1. Rivers OF Nihil – Where Owls Know My Name
I have been a fan of this band for some time and always enjoyed their consistency and quality.
in 2018 Rivers Of Nihil decided to go all out and show the world how taking a risk can really pay off. This album displays a willingness to step outside the boundaries of the genre and showcases just how technically skilled each member of the band really is.
2. At the Gates – To Drink From The Night Itself
I got onto this album late in 2018, but it immediately resonated with me. These metal veterans from Sweden have produced another insanely groovy album with songs that get stuck in your head for days. This album will have you singing along and air guitaring from beginning to end.
3. Behemoth – I Loved You At Your Darkest
This is yet another stomping release from this monstrous band. Behemoth to me are an all round package of quality music, artwork and video. Each time I hear that there is new Behemoth on the way, I not only look forward to the album, but the cover art and no doubt the blasphemy heavy music videos.
4. PORTAL – ION
My top 5 would not be complete without a band from home.
Portal are a polarizing band with a die hard fanbase. Portal’s albums are not really made up of songs, its more a collision of sound that feels intentionally jarring. Portal are not a easy band to listen to by any means, but I celebrate their unrelenting charge into experimental metal.
5. High On Fire – Electric Messiah
Onto their 8th studio album, this band continues to smash out infectiously groovy metal. Even though this album has a quick pace, it is loaded with intricate riffs and stomping guitar solos. A hell of a effort from another veteran Metal band.
