{"id":13520,"date":"2025-01-03T22:56:58","date_gmt":"2025-01-04T03:56:58","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/?p=13520"},"modified":"2025-01-12T15:33:27","modified_gmt":"2025-01-12T20:33:27","slug":"feature-jonathan-doc-swank-top-releases-2024","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/index.php\/2025\/01\/03\/feature-jonathan-doc-swank-top-releases-2024\/","title":{"rendered":"Feature: Jonathan “Doc” Swank – Top Releases 2024"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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2024 was another great year for music in our scene and abroad. Consequently, in addition to the top Christian releases, I am including a top secular release list (of what I\u2019ve heard) for purposes of comparative anatomy. Additionally, because there have been so many great reissues this year, I\u2019m adding a \u201cnoteworthy reissues\u201d section for the first time. Rating numbers are included only as reference points for quality comparison.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Chart Notes<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Observation #1<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As always, this is not a collaborative viewpoint from our writers, merely this one writer\u2019s perspective, preferences and prescription. Hence, if a release isn\u2019t on this list, it means it probably either flew below my very limited radar (humble confession) or it was far outside the realm of my exposure level to adequately critique. Furthermore, I try to keep the \u201ctop\u201d list limited to releases which have been reviewed by one or more of our contributors here on heavensmetalmagazine.com<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Observation #2<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

My biggest regret this year is the lack of more extreme releases represented, but having two in the top 5 helps, to some degree, to level out this imbalance. Limited time afforded in which to \u201chear it all\u201d and less exposure in those more extreme genres contributes partly to the deficiency, but this year was also an incredibly competitive year for melodic rock\/metal and power\/prog metal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Observation #3<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The ladies\u2019 contributions have been phenomenal this year with stellar vocal performances by Leah, Anette Olzon and newcomer Tiffany Galchutt (Millennial Reign), not to mention great supporting roles from the likes of Maria Jose (vocals – Ben Baruk), Jennifer Eckhart (vocals – Harpazo) and Anna Sentina (bass – Flood). Additionally, the late 2024 release from Perpetual Legacy features the amazing voice of Michelle Braglia Rodovalho which will most certainly enthrall fans of progressive symphonic rock\/metal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Observation #4<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Finally, the order of appearance here (outside the top 5) is somewhat more random. These releases are so strongly matched, it\u2019s difficult to rank them fairly. All this to say, don\u2019t take the ranking numbers here too seriously (fans of Stryper and Whitecross, are you reading?) Hence, ratings aside, we are blessed to have much great music for our edification and encouragement, and so behold\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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The Best of the Best \u2013 2024<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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1. Motivik \u2013 Renouncement<\/em> (9.5)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There is just something about this album \u2026 throwback to the glory days of thrash metal where melodies weren\u2019t discarded for the sake of speed and guitar solos shredded with conviction. The best of Believer, Betrayal and Tourniquet with a splash of Metallica and Megadeth and even the more progressive death metal of Becoming the Archetype. It was a tough decision between this one and Human Code, but at heart I\u2019m a metal guy \u2026 and with a song like \u201cSepticemia\u201d on the set list, the doctor in me completely sold-out! Doc\u2019s review HERE<\/a><\/strong> and Gatto\u2019s review HERE.<\/a><\/strong> [Roxx]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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2. Human Code \u2013 Break the Silence<\/em> (9.5)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Doug Van Pelt\u2019s \u201cpick of the year.\u201d Without a doubt, totally worthy of the album of the year, especially given the care and effort put into this by a bunch of guys with a ton of talent, spirit and credibility. For sure, this is the \u201cbest-sounding \u201calbum of the year\u2026 and the songs, lyrics and execution are brilliant! Doc\u2019s review HERE<\/a><\/strong> and DVP\u2019s review HERE<\/a><\/strong>. [Girder]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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3. Leah \u2013 The Glory and the Fallen<\/em> (9.5)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Surprisingly, not many have \u201cchatted-up\u201d this early-year, independently released, epic, but Leah has been working her way up to this level for quite some time; with each release she keeps improving upon both her sound and her song craft. Call it fantasy, call it gothic, call it symphonic, call it epic \u2026 I just call it breathtakingly amazing! Review HERE<\/a><\/strong>. [Ex Cathedra]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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4. P.O.D. \u2013 Veritas<\/em> (9.25)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Readers might be upset with me for including this in my top five, but I just can\u2019t help it. I\u2019ve tried to find weaknesses, but the more I keep analyzing and listening, the more I just want to keep listening to these more \u201ctraditional\u201d P.O.D. anthems. There is a maturity and confidence here that has been missing for some time despite the band\u2019s amazing output. Truth isn\u2019t always complex or innovative, sometimes it just manifests when doing what you do best in the best way you best know how. Selah! Review by Gatto HERE<\/a><\/strong>. [Mascot]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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5. Ben Baruk \u2013 Cosmogony<\/em> (9.25)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Easily, this is the surprise of the year for me. While I don\u2019t as often these days get time or access to listen to extreme metal, Ben Baruk and Cosmogony<\/em> are the real deal. Vision of God and the band are to be commended for crafting and recording this incredibly intricate collection of songs which are rich in concept and deep in diversity. Review HERE<\/a><\/strong>. [Vision of God]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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6. Impellitteri \u2013 War Machine<\/em> (9.25)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s hard to go wrong when Chris Impellitteri and Rob Rock collaborate. Always great to see these more seasoned (aka older) musicians hit a home run. This is old-school melodic metal defined reflecting a time-gone-bye when a vocal identity and signature style was commanded and demanded within the music industry. This time around, they increased their aggression and speed, especially on drums. Crothers\u2019 always enjoyable enthusiastic review HERE<\/a><\/strong>. [Frontiers]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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7. Harpazo \u2013 The Crucible<\/em> (9.25)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Gary Wehrkamp\u2019s long overdue return to the music world. His contributions to Shadow Gallery are legendary. His collaboration with Marc Centanni and progressive metal vocalist DC Cooper represents a monumental effort to score a place within the \u201cconcept metal\u201d hall of fame. Laced with an all-star line-up, a compelling story and a lush production mix, this one checks off nearly all the boxes within the realm of an unforgivingly competitive genre. Doc\u2019s review HERE<\/a><\/strong> and Bowman\u2019s review HERE<\/a><\/strong>. [Rockshots Records]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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8. Saint \u2013 Immortalizer <\/em>(9.25)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

