank those who read my reviews and commented, as well as those that read and didn’t comment – and those that commented and didn’t read, and even those that did neither! Also more than deserving of thanks is the entire Metal Reviews Team - or The Gods, as I like to call them - especially Mike, Chris and Alex for showing me around and helping me feel welcome. Guys, it’s been a blast so far, thanks for everything.

    The forum in general deserves a thank you from me, I’m not going to start naming names but there are some great people on there and they know who they are. Looking forward to another year of talking to you all, and hopefully getting to know some of you better! Feel free to drop me a line either through my email address(es) or MSN IM, all of you…

    Last and not least: the bands, and the labels that pimp them out to us discerning kerb-crawlers. None of us would be here without them, so here’s to the ones that make the music: you keep bringing on the good stuff, and we’ll keep buying it. Long may they last, from least to greatest.

    Finally, I’ll destroy any underground credibility I’ve somehow built up by listing a few non-Metal albums that have caught my attention over the year. Kate Nash’s debut album Made Of Bricks was a great guilty pleasure, proving (for me at least!) that not all teenage girls have rubbish music taste. Rufus Wainwright’s Release The Stars was a wonderful piece of songwriting. Manic Street Preachers, Interpol and Foo Fighters all put great albums out, as did Cherry Ghost – their debut recommended for fans of Wilco especially. The Artic Monkeys surprised me with the accessible poppy post-punk of their second album (I’d previously written them off as rubbish – there’s a good deal more depth to this band than I’d thought) and The White Stripes proved yet again you don’t need a great drummer in order to write good songs. No doubt regulars are expecting a good deal of praise from me for Arcade Fire’s Neon Bible – alas, every time I tried to get my hands on a copy fate intervened. I’m sure it’s brilliant, and when I finally have a listen I have every faith that my hopes will be confirmed tenfold.

    With any luck, if you’re still reading and haven’t left in disgust, you trust my taste enough to stay with me into and beyond 2008. This is a brilliant site - the best Metal-related webzine ever, I believe – and we need you as much as (hopefully) you need us. 2008 has some interesting albums coming, from acts like Metallica, Meshuggah, Judas Priest, Morbid Angel, Opeth, Biomechanical, Testament, Deicide, The Axis Of Perdition (two albums!), Gorerotted, Unearthly Trance, The Haunted, Satyricon, Soilent Green, Voivod, Wintersun, Cryptopsy, Mastodon (here’s hoping, at least), She Said Destroy and Iced Earth to name some off the top of my head, and I have high hopes for them all. I’m also crossing my fingers for new material from two of my favourite bands, British Grinders Napalm Death and Norwegian Progsters Enslaved. In any case, I’m expecting much from the new year’s crop of releases, and it wouldn’t be half as much fun discovering them without an audience to share it with…

    I hope that all of you reading - and the ones that aren’t - have a great 2008, with health, wealth and happiness all around. It’s been an honour so far to have my feeble scribbling posted on this site for all and sundry – here’s to many more years of the same. Metal Reviews uber alles!
  2. 0
    —

    2007’s been more than an interesting year for me, both on the musical and personal fronts. Of course, I joined MR late in the year as a reviewer, fulfilling an ambition that’s been hovering near the surface since I first joined the forum as someone who’d gotten into Metal through Evanescence and for whom all this ‘Metal’ stuff was a bit heavy. Thankfully, all it took was a few Iron Maiden albums, a chance Darkthrone purchase and many long hours spent exploring the steel world online to bring me around, and although at first I took the whole Black Metal thing too seriously, more recently I’ve realised that life’s as much about the greys as the black and whites and branched out a little.

    This didn’t help stop my Top Fifteen from being a real pain to choose! Those tearfully culled include Behemoth – The Apostasy (Nergal and co. really pushed themselves on this one, producing a fine set of songs that are leaps and bounds above the decent but rather more straightforward Demigod), Municipal Waste – The Art Of Partying (Thrash never sounded so good), Angelcorpse – Of Lucifer And Lightning (reformation of the decade? Old-school Death Metal proves it can still kick serious ass!), Machine Head – The Blackening (call it Metalcore if you want, it’s still a great album), Mithras – Behind The Shadows Lie Madness (not as good as the first two but, heck, if it gets the punters in who’s complaining? Still ten times better than most Death Metal bands could ever hope to be), Alchemist – Tripsis (I underrated this in my review. Excellent band), Vital Remains – Icons Of Evil (never let anyone tell you that Glen Benton is an embarrassment to Metal – just play them this and watch their feeble Christian souls melt away!), Coheed & Cambria – No World For Tomorrow (yet another masterly effort from these alt-prog-whateverers), Obituary – Xecutioner’s Return (the epitome of solid, these guys have never disappointed me, and this is another fine slice of Floridian Death), Deathspell Omega – Fas – Ite, Maledicti, In Ignem Aeturnum (possibly slightly overrated by the kvlt krew, but still a remarkable achievement), and Ministry – The Last Sucker (I can’t believe Al’s bringing this band to an end, but it’s one hell of a final album).

    Not only did I find it impossible to whittle my list of best albums down to fifteen but also the ordering itself was near impossible. Is Dark Passion Play a better piece of music than Mord Und Totschlag? Impossible to answer without being biased one way or another, and as I equally enjoy poppy Symphonic Metal and underground Black Metal, not a choice I feel comfortable with. So, the order given above is the one that ultimately made most sense to me at the time of writing – it doesn’t mean that one album is better than another.

