Top 20 Metal Albums Of 2015

Last week I posted a run-down of my top 20 albums of 2015, but of course this covered all of the albums I heard during the course of the year, regardless of genre. I thought it would be a good idea to also make two separate lists, one covering just Metal albums and the other covering other genres. I don't know how many people are interested in this idea or how useful it will be, but for the Metal fans among you (and I know there are a few), I give you my top 20 Metal albums of 2015. To make it more helpful, I have indicated the sub-genre in brackets.

20. Melechesh - Enki (Black Metal)

19. 36 Crazyfists - Time And Trauma (Alt. Metal)

18. Magic Circle - Journey Blind (Trad / Doom Metal)

17. W.A.S.P. - Golgotha (Trad Metal)

16. Korpiklaani - Noita (Folk Metal)
15. Avatarium - The Girl With The Raven Mask (Doom Metal)
14. Moonspell - Extinct (Gothic Metal)
13. Vreid - Sólverv (Pagan Black Metal)
12. Arcturus - Arcturian (Avant-Garde Black Metal)
11. Lamb Of God - VII: Sturm Und Drang (Groove Metal)
10. Parkway Drive - Ire (Metalcore)
9. Paradise Lost - The Plague Within (Gothic Metal)
8. Morokh - The Unholy Masquerade (Sludge / Black / Death / Hardcore / Punk)
7. Amorphis - Under The Red Cloud (Folk / Pagan Metal)
6. Kampfar - Profan (Pagan Black Metal)
5. Cradle Of Filth - Hammer Of The Witches (Gothic Black Metal)
4. Fear Factory - Genexus (Industrial Metal)
3. Myrkur - M (Black Metal)
2. Slayer - Repentless (Thrash)
1. Iron Maiden - The Book Of Souls (Trad Metal)

Top 20 albums of 2015 (list)

For the benefit of those who can't be bothered to read through the write-ups or just don't want to, here's the full top 20 in a simple list format. As there were so many quality releases this year that didn't make the top 20 which I think are worthy of a mention, I am currently compiling a top 50 list.

20. Avatarium - The Girl With The Raven Mask
19. Moonspell - Extinct
18. Vreid - Sólverv
17. Arcturus - Arcturian
16. Therapy? - Disquiet
15. Lamb Of God - VII: Sturm Und Drang
14. FFS - FFS
13. Parkway Drive - Ire
12. Paradise Lost - The Plague Within
11. Morokh - The Unholy Masquerade

10. Amorphis - Under The Red Cloud
9. Ugly Kid Joe - Uglier Than They Used Ta Be
8. Kampfar - Profan
7. Clutch - Psychic Warfare
6. Cradle Of Filth - Hammer Of The Witches
5. Fear Factory - Genexus
4. Myrkur - M
3. Slayer - Repentless
2. Marilyn Manson - The Pale Emperor
1. Iron Maiden - The Book Of Souls

Top 20 Albums Of 2015 - Part 4: 5 - 1

5. Fear Factory - Genexus

You've heard the adage "if it ain't broke(n), don't fix it. Well this can certainly be applied to Fear Factory. Instantly recognisable, the band's distinctive style remains intact and rather than trying to reinvent themselves, they instead opt to continue to tweak and fine-tune their sound to perfection. 

4. Myrkur - M

I don't what to say about the brilliant Murkur that hasn't already al been said, but if you've been living under a rock this year then this woman is, to quote Terrorizer magazine, "The future of Black Metal. This sublime debut album effortlessly blends the beauty of Scandinavian Folk Music and the ferocity of Black Metal. Like a siren in Greek mythology , Amalie lures you in with her haunting beautiful "clean" singing voice before tearing your face off with harsh Black Metal vocals which wouldn't have sounded out of place on an early Emperor or Mayhem record. This is a revelation and is without a doubt, the Black Metal album of the year.

3. Slayer - Repentless

Fist off, let me say that I have never been the world's biggest Slayer fan. In fact, I opted not to even bother watching their headline set at Bloodstock a few years back (something I won't be doing next year). The occasional song here and there aside, I haven't really rated them since 1994's "Divine Intervention", so when news reached my ears of a new Slayer album (and the first without founder member and major songwriter, Jeff  Hanneman) I wasn't really interested. Curiosity got the better of me though, so I listened to it anyway...and it completely blew me away. Tom sounds refreshed and delivers his vocals with the passion of the early releases, the riffs are fast and furious and  most importantly, there are songs here. Memorable songs. Maybe they were out to prove the doubters wrong, that they not only could continue without Jeff, but that they are every bit as relevant as they ever were or maybe the album was a tribute to Jeff? Who knows. All I know is that these veterans have emphatically stamped their mark on the Metal world again, 34 years after their formation.

A word of warning: The video below is not for the faint of heart.

2. Marilyn Manson - The Pale Emperor

Let's face it, Mr Warner hasn't been "dangerous" or even remotely relevant since 2003's "The Golden Age Of Grotesque". He had actually become a sad and pathetic parody of what he once was and following a slew of sub-standard albums and lacklustre live performances, his fans deserted him in droves. Fast forward to the tail-end of 2014 and rumblings began which seemed to herald the return of the once mighty Marilyn Manson and "Third Day Of A Seven Day Binge",the first song to emerge from the upcoming album, "The Pale Emperor" seemed to bear this out. His fans, (including yours truly) however, were a little reluctant at first. Then came the single "Deep Six" and everything fell into place. Yes, this really was the return of the old Manson, just a little older, wiser and a lot less controversial. The Pale Emperor is Marilyn Manson's most fully formed and well-rounded work to date and could surpass Antichrist Superstar to be remembered as the band's masterpiece in years to come.

1. Iron Maiden

There was only one real choice for album of the year, despite strong challenges from the artists above. Iron Maiden released their first album in 5 years and the 16th in their long and (mostly) illustrious career. Never a band to play it safe, that they would opt to release such an ambitious album, a double-album no less, after existing as a recording artist for 35 years just emphasises that there is no compromise with Iron Maiden, and specifically, main man Steve Harris. This is a band that have always done things on their own terms. Of course, we should have known that such a move was never going to be a gamble for Maiden and that the album was going to be a success was all but assured. Everything you want from a Maiden album is here and even epic album closer "Empire Of The Clouds" which clocks in at 18:03 (and which features Bruce Dickinson on piano) is never boring. Iron Maiden are not going to be around forever and if "The Book Souls" turns out to be their final album, they will have gone out on top of their game.