An easy top 10 pick. The longevity of the effort and the persistence of the spirit isn\u2019t lost on anyone, but when you are in the game this long you must still deliver the message and the goods with credible execution. Check, check. Roger, that! McCormack\u2019s review HERE<\/a><\/strong> and Crothers\u2019 review HERE<\/a><\/strong>. [Armor]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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9. Anette Olzon \u2013 Rapture<\/em> (9.25)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

While I felt 2021\u2019s Strong<\/em> was a move in the right metal direction, with this release the former Nightwish vocalist has taken her solo career one step closer to excellence with a brazenly Christian-themed collection of symphonic power metal burners. In addition to Leah\u2019s epic masterpiece and the very credible Millennial Reign release featuring vocalist Tiffany Galchutt, the ladies have stamped a very powerful and credible presence this year on the metal ticket! Review HERE<\/a><\/strong>. [Frontiers]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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10. Within Silence \u2013 The Eclipse of Worlds<\/em> (9.25)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Here is another release which ranks high for me but may not for critics and fans. Admittedly, I am a fan for the underdog. The improvement this band has made since their debut, in the quality and execution of their sounds, is praiseworthy. Yes, they echo heavily their influences (Theocracy\/Iron Maiden) but when its this good\u2026 Review HERE<\/a><\/strong>. [Ulterium]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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11. Stryper \u2013 When We Were Kings<\/em> (9.25)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The kings of melodic rock\/metal return with something to say \u2013 their best collection of songs since 2015\u2019s Fallen.<\/em> To be \u201cin the game\u201d this far into their career, to be \u201cbringing it\u201d ever heavier, is a testament to both their faith\/commitment and their willingness to adapt to the demand of fans who always want it heavier and faster! DVP\u2019s well-articulated review HERE<\/a><\/strong>. [Frontiers]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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12. Millennial Reign \u2013 World on Fire<\/em> (9)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Like Balance of Power, this band reimagined their sound with a female singer without having to alter the course of their melodic power metal outpourings. The bold swing paid dividends to this listener as I rate this their best release to date. Doc\u2019s review HERE<\/a><\/strong> and Bowman\u2019s review HERE<\/a><\/strong>. [Ulterium]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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13. The Brave \u2013 Carnival of Sins<\/em> (9)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Without a doubt, the best melodic rock album this year from artists devoted to praising the King with smooth melodies and accessible hooks. Their legend lives on\u2026 Doc’s review HERE<\/a><\/strong> and Crothers’ review HERE<\/a><\/strong>. [Brave Music Unlimited]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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14. Whitecross \u2013 Fear No Evil<\/em> (9)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This band without Scott Wenzel feels unfamiliar, yet familiar all the same thanks to the licks and grooves of Rex Carroll and the dynamic voice of Dave Roberts who is a cross between Wentzel and Klaus Meine. Fans can rejoice as Fear No Evil<\/em> represents a \u201ctriumphant return\u201d for a band which many considered a relic of the Christian melodic metal past. A worthy comeback, indeed. Gatto\u2019s \u201cfanboy\u201d (in a positive way) review HERE<\/a><\/strong>. [Dark Star]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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15. All For the King \u2013 Darkest Before Dawn<\/em> (9)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At 34 minutes this album is a bit more in EP territory which was one factor keeping it this far down in the chain. Also, I don\u2019t understand the decision to place the Ulf Christianson song (previously released in 2022 as a bonus track) as the lead-off track. All that aside, this band has a wonderful ability to match melody with lush heavy rock infused by totally sold-out praise-the-Creator attitude. Narnia blended with Jerusalem and Modest Attraction. Crothers\u2019 review HERE<\/a><\/strong>. [Roxx]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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16. Flood \u2013 Ripped Into Exile<\/em> (9)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Consequently, this album should have been huge. In so many ways, it still is \u2013 the songwriting, the diversity, the technical execution, the singing. But the production mix was a missed opportunity.  