    I’d like to thank those who read my reviews and commented, as well as those that read and didn’t comment – and those that commented and didn’t read, and even those that did neither! Also more than deserving of thanks is the entire Metal Reviews Team - or The Gods, as I like to call them - especially Mike, Chris and Alex for showing me around and helping me feel welcome. Guys, it’s been a blast so far, thanks for everything.

    The forum in general deserves a thank you from me, I’m not going to start naming names but there are some great people on there and they know who they are. Looking forward to another year of talking to you all, and hopefully getting to know some of you better! Feel free to drop me a line either through my email address(es) or MSN IM, all of you…

    Last and not least: the bands, and the labels that pimp them out to us discerning kerb-crawlers. None of us would be here without them, so here’s to the ones that make the music: you keep bringing on the good stuff, and we’ll keep buying it. Long may they last, from least to greatest.

    Finally, I’ll destroy any underground credibility I’ve somehow built up by listing a few non-Metal albums that have caught my attention over the year. Kate Nash’s debut album Made Of Bricks was a great guilty pleasure, proving (for me at least!) that not all teenage girls have rubbish music taste. Rufus Wainwright’s Release The Stars was a wonderful piece of songwriting. Manic Street Preachers, Interpol and Foo Fighters all put great albums out, as did Cherry Ghost – their debut recommended for fans of Wilco especially. The Artic Monkeys surprised me with the accessible poppy post-punk of their second album (I’d previously written them off as rubbish – there’s a good deal more depth to this band than I’d thought) and The White Stripes proved yet again you don’t need a great drummer in order to write good songs. No doubt regulars are expecting a good deal of praise from me for Arcade Fire’s Neon Bible – alas, every time I tried to get my hands on a copy fate intervened. I’m sure it’s brilliant, and when I finally have a listen I have every faith that my hopes will be confirmed tenfold.

    With any luck, if you’re still reading and haven’t left in disgust, you trust my taste enough to stay with me into and beyond 2008. This is a brilliant site - the best Metal-related webzine ever, I believe – and we need you as much as (hopefully) you need us. 2008 has some interesting albums coming, from acts like Metallica, Meshuggah, Judas Priest, Morbid Angel, Opeth, Biomechanical, Testament, Deicide, The Axis Of Perdition (two albums!), Gorerotted, Unearthly Trance, The Haunted, Satyricon, Soilent Green, Voivod, Wintersun, Cryptopsy, Mastodon (here’s hoping, at least), She Said Destroy and Iced Earth to name some off the top of my head, and I have high hopes for them all. I’m also crossing my fingers for new material from two of my favourite bands, British Grinders Napalm Death and Norwegian Progsters Enslaved. In any case, I’m expecting much from the new year’s crop of releases, and it wouldn’t be half as much fun discovering them without an audience to share it with…

    I hope that all of you reading - and the ones that aren’t - have a great 2008, with health, wealth and happiness all around. It’s been an honour so far to have my feeble scribbling posted on this site for all and sundry – here’s to many more years of the same. Metal Reviews uber alles!
  3. 0
    —

    2007’s been more than an interesting year for me, both on the musical and personal fronts. Of course, I joined MR late in the year as a reviewer, fulfilling an ambition that’s been hovering near the surface since I first joined the forum as someone who’d gotten into the great genre through Evanescence and for whom all this ‘Metal’ stuff was a bit heavy. Thankfully, all it took was a few Iron Maiden albums, a chance Darkthrone purchase and many long hours spent exploring the steel world online to bring me around, and although at first I took the whole Black Metal thing too seriously, more recently I’ve realised that life’s as much about the greys as the black and whites and branched out a little.

    This didn’t help stop my Top Fifteen from being a real pain to choose! Those tearfully culled include Behemoth – The Apostasy (Nergal and co. really pushed themselves on this one, producing a fine set of songs that are leaps and bounds above the decent but rather more straightforward Demigod), Municipal Waste – The Art Of Partying (Thrash never sounded so good), Angelcorpse – Of Lucifer And Lightning (reformation of the decade? Old-school Death Metal proves it can still kick serious ass!), Machine Head – The Blackening (call it Metalcore if you want, it’s still a great album), Mithras – Behind The Shadows Lie Madness (not as good as the first two but, heck, if it gets the punters in who’s complaining? Still ten times better than most Death Metal bands could ever hope to be), Alchemist – Tripsis (I underrated this in my review. Excellent band), Vital Remains – Icons Of Evil (never let anyone tell you that Glen Benton is an embarrassment to Metal – just play them this and watch their feeble Christian souls melt away!), Coheed & Cambria – No World For Tomorrow (yet another masterly effort from these alt-prog-whateverers), Obituary – Xecutioner’s Return (the epitome of solid, these guys have never disappointed me, and this is another fine slice of Floridian Death), Deathspell Omega – Fas – Ite, Maledicti, In Ignem Aeturnum (possibly slightly overrated by the kvlt krew, but still a remarkable achievement), and Ministry – The Last Sucker (I can’t believe Al’s bringing this band to an end, but it’s one hell of a final album).

    Not only did I find it impossible to whittle my list of best albums down to fifteen but also the ordering itself was near impossible. Is Dark Passion Play a better piece of music than Mord Und Totschlag? Impossible to answer without being biased one way or another, and as I equally enjoy poppy Symphonic Metal and underground Black Metal, not a choice I feel comfortable with. So, the order given above is the one that ultimately made most sense to me at the time of writing – it doesn’t mean that one album is better than another.

