Awards 2014

6 reviewers shared their picks for 2014.

← 2013 2015 →

Alex

Top Albums

1.
8911 — After long contemplation this one takes the honors. The passion is unmatched
1.
8911 — After long contemplation this one takes the honors. The passion is unmatched
2.
8769 — Best since Cosmic Gensis
2.
8769 — Best since Cosmic Gensis
3.
8676 — Epic, melodic and powerful
3.
8676 — Epic, melodic and powerful
4.
8619 — Breaking no new ground, but fantastic catchiness given raw riff simplicity
4.
8619 — Breaking no new ground, but fantastic catchiness given raw riff simplicity
5.
8707 — I missed their full force on the two prior albums, but this one delivered entirely
5.
8707 — I missed their full force on the two prior albums, but this one delivered entirely
6.
8668 — Whatever others say, I think this one revealed a darker symphonic side
6.
8668 — Whatever others say, I think this one revealed a darker symphonic side
7.
8827 — Hardcore punk album of the year
7.
8827 — Hardcore punk album of the year
8.
8855 — Oppressive black slab
8.
8855 — Oppressive black slab
9.
8586 — This one may be too simple straightforward death metal for many, but Rogga Johansson touched the right buttons with me here
9.
8586 — This one may be too simple straightforward death metal for many, but Rogga Johansson touched the right buttons with me here
10.
8891 — It is not how long the record is, or whether you are in between the genres, when you deliver powerful music, you make my list
10.
8891 — It is not how long the record is, or whether you are in between the genres, when you deliver powerful music, you make my list
11.
8970 — For thinking man prog rock Mick Moss of Antimatter got the right project going
11.
8970 — For thinking man prog rock Mick Moss of Antimatter got the right project going
12.
8834 — Proud to have supported their Kickstarter campaign
12.
8834 — Proud to have supported their Kickstarter campaign
13.
8688 — This one came after I reviewed Nebelung (one step below) and asked to be reviewed. No regrets I agreed
13.
8688 — This one came after I reviewed Nebelung (one step below) and asked to be reviewed. No regrets I agreed
14.
8560 — As I am maturing (read, get older) more and more quiet folk records are bound to creep into my list
14.
8560 — As I am maturing (read, get older) more and more quiet folk records are bound to creep into my list
15.
8737 — In the absence of Amon Amarth record this one will have to fill that niche
15.
8737 — In the absence of Amon Amarth record this one will have to fill that niche

Surprises of the Year

1.
8604 — Progressive jazzy instrumental surprise of the year
1.
8604 — Progressive jazzy instrumental surprise of the year
2.
2.
8838 — After almost hanging it up ... they did not
3.
3.
8658 — A strong live record with all the right selections
4.
4.
8621
5.
5.
8646

Disappointments

1.
1.
8576 — Unlike Sargeist, primitive and punk gone boring
2.
2.
8582 — Expected more after all the praise
3.
3.
8795 — Cathedral riff writing did not materialize and vocals even worse
4.
4.
5.
5.

Joke of the Year

1.
1.
8730 — The dudes probably don't take themselves seriously anyway
2.
2.
8568 — Epitomy of what I don't like about melodeath/metalcore crossover
3.
3.
4.
4.
5.
5.

Words / Final Thoughts

0
0
— I am surprised I am still at it, reviewing at the best pace I can. A lot of shorter releases and unusual genre choices were my listening preferences in 2014, since I am so pressed for time I just can't find myself being fair without properly delving into longer releases. And then, when I find what I like (Primordial, Vintersorg), I tend to not let go, so the little time I have for everything else gets even shorter. My very special thanks to all of the bands, labels, promoters and PR firms who have fed me/us with the material. I know we owe you coverage. Perennially and constantly. To promise that we will do better means we need to have more writers. Therein lies the segue - thanks to all of the MR colleagues who have stuck it with us in these years past. Without you it would have been long gone ...