Top 20 Albums of 2015 - Part 3: 10 - 6

10. Amorphis - Under The Red Cloud

Finnish legends, Amorphis have released their strongest album in years and possibly the best since current singer, Tomi Joutsen joined the band a decade ago. The band's unique and trippy take on Folk (tinged) Metal is still as distinctive as ever, as is Tomi's diverse vocal range with his Gothic Metal style clean voice contrasting sublimely with the throaty roar of his harsh vocals. There really is no other band out there like Amorphis and their sound continues to evolve and grow, 25 years after their inception. "Under The Red Cloud" is yet another triumph.

9. Ugly Kid Joe - Uglier Than They Used Ta Be

The latest in the seemingly never ending list of "comeback" bands, UKJ are back with their new album, the brilliantly titled "Uglier Than They Used Ta Be". Where this band are a more interesting prospect than many of their peers, however, is that they are better, much better, than they were back in the day. Although the "distinctive" artwork might be instantly familiar to those who remember them from the first time around, anyone expecting "Everything About You" or suchlike is going to be suprised / amazed. "Uglier..." is a powerful Grunge-fuelled hard rock powerhouse of an album that should impress even the harshest of critics. The band has never sounded so good. Welcome back, guys!

8. Kampfar - Profan

It's not often you come across a band who not only get better and better with age, but who have seemingly not yet peaked. Last year's "Djevelmakt" was a stunning example of just how much Black Metal still has to offer, but "Profan" is even better. Yes, not only are Kampfar hitting their stride now, after two decades, but they have also released an album for two consecutive years, with the latest being the band's best to date. "Profan" finds these ferocious Norwegians on fine form and not only are Kampfar easily the best Pagan Black Metal band out there right now, but they are definite contenders for THE best Black Metal band. They really are that good.

7. Clutch - Psychic Warfare

Clutch do what they do and if you're already familiar with them, you know what to expect from the new album. "Psychic Warfare" is a raucous blues rock explosion of unstoppable, pure rock fury. Very possibly the most consistently brilliant rock band on the planet, they are certainly one of the best. 'Nuff said.

6. Cradle Of Filth - Hammer Of The Witches

Much maligned British Gothic Black Metallers, Cradle Of Filth have, like many others on my list this year, come storming back with their finest work in a long time. COF haven't sounded this vital since "Cruelty And The Beast" which was released a shocking 17 years ago. Dani's voice sounds as good as it ever did as he screeches and roars his way through the duration of "Hammer...", sounding especially vicious on tracks such as "Vampyre At My Side" and "Yours Immortally". Musically, the arrangements are as complex and tight as anything the band has put its name to. Let's be honest though, you either like COF or you don't and "Hammer Of The Witches" won't change your opinion either way.

Top 20 Albums of 2015 - Part 2: 15 - 11

15. Lamb Of God - VII: Sturm Und Drang

With all the hype surrounding Episode VII this year, it seems rather fitting that Lamb Of God would unleash their 7th album in 2015 and that like its visual counterpart, "VII: Sturm Und Drang" would see the and return to their best form in quite some time. As uncompromising as ever. this is the true definition of Groove Metal and the bar has been raised....again!

14. FFS - Self-titled

The only non-Metal album in my top 20 comes courtesy of a collaboration between Indie rockers, Franz Ferdinand and Art-Pop Legends, Sparks and the result is every bit as eclectic and brilliant as you might imagine. The lyrics are irreverant, cynical and achingly clever and musically FFS sound like, well Sparks meets Franz Ferdinand. If you need to buy just one "Pop" album this year, then it should be this one. Truly masterful.

13. Parkway Drive - Ire

Australia's Parkway Drive have been doing the rounds for over a decade now and are finally starting to get noticed in the Northern hemisphere. I first heard them 5 years ago at which point I tipped them for future greatness (just saying), and in a similar way to bands like AX7 and Audrey Horne, the band has gone through something of a metamorphosis. Although not as drastic a style shift as the aforementioned bands, "Ire" marks a noticeable step away from the Metalcore of old and the result is a much more mature and varied Hardcore-tinged Metal album (yes, there is a difference). The band are still raging against the machine and the lyrics are still about fighting the system and self-empowerment, but this time around they are armed with some seriously memorable tunes that will stick in your head. "Ire" should be the album to propel the band into the Metal "mainstream". This is their time.

12. Paradise Lost - The Plague Within

Paradise Lost have long since left behind their dalliances with New Wave and Goth Rock and are back doing what they do best, which is a distinctive take on Doom / Gothic Metal which has been often imitated, but never bettered. New album, "The Plague Within" finds the band sounding heavier than they have in many, many years. The signs that this was coming were clear to see, with guitarist Gregor forming the crushingly heavy Vallenfyre and vocalist Nick joining the ranks of Swedish Death Metal legends, Bloodbath. Of course this return to the heaviness of their early records has been backed up as always, by the stellar songwriting that has always helped Paradise Lost to stand out from their peers. The Plague Within is the culmination of a 10 year journey, started in 2005 on the self-titled album which brought back the band's unique and easily recognisable guitar sound which had been in the wilderness since the late 1990s.

11. Morokh - The Unholy Masquerade

Russia's Morokh are somewhat reminiscent of Norway's Kvelertak and this of course makes them a hard band to pin down sonically. With a sound that takes in Punk, Thrash, Hardcore, Sludge, Black Metal and more. "The Unholy Masquerade" is a full-on stormer from start to finish and at 32 minutes in duration, it makes its point in no uncertain terms.That this superb album is the band's debut is nothing short of a triumph. I just hope they can follow up such a promising start when it comes time to record album number 2. For now though, this will do nicely.
Listen to and buy it here for just $7 - you won't be disappointed.