    I’d like to thank those who read my reviews and commented, as well as those that read and didn’t comment – and those that commented and didn’t read, and even those that did neither! Also more than deserving of thanks is the entire Metal Reviews Team - or The Gods, as I like to call them - especially Mike, Chris and Alex for showing me around and helping me feel welcome. Guys, it’s been a blast so far, thanks for everything.

    The forum in general deserves a thank you from me, I’m not going to start naming names but there are some great people on there and they know who they are. Looking forward to another year of talking to you all, and hopefully getting to know some of you better! Feel free to drop me a line either through my email address(es) or MSN IM, all of you…

    Last and not least: the bands, and the labels that pimp them out to us discerning kerb-crawlers. None of us would be here without them, so here’s to the ones that make the music: you keep bringing on the good stuff, and we’ll keep buying it. Long may they last, from least to greatest.

    Finally, I’ll destroy any underground credibility I’ve somehow built up by listing a few non-Metal albums that have caught my attention over the year. Kate Nash’s debut album Made Of Bricks was a great guilty pleasure, proving (for me at least!) that not all teenage girls have rubbish music taste. Rufus Wainwright’s Release The Stars was a wonderful piece of songwriting. Manic Street Preachers, Interpol and Foo Fighters all put great albums out, as did Cherry Ghost – their debut recommended for fans of Wilco especially. The Artic Monkeys surprised me with the accessible poppy post-punk of their second album (I’d previously written them off as rubbish – there’s a good deal more depth to this band than I’d thought) and The White Stripes proved yet again you don’t need a great drummer in order to write good songs. No doubt regulars are expecting a good deal of praise from me for Arcade Fire’s Neon Bible – alas, every time I tried to get my hands on a copy fate intervened. I’m sure it’s brilliant, and when I finally have a listen I have every faith that my hopes will be confirmed tenfold.

    With any luck, if you’re still reading and haven’t left in disgust, you trust my taste enough to stay with me into and beyond 2008. This is a brilliant site - the best Metal-related webzine ever, I believe – and we need you as much as (hopefully) you need us. 2008 has some interesting albums coming, from acts like Metallica, Meshuggah, Judas Priest, Morbid Angel, Opeth, Biomechanical, Testament, Deicide, The Axis Of Perdition (two albums!), Gorerotted, Unearthly Trance, The Haunted, Satyricon, Soilent Green, Voivod, Wintersun, Cryptopsy, Mastodon (here’s hoping, at least), She Said Destroy and Iced Earth to name some off the top of my head, and I have high hopes for them all. I’m also crossing my fingers for new material from two of my favourite bands, British Grinders Napalm Death and Norwegian Progsters Enslaved. In any case, I’m expecting much from the new year’s crop of releases, and it wouldn’t be half as much fun discovering them without an audience to share it with…

    I hope that all of you reading - and the ones that aren’t - have a great 2008, with health, wealth and happiness all around. It’s been an honour so far to have my feeble scribbling posted on this site for all and sundry – here’s to many more years of the same. Metal Reviews uber alles!
  4. 0
    —

    2007’s been more than an interesting year for me, both on the musical and personal fronts. Of course, I joined MR late in the year as a reviewer, fulfilling an ambition that’s been hovering near the surface since I first joined the forum as someone who’d gotten into the great genre through Evanescence and for whom all this ‘Metal’ stuff was a bit heavy. Thankfully, all it took was a few Iron Maiden albums, a chance Darkthrone purchase and many long hours spent exploring the steel world online to bring me around, and although at first I took the whole Black Metal thing too seriously, more recently I’ve realised that life’s as much about the greys as the black and whites and branched out a little.

    This didn’t help stop my Top Fifteen from being a real pain to choose! Those tearfully culled include Behemoth – The Apostasy (Nergal and co. really pushed themselves on this one, producing a fine set of songs that are leaps and bounds above the decent but rather more straightforward Demigod), Municipal Waste – The Art Of Partying (Thrash never sounded so good), Angelcorpse – Of Lucifer And Lightning (reformation of the decade? Old-school Death Metal proves it can still kick serious ass!), Machine Head – The Blackening (call it Metalcore if you want, it’s still a great album), Ted Maul - White Label (Drum N'Bass Death Metal, excellent stuff) Mithras – Behind The Shadows Lie Madness (not as good as the first two but, heck, if it gets the punters in who’s complaining? Still ten times better than most Death Metal bands could ever hope to be), Alchemist – Tripsis (I underrated this in my review. Excellent band), Vital Remains – Icons Of Evil (never let anyone tell you that Glen Benton is an embarrassment to Metal – just play them this and watch their feeble Christian souls melt away!), Coheed & Cambria – No World For Tomorrow (yet another masterly effort from these alt-prog-whateverers), Obituary – Xecutioner’s Return (the epitome of solid, these guys have never disappointed me, and this is another fine slice of Floridian Death), Deathspell Omega – Fas – Ite, Maledicti, In Ignem Aeturnum (possibly slightly overrated by the kvlt krew, but still a remarkable achievement), and Ministry – The Last Sucker (I can’t believe Al’s bringing this band to an end, but it’s one hell of a final album).