Goat

Top Albums

1.
1.
8819 — The only 2014 metal album (yes, metal) that I scored over 90, this is a beautiful prog album from a band who challenge themselves and us.
1.
8819 — The only 2014 metal album (yes, metal) that I scored over 90, this is a beautiful prog album from a band who challenge themselves and us.
1.
8819 — The only 2014 metal album (yes, metal) that I scored over 90, this is a beautiful prog album from a band who challenge themselves and us.
1.
8819
1.
8819
1.
8819
1.
8819
1.
8819
1.
8819
1.
8819
2.
2.
2.
8690
2.
8690
2.
8690
2.
8690
2.
8690
2.
8690
2.
8690
2.
8690
2.
8690
3.
3.
3.
8593
3.
8593
3.
8911
3.
8911
3.
8911
3.
8911
3.
8911
3.
8911
3.
8911
4.
4.
4.
8911
4.
8911
4.
8593
4.
8593
4.
8593
4.
8593
4.
8593
4.
8593
4.
8593
5.
5.
5.
8929
5.
8929
5.
8850
5.
8850
5.
8850
5.
8850
5.
8850
5.
8850
5.
8850
6.
6.
6.
8850
6.
8850
6.
8907
6.
8907
6.
8907
6.
8907
6.
8907
6.
8907
6.
8907
7.
7.
7.
8650 — I was harsh on this album. Yes, it's still too long, but yes, it's still pretty great.
7.
8650 — I was harsh on this album. Yes, it's still too long, but yes, it's still pretty great.
7.
8810
7.
8810
7.
8810
7.
8810
7.
8810
7.
8810
7.
8810
8.
8.
8.
8907
8.
8907
8.
8802
8.
8802
8.
8802
8.
8802
8.
8802
8.
8802
8.
8802
9.
9.
9.
8832
9.
8832
9.
8650
9.
8650
9.
8650
9.
8650
9.
8650
9.
8650
9.
8650
10.
10.
10.
8917
10.
8917
10.
8832
10.
8832
10.
8832
10.
8832
10.
8832
10.
8832
10.
8832
11.
11.
11.
8801
11.
8801
11.
8917
11.
8917
11.
8917
11.
8917
11.
8917
11.
8917
11.
8917
12.
12.
12.
8802 — Lol, two song EPs receiving so much praise. The album had better be damn good after all this hype, boys.
12.
8802 — Lol, two song EPs receiving so much praise. The album had better be damn good after all this hype, boys.
12.
8886
12.
8886
12.
8886
12.
8886
12.
8886
12.
8886
12.
8886
13.
13.
8761 — Prog-death done right.
13.
8886
13.
8886
13.
8625
13.
8625
13.
8625
13.
8625
13.
8625
13.
8625
13.
8625
14.
14.
8582 — DOOOOOOM
14.
8810
14.
8810
14.
8927
14.
8927
14.
8927
14.
8927
14.
8927
14.
8927
14.
8981
15.
15.
Godflesh - A World Lit Only By Fire — A terrific comeback from JKB. He never lost it.
15.
Godflesh - A World Lit Only By Fire — A terrific comeback from JKB. He never lost it.
15.
Godflesh - A World Lit Only By Fire — A terrific comeback from JKB. He never lost it.
15.
GODFLESH - A WORLD LIT ONLY BY FIRE
15.
GODFLESH - A WORLD LIT ONLY BY FIRE
15.
GODFLESH - A WORLD LIT ONLY BY FIRE
15.
GODFLESH - A WORLD LIT ONLY BY FIRE
15.
GODFLESH - A WORLD LIT ONLY BY FIRE
15.
GODFLESH - A WORLD LIT ONLY BY FIRE
15.
GODFLESH - A WORLD LIT ONLY BY FIRE

Surprises of the Year

1.
1.
1.
8761 — Prog-death done right.
1.
8761 — Prog-death done right.
1.
8761
1.
8761
1.
8761 — Prog-death done so, so right.
1.
8761 — Prog-death done so, so right.
1.
8761 — Prog-death done so, so right.
1.
8761 — Prog-death done so, so right.
1.
8761 — Prog-death done so, so right.
2.
2.
2.
8582 — DOOOOOM
2.
8582 — DOOOOOM
2.
8582
2.
8582
2.
8582 — DOOOOOM
2.
8582 — DOOOOOM
2.
8582 — DOOOOOM
2.
8582 — DOOOOOM
2.
8582 — DOOOOOM
3.
3.
3.
8680
3.
8680
3.
8680
3.
8680
3.
8680
3.
8680
3.
8680
3.
8680
3.
8680
4.
4.
4.
8625
4.
8625
4.
8890
4.
8890
4.
8890 — I'm still not sure if I actually like this album, but it's brain-melting enough to cause plenty of surprise, at the very least.
4.
8890 — I'm still not sure if I actually like this album, but it's brain-melting enough to cause plenty of surprise, at the very least.
4.
8890 — I'm still not sure if I actually like this album, but it's brain-melting enough to cause plenty of surprise, at the very least.
4.
8890 — I'm still not sure if I actually like this album, but it's brain-melting enough to cause plenty of surprise, at the very least.
4.
8890 — I'm still not sure if I actually like this album, but it's brain-melting enough to cause plenty of surprise, at the very least.
5.
5.
5.
8783
5.
8783
5.
8801
5.
8801
5.
8801
5.
8801
5.
8801
5.
8801
5.
8801