While the vinyl version (Bombworks) provides a redemption of sorts, the lack of sound quality matching the band\u2019s debut remains a surprising shortfall. The good news is that the songs are very good to excellent. Review HERE<\/a>. [Acidify\/Bombworks]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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17. Kalamity Kills <\/strong>\u2013 Kalamity Kills<\/em> (9.25)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Jamie Rowe\u2019s new rock endeavor was originally released to digital streaming late 2023, found its way to CD in 2024 and vinyl format in early 2025. I missed out on this in 2023 (never hit my radar), but I get it now. Refreshingly, Rowe embraces a neogenesis of sorts, these songs encompassing hard rock\/melodic metal merged with more contemporary electronic rock effects for maximum shock rock impact. Look forward to hearing these sounds on vinyl. Gatto\u2019s expansive review HERE<\/a><\/strong>. [Pero Recordings]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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18. Perpetual Legacy \u2013 Teodrama<\/em> (9.25)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This progressive symphonic rock\/metal group hailing from Brazil \u2013 featuring the dynamic voice of Michelle Rodovalho \u2013 released their second full-length in late 2024. Frankly, this could easily be ranked higher, but I\u2019ve not had enough time yet to fully digest its impact and scope. One thing for sure, noteworthy indeed, is the ambitiousness and diversity of this 2CD epic replete with melodic and harsh vocals, cinematic elements and plenty of great compositional experimentation. Full review HERE<\/a>.<\/strong> [En Hakkore]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Noteworthy Reissues<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

While we know fans prefer new music, Roxx, Boone\u2019s and Girder burn through a lot of capital, time and effort on reissuing much of the great music of the past 3 to 4 decades for our musical edification and listening pleasure. This segment represents a salute to some of that effort as well as to the greatness of the musicians\/artists represented.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Galactic Cowboys <\/strong>\u2013 The Box That Bud Bought<\/em> (CD\/Vinyl) (9.75)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Brutal Planet\u2019s treatment of this iconic band\u2019s Metal Blade releases is nothing short of extraordinary. And Bud\u2019s CD box and the four \u201cfirst time on vinyl\u201d renditions are nothing short of spectacular. For those who haven\u2019t already read the synopsis\/review you can experience \u201cThe Ranch that Doc Reviewed\u201d HERE<\/a><\/strong>. [Brutal Planet]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Threshold \u2013 Wounded Land<\/em>, Psychedelicatessen<\/em>, Extinct Instinct<\/em>, Clone<\/em> (CD, Vinyl) (9.75)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

UK\u2019s premier progressive metal band has reissued their first four albums on CD and vinyl. Karl Groom (guitars\/songwriter\/producer) remixed these to perfection with a much more aggressive guitar edge, so these are definitively distinct from the original recordings. Each album includes new liner notes written in 2024. Additionally, each release (vinyl) has its own distinctive transparent color. thresh.net<\/a> [Nuclear Blast]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Demon Hunter \u2013 Summer of Darkness<\/em> (Vinyl) (9.75)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Oh, how long have I waited for this on vinyl! Fans love the debut, as do I, yet this release not only unmasked the band, but it also showcased what they could deliver to the floundering metal world circa 2004. Endearingly, my favorite DH album to date sounds every bit as good on vinyl as would be expected. [Solid State]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Veni Domine \u2013 Fall Babylon Fall<\/em> & Material Sanctuary<\/em> (CD, Vinyl) (9.5)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Reviewing this band\u2019s first two albums reissued (remastered by CJ Grimmark) didn\u2019t happen this year much to my regret. Pressed on both CD and vinyl, these don\u2019t disappoint. While Fall Babylon Fall<\/em> was previously released on extremely limited vinyl (Circle of the 111 Vinyl Saviours) in 2018, Material Sanctuary<\/em> sees vinyl light of day for the first time ever. Essential. [Melodic Passion<\/a>]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Ken Tamplin \u2013 Stand Up & Shout<\/em><\/strong> (9.5)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