    Not only did I find it impossible to whittle my list of best albums down to fifteen but also the ordering itself was near impossible. Is Dark Passion Play a better piece of music than Mord Und Totschlag? Impossible to answer without being biased one way or another, and as I equally enjoy poppy Symphonic Metal and underground Black Metal, not a choice I feel comfortable with. So, the order given above is the one that ultimately made most sense to me at the time of writing – it doesn’t mean that one album is better than another.

    I’d like to thank those who read my reviews and commented, as well as those that read and didn’t comment – and those that commented and didn’t read, and even those that did neither! Also more than deserving of thanks is the entire Metal Reviews Team - or The Gods, as I like to call them - especially Mike, Chris and Alex for showing me around and helping me feel welcome. Guys, it’s been a blast so far, thanks for everything.

    The forum in general deserves a thank you from me, I’m not going to start naming names but there are some great people on there and they know who they are. Looking forward to another year of talking to you all, and hopefully getting to know some of you better! Feel free to drop me a line either through my email address(es) or MSN IM, all of you…

    Last and not least: the bands, and the labels that pimp them out to us discerning kerb-crawlers. None of us would be here without them, so here’s to the ones that make the music: you keep bringing on the good stuff, and we’ll keep buying it. Long may they last, from least to greatest.

    Finally, I’ll destroy any underground credibility I’ve somehow built up by listing a few non-Metal albums that have caught my attention over the year. Kate Nash’s debut album Made Of Bricks was a great guilty pleasure, proving (for me at least!) that not all teenage girls have rubbish music taste. Rufus Wainwright’s Release The Stars was a wonderful piece of songwriting. Manic Street Preachers, Interpol and Foo Fighters all put great albums out, as did Cherry Ghost – their debut recommended for fans of Wilco especially. The Artic Monkeys surprised me with the accessible poppy post-punk of their second album (I’d previously written them off as rubbish – there’s a good deal more depth to this band than I’d thought) and The White Stripes proved yet again you don’t need a great drummer in order to write good songs. No doubt regulars are expecting a good deal of praise from me for Arcade Fire’s Neon Bible – alas, every time I tried to get my hands on a copy fate intervened. I’m sure it’s brilliant, and when I finally have a listen I have every faith that my hopes will be confirmed tenfold.

    With any luck, if you’re still reading and haven’t left in disgust, you trust my taste enough to stay with me into and beyond 2008. This is a brilliant site - the best Metal-related webzine ever, I believe – and we need you as much as (hopefully) you need us. 2008 has some interesting albums coming, from acts like Metallica, Meshuggah, Judas Priest, Morbid Angel, Opeth, Biomechanical, Testament, Deicide, The Axis Of Perdition (two albums!), Gorerotted, Unearthly Trance, The Haunted, Satyricon, Soilent Green, Voivod, Wintersun, Cryptopsy, Mastodon (here’s hoping, at least), She Said Destroy and Iced Earth to name some off the top of my head, and I have high hopes for them all. I’m also crossing my fingers for new material from two of my favourite bands, British Grinders Napalm Death and Norwegian Progsters Enslaved. In any case, I’m expecting much from the new year’s crop of releases, and it wouldn’t be half as much fun discovering them without an audience to share it with…

    I hope that all of you reading - and the ones that aren’t - have a great 2008, with health, wealth and happiness all around. It’s been an honour so far to have my feeble scribbling posted on this site for all and sundry – here’s to many more years of the same. Metal Reviews uber alles!
  5. 0
    —

    2007’s been more than an interesting year for me, both on the musical and personal fronts. Of course, I joined MR late in the year as a reviewer, fulfilling an ambition that’s been hovering near the surface since I first joined the forum as someone who’d gotten into Metal through Evanescence and for whom all this ‘Metal’ stuff was a bit heavy. Thankfully, all it took was a few Iron Maiden albums, a chance Darkthrone purchase and many long hours spent exploring the steel world online to bring me around, and although at first I took the whole Black Metal thing too seriously, more recently I’ve realised that life’s as much about the greys as the black and whites and branched out a little.

    This didn’t help stop my Top Fifteen from being a real pain to choose! Those tearfully culled include Behemoth – The Apostasy (Nergal and co. really pushed themselves on this one, producing a fine set of songs that are leaps and bounds above the decent but rather more straightforward Demigod), Municipal Waste – The Art Of Partying (Thrash never sounded so good), Angelcorpse – Of Lucifer And Lightning (reformation of the decade? Old-school Death Metal proves it can still kick serious ass!), Machine Head – The Blackening (call it Metalcore if you want, it’s still a great album), Mithras – Behind The Shadows Lie Madness (not as good as the first two but, heck, if it gets the punters in who’s complaining? Still ten times better than most Death Metal bands could ever hope to be), Alchemist – Tripsis (I underrated this in my review. Excellent band), Vital Remains – Icons Of Evil (never let anyone tell you that Glen Benton is an embarrassment to Metal – just play them this and watch their feeble Christian souls melt away!), Coheed & Cambria – No World For Tomorrow (yet another masterly effort from these alt-prog-whateverers), Obituary – Xecutioner’s Return (the epitome of solid, these guys have never disappointed me, and this is another fine slice of Floridian Death), Deathspell Omega – Fas – Ite, Maledicti, In Ignem Aeturnum (possibly slightly overrated by the kvlt krew, but still a remarkable achievement), and Ministry – The Last Sucker (I can’t believe Al’s bringing this band to an end, but it’s one hell of a final album).