Disappointments

1.
8888 — A hellish comeback. Hellishly boring!
1.
8888 — A hellish comeback. Hellishly boring!
1.
8888 — A hellish comeback. Hellishly boring!
1.
8888 — A hellish comeback. Hellishly boring!
1.
8888 — A hellish comeback. Hellishly boring!
1.
8888 — A hellish comeback. Hellishly boring!
1.
8888 — A hellish comeback. Hellishly boring!
1.
8888 — A hellish comeback. Hellishly boring!
1.
8888 — A hellish comeback. Hellishly boring!
1.
8888 — A hellish comeback. Hellishly boring!
1.
8888 — A hellish comeback. Hellishly boring!
2.
8880 — The formula is wearing thin, despite attempts to patch the holes with electronics.
2.
8880 — The formula is wearing thin, despite attempts to patch the holes with electronics.
2.
8880 — The formula is wearing thin, despite attempts to patch the holes with electronics.
2.
8880 — The formula is wearing thin, despite attempts to patch the holes with electronics.
2.
8880 — The formula is wearing thin, despite attempts to patch the holes with electronics.
2.
8880 — The formula is wearing thin, despite attempts to patch the holes with electronics.
2.
8880 — The formula is wearing thin, despite attempts to patch the holes with electronics.
2.
8880 — The formula is wearing thin, despite attempts to patch the holes with electronics.
2.
8880 — The formula is wearing thin, despite attempts to patch the holes with electronics.
2.
8880 — The formula is wearing thin, despite attempts to patch the holes with electronics.
2.
8880 — The formula is wearing thin, despite attempts to patch the holes with electronics.
3.
Mastodon - Once More 'Round The Sun — Pretty lame that this once-great band once was one of metal's most important. Now, the only thing that's controversial about them is the twerking in their music videos.
3.
Mastodon - Once More 'Round The Sun — Pretty lame that this once-great band once was one of metal's most important. Now, the only thing that's controversial about them is the twerking in their music videos.
3.
Mastodon - Once More 'Round The Sun — Pretty lame that this once-great band once was one of metal's most important. Now, the only thing that's controversial about them is the twerking in their music videos.
3.
Mastodon - Once More 'Round The Sun — Pretty lame that this once-great band once was one of metal's most important. Now, the only thing that's controversial about them is the twerking in their music videos.
3.
Mastodon - Once More 'Round The Sun — Pretty lame that this once-great band once was one of metal's most important. Now, the only thing that's controversial about them is the twerking in their music videos.
3.
MASTODON - ONCE MORE 'ROUND THE SUN — Pretty lame that this once-great band once was one of metal's most important. Now, the only thing that's controversial about them is the twerking in their music videos.
3.
MASTODON - ONCE MORE 'ROUND THE SUN — Pretty lame that this once-great band used to be one of metal's most important. Now, the only thing that's controversial about them is the twerking in their music videos.
3.
MASTODON - ONCE MORE 'ROUND THE SUN — Pretty lame that this once-great band used to be one of metal's most important. Now, the only thing that's controversial about them is the twerking in their music videos.
3.
MASTODON - ONCE MORE 'ROUND THE SUN — Pretty lame that this once-great band used to be one of metal's most important. Now, the only thing that's controversial about them is the twerking in their music videos.
3.
MASTODON - ONCE MORE 'ROUND THE SUN — Pretty lame that this once-great band used to be one of metal's most important. Now, the only thing that's controversial about them is the twerking in their music videos.
3.
MASTODON - ONCE MORE 'ROUND THE SUN — Pretty lame that this once-great band used to be one of metal's most important. Now, the only thing that's controversial about them is the twerking in their music videos.
4.
4.
4.
8887
4.
8887
4.
8652
4.
8652
4.
8652 — Aside from the poor production, the complexity and spirit that made earlier releases from this band seems to be gone, which is a real shame.
4.
8652 — Aside from the poor production, the complexity and spirit that made earlier releases from this band seems to be gone, which is a real shame.
4.
8652 — Aside from the poor production, the complexity and spirit that made earlier releases from this band seems to be gone, which is a real shame.
4.
8652 — Aside from the poor production, the complexity and spirit that made earlier releases from this band seems to be gone, which is a real shame.
4.
8652 — Aside from the poor production, the complexity and spirit that made earlier releases from this band seems to be gone, which is a real shame.
5.
5.
5.
5.
5.
8862
5.
8862
5.
8862 — Massive Cauldron of yawn, more like. The new Slipknot was more interesting than this.
5.
8862 — Massive Cauldron of yawn, more like. The new Slipknot was more interesting than this.
5.
8862 — Massive Cauldron of yawn, more like. The new Slipknot was more interesting than this.
5.
8862 — Massive Cauldron of yawn, more like. The new Slipknot was more interesting than this.
5.
8862 — Massive Cauldron of yawn, more like. The new Slipknot was more interesting than this.

Joke of the Year

1.
Babymetal - Babymetal — Feel free to get into metal through Japanese children dancing to bad melodeath, just don't expect me to like it.
1.
Babymetal - Babymetal — Feel free to get into metal through Japanese children dancing to bad melodeath, just don't expect me to like it.
1.
Babymetal - Babymetal — Feel free to get into metal through Japanese children dancing to bad melodeath, just don't expect me to like it.
1.
Babymetal - Babymetal — Feel free to get into metal through Japanese children dancing to bad melodeath, just don't expect me to like it.
1.
Babymetal - Babymetal — Feel free to get into metal through Japanese children dancing to bad melodeath, just don't expect me to like it.
1.
BABYMETAL - BABYMETAL — Feel free to get into metal through Japanese children dancing to bad melodeath, just don't expect me to like it.
1.
BABYMETAL - BABYMETAL — Feel free to get into metal through Japanese children dancing to bad melodeath, just don't expect me to like it.
1.
BABYMETAL - BABYMETAL — Feel free to get into metal through Japanese children dancing to bad melodeath, just don't expect me to like it.
1.
BABYMETAL - BABYMETAL — Feel free to get into metal through Japanese children dancing to bad melodeath, just don't expect me to like it.
1.
BABYMETAL - BABYMETAL — Feel free to get into metal through Japanese children dancing to bad melodeath, just don't expect me to like it.
1.
BABYMETAL - BABYMETAL — Feel free to get into metal through Japanese children dancing to bad melodeath, just don't expect me to like it.
2.
8784 — A poor album from an artist who managed to destroy a good reputation and steal from his fans in order to feed an addiction. It's not a joke at all, really, just incredibly sad.
2.
8784 — A poor album from an artist who managed to destroy a good reputation and steal from his fans in order to feed an addiction. It's not a joke at all, really, just incredibly sad.
2.
8784 — A poor album from an artist who managed to destroy a good reputation and steal from his fans in order to feed an addiction. It's not a joke at all, really, just incredibly sad.
2.
8784 — A poor album from an artist who managed to destroy a good reputation and steal from his fans in order to feed an addiction. It's not a joke at all, really, just incredibly sad.
2.
8784 — A poor album from an artist who managed to destroy a good reputation and steal from his fans in order to feed an addiction. It's not a joke at all, really, just incredibly sad.
2.
8784 — A poor album from an artist who managed to destroy a good reputation and steal from his fans in order to feed an addiction. It's not a joke at all, really, just incredibly sad.
2.
8784 — A poor album from an artist who managed to destroy a good reputation and steal from his fans in order to feed an addiction. It's not a joke at all, really, but there's no 'Depressing Tragedy' section.
2.
8784 — A poor album from an artist who managed to destroy a good reputation and steal from his fans in order to feed an addiction. It's not a joke at all, really, but there's no 'Depressing Tragedy' section.
2.
8784 — A poor album from an artist who managed to destroy a good reputation and steal from his fans in order to feed an addiction. It's not a joke at all, really, but there's no 'Depressing Tragedy' section.
2.
8784 — A poor album from an artist who managed to destroy a good reputation and steal from his fans in order to feed an addiction. It's not a joke at all, really, but there's no 'Depressing Tragedy' section.
2.
8784 — A poor album from an artist who managed to destroy a good reputation and steal from his fans in order to feed an addiction. It's not a joke at all, really, but there's no 'Depressing Tragedy' section.
3.
3.
3.
3.
3.
8766 — Hey, hey, Y2J, remember to put some metal in that pop metal, mmkay?
3.
8766 — Hey, hey, Y2J, remember to put some metal in that pop metal, mmkay?
3.
8766 — Hey, hey, Y2J, remember to put some metal in that pop, mmkay?
3.
8766 — Hey, hey, Y2J, remember to put some metal in that pop, mmkay?
3.
IN FLAMES - SIREN CHARMS — As if this band could get any worse, they go and release this. IN FAILS, morelike!
3.
IN FLAMES - SIREN CHARMS — As if this band could get any worse, they go and release this. IN FAILS, morelike!
3.
IN FLAMES - SIREN CHARMS — As if this band could get any worse, they go and release this. IN FAILS, morelike!
4.
4.
4.
4.
4.
4.
4.
IN FLAMES - SIREN CHARMS — As if this band could get any worse, they go and release this. IN FAILS, morelike!
4.
IN FLAMES - SIREN CHARMS — As if this band could get any worse, they go and release this. IN FAILS, morelike!
4.
4.
4.
5.
5.
5.
5.
5.
5.
5.
5.
5.
5.
5.