One of the most comprehensive collections of songs from an artist with a plethora of material from which to cull. Don\u2019t have much more to say other than what I\u2019ve already said in my equally comprehensive review HERE.<\/a><\/strong> [Girder]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Brother Cane \u2013 Wishpool<\/em> (CD and Vinyl) (9.5)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Without a doubt, the best of the band\u2019s 3 incredibly brilliant releases. How this band didn\u2019t make it bigger is beyond comprehension. Girder has done a nice job of reissuing their debut on both CD\/first-time vinyl in 2023. Similar treatments on this release are equally good, the excellent vinyl remaster sublime. [Girder<\/a>]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Believer<\/strong> \u2013 Extraction from Mortality<\/em>, Sanity Obscure<\/em>, Dimensions<\/em> (CD, Cassette, Vinyl). (9.5)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

My original intention was to review all three of these gems, but alas, I was only successful in accomplishing this goal with the band\u2019s debut reviewed HERE<\/a><\/strong>. [Bombworks]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Barren Cross \u2013 Atomic Arena<\/em> & State of Control<\/em> (Vinyl) (9.25)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

With each release available in two different colors, these classics \u2013 originally released on Enigma \u2013 have been reissued on vinyl as part of the now iconic Limited Run Vinyl Series. [Retroactive<\/a>]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Sacred Warrior \u2013 Waiting in Darkness<\/em> (CD) (9)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Originally released in 2013, the often-overlooked Eli Prinsen incarnation of the band put out a worthy dark progressive collection of songs. Retroactive issued the \u201cfirst time on vinyl\u201d in 2021 and this year the newly packaged Collector\u2019s Edition<\/em> on CD, replete with slipcase and expanded 12-page booklet. And speaking of waiting \u2026 we patiently await\/anticipate new material\u2026 [Retroactive<\/a>]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Worldview \u2013 The Chosen Few<\/em> (Vinyl) (8.75)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

First time on vinyl, it just seems appropriate that this excellent collaboration of George Ochoa, Rey Parra and Todd Libby (originally released in 2015) finally receives analog treatment in the same year we are introduced to Ochoa\u2019s latest musical incarnation \u2013 Human Code. [Girder<\/a>]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Damascus<\/strong> \u2013 The Road to Damascus<\/em> (CD) (8.5)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

An amazing, expertly curated anthology\/tribute to one of the most underrated Christian prog bands from the \u201880\u2019s. Read my exhaustive review of this 2 CD set HERE<\/a><\/strong>. [Roxx]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lazarus \u2013 Exegesis<\/em> (CD) (8.5)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

\u201cExegesis <\/em>is a diamond in the ruff, a missing piece in the UK white metal puzzle, a long-lost piece of Christian metal history.\u201d Read full review HERE<\/a><\/strong>. [Cult Metal Classics]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Disciple \u2013 The Lost Disciple<\/em> (CD) (8)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Call it nostalgic, this is old-school all the way. This lovingly culled resurrection of the music of Australia\u2019s Disciple stands testament to the dual-edged sword of late \u201880\u2019s Christian metal \u2013 melodic rock\/metal matched with the message of hope in Jesus Christ. Our review HERE<\/a><\/strong>. [Roxx]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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A Sampling of 2024 – Par Excellence <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Ayreon \u2013 Live Beneath the Waves<\/em> (10)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This multi-vocalist, deeply talented progressive rock\/metal entity has released the media version (CD\/BD\/Vinyl) of their 4th<\/sup> live incarnation. This time around the band has re-enacted their iconic and diverse 01011001<\/em> album to critical acclaim. The stage sets and visuals\/lights surpass everything which has gone before \u2013 sound, song and visual ecstasy! As with all things Ayreon\/Arjen Lucassen \u2026 perfection. [Music Theories Recordings<\/a><\/strong>]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Porcupine Tree \u2013 Closure\/Continuation. Live<\/em> (9.75)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