    Not only did I find it impossible to whittle my list of best albums down to fifteen but also the ordering itself was near impossible. Is Dark Passion Play a better piece of music than Mord Und Totschlag? Impossible to answer without being biased one way or another, and as I equally enjoy poppy Symphonic Metal and underground Black Metal, not a choice I feel comfortable with. So, the order given above is the one that ultimately made most sense to me at the time of writing – it doesn’t mean that one album is better than another.

    I’d like to thank those who read my reviews and commented, as well as those that read and didn’t comment – and those that commented and didn’t read, and even those that did neither! Also more than deserving of thanks is the entire Metal Reviews Team - or The Gods, as I like to call them - especially Mike, Chris and Alex for showing me around and helping me feel welcome. Guys, it’s been a blast so far, thanks for everything.

    The forum in general deserves a thank you from me, I’m not going to start naming names but there are some great people on there and they know who they are. Looking forward to another year of talking to you all, and hopefully getting to know some of you better! Feel free to drop me a line either through my email address(es) or MSN IM, all of you…

    Last and not least: the bands, and the labels that pimp them out to us discerning kerb-crawlers. None of us would be here without them, so here’s to the ones that make the music: you keep bringing on the good stuff, and we’ll keep buying it. Long may they last, from least to greatest.

    Finally, I’ll destroy any underground credibility I’ve somehow built up by listing a few non-Metal albums that have caught my attention over the year. Kate Nash’s debut album Made Of Bricks was a great guilty pleasure, proving (for me at least!) that not all teenage girls have rubbish music taste. Rufus Wainwright’s Release The Stars was a wonderful piece of songwriting. Manic Street Preachers, Interpol and Foo Fighters all put great albums out, as did Cherry Ghost – their debut recommended for fans of Wilco especially. The Artic Monkeys surprised me with the accessible poppy post-punk of their second album (I’d previously written them off as rubbish – there’s a good deal more depth to this band than I’d thought) and The White Stripes proved yet again you don’t need a great drummer in order to write good songs. No doubt regulars are expecting a good deal of praise from me for Arcade Fire’s Neon Bible – alas, every time I tried to get my hands on a copy fate intervened. I’m sure it’s brilliant, and when I finally have a listen I have every faith that my hopes will be confirmed tenfold.

    With any luck, if you’re still reading and haven’t left in disgust, you trust my taste enough to stay with me into and beyond 2008. This is a brilliant site - the best Metal-related webzine ever, I believe – and we need you as much as (hopefully) you need us. 2008 has some interesting albums coming, from acts like Metallica, Meshuggah, Judas Priest, Morbid Angel, Opeth, Biomechanical, Testament, Deicide, The Axis Of Perdition (two albums!), Gorerotted, Unearthly Trance, The Haunted, Satyricon, Soilent Green, Voivod, Wintersun, Cryptopsy, Mastodon (here’s hoping, at least), She Said Destroy and Iced Earth to name some off the top of my head, and I have high hopes for them all. I’m also crossing my fingers for new material from two of my favourite bands, British Grinders Napalm Death and Norwegian Progsters Enslaved. In any case, I’m expecting much from the new year’s crop of releases, and it wouldn’t be half as much fun discovering them without an audience to share it with…