Words / Final Thoughts

0
— Call me harsh, but I don't think that 2014 was a particularly great year for metal. Hopefully 2015 will be better. If for some reason you're the type of person who looks for pop recommendations from metal websites, then Nicole Atkins' Slow Phaser album was a terrific collection of catchiness. Also, Run The Jewels 2.
0
— Call me harsh, but I don't think that 2014 was a particularly great year for metal, and my lists reflect that. Sure, the likes of Decapitated released perfectly serviceable records, but is that really what we're calling the best of the year? Hopefully 2015 will be better, and produce more outright gems than merely 'pretty okay' records. If for some reason you're the type of person who looks for pop recommendations from metal websites, then Nicole Atkins' Slow Phaser album was a terrific collection of catchiness. Also, Run The Jewels 2.
0
— Call me harsh, but I don't think that 2014 was a particularly great year for metal, and my lists reflect that. Sure, the likes of Decapitated released perfectly serviceable records, but is that really what we're calling the best of the year? Hopefully 2015 will be better, and produce more outright gems than merely 'pretty okay' records. If for some reason you're the type of person who looks for pop recommendations from metal websites, then Nicole Atkins' Slow Phaser album was a terrific collection of catchiness. Also, Run The Jewels 2.
0
— Call me harsh, but I don't think that 2014 was a particularly great year for metal, and my lists reflect that. Sure, the likes of Decapitated released perfectly serviceable records, but is that really what we're calling the best of the year? Hopefully 2015 will be better, and produce more outright gems than merely 'pretty okay' records. (If for some reason you're the type of person who looks for non-metal recommendations from metal websites, then Nicole Atkins' Slow Phaser album was a terrific collection of catchiness. Also, Run The Jewels 2.)
0
— Call me harsh, but I don't think that 2014 was a particularly great year for metal. Hopefully 2015 will be better. (If for some reason you're the type of person who looks for pop recommendations from metal websites, then Nicole Atkins' Slow Phaser album was a terrific collection of catchiness. Also, Run The Jewels 2. )
0
— Call me harsh, but I don't think that 2014 was a particularly great year for metal. Hopefully 2015 will be better. (If for some reason you're the type of person who looks for pop recommendations from metal websites, then Nicole Atkins' Slow Phaser album was a terrific collection of catchiness. Also, Run The Jewels 2. )
0
— Call me harsh, but I don't think that 2014 was a particularly great year for metal. Sure, we had plenty of pretty okay albums from the likes of Decapitated, Behemoth, and Mayhem, but is that the best we can hope for, albums that are pretty okay? Metal should stir the blood, and aside from the above, my blood was more often than not unstirred. Hopefully 2015 will be better, and we can chalk 2014 up to water-treading. (If you're the type of person who looks for non-metal recommendations from metal websites (not that I've done a great deal to dissuade this in the past, I know) then Nicole Atkins' Slow Phaser album was a terrific collection of catchiness. Also, Run The Jewels 2 was the best hip-hop album of the year (sorry Body Count))
0
— Call me harsh, but I don't think that 2014 was a particularly great year for metal. Sure, we had plenty of pretty okay albums from the likes of Decapitated, Behemoth, and Mayhem, but is that the best we can hope for, albums that are pretty okay? Metal should stir the blood, and aside from the above, my blood was more often than not unstirred. Hopefully 2015 will be better, and we can chalk 2014 up to water-treading. (If you're the type of person who looks for non-metal recommendations from metal websites (not that I've done a great deal to dissuade this in the past, I know) then Nicole Atkins' Slow Phaser album was a terrific collection of catchiness. Also, Run The Jewels 2 was the best hip-hop album of the year (sorry Body Count))
0
— Call me harsh, but I don't think that 2014 was a particularly great year for metal. Sure, we had plenty of pretty okay albums from the likes of Decapitated, Behemoth, and Mayhem, but is that the best we can hope for, albums that are pretty okay? Metal should stir the blood, and aside from the above, my blood was more often than not unstirred. Hopefully 2015 will be better, and we can chalk 2014 up to water-treading. (If you're the type of person who looks for non-metal recommendations from metal websites (not that I've done a great deal to dissuade this in the past, I know) then Nicole Atkins' Slow Phaser album was a terrific collection of catchiness. Also, Run The Jewels 2 was the best hip-hop album of the year (sorry Body Count))
0
— Call me harsh, but I don't think that 2014 was a particularly great year for metal. Sure, we had plenty of pretty okay albums from the likes of Decapitated, Behemoth, and Mayhem, but is that the best we can hope for, albums that are pretty okay? Metal should stir the blood, and aside from the above, my blood was more often than not unstirred. I spent most of the time it took to put this list together wondering where to put At The Gates' comeback At War With Reality - I'm still disappointed by it, but after hearing the songs live it's grown on me considerably, so it doesn't really deserve an official 'disappointment of the year' slot. Anyway, hopefully 2015 will be better, and we can chalk 2014 up to water-treading. (If you're the type of person who looks for non-metal recommendations from metal websites (not that I've done a great deal to dissuade this in the past, I know) then Nicole Atkins' Slow Phaser album was a terrific collection of catchiness. Also, Run The Jewels 2 was the best hip-hop album of the year (sorry Body Count))
0
— Call me harsh, but I don't think that 2014 was a particularly great year for metal. Sure, we had plenty of pretty okay albums from the likes of Decapitated, Behemoth, and Mayhem, but is that the best we can hope for, albums that are pretty okay? Metal should stir the blood, and aside from the above, my blood was more often than not unstirred. I spent most of the time it took to put this list together wondering where to put At The Gates' comeback At War With Reality - I'm still disappointed by it, but after hearing the songs live it's grown on me considerably, so it doesn't really deserve an official 'disappointment of the year' slot. Anyway, hopefully 2015 will be better, and we can chalk 2014 up to water-treading. (If you're the type of person who looks for non-metal recommendations from metal websites (not that I've done a great deal to dissuade this in the past, I know) then Nicole Atkins' Slow Phaser album was a terrific collection of catchiness. Also, Run The Jewels 2 was the best hip-hop album of the year (sorry Body Count))