Standout track: Lead Me Away

Top 20 Albums of 2015 - Part 1: 20 - 16

It's (already) that time of year again where I arrogantly tell you which are MY favourite albums of the past 12 months. In my defence though, I have tried to get you bastards involved, but never get any kind of feedback. With that in mind, I give to you part one of my top 20 list of 2015, a year which has been dominated by the "old guard", frankly. Yes, there have been a lot of good records from newer acts, but for the most part this has been a year where the veterans have reaffirmed their position and have resolutely thrown down the (studded) gauntlet.


20. Avatarium - The Girl With The Raven Mask

2013's self-titled debut album from Swedes, Avatarium - the brainchild of Doom Metal legend, Leif Edling of Candlemass fame - was a decent enough, if not world-shattering release, but the follow-up, "The Girl..." is truly spectacular. There are still elements of Leif's "other" band, but this time around the music ebbs and flows in all manner of interesting directions, largely thanks to the phenomenal and distinctive pipes of the wonderful Jennie-Anne Smith. She may be a newcomer to the Metal world, but with a voice like this, she is sure to be spoken of in terms of hushed reverence in years to come.

19. Moonspell - Extinct

Portuguese Goth Metallers, Moonspell have opted not to reinvent the wheel on their 11th album, instead focusing their energy on perfecting their marriage of Extreme Metal and Gothic Metal. The vocals on Extinct veer between harsh growls and a Nick Holmes style clean croon and the songs are atmospheric and melodic, yet retaining just enough of the heaviness of yore to keep older fans happy. This could well be the perfect Gothic Metal album (sorry Paradise Lost).

18. Vreid - Sólverv

There is more than the occasional nod to the sadly-defunct Windir (from the ashes pf which Vreid were formed), to be found on the band's 7th album, Sólverv and it finds them on a career-best form. There is a real movement of quality Pagan Black Metal in Norway right now and along with Kampfar, Vreid are leading the charge,

17. Arcturus - Arcturian

Spaced out Norwegian Avant-Garde Progressive Metallers, Arcturus are back with their first studio album in 10 years (a new Kovenant album next.maybe?) and it is every bit as good as its predecessor. Arcturian is a strange beast (even by Arcturus' lofty standards) and it twists, turns and develops with every listen. It seems as if the band has pushed it's sound forward yet managed to remain comfortably familiar at the same time. It is instantly clear that the songs on Arcturian have been written and composed with the keyboard as the lead instrument and this, along with ICS Vortex' distinctive voice has been the thing that has always set Arcturus aside from the crowd.

 

16. Therapy? - Disquiet

There was a lot of hype surrounding this album in the weeks leading up to its release, with many who had heard it (and I presume many who hadn't) proclaiming it to be Troublegum II. Obviously it was never going to live up to such hype and I don't think it needs to try. Troublegum is a true classic, but it is also 2 decades old and is a product of the Alt Rock explosion of the early - mid 90's.
No, what Disquiet is, is a band releasing their finest work in many years (possibly since the aforementioned record) and a band who have never really received the recognition they deserved. As always, it is the strength of the songs that stands out here and trust me, they'll be stuck in your head for weeks. Disquiet IS a fantastic album in its own right. Just forget all the silly Troublegum comparisons and enjoy it for what it is...a damn good Rock album from one of the finest bands to have ever come out of the UK.

New Music Round-Up 14/11/15

After another short period on inactivity (or living in the real world as it could otherwise be known) I am feeling the inspiration to throw together another collection of new stuff for your delicate little listening appendages.

Kampfar

It's not often you come across a band who not only get better and better with age, but who have seemingly not yet peaked. Last year's "Djevelmakt" was a stunning example of just how much Black Metal still has to offer, but "Profan" is even better. Yes, not only are Kampfar hitting their stride now, after two decades, but they have also released an album for two consecutive years, with the latest being the band's best to date. "Profan" finds these ferocious Norwegians on fine form and not only are Kampfar easily the best Pagan Black Metal band out there right now, but they are definite contenders for THE best Black Metal band. They really are that good.

Skindred

From clinical Norwegian Black Metal brutality to rabble-rousing Welsh Reggae Metal. Welcome to my world. Skindred have carved their own very specific niche and if you have heard them before (of course you have) then you will already know what to expect. This is business as usual and while  Benji's voice is as powerful and distinctive as ever and there are some heavier riffs than on previous albums, these veterans are starting to sound a bit predictable. There is nothing particularly wrong with (new album) "Volume", but what sounded fresh and interesting a decade ago sounds a little old hat now. Still, as I said previously, Skindred have a unique sound of their own and fans are sure to love this.

Avatarium

2013's self-titled debut album from Swedes, Avatarium - the brainchild of Doom Metal legend, Leif Edling of Candlemass fame - was a decent enough, if not world-shattering release, but the follow-up, "The Girl..." is truly spectacular. There are still elements of Leif's "other" band, but this time around the music ebbs and flows in all manner of interesting directions, largely thanks to the phenomenal and distinctive pipes of the wonderful Jennie-Anne Smith. She may be a newcomer to the Metal world, but with a voice like this, she is sure to be spoken of in terms of hushed reverence in years to come.

Murashita

You may not have heard of Murashita yet, but multi-instrumentalist and sole member, Masaki Murashita is a talent to be reckoned with and it's only a matter of time before the Metal world sits up and takes notice of his band. Of course, talent will only take you so far, you need good songs too and I'm pleased to say that Murashita more than deliver in that respect too. The band's interesting and distinctive take on the Melodic Death Metal sound is sure to hit a chord (sorry) with fans of the genre in years to come, so remember where you heard the name first.

Puscifer

That Puscifer features the distinctive and sublime voice of the one and only Maynard James Keenan (Tool, A Perfect Circle), should be enough for you to go out and buy this album right now. If you are not yet familiar with the band, it is essentially an Art-Rock collective with a revolving door of musicians (Keenan being the only constant member), and stylistically, it leans more towards the mesmerising atmospherics of A Perfect Circle than it does to the hypnotising soundscapes of Tool, although to be fair, it isn't trying to be like either band and I am just trying to provide a point of refernce."Money Shot" is a captivating and wonderous collection of songs which should help pass the time until the next Tool record. 