    I hope that all of you reading - and the ones that aren’t - have a great 2008, with health, wealth and happiness all around. It’s been an honour so far to have my feeble scribbling posted on this site for all and sundry – here’s to many more years of the same. Metal Reviews uber alles!
  6. 0
    — 2007’s been more than an interesting year for me, both on the musical and personal fronts. Of course, I joined MR late in the year as a reviewer, fulfilling an ambition that’s been hovering near the surface since I first joined the forum as someone who’d gotten into Metal through Evanescence and for whom all this ‘Metal’ stuff was a bit heavy. Thankfully, all it took was a few Iron Maiden albums, a chance Darkthrone purchase and many long hours spent exploring the steel world online to bring me around, and although at first I took the whole Black Metal thing too seriously, more recently I’ve realised that life’s as much about the greys as the black and whites and branched out a little. This didn’t help stop my Top Fifteen from being a real pain to choose! Those tearfully culled include Behemoth – The Apostasy (Nergal and co. really pushed themselves on this one, producing a fine set of songs that are leaps and bounds above the decent but rather more straightforward Demigod), Municipal Waste – The Art Of Partying (Thrash never sounded so good), Angelcorpse – Of Lucifer And Lightning (reformation of the decade? Old-school Death Metal proves it can still kick serious ass!), Machine Head – The Blackening (call it Metalcore if you want, it’s still a great album), Mithras – Behind The Shadows Lie Madness (not as good as the first two but, heck, if it gets the punters in who’s complaining? Still ten times better than most Death Metal bands could ever hope to be), Alchemist – Tripsis (I underrated this in my review. Excellent band), Vital Remains – Icons Of Evil (never let anyone tell you that Glen Benton is an embarrassment to Metal – just play them this and watch their feeble Christian souls melt away!), Coheed & Cambria – No World For Tomorrow (yet another masterly effort from these alt-prog-whateverers), Obituary – Xecutioner’s Return (the epitome of solid, these guys have never disappointed me, and this is another fine slice of Floridian Death), Deathspell Omega – Fas – Ite, Maledicti, In Ignem Aeturnum (possibly slightly overrated by the kvlt krew, but still a remarkable achievement), and Ministry – The Last Sucker (I can’t believe Al’s bringing this band to an end, but it’s one hell of a final album). Not only did I find it impossible to whittle my list of best albums down to fifteen but also the ordering itself was near impossible. Is Dark Passion Play a better piece of music than Mord Und Totschlag? Impossible to answer without being biased one way or another, and as I equally enjoy poppy Symphonic Metal and underground Black Metal, not a choice I feel comfortable with. So, the order given above is the one that ultimately made most sense to me at the time of writing – it doesn’t mean that one album is better than another. I’d like to thank those who read my reviews and commented, as well as those that read and didn’t comment – and those that commented and didn’t read, and even those that did neither! Also more than deserving of thanks is the entire Metal Reviews Team - or The Gods, as I like to call them - especially Mike, Chris and Alex for showing me around and helping me feel welcome. Guys, it’s been a blast so far, thanks for everything. The forum in general deserves a thank you from me, I’m not going to start naming names but there are some great people on there and they know who they are. Looking forward to another year of talking to you all, and hopefully getting to know some of you better! Feel free to drop me a line either through my email address(es) or MSN IM, all of you… Last and not least: the bands, and the labels that pimp them out to us discerning kerb-crawlers. None of us would be here without them, so here’s to the ones that make the music: you keep bringing on the good stuff, and we’ll keep buying it. Long may they last, from least to greatest. Finally, I’ll destroy any underground credibility I’ve somehow built up by listing a few non-Metal albums that have caught my attention over the year. Kate Nash’s debut album Made Of Bricks was a great guilty pleasure, proving (for me at least!) that not all teenage girls have rubbish music taste. Rufus Wainwright’s Release The Stars was a wonderful piece of songwriting. Manic Street Preachers, Interpol and Foo Fighters all put great albums out, as did Cherry Ghost – their debut recommended for fans of Wilco especially. The Artic Monkeys surprised me with the accessible poppy post-punk of their second album (I’d previously written them off as rubbish – there’s a good deal more depth to this band than I’d thought) and The White Stripes proved yet again you don’t need a great drummer in order to write good songs. No doubt regulars are expecting a good deal of praise from me for Arcade Fire’s Neon Bible – alas, every time I tried to get my hands on a copy fate intervened. I’m sure it’s brilliant, and when I finally have a listen I have every faith that my hopes will be confirmed tenfold. With any luck, if you’re still reading and haven’t left in disgust, you trust my taste enough to stay with me into and beyond 2008. This is a brilliant site - the best Metal-related webzine ever, I believe – and we need you as much as (hopefully) you need us. 2008 has some interesting albums coming, from acts like Metallica, Meshuggah, Judas Priest, Morbid Angel, Opeth, Biomechanical, Testament, Deicide, The Axis Of Perdition (two albums!), Gorerotted, Unearthly Trance, The Haunted, Satyricon, Soilent Green, Voivod, Wintersun, Cryptopsy, Mastodon (here’s hoping, at least), She Said Destroy and Iced Earth to name some off the top of my head, and I have high hopes for them all. I’m also crossing my fingers for new material from two of my favourite bands, British Grinders Napalm Death and Norwegian Progsters Enslaved. In any case, I’m expecting much from the new year’s crop of releases, and it wouldn’t be half as much fun discovering them without an audience to share it with… I hope that all of you reading - and the ones that aren’t - have a great 2008, with health, wealth and happiness all around. It’s been an honour so far to have my feeble scribbling posted on this site for all and sundry – here’s to many more years of the same. Metal Reviews uber alles!