Charles

Top Albums

1.
8815
1.
8815
1.
8815
2.
8650 — Way better than the debut, in my view, which I think I overrated.
2.
8650 — Way better than the debut, in my view, which I think I overrated.
2.
8650 — Way better than the debut, in my view, which I think I overrated.
3.
8607
3.
8607
3.
8607
4.
8822
4.
8822
4.
8822
5.
8666 — Probably the most obscure thing on here- disappointing that absolutely nobody else seems to listen to this band.
5.
8666 — Probably the most obscure thing on here- disappointing that absolutely nobody else seems to listen to this band.
5.
8666 — Probably the most obscure thing on here- disappointing that absolutely nobody else seems to listen to this band.
6.
8890
6.
8890
6.
8890
7.
8858
7.
8858
7.
8858
8.
8909
8.
8909
8.
8909
9.
8920
9.
8920
9.
8920
10.
8530
10.
8530
10.
8530
11.
8792
11.
8792
11.
8792
12.
8889
12.
8889
12.
8889
13.
8819 — I sort of agree with those people that complain about Opeth becoming too much of a 'Heritage' act (har har). But this album sounds so pretty.
13.
8819 — I sort of agree with those people that complain about Opeth becoming too much of a 'Heritage' act (har har). But this album sounds so pretty.
13.
8819 — I sort of agree with those people that complain about Opeth becoming too much of a 'Heritage' act (har har). But this album sounds so pretty.
14.
8509
14.
8509
14.
8509
15.
8762 — Personally I prefer Effigies and Epitaphs, but nonetheless this is an essential project to get acquainted with.
15.
8762 — Personally I prefer Effigies and Epitaphs, but nonetheless this is an essential project to get acquainted with.
15.
Falls of Rauros - Believe in No Coming Shore — Can't believe I didn't get round to reviewing this.