New Music Round-Up 17th October 2015

Amorphis

The Finnish Folk Metal legends have just released their strongest album in years and possibly the best since current singer, Tomi Joutsen joined the band a decade ago. The band's unique and trippy take on Folk (tinged) Metal is still as distinctive as ever, as is Tomi's diverse vocal range with his Gothic Metal style clean voice contrasting sublimely with the throaty roar of his harsh vocals. There really is no other band out there like Amorphis and their sound continues to evolve and grow, 25 years after their inception. "Under The Red Cloud" is yet another triumph.

Trivium

Trivium are always going to be a divisive band. They really are the Marmite of the Metal world. I happen to love them (as I do Marmite), but even I acknowledge that their road hasn't always been a smooth one, with the bumps of average albums along the way. In 2015,  however, Trivium are a very different beast. Vocalist / lead guitarist, Matt Heafy (still yet to turn 30!) has been the driving force of his band for 15 years now and on "Silence In The Snow", it has finally come of age. Gone are the growling vocals, mainly due to health issues, admittedly, and in their place is a much more Trad Metal vocal style which is better suited to Matt's songwriting / playing style. Trivium have never sounded better and even if you've never been a fan before, you may find yourself pleasantly surprised. "Silence..." is the band's strongest album to date and signals a rebirth for the band.

 

Vreid

This is how Black Metal should sound in 2015. Vreid are a Progressive Black Metal band in the truest sense of the word.They are constantly pushing their sound forward and evolving as a band, but without losing sight of who they are and where they come from. Style-wise, you could compare them to fellow Norwegians, Enslaved (without the excessive Prog Metal and 12 minute songs) and Kampfar. At times there are tantalising reminders of the band's roots -  just listen to the song below, Sólverv, and tell me that it doesn't invoke the cold dark beauty of early Windir.

Heart Of A Coward

I know these guys have been around for a while now (since 2007), but I have always steered clear of them due to the band name. For me, it carries unfortunate overtones of Bullet For My Valentine and their ilk. It just brings to mind horrible Emo / Metalcore. Thankfully though, HOAC are nothing like BFMV. Their sound is crushing and relentless. There are definite traces of Metalcore in the vocals at times, but for the most part this is the next stage of Metalcore progression. Along with bands like Parkway Drive (see last week's post), HOAC are ushering in a new era of Groove Metalcore with a sound that owes as much to Pissing Razors as it does to Killswitch Engage.

Children Of Bodom

This unfairly maligned band is something of a mystery. Seemingly disliked by everyone you talk to, yet still managing to sell a respectable number of records and play shows and festivals the world over. COB hasn't been a consistent band by any means, but new album "I Worship Chaos", while not being as fast or as immediate as previous releases, is the sound of a band back on form. The frenetic pace of old has been replaced by a mid-paced tempo and  Alexi has reigned in his penchant for showing us how fast he can play. This is the sound of a more mature, confident band.

New Music Round-Up 10th October 2015

I haven't done this for a while and a lot of the great music from this year is no longer new. Therefore, I'm going to start from the music I've head in the last week or so. There is so much that is exciting me at the moment that it will take two or maybe even three posts to get it all out there...so I'd better get on with it. First though, I would ask you to be kind - my writing is a little rusty.

W.A.S.P.

When I heard the first single, "The Last Runaway", my initial though was that the band had lost its sting (sorry), as it sounded a little Bryan Adams-esque. Thankfully though, this was definitely the weakest song on the album and actually makes more sense as part of the whole. My only real criticism of "Golgotha", as I actually like it very much, is that it just sounds way too familiar. This is something you shouldn't be able to say about a band's first new material in six years. Sadly though, they are walking on very well-worn ground here. The songs sound like you've heard them before. This is a shame as the band used to be something special and are starting to sound a little tired. To be fair to them though, they do have a very distinctive style and fans of the band are going to enjoy this album regardless. Just give it a few plays before you make a snap judgement as it is very much a grower.

Alfahanne

When I heard Alfahanne's debut album last year, I was immediately struck by how unique it was, which always gets my attention. Nordic Black Metal rubbed shoulders with Punk, Post Rock and New Wave - think Kvelertak meets Beastmilk via Shining - and album number two is even better. There is something wonderfully infectious about the energy here and the droning, repetitive guitars are almost at odds with the menace in which the lyrics are delivered (in their native tongue). Not for everyone, but if you want to hear something a little interesting and off the beaten path, Alfahanne are definitely worth a listen.

Alfahanne - Skallerormsgift

Ugly Kid Joe

The latest in the seemingly never ending list of "comeback" bands, UKJ are back with their new album, the brilliantly titled "Uglier Than They Used Ta Be". Where this band are a more interesting prospect than many of their peers, however, is that they are better, much better, than they were back in the day. Although the "distinctive" artwork might be instantly familiar to those who remember them from the first time around, anyone expecting "Everything About You" or suchlike is going to be suprised / amazed. "Uglier..." is a powerful Grunge-fuelled hard rock powerhouse of an album that should impress even the harshest of critics. The band has never sounded so good. Welcome back, guys!

Parkway Drive

Australia's Parkway Drive have been doing the rounds for over a decade now and are finally starting to get noticed in the Northern hemisphere. I first heard them 5 years ago at which point I tipped them for future greatness (just saying), and in a similar way to bands like AX7 and Audrey Horne, the band has gone through something of a metamorphosis. Although not as drastic a style shift as the aforementioned bands, "Ire" marks a noticeable step away from the Metalcore of old and the result is a much more mature and varied Hardcore-tinged Metal album (yes, there is a difference). The band are still raging against the machine and the lyrics are still about fighting the system and self-empowerment, but this time around they are armed with some seriously memorable tunes that will stick in your head. "Ire" should be the album to propel the band into the Metal "mainstream". This is their time.

Clutch

Clutch do what they do and if you're already familiar with them, you know what to expect from the new album. "Psychic Warfare" is a raucous blues rock explosion of unstoppable, pure rock fury. Very possibly the most consistently brilliant rock band on the planet, they are certainly one of the best. 'Nuff said.

I'm back...again!