Joe

Top Albums

  1. 1.
    Dark Tranquillity - Fiction — Every album I always think "they'll never top this..." and thankfully I'm always proved wrong, a masterpiece.
  2. 1.
    Dark Tranquillity - Fiction — Every album I always think "they'll never top this..." and thankfully I'm always proved wrong, a masterpiece.
  3. 1.
    Dark Tranquillity - Fiction — Every album I always think "they'll never top this..." and thankfully I'm always proved wrong, a masterpiece.
  4. 1.
    Dark Tranquillity - Fiction — Every album I always think "they'll never top this..." and thankfully I'm always proved wrong, a masterpiece.
  5. 2.
    Novembre-The Blue — Same reason as above
  6. 2.
    Novembre-The Blue — Same reason as above
  7. 2.
    Novembre-The Blue — Same reason as above
  8. 2.
    Novembre-The Blue — Same reason as above
  9. 3.
    As I Lay Dying - An Ocean Between Us — One of my first forays into "metalcore" and there's no going back. Blew my mind
  10. 3.
    As I Lay Dying - An Ocean Between Us — One of my first ventures into "metalcore" and there's no going back. Blew my mind
  11. 3.
    As I Lay Dying - An Ocean Between Us — One of my first ventures into metalcore and there's no going back. Blew my mind
  12. 3.
    As I Lay Dying - An Ocean Between Us — One of my first ventures into metalcore and there's no going back. Blew my mind
  13. 4.
    Nightwish - Dark Passion Play — Better than Once? Not a chance, but still great and I love Anette's voice and the new sound.
  14. 4.
    Nightwish - Dark Passion Play — Better than Once? Not a chance, but still great and I love Anette's voice and the new sound.
  15. 4.
    Nightwish - Dark Passion Play — Better than Once? Not a chance, but still great and I love Anette's voice and the new sound.
  16. 4.
    Nightwish - Dark Passion Play — Better than Once? Not a chance, but still great and I love Anette's voice and the new sound.
  17. 5.
    Sonata Arctica - Unia — It takes a lot of listens, trust me, A LOT, to get into this album, but once it clicks you realise it's fantastic. try not listening to it for a month then come back to it, worked for me. "Paid in Full" -best Sonata track ever.
  18. 5.
    Sonata Arctica - Unia — It takes a lot of listens, trust me, A LOT, to get into this album, but once it clicks you realise it's fantastic. try not listening to it for a month then come back to it, worked for me. "Paid in Full" -best Sonata track ever.
  19. 5.
    Sonata Arctica - Unia — It takes a lot of listens, trust me, A LOT, to get into this album, but once it clicks you realise it's fantastic. Try not listening to it for a month then come back to it, worked for me. "Paid in Full" -best Sonata track ever.
  20. 5.
    Sonata Arctica - Unia — It takes a lot of listens, trust me, A LOT, to get into this album, but once it clicks you realise it's fantastic. Try not listening to it for a month then come back to it, worked for me. "Paid in Full" -best Sonata track ever.
  21. 6.
    Viikate - Marraskuun Lauluja 1 — Folk Rock at it's finest
  22. 6.
    Viikate - Marraskuun Lauluja 1 — Folk Rock at it's finest
  23. 6.
    Viikate - Marraskuun Lauluja 1 — Folk Rock at it's finest
  24. 6.
    Viikate - Marraskuun Lauluja 1 — Folk Rock at it's finest
  25. 7.
    Sonic Syndicate - Only Inhuman — So much energy and life in this album, lovin it.
  26. 7.
    Sonic Syndicate - Only Inhuman — So much energy and life in this album, lovin it.
  27. 7.
    Sonic Syndicate - Only Inhuman — So much energy and life in this album, lovin it.
  28. 7.
    Sonic Syndicate - Only Inhuman — So much energy and life in this album, lovin it.
  29. 8.
    Ensiferum - Victory Songs — Filled the "Jari" void nicely, probably not better than previous albums but certainly just as good, viking metal played with gusto.
  30. 8.
    Ensiferum - Victory Songs — Filled the "Jari" void nicely, probably not better than previous albums but certainly just as good, viking metal played with gusto.
  31. 8.
    Ensiferum - Victory Songs — Filled the "Jari" void nicely, probably not better than previous albums but certainly just as good, viking metal played with gusto.
  32. 8.
    Ensiferum - Victory Songs — Filled the "Jari" void nicely, probably not better than previous albums but certainly just as good, viking metal played with gusto.
  33. 9.
    Swallow The Sun - Hope — Very slow, but fantastic doom metal
  34. 9.
    Swallow The Sun - Hope — Very slow, but fantastic doom metal
  35. 9.
    Swallow The Sun - Hope — Very slow, but fantastic doom metal
  36. 9.
    Swallow The Sun - Hope — Very slow, but fantastic doom metal
  37. 10.
    Fear My Thoughts - Vulcanus — Shame singer left after this, but this album is far above the average melodic death releases by other bands.
  38. 10.
    Fear My Thoughts - Vulcanus — Shame singer left after this, but this album is far above the average melodic death releases by other bands.
  39. 10.
    Fear My Thoughts - Vulcanus — Shame singer left after this, but this album is far above the average melodic death releases by other bands.
  40. 10.
    Fear My Thoughts - Vulcanus — Shame singer left after this, but this album is far above the average melodic death releases by other bands.
  41. 11.
    Devin Townsend - Ziltoid The Omniscient — Nothing bad can come from this man
  42. 11.
    Devin Townsend - Ziltoid The Omniscient — Nothing bad can come from this man
  43. 11.
    Devin Townsend - Ziltoid The Omniscient — Nothing bad can come from this man
  44. 11.
    Devin Townsend - Ziltoid The Omniscient — Nothing bad can come from this man
  45. 12.
    Arch Enemy - Rise Of The Tyrant — What I expected, but very enjoyable.
  46. 12.
    Arch Enemy - Rise Of The Tyrant — What I expected, but very enjoyable.
  47. 12.
    Arch Enemy - Rise Of The Tyrant — What I expected, but very enjoyable.
  48. 12.
    Arch Enemy - Rise Of The Tyrant — What I expected, but very enjoyable.
  49. 13.
    Apocalyptica - Worlds Collide — I didn't like it as much as previous albums, but still incredibly original and well written music
  50. 13.
    Apocalyptica - Worlds Collide — I didn't like it as much as previous albums, but still incredibly original and well written music
  51. 13.
    Apocalyptica - Worlds Collide — I didn't like it as much as previous albums, but still incredibly original and well written music
  52. 13.
    Apocalyptica - Worlds Collide — I didn't like it as much as previous albums, but still incredibly original and well written music
  53. 14.
    Threshold - Dead Reckoning — Another quality release from these Brits, shattered Mac has left, but I'm sure they'll just as good.
  54. 14.
    Threshold - Dead Reckoning — Another quality release from these Brits, shattered Mac has left, but I'm sure they'll just as good.
  55. 14.
    Threshold - Dead Reckoning — Another quality release from these Brits, shattered Mac has left, but I'm sure they'll just as good with future releases.
  56. 14.
    Threshold - Dead Reckoning — Another quality release from these Brits, shattered Mac has left, but I'm sure they'll be just as good with future releases.
  57. 15.
    Mind's Eye-A Gentleman's Hurricane — Tons darker and less fun than their previous, but I'm liking this a lot.
  58. 15.
    Mind's Eye-A Gentleman's Hurricane — Tons darker and less fun than their previous, but I'm liking this a lot.
  59. 15.
    Mind's Eye-A Gentleman's Hurricane — Tons darker and less fun than their previous, but I'm liking this a lot.
  60. 15.
    Mind's Eye-A Gentleman's Hurricane — Tons darker and less fun than their previous, but I'm liking this a lot.