Surprises of the Year

Disappointments

Joke of the Year

Words / Final Thoughts

Jared

Top Albums

1.
8707 — Easily one of Novemebers Dooms' absolute best. They seem to rarely, if ever, disappoint.
1.
8707 — Easily one of Novemebers Dooms' absolute best. They seem to rarely, if ever, disappoint.
1.
8707 — Easily one of Novemebers Dooms' absolute best. They seem to rarely, if ever, disappoint.
1.
8707 — Easily one of Novemebers Dooms' absolute best. They seem to rarely, if ever, disappoint.
1.
8707 — Easily one of Novemebers Dooms' absolute best. They seem to rarely, if ever, disappoint.
1.
8707 — Easily one of Novemebers Dooms' absolute best. They seem to rarely, if ever, disappoint.
1.
8707 — Easily one of Novemebers Dooms' absolute best. They seem to rarely, if ever, disappoint.
1.
8707 — Easily one of Novemebers Dooms' absolute best. They seem to rarely, if ever, disappoint.
2.
8597 — Battleaxe returns and delivers the best heavy metal had to offer this year.
2.
8597 — Battleaxe returns and delivers the best heavy metal had to offer this year.
2.
8597 — Battleaxe returns and delivers the best heavy metal had to offer this year.
2.
8597 — Battleaxe returns and delivers the best heavy metal had to offer this year.
2.
8597 — Battleaxe returns and delivers the best heavy metal had to offer this year.
2.
8597 — Battleaxe returns and delivers the best heavy metal had to offer this year.
2.
8597 — Battleaxe returns and delivers the best heavy metal had to offer this year.
2.
8597 — Battleaxe returns and delivers the best heavy metal had to offer this year.
3.
8902 — Chaotic, brutal, and a hellishly delicious good time. The type of black metal I was yearning for this year.
3.
8902 — Chaotic, brutal, and a hellishly delicious good time. The type of black metal I was yearning for this year.
3.
8902 — Chaotic, brutal, and a hellishly delicious good time. The type of black metal I was yearning for this year.
3.
8902 — Chaotic, brutal, and a hellishly delicious good time. The type of black metal I was yearning for this year.
3.
8902 — Chaotic, brutal, and a hellishly delicious good time. The type of black metal I was yearning for this year.
3.
8902 — Chaotic, brutal, and a hellishly delicious good time. The type of black metal I was yearning for this year.
3.
8902 — Chaotic, brutal, and a hellishly delicious good time. The type of black metal I was yearning for this year.
3.
8902 — Chaotic, brutal, and a hellishly delicious good time. The type of black metal I was yearning for this year.
4.
8877 — A bit of a curve ball band for me, but one of the most progressive metal albums I've enjoyed in a long time.
4.
8877 — A bit of a curve ball band for me, but one of the most progressive metal albums I've enjoyed in a long time.
4.
8877 — A bit of a curve ball band for me, but one of the most progressive metal albums I've enjoyed in a long time.
4.
8877 — A bit of a curve ball band for me, but one of the most progressive metal albums I've enjoyed in a long time.
4.
8877 — A bit of a curve ball band for me, but one of the most progressive metal albums I've enjoyed in a long time.
4.
8877 — A bit of a curve ball band for me, but one of the most progressive metal albums I've enjoyed in a long time.
4.
8877 — A bit of a curve ball band for me, but one of the most progressive metal albums I've enjoyed in a long time.
4.
8877 — A bit of a curve ball band for me, but one of the most progressive metal albums I've enjoyed in a long time.
5.
8651 — Definitely the most fun album to come out this year. It was also an absolute pleasure to be able to interview lead guitarist Jens Ludwig this year.
5.
8651 — Definitely the most fun album to come out this year. It was also an absolute pleasure to be able to interview lead guitarist Jens Ludwig this year.
5.
8651 — Definitely the most fun album to come out this year. It was also an absolute pleasure to be able to interview lead guitarist Jens Ludwig this year.
5.
8651 — Definitely the most fun album to come out this year. It was also an absolute pleasure to be able to interview lead guitarist Jens Ludwig this year.
5.
8651 — Definitely the most fun album to come out this year. It was also an absolute pleasure to be able to interview lead guitarist Jens Ludwig this year.
5.
8651 — Definitely the most fun album to come out this year. It was also an absolute pleasure to be able to interview lead guitarist Jens Ludwig this year.
5.
8651 — Definitely the most fun album to come out this year. It was also an absolute pleasure to be able to interview lead guitarist Jens Ludwig as well.
5.
8651 — Definitely the most fun album to come out this year. It was also an absolute pleasure to be able to interview lead guitarist Jens Ludwig about the new album.
6.
8540
6.
8540
6.
8540
6.
8540
6.
8540
6.
8540
6.
8540
6.
8540
7.
8737
7.
8737
7.
8737
7.
8737
7.
8737
7.
8737
7.
8737
7.
8737
8.
8770
8.
8770
8.
8770
8.
8770
8.
8770
8.
8770
8.
8770
8.
8770
9.
8957 — One of the best albums to end the year. A potent stoner and doom metal journey from start to finish.
9.
8957 — One of the best albums to end the year. A potent stoner and doom metal journey from start to finish.
9.
8957 — One of the best albums to end the year. A potent stoner and doom metal journey from start to finish.
9.
8957 — One of the best albums to end the year. A potent stoner and doom metal journey from start to finish.
9.
8957 — One of the best albums to end the year. A potent stoner and doom metal journey from start to finish.
9.
8957 — One of the best albums to end the year. A potent stoner and doom metal journey from start to finish.
9.
8957 — One of the best albums to end the year. A potent stoner and doom metal journey from start to finish.
9.
8957 — One of the best albums to end the year. A potent stoner and doom metal journey from start to finish.
10.
8821
10.
8821
10.
8821
10.
8821
10.
8821
10.
8821
10.
8821
10.
8821
11.
8775
11.
8775
11.
8775
11.
8775
11.
8775
11.
8775
11.
8775
11.
8775
12.
8704
12.
8704
12.
8704
12.
8704
12.
8704
12.
8704
12.
8704
12.
8704
13.
8678
13.
8678
13.
8678
13.
8678
13.
8678
13.
8678
13.
8678
13.
8678
14.
8557
14.
8557
14.
8557
14.
8557
14.
8557
14.
8557
14.
8557
14.
8557
15.
8665
15.
8665
15.
8665
15.
8665
15.
8665
15.
8665
15.
8665
15.
8665