Well, well, well. It really has been a long time since I put fingers to keyboard hasn't it? There were a number of factors involved, all of them far too dull to even explain, so I won't bother. Instead I figured I'd just resurrect my little Metal music blog again.

I'm currently working my way through a large backlog of new music and 2015 really has set the bar for quality releases. Every time I think "this is the one! This is album of the year", it gets topped a week later. It's all very exciting.

What I've been most surprised and impressed with this year is just how many veteran bands have released career best / defining / reaffirming albums. There have been so many amazing releases this year from the old guard which have included triumphant comebacks (Ugly Kid Joe, Die Krupps and Arcturus) to artists I'd all but given up on (Marilyn Manson, Cradle Of Filth and The Prodigy), from bands I have never really rated (Slayer, Armored Saint and Coal Chamber) as well as from those who are ever reliable (Therapy?, Iron Maiden and Napalm Death).

That isn't to say that there are no good new / newer bands as that would be patently ridiculous as so far this year I have discovered a plethora of great artists including Mrykur, Shattered Sun and Stone Ghost to name just a few and bands such as Parkway Drive, Deafheaven, and Powerwolf have really come out swinging, but for the most part, the veterans are definitely putting the youngsters to shame in 2015 and I have a feeling that they are going to dominate my year end top 20.

I'll leave it there for now, but I will be back in the next couple of days with a proper blog consisting of a crop of new songs that I think you all need to hear, assuming you haven't already, of course. And if you have, well done you.

Coal Chamber - Rivals Review

Band: Coal Chamber
Album: Rivals
Label: Napalm
Genre: Nu-Metal
Country: US
Release Date: 25th May 2015

I haven't updated this blog in quite some time and I wasn't feeling inspired to do so. That was until the new album dropped from Coal Chamber. This is a band many considered to be everything that was wrong with Nu-Metal back in the day and while I can understand this to a point - they did fall into the ridiculous image, only a few good songs category - I think it's fair to say, that anyone who stuck with the band until their spectacular and very public implosion in 2003, knows that they were not just also-ran, Korn copyists and had succeeded in developing their own distinct sound and song writing style. Would they have had the longevity of "peers" such as Korn and Deftones if they hadn't spilt? Doubtful, but if they hadn't, we probably wouldn't have the awesome DevilDriver and we certainly wouldn't have such hype and anticipiation for a new album. 

So, on to the album. Was it worth the 12 year wait? Does it live up to the hype? and most importantly, is it any good? The simple answer is yes, yes and a resounding YES! I don't think many would argue that Coal Chamber have ever released a consistently good album, yet alone a classic, thus far, so my expectations for Rivals were kept reasonably low. Yes, I was expecting a decent tune (I.O.U. Nothing delivered that) or two, but other than that, I was waiting for the usual filler songs and the sound of a band desperate to sound like it's still 1997.

Here's the thing. The album DOES sound like a throw back to the "glory days" of Nu-Metal (which is to be expected), but it is also the heaviest and most groove-laden record the sub-genre has produced, likely due to the time Dez has spent fronting the mighty DevilDriver. OK, so the crunchy, rumbling bass-heavy riffs may sound a little outdated, nigglingly familiar and dare I say, repetitive, at times, but taken as a whole, Rivals is a bloody good Metal record and one which falls on the right side of heavy - It will appeal to fans of modern Groove Metal, yet will still please those who don't want to be challenged and who are simply looking for a dose of good old-fashioned nostalgia. Then there are the songs. Aside from the 1:12 second interlude, Orion, there is pretty much no filler here and at 45 minutes long the album never feels like it drags. Quite the opposite, in fact - you are left wanting more. This is what Rivals does right -  it delivers one punchy, catchy song after another and it is filled to overflowing with memorable riffs and big choruses (well, as far as this genre goes). If you are or have been a fan of the band, this album is guaranteed to bring a smile to your face, put a spring in your step and a little nod in your head. The warm glow of a wasted youth that seemed so far away, will wash over you again and the songs will stick in your head.  If you're anything like me, you will have the album on repeat for days and you'll be singing (growling) along on the way to work before you know it. Simply put, Rivals is a triumph. It certainly can't be considered to be a cutting edge contemporary Metal record, but it is a "comeback" album that does exactly what you want it to do - It recaptures the feel of the good old days, while managing to sound (fairly) fresh into the bargain and let's face it, what nore could you ask from Coal Chamber and the much-Maligned Nu-Metal sub-gnre in 2015?!

Total Playing Time: 45 minutes

Overall: 8/10

Tracklist:

I.O.U.  Nothing
Bad Blood Between Us
Light In The Shadows
Suffer In Silence
The Bridges You Burn
Orion
Another Nail In The Coffin
Rivals
Wait
Dumpster Dive
Over My Head
Fade Away (Karma Never Forgets)
Empty Handed
Worst Enemy

Official Website: http://www.coalchamberofficial.com/

New Music Round-Up: 20th April 2015

Leviathan - Scar Sighted

Fucking hell! Apologies for the language, but this was my genuine reaction to the first few minutes of Scar Sighted. This is a brutal Blackened Death Metal beast of an album. Of course, as you would expect from Leviathan, there is much more to this release than "just" Death Metal. The music is so densly layered as to make Tool sound like Blink 182 and later on in the album the ambient experimentation the band are known for starts to creep insidiously in. Even on the more straightforward Death Metal tracks, such as opener (not including the cliched intro) "The Smoke Of Their Torment", the mid-paced Death Metal is interwoven with some harrowing and disturbing atmospherics that will make your skin crawl and the overall tone of the album is so utterly and relentlessly bleak that it will make you feel worthless and wretched. Not for the weak of heart, but absolutely essential for fans of extreme music.