Surprises of the Year

  1. 1.
    Pain Confessor-Purgatory Of The Second Sun — Sledgehammer to the face, full on metal assult.
  2. 1.
    Pain Confessor-Purgatory Of The Second Sun — Sledgehammer to the face, full on metal assult.
  3. 1.
    Pain Confessor-Purgatory Of The Second Sun — Sledgehammer to the face, full on metal assult.
  4. 1.
    Pain Confessor-Purgatory Of The Second Sun — Sledgehammer to the face, full on metal assult.
  5. 2.
    Dream Theater - Systematic Chaos — Not at all what I expected, but I'm digging the album.
  6. 2.
    Dream Theater - Systematic Chaos — Not at all what I expected, but I'm digging the album.
  7. 2.
    Dream Theater - Systematic Chaos — Not at all what I expected, but I'm digging the album.
  8. 2.
    Dream Theater - Systematic Chaos — Not at all what I expected, but I'm digging the album.

Disappointments

  1. 1.
    Kamelot - Ghost Opera — Sounds too rushed, almost like offcuts from their previous album "The Black Halo", which was just incredible. "Ghost Opera" however is such a disapointment, no hit songs.
  2. 1.
    Kamelot - Ghost Opera — Sounds too rushed, almost like offcuts from their previous album "The Black Halo", which was just incredible. "Ghost Opera" however is such a disapointment, no hit songs.
  3. 1.
    Kamelot - Ghost Opera — Sounds too rushed, almost like offcuts from their previous album "The Black Halo", which was just incredible. "Ghost Opera" however is such a disapointment, no hit songs.
  4. 1.
    Kamelot - Ghost Opera — Sounds too rushed, almost like offcuts from their previous album "The Black Halo", which was just incredible. "Ghost Opera" however is such a dissapointment, no hit songs.
  5. 2.
    Vision Divine - The 25th Hour — Exactly the same reason as Kamelot, these guys were on incredible form with their previous album "The Perfect Machine", a fantastic album, but they messed up badly with "The 25th Hour." I wanted it to be so much better, but it's just not happening.
  6. 2.
    Vision Divine - The 25th Hour — Exactly the same reason as Kamelot, these guys were on incredible form with their previous album "The Perfect Machine", a fantastic album, but they messed up badly with "The 25th Hour." I wanted it to be so much better, but it's just not happening.
  7. 2.
    Vision Divine - The 25th Hour — Exactly the same reason as Kamelot, these guys were on incredible form with their previous album "The Perfect Machine", which was an incredible album. They messed up badly with "The 25th Hour" and I wanted it to be so much better, but it's just not happening.
  8. 2.
    Vision Divine - The 25th Hour — Exactly the same reason as Kamelot, these guys were on incredible form with their previous album "The Perfect Machine", which was an amazing album. They messed up badly with "The 25th Hour" and I wanted it to be so much better, but it's just not happening.
  9. 3.
    Moonsorrow - V: Havitetty — Seriously. two half hour songs, it's just too much to digest. The music is OK but I find I can't listen to it properly cos I get bored listnening to it. I'd like them to go back to ten minute songs like previous albums.
  10. 3.
    Moonsorrow - V: Havitetty — Seriously. two half hour songs, it's just too much to digest. The music is OK but I find I can't listen to it properly cos I get bored listnening to it. I'd like them to go back to ten minute songs like previous albums.
  11. 3.
    Moonsorrow - V: Havitetty — Seriously. two half hour songs, it's just too much to digest. The music is OK but I find I can't listen to it properly cos I get bored listening to it. I'd like them to go back to ten minute songs like previous albums.
  12. 3.
    Moonsorrow - V: Havitetty — Seriously, two half hour songs, it's just too much to digest. The music is OK but I find I can't listen to it properly cos I get bored after a while. I'd like them to go back to ten minute songs like previous albums.

Words / Final Thoughts

  1. 0
    — Still got so many releases to check out from last year and still heaps coming in at the start of 2008, it's great! Heavy metal music is flourishing right now and it's fantastic to see so many bands and different styles coming out, rock on! Can't wait for the new In Flames and Children Of Bodom, gonna be great I reckon.
  2. 0
    — Still got so many releases to check out from last year and still heaps coming in at the start of 2008, it's great! Heavy metal music is flourishing right now and it's fantastic to see so many bands and different styles coming out, rock on! Can't wait for the new In Flames and Children Of Bodom, gonna be great I reckon.
  3. 0
    — Still got so many releases to check out from last year and still heaps coming in at the start of 2008, it's great! Heavy metal music is flourishing right now and it's fantastic to see so many bands and different styles coming out, rock on! Can't wait for the new In Flames and Children Of Bodom, gonna be great I reckon.
  4. 0
    — Still got so many releases to check out from last year and still heaps coming in at the start of 2008, it's great! Heavy metal music is flourishing right now and it's fantastic to see so many bands and different styles coming out, rock on! Can't wait for the new In Flames and Children Of Bodom, gonna be great I reckon.