Surprises of the Year

1.
8528 — Who knew two guys could sound heavier than a five piece band? These guys completely rock the house.
1.
8528 — Who knew two guys could sound heavier than a five piece band? These guys completely rock the house.
1.
8528 — Who knew two guys could sound heavier than a five piece band? These guys completely rock the house.
1.
8528 — Who knew two guys could sound heavier than a five piece band? These guys completely rock the house.
1.
8528 — Who knew two guys could sound heavier than a five piece band? These guys completely rock the house.
1.
8528 — Who knew two guys could sound heavier than a five piece band? These guys completely rock the house.
1.
8528 — Who knew two guys could sound heavier than a five piece band? These guys completely rock the house.
1.
8528 — Who knew two guys could sound heavier than a five piece band? These guys completely rock the house.
2.
8671 — From a cover band, to a darkened symphonic black and death metal rise, these guys are off to a solid start.
2.
8671 — From a cover band, to a darkened symphonic black and death metal rise, these guys are off to a solid start.
2.
8671 — From a cover band, to a darkened symphonic black and death metal rise, these guys are off to a solid start.
2.
8671 — From a cover band, to a darkened symphonic black and death metal rise, these guys are off to a solid start.
2.
8671 — From a cover band, to a darkened symphonic black and death metal rise, these guys are off to a solid start.
2.
8671 — From a cover band, to a darkened symphonic black and death metal rise, these guys are off to a solid start.
2.
8671 — From a cover band, to a darkened symphonic black and death metal rise, these guys are off to a solid start.
2.
8671 — From a cover band, to a darkened symphonic black and death metal rise, these guys are off to a solid start.
3.
3.
8747 — It may not have been their debut, but these guys totally surprised me with their black and death metal brute force.
3.
8747 — It may not have been their debut, but these guys totally surprised me with their black and death metal brute force.
3.
8747 — It may not have been their debut, but these guys totally surprised me with their black and death metal brute force.
3.
8747 — It may not have been their debut, but these guys totally surprised me with their black and death metal brute force.
3.
8747 — It may not have been their debut, but these guys totally surprised me with their black and death metal brute force.
3.
8747 — It may not have been their debut, but these guys totally surprised me with their black and death metal brute force.
3.
8747 — It may not have been their debut, but these guys totally surprised me with their black and death metal brute force.
4.
4.
8789
4.
8789
4.
8789
4.
8789
4.
8789
4.
8789
4.
8789
5.
5.
8760
5.
8760
5.
8760
5.
8760 — A group of young and talented thrashers to keep an eye on.
5.
8760 — A group of young and talented thrashers to keep an eye on.
5.
8760 — A group of young and talented thrashers to keep an eye on.
5.
8760 — A group of young and talented thrashers to keep an eye on.

Disappointments

1.
8584 — A solid record from one of my all-time favorite bands, but I felt this one to be highly overrated.
1.
8584 — A solid record from one of my all-time favorite bands, but I felt this one to be highly overrated.
1.
8584 — A solid record from one of my all-time favorite bands, but I felt this one to be highly overrated.
1.
8568 — Metalcore, more so than the melodic death metal it claims to be.
1.
8568 — Metalcore, more so than the melodic death metal it claims to be.
1.
8568 — Metalcore, more so than the melodic death metal it claims to be.
1.
8568 — Metalcore, more so than the melodic death metal it claims to be.
1.
8568 — Metalcore, more so than the melodic death metal it claims to be.
2.
8568 — Metalcore, more so than the melodic death metal it claims to be.
2.
8568 — Metalcore, more so than the melodic death metal it claims to be.
2.
8568 — Metalcore, more so than the melodic death metal it claims to be.
2.
8584 — A solid record from one of my all-time favorite bands, but I felt this one to be highly overrated.
2.
8584 — A solid record from one of my all-time favorite bands, but I felt this one to be highly overrated.
2.
8584 — A solid record from one of my all-time favorite bands, but I felt this one to be highly overrated.
2.
8584 — A solid record from one of my all-time favorite bands, but I felt this one to be highly overrated.
2.
8584 — A solid record from one of my all-time favorite bands, but I felt this one to be highly overrated.
3.
3.
3.
3.
3.
3.
3.
3.
4.
4.
4.
4.
4.
4.
4.
4.
5.
5.
5.
5.
5.
5.
5.
5.

Joke of the Year

Words / Final Thoughts

0
— 2014 felt to be a bit stale in my opinion. While there were many solid records, and few extremely memorable ones, I felt it to be overall lacking unfortunately this year. However, I do have high hopes for 2015 and wish everyone the absolute best this year!
0
— 2014 felt to be a bit stale in my opinion. While there were many solid records, and few extremely memorable ones, I felt it to be overall lacking unfortunately this year. However, I do have high hopes for 2015 and wish everyone the absolute best this year!
0
— 2014 felt to be a bit stale in my opinion. While there were many solid records, and few extremely memorable ones, I felt it to be overall lacking unfortunately this year. However, I do have high hopes for 2015 and wish everyone the absolute best this year!
0
— 2014 felt to be a bit stale in my opinion. While there were many solid records, and few extremely memorable ones, I felt it to be overall lacking unfortunately this year. However, I do have high hopes for 2015 and wish everyone the absolute best this year!
0
— 2014 felt to be a bit stale in my opinion. While there were many solid records, and few extremely memorable ones, I felt it to be overall lacking unfortunately this year. However, I do have high hopes for 2015 and wish everyone the absolute best this year!
0
— 2014 felt to be a bit stale in my opinion. While there were many solid records, and few extremely memorable ones, I felt it to be overall lacking unfortunately this year. However, I do have high hopes for 2015 and wish everyone the absolute best this year!
0
— 2014 felt to be a bit stale in my opinion. While there were many solid records, and few extremely memorable ones, I felt it to be overall lacking unfortunately this year. However, I do have high hopes for 2015 and wish everyone the absolute best this year!
0
— 2014 felt to be a bit stale in my opinion. While there were many solid records, and few extremely memorable ones, I felt it to be overall lacking unfortunately this year. However, I do have high hopes for 2015 and wish everyone the absolute best this year!