Sigh - Graveward

As usual, trying to describe Sigh is like trying to catch air with a sieve, as an amazing 26 years into their career, Sigh continue to defy simple categorisation. Of course, at their dark heart they are a Black Metal band, but very early on, Mirai's maverick Avant-Garde stylings separated the band from their contemporaries. This is probably as much due to geography as it is anything else. Much as Australia's wildlife took it's own evolutionary path, so too did Sigh. Where the majority of the bands in the Black Metal  scene of the early 90s were based in the cold, unforgiving north of Europe, Sigh developed in their own environment - the rainy isolation of Tokyo, Japan. For those who have been a little disappointed with the last couple of Sigh albums, Graveward should come as a welcome return to the greatness we all know they are capable of and for those new to the band, expect to be taken on a weird journey of musical experimentation and eccentricity - this is, after all the same band that once used experimental WWII sonic weaponry techniques on one of their albums. Yes, they weaponised their music against their own fans. make of that what you will.

Faith No More - Sol Invictus

So far 2015 had been totally dominated by bands that made their name (and in most cases released their best work) in the 90s. With mindblowingly brilliant releases from Marilyn Manson and Therapy? already rocking my world and with new albums from Coal Chamber, Pist.On and Pissing Razors (ok, strictly from the early 00s) on the horizon, the cynic in you would be forgiven for thinking that there is the distinct whiff of nostalgia in the air. While this may have an element of truth, this train of though isn't entirely accurate. The aforementioned bands have not only returned with great albums, but they have also managed to stay refreshingly relevant. Cue the returning Faith No More. After a (recorded) hiatus of 18 years and following 3 classic, faultless releases in a row, I was wary of this one. As much as I wanted this to be brilliant, I was worried that they band might play it safe and rehash what they had already done. Of course, with FNM there is always the chance that they would actually do anything but and would experiment too much and not sound like the FNM we knew and loved at all. As it happens, neither of these is the case. This is a wonderful album from a truly untouchable band. A band that just has an intangible knack for writing a great song. On Sol Invictus you will find the usual variety of songs you would expect from FNM - a band who are not only true masters of their craft, but who are also at the very top of their game. Mike Patton's voice is on a career best form and the band's musicianship is as on the money as always. Sol Invictus is everything I hoped it would be and is a more than worthy addition to the FNM back catalogue.  

Therapy? - Disquiet review

Band: Therapy?
Album: Disquiet
Label: Amazingrecordco.
Genre: Alt. Metal / Rock
Country: Northern Ireland
Release Date: 23rd March 2015

There has been quite a lot of hype surrounding the 14th album from veteran Alt. Metal band, Therapy? over the past few months and I want to start off by addressing this hype. No, "Disquiet" is NOT "Troublegum" part 2. How could it be and why would you want it to be? Troublegum was a product of its era and of the Alt-Rock / Grunge explosion of the early 90s. A lot has happened since then, both musically and in all of our lives. On saying that, I'm not sure if it was a deliberate move to facilitate said hype or if it just happened organically, but everything from the sleeve layout and the arty, slightly disturbing artwork to the low-fi production does go a long way towards giving "Disquiet" that vintage / classic Therapy? feel.

I have to admit that, against my better judgement, I did let the hype affect my opinion when I first listened to the album. This, unfortunately meant that I initially found the album to be disappointing. Luckily, as I saw the positive scores flooding in all over the internet and in magazines, I found myself wondering just what it was that I was missing so I decided to go back to it and found that "Disquiet" is one of those subtle "growers" - you know the ones - that doesn't rely on a radio "hit" to lure you in  and a polished production to hide the lack of actual songs. And if there is one thing you can say about Therapy? and especially lead singer / songwriter, Andy Cairns it is that they are masters when it comes to penning a great song.

And that's where "Disquiet" comes in. Each an every song is wonderfully crafted and full of punchy, catchy hooks. I can see why people are harking back to the band's glory days, as when you compare "Disquiet" to it's predecessor, "A Brief Crack Of Light", which was a musically experimental and lyrically dark and troubling piece of work, it is, to use a well-worn expression, like comparing chalk and cheese. The lyrics are still dark and brooding and filled with the cynicism, introspection and borderline self-pity that you might expect from Therapy?, but the finished result is an upbeat and immediate collection of songs which make up arguably the best and most consistent album Therapy? have put their name to in many years and that is definitely cause for celebration.

From the opening one-two punch of "Still Hurts" and "Tides" to the very last second of album closer "Deathstimate", "Disquiet" is not only among the band's best albums to date, but it is also without doubt, the heaviest. There are some real monster riffs to be found here among the subtly infectious choruses - from the crunch of "Vulgar Display Of Powder" (also song title of the year) and "Left Behind" to the crushing Stoner / Sludge of the aforementioned "Deathstimate"'

Why keep looking backwards for great albums when there are bands like Therapy? releasing them now? The 90s (along with your youth) has gone and it isn't coming back. No amount of nostalgia is going to change that, so crank it up loud and live for the moment!

Total Playing Time: 42 minutes

Overall: 9/10

Tracklist:

Still Hurts
Tides
Good News Is No News
Fall Behind
Idiot Cousin
Helpless Still lost
Insecurity
Vulgar Display Of Powder
Words Fail Me
Torment Sorrow Misery Strife
Deathstimate

Official Website: therapyquestionmark.com

New Music Round-Up: 11th April 2015

Agnostic Front

Formed way back in 1980, Hardcore / Punk / Thrash / Crossover legends, Agnostic Front have consistently banged out fast and furious albums and unlike many of their contemporaries from 'back in the day', the band have staunchly refused to 'mature' or to grow old gracefully. Even with all that taken into consideration, "The American Dream Died" definitely ranks among the band's best albums in recent years - The catchy, punchy Hardcore anthems come thick and fast, all delivered with the passionate and unique vocal style of Roger Miret. Not only still relevant, but so far ahead of most of today's Hardcore bands that it's almost ridiculous.

Cancer Bats

What is there to say about Cancer Bats other than they continue to deliver their own distinct brand of no-nonsense Hardcore Punk. What you won't find here are polished, radio-friendly "Punk" anthems or obvious pit-fillers. No, these Canadians are the real deal. Nasty, in your face Art Punk (is there such a thing?). The songs ebb and flow in a deliciously messy feedback-fuelled whirlwind which, at times, brings to mind (fellow Ross Robinson produced punks) Amen. Brilliant, as always.