While I realize this was a late 2023 (December) release date, this live performance is stunning and may have been overlooked in 2023. The band\u2019s incredibly strong reunion album was released in 2022, but this live incarnation took things to the next level. Visually stunning, aurally sublime \u2013 progressive rock\/metal doesn\u2019t get any better. [Music For Nations<\/a><\/strong>]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Balance of Power \u2013 Fresh From the Abyss<\/em> (9.75)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This UK band has revitalized themselves with new vocalist Hazel Jade while simultaneously delivering melodic hard rock ecstasy. These songs are brazenly addictive. I just love the 8-song simplicity with every song having a distinctive vibe. Doc’s Heaven’s Metal<\/em> review HERE<\/a><\/strong>. [Massacre]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Opeth – The Last Will and Testament<\/em> (9.75)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Sweden’s premier progressive death metal\/rock band slipped this one in under the radar late 2024. Much to long-time fans pleasure, not only does Mikael \u00c5kerfeldt deliver the melodic vocals, but he also returns with his first death metal growls since 2008’s Watershed<\/em>. This deeply conceptual album is the perfect blend of older death progressive Opeth (Still Life<\/em>, Blackwater Park<\/em>) with the newer more melodic prog (Heritage<\/em>, Sorceress<\/em>). Featuring sensational new drummer Waltteri V\u00e4yrynen, along with guest narrative\/flute from Jethro Tull’s Ian Anderson and Europe’s Joey Tempest (guest vocals), this is ( for me at least) the best album the band has crafted since the transitional Watershed<\/em>, and right up there in quality with Ghost Reveries<\/em>, Blackwater Park<\/em> and Still Life<\/em>. [Moderbolaget Records\/Reigning Phoenix Music]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Evergrey \u2013 Theories of Emptiness<\/em> (9.5)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Phenomenal release from the kings of dark power progressive metal. As much as I loved the previous 3 releases technically, this one hearkens back to the emotional\/melodic glory of Hymns for the Broken<\/em> which was one of their finest career moments. Bittersweet as this one marks the last album with long-time drummer\/co-producer Jonas Ekdahl. \u201cGhost of My Hero\u201d song of the year. Doc’s Amazon review HERE<\/a><\/strong>. [Napalm]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Judas Priest \u2013 Invincible Shield<\/em> (9.5)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

While not quite as dominant as 2018\u2019s Firepower<\/em>, it\u2019s insane that these guys can deliver the metal firepower to this degree this late in their career. Halford\u2019s vocals never age. Doc’s Amazon review HERE<\/a><\/strong>. [Epic\/Columbia]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Myrath \u2013 Karma<\/em> (9.25)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Tunisia\u2019s version of progressive metal has been a staple in the genre since their debut in 2007. This one represents their 6th<\/sup> full-length release in as much time, but their uniquely original take on the \u201cEastern Metal\u201d genre continues to enthrall with cinematic grandeur. Doc’s Amazon review HERE<\/a><\/strong>. [EAR]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Amaranthe <\/strong>\u2013 The Catalyst<\/em> (9.25)         <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Emulation is a great form of flattery as many bands have tried to mimic this band\u2019s formula. The triple vocal attack tied with catchy hooks is incredibly infectious and while they haven\u2019t varied this approach much through the course of the career, their music never fails to put pace on the miles and a smile on the face. Doc’s Amazon review HERE<\/a><\/strong>. [Nuclear Blast]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Vanden Plas \u2013 The Empyrean Equation of The Long-Lost Things<\/em> (9.25)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Often described as Germany\u2019s equivalent of Dream Theater, this band possesses their own distinctive style, largely due to dynamic, operatic vocalist Andi Kuntz who has a penchant for dramatic conceptual semi-symphonic metal. However, after years of those epic concept pieces, this release represents a great return to simply glorious melodic prog metal brilliance ala 1997\u2019s iconic The God Thing<\/em>. [Frontiers]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Accept \u2013 Humanoid <\/em>(9)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Despite the attrition of members through the years (Hoffmann the lone remaining \u201cWolf\u201d), this band has been delivering top power metal releases time after time since 2010\u2019s iconic Blood of the Nations<\/em>. The next generation of Accept members is willingly receiving the \u201ctorch passed down\u201d by the pioneer forefathers, the flame still burning, keeping the metal anthems aflame with passion and power. [Napalm]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Herin \u2013 Standing in Plain Sight<\/em> (8.75)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

While not as heavy and intricate as a Tiles release, Herin\u2019s debut solo release impresses in every aspect. For tackling the most difficult subject to sing about (dementia) they deserve a \u201cmetal of honor.\u201d Heaven’s Metal<\/em> review HERE<\/a><\/strong>. [Laser’s Edge]<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Selah…<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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