Andy

Top Albums

1.
8847 — Really can't stop raving about this one
1.
8847 — Really can't stop raving about this one
2.
8716 — Love it or hate it, you'll end up doing one or the other enthusiastically. I do the former.
2.
8716 — Love it or hate it, you'll end up doing one or the other enthusiastically. I do the former.
3.
8878 — This album quite literally transcends death. Even with their main guy no longer with us (RIP Mark), the band still releases probably the best album they've done since Thundersteel.
3.
8878 — This album quite literally transcends death. Even with their main guy no longer with us (RIP Mark), the band still releases probably the best album they've done since Thundersteel.
4.
8764 — Listened to it after Neill gave it a low score, but I personally loved it
4.
8764 — Listened to it after Neill gave it a low score, but I personally loved it
5.
8734 — Listening to this one again, I'm still impressed.
5.
8734 — Listening to this one again, I'm still impressed.
6.
8582 — These guys only get better (and heavier) with each album.
6.
8582 — These guys only get better (and heavier) with each album.
7.
8709 — Probably the best CoC album since Pepper Keenan left.
7.
8709 — Probably the best CoC album since Pepper Keenan left.
8.
8870
8.
8870
9.
8791
9.
8791
10.
8958
10.
8958
11.
8668
11.
8668
12.
8807
12.
8807
13.
8756
13.
8756
14.
8554
14.
8554
15.
8939
15.
8939

Surprises of the Year

1.
8571 — Weird but cool, and as unexpected as it was pleasant to hear.
1.
8571 — Weird but cool, and as unexpected as it was pleasant to hear.
2.
8688 — This, too, caught my fancy after reading Alex's review.
2.
8688 — This, too, caught my fancy after reading Alex's review.
3.
3.
4.
4.
5.
5.

Disappointments

1.
8872 — I can't exactly say I had high expectations, but after listening to it, I am disappointed to find that anyone would produce such an album.
1.
8872 — I can't exactly say I had high expectations, but after listening to it, I am disappointed to find that anyone would produce such an album.
2.
2.
3.
3.
4.
4.
5.
5.

Joke of the Year

1.
8777 — A group that doesn't take itself seriously...and still remains funny at times.
1.
8777 — A group that doesn't take itself seriously...and still remains funny at times.
2.
2.
3.
3.
4.
4.
5.
5.

Words / Final Thoughts

0
— 2014 had some disappointments to it (my colleague Goat had some downhearted moments in his awards, which he posted a day before me), but I missed a lot of them. Continuing a trend I've noticed in the past few years, we're getting more gems released by individual artists; three out of five of my top picks are small projects, and two are by individuals, though we had some established acts releasing some good albums as well. On top of that, at least two older bands, Riot and Corrosion of Conformity turned out some new material that I could say was truly excellent and worthy of their glory days. So sure, we've had a few duds this year, but I don't feel like I got terribly disappointed. Even though I missed some of the disappointments of 2014, it pains me that I also missed -- thus far, anyway -- a number of albums I'd probably have enjoyed. I still haven't even heard Opeth's latest, for instance. Luckily, there's a way to remedy that. I recommend that you do the same and check some of these picks out this coming year if you haven't heard them yet. Happy 2015, folks!
0
— 2014 had some disappointments to it (my colleague Goat had some downhearted moments in his awards, which he posted a day before me), but I missed a lot of them. Continuing a trend I've noticed in the past few years, we're getting more gems released by individual artists; three out of five of my top picks are small projects, and two are by individuals, though we had some established acts releasing some good albums as well. On top of that, at least two older bands, Riot and Corrosion of Conformity turned out some new material that I could say was truly excellent and worthy of their glory days. So sure, we've had a few duds this year, but I don't feel like I got terribly disappointed. The surprises I got this year were in the non-metal category that managed to sneak into my listening queue due to their close affinity with metal. Even though I missed some of the disappointments of 2014, it pains me that I also missed -- thus far, anyway -- a number of albums I'd probably have enjoyed. I still haven't even heard Opeth's latest, for instance. Luckily, there's a way to remedy that. I recommend that you do the same and check some of these picks out this coming year if you haven't heard them yet. Happy 2015, folks!

Joel

Top Albums

1.
8966 — Also one of my biggest surprises of the year.
1.
8966 — Also one of my biggest surprises of the year.
2.
8651 — back to Power Metal!!
2.
8651 — back to Power Metal!!
3.
8670 — Best Of Their Career
3.
8670 — Best Of Their Career
4.
8574 — Waiting For Part 2
4.
8574 — Waiting For Part 2
5.
8708 — Showing why they are one of the most original bands out of Australia
5.
8708 — Showing why they are one of the most original bands out of Australia
6.
8706 — A Great Return to Form
6.
8706 — A Great Return to Form
7.
8589 — Best since Blackenday
7.
8589 — Best since Blackenday
8.
8644 — Another solid Australian Band
8.
8644 — Another solid Australian Band
9.
9.
8787 — Best example of meshing modern and melodic in same package
10.
10.
8873
11.
11.
8660 — Even more symphonic, even better vocals thanks to Dianne Van Giersbergen
12.
12.
8652 — Builds upon their self titled released
13.
13.
8926 — Melodic Power Progressive Metal from Pennsylvania USA
14.
14.
8896 — An Re-Evolution of some sort!
15.
15.
8711 — My most listened to SA disc since Winterheart's Guild

Surprises of the Year

1.
1.
8966 — Speedy melodic Power Metal, one of the best of the year
2.
2.
8945 — From Greece w/ Melodic Power Metal
3.
3.
8578 — Progressive and Symphonic Metal with Dianne Van Giersbergen(Xandria) on vocals
4.
4.
8916 — Traditional Heavy Metal with its own original touch
5.
5.
8897

Disappointments

Joke of the Year

Words / Final Thoughts

0
0
— My first full year of writing for MetalReviews has introduced me to many new bands. While I have preferred to review unsigned bands, I am happy I got the opportunity to review favorites as well, and live concerts as well. Honorable mentions should be named to a few bands I could name under my surprises of the year category. Two bands from my home state of Wisconsin, <a href="http://www.metalreviews.com/reviews/album/8884"target="New"> Arctic Sleep</a> and <a href="http://www.metalreviews.com/reviews/album/8864"target="New"> Arbor</a>.