Trepalium

I have heard this band described as Herbie Hancock meets Pantera and while, to my ears, that isn't entirely accurate, it certainly prepares you for what you about to hear. Having previously experimented with Eastern melodies and Slavic folk, this French Progressive Metal band have certainly proved that they have the swagger and the confidence needed to pull off and audacious clash of musical styles like this and they do so with apparent ease. On their latest release, "Damballa's Voodoo Doll" they turn their attention to 1930's / 40's era Jazz, backed up with heavyweight groove-filled riffs. If you want something a little different, then Trepalium might just be the band for you.

Himinbjorg

People often (some might say, obviously) look to Scandinivia and the Nordic region for quality Viking / Pagan Metal, but if you are a true connoisseur of the scene then you'll know that France also has its fair share of Folk / Pagan Metal bands, among the cream of the crop being, Hininbjorg. Taking their name from Norse legend and with the subject matter focussing on Scandinavian mythology and Vikings, it would be very easy to dismiss Himinbjorg as, at best, cliched and at worst, wannabe Norwegians. To do so, however, would be selling them short and denying yourself the pleasure of one of the very best bands the sub-genre has to offer. If you're late to the party, I would highly recommend going way back to the band's debut "Where Ravens Fly" from 2000 and working forward before jumping straight in to the new album. Of course you don't have too, but if you do, you'll thank me later.

The Resistance

The Resistance are something of a Death Metal "Supergroup", featuring current and ex-members of bands such as In Flames, Nightrage, Dimension Zero and The Haunted. With a pedigree like this, you would be forgiven for expecting greatness. Well, you won't be diappointed. If you heard the band's first album (2013's "Scars"), then you know what this is going to sound like. If you are not familiar with The Resistance, start by clearing your mind of any ideas of similarities with In Flames and the more melodic "Gothenburg sound" as this fits definintely and distinctively into the thrashier Stockholm Death Metal camp with a style more reminiscent of bands such as Entombed and Dismember.

New Music Round-Up: April 3rd 2015

The Agonist

Losing the unique vocal talents of a powerhouse like Alissa White-Gluz (to Arch Enemy, no less) would have destroyed a lesser band. Luckily for us, and for them, The Agonist not only decided to continue, but also managed to find another vocalist with the pipes to fill the huge void left by Miss White-Gluz. Enter Vicky Psarakis. If this is a sign of things to come, then The Agonist have the potential to be bigger and better than ever.

36 Crazyfists

Alaska's own Post/Nu/Alt/Metalcore heroes, 36 Crazyfists are back after a prolonged 5 year absence and I am pleased to report that, while not as in-your-face aggressive as 2010's "Collisions and Castaways", new album "Time and Trauma" most definitely does not disappoint. Brock Lindow's distinct and unique vocal style is instantly recognisable and goes a long way towards elevating the band over their peers. Fans of bands as diverse as Godsmack, Killswitch Engage, Parkway Drive and even underrated early 2000s act,  Downer, will find much here to wrap their ears around. Welcome back, lads...you were missed.

Melechesh

Absolutely mind blowing! That was my first reaction to the new album from this amazing Dutch (by way of Israel) act. This isn't your average Metal band tacking a wanky bit of sitar akwardly over a Black Metal riff in a cynical attempt to sound vaguely interesting and "ethnic". Instead the Eastern instrumentation and melodies are deeply woven into the music like a wonderous sonic tapestry. It may well be played at breakneck speed, but persevere with this album and dig a little deeper and you will be rewarded by one of the most amazing musical experiences you will hear this year. This is the most ferocious that Melechesh have sounded in years, but also the most beautiful. A true paradox, "Enki" really is a work of extreme Metal art.

As Lions

Following the collapse of his previous act, partly due to line-up changes and partly due to idiots hounding him and judging him, not on his music, but because of who his dad is, Austin Dickinson shows the resolve that I'm sure Mr. Dickinson senior is very proud of. He got straight back to it, got a new band together and is back on the UK club circuit. Austin doesn't need to do this, he does this because he has passion for Metal. In his words "I take such a battering for being Bruce's kid, but I've always done this because I love it and I believe in the music". You should too. Metalcore appears to be a dirty word these days and while there are some truly terrible bands out there, there are also some good ones. As Lions are ready to be heard. Hear them roar! (sorry).

Byzantine

With a post-Thrash / Groove Metal (with hints of Prog) sound that should appeal to fans of heavyweights like Machine Head, it's a real mystery to me why Byzantine aren't bigger. I suppose it is mainly due to them being unsigned. Even in this era of the internet and easy exposure, it can be difficult for a band to get themselves out there and to reach a potential new audience without the backing of a label to promote them and to get them booked on big tours. What they are doing isn't really original (not many bands are), but it is delivered with style and aplomb! Forget the lazy comparisons (like mine above) and just enjoy this for what it is. A great Metal song from a band deserving of your time.

Sadly Missed: The 90 Minute Mixtape

Those who have been folllowing / reading this blog for a while will be aware that I do, on occassion, use it to get random thoughts and ideas off my chest (and out of my brain) as well as for reviewing and sharing new music. Well, dear friends, this is one of those posts. A random collection of thoughts, musings if you will.

Without meaning to sound like an old git - I remember my own reaction as a teenager when someone went on about vinyl being better than these new fangled CD thingumajigs - I feel sorry for the kids of today. Not only due to the fact that they will (probably) never experience the life-affirming, coming of age joy of trawling through the racks of a proper independent record shop and picking a handful of albums based on cover alone (this is a subject I have already covered), but because they won't be familiar with the concept of making or receving a 90minute cassette (the TDK D90, above, was my weapon of choice) filled to the very last second with music - let's face it, doing this properly was an art form. Choosing the songs, not only for quality, but by length to ensure that you could fit the maximum number of songs on each 45 minute side.

The running order was all important too. You wanted the recipient to enjoy the compilation, of course you did, but more than that, you wanted to impress them with your musical knowledge and diversity, while all the time not coming across as a pretentious twat - it was an imperceptibly fine line, which I probably crossed frequently. You couldn't just throw together an eclectic collection of music that  had no flow. No, these songs had to work together, the ending of one song almost seguing into the beginning of the next.

Now, I have been thinking (careful now) and ignoring the dubious legality of it all, I want to try to revive this lost art. Who's with me? All it would involve is making a compilation, in two 45 minute parts naturally, uploading it to Dropbox or suchlike and then posting the link here.

New Music Round-Up: 15th Feb 2015

Heidevolk

Dutch folkies, Heidevolk first came to my attention in 2007 with the "Wodan Heerst" EP and I was immediately impressed with their unique sound and especially with the chanted, baritone vocal delivery. With all of the lyrics in their native tongue and their catchier than herpes melodies, I had never heard anthing like them before (ok, so the violin is more than a little Skyclad influenced). They may have introduced some heavier, growling vocals, but the core sound has stayed distinctly Heidevolk and in the modern, over-saturated Folk Metal scene, Heidevolk still stand out as a band which sounds like no other and true originality in 2015 is a rare thing indeed.

Svartsot

This is the most exciting release of the year for me as it signals the long overdue return of the best Folk Metal band on the planet right now. When I first heard the band's debut album "Ravnene's Saga" back in 2007 (a good year for Folk Metal, apparently), I was totally blown away. I hadn't heard anything like this band before (or since). They combined the Folk melodies of (early) Thyrfing or Skyclad (my favourite band, incidentally) with the Death Metal crunch of Amon Amarth, but didn't sound like any of these bands. In fact, Svartsot are a completely unique prospect and I have waited four long years for this, the follow-up to 2011's admittedly patchy "Maledictus Eris". Bands like Svartsot don't get much attention from the music press and I suspect many of you won't be familiar with them, so if you like what you hear, please support the band. You can pre-order the album here: http://www.svartsot.dk/

Moonspell 

 
Portugal's biggest (possibly only) Gothic Metal export are back with their 11th full length "Extinct" and judging from the two tracks I've heard, while they seem to have taken yet another step towards a more mellow Gothic Rock sound, it might also be a career best. Even a cursory listen to "Extinct" and "The Last Of Us" brings to mind the mainstream-bothering likes of The Cult and Sisters Of Mercy as much as it does the dark melody of Paradise Lost and Type O Negative and this is definitely not a bad thing.

Schnee

Germany's, Schnee opt for a sound that will be very familiar to fans of Finnish Atmopheric Black Metal / Nature Folk acts such as Nest, October Falls and Tenhi amd to a lesser extent, Norwegian Ambient Black Metal pioneers, Burzum. What this demo lacks in originality and recording quality, it more than makes up for with its haunting Black Metal atmospherics and achingly beautiful soundscapes. Definitely a(n amusing) name to watch out for, Schnee means snow in German in case you were wondering. Click the link to hear the demo.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YMYA4K-ZKlk

 
Keep Of Kalessin

Where to start with the brilliant and painfully under-rated Keep Of Kalessin? Well the Norwegian veterans started out as a more traditional Black Metal band akin to (early) Dimmu Borgir, Emperor, et al, but over the years have, along with their more visionary peers, cultivated a much more Avant-Garde sound akin to Arcturus and Ulver. If you have yet to discover this gem of a band, I suggest you pick up a copy of new album, "Epistomology" right away.

New Music Round-Up: 8th Feb 2015

Cripper

Despite the horrible name (taken from an old working song title, apparently), German Modern Thrashers, Cripper are actually a bloody good band. Everyone knows that Germany has a long and rich Thrash Metal history and it's good to see bands like Cripper picking up the torch and running with it. OK, so purists will no doubt moan that it isn't "true" Thrash, but it also isn't 1985. Times change and music evolves. I think even the most jaded old school Thrasher will find something to get excited about on new album, "Hyëna".'

Dawnbringer

Dawnbringer have, over the span of  the last 20 years, perfected their unique style - which is an odd hyvrid  of Trad Metal, Doom, Black and Gothic Metal. The overall sound of Dawnbringer is hard to describe, but one obvious point of reference would be fellow Trad Metal oddballs (The Lord Wierd) Slough Feg. There is atmosphere aplenty on new album, "Night Of The Hammer" and along with some Maiden-esque leads and a decent vocal delivery from the ever-improving Chris Black. Overall, "Night..." is a rewarding and irresistable listening experience and one that gets better with repeat listens.

Diablo Blvd.

 
 Despite them having been around for a decade now, I haven't happened across Diablo Blvd. until now and I don't know what the older albums sound like, but "Follow The Deadlights" is even harder to sum up than Dawnbringer. The overall sound is undeniably "Southern Metal", but there are elements of Gothic Metal, Groove Metal, Grunge and even New Romantic to be found here. I have only heard the album once through so far, but I picked out parts that reminded me of a wide range of bands including 5FDP, Paradise Lost, Volbeat, Poisonblack, Wildhearts, Type O Negative, Danzig, Soil and Demon Hunter. Despite all of this there is something interesting and fresh about Diablo Blvd. and I am looking forward to hearing more from them in the future as well as searching out their back catalogue.

Enslaved

 
Incomparable Norwegian Prog Black Metal heroes, Enslaved are back...and judging on the basis of the single "Thurisaz Dreaming", the new album, "In Times", is almost guaranteed to be yet another Epic Masterpiece in the genre. All the hallmarks of the Enslaved sound are present and correct...The music is sprawling and experimental and the voals veer between otherwordly clean singing to harsh Black Metal rasps. This is the band's heaviest song in many a year, yet retains their recent ear for a Post Rock melody. Essential!

Nightwish

A lot has happened in the Nightwish camp in the 4 years since the release of the amazing "Imaginaerum" album (my album of the year for 2011, fact fans) and I have to admit to having mixed feelings about another new singer. Now, I don't doubt the vocal abilities of Ms. Jansen, but Anette Olzon made such an impact during her time with the band that she is going to be a very hard act to follow. Judging by the only song I have heard so far, "Elan", my fears seem to well founded. There are flashes of inspiration, but I can't shake the feeling that I have heard the song before...and better. It comes across as a Nightwish-lite meets Evanescance...such is the overwhelming sense of self-parody that I got from this song. In fairness, it may well be that the (admittedly leaked) version of the song that I have heard may not be the final version and that it may sound better within the context of the album. We will have to wait and see.