Welcome to Metal Power Rankings: Our weekly rankings take a number of factors into account: newsworthiness, record sales, internet buzz, word of mouth and overall importance in the genre. Ultimately, it’s subjective, but if a band generates enough buzz, they’ll wind up on the list. Iron Maiden’s announcement that they’ve got a new album pretty much done ensures they’re on the top of the list again.
1) Iron Maiden (no change)
Did Nicko McBrain just say that Iron Maiden has a new album finished? Did he also say that Bruce Dickinson is still drinking Trooper beer, even though cancer impacted his ability to taste it? Few other bands can rightfully hold the #1 spot with a record so far away, but that’s because they aren’t Maiden.
2) Behemoth and 3) Cannibal Corpse (no change)
This tour just plain rules. And with Nergal’s autobiography making its way on to every literate metalhead’s must-read list, there’s even more excitement around it.
4) Torche (last week 5)
Restarter is Torche’s heaviest record yet, and critical acclaim has been almost universal from metal and alternative writers alike. It’ll be interesting to see what happens with them in their debut week.
5) All That Remains (last week 6)
Well, the band’s new album is out now. And Phil Labonte’s Twitter exchange with our bros at Metal Injection might have been an unconventional way to promote it.
6) 36 Crazyfists (last week 14)
The Alaskans just had their best week at Billboard ever! That’s damned impressive for any band, much less one that’s been around for over a decade.
7) Faith No More (last week 8)
You can cut the anticipation for Sol Invictus with a knife.
8) At the Gates (re-entry)
Decibel Tour. Decibel Tour. Decibel Tour. DECIBEL TOUR.
9) Periphery
The shine may be off of Juggernaut, but the band will continue to be a force in metal throughout the year.
10) Slayer (last week 12)
How can they keep themselves in the news until Record Store Day? By announcing some off dates.
11) Metallica (last week 9)
Megadeth in the studio next month. Slayer and Anthrax hashtagging “2015.” Your move, guys.
12) Five Finger Death Punch (re-entry)
Sorry guys, you got punched by 35 more fists this week.
13) Testament & 14) Exodus
This tour may well be as awesome in 2015 as it would have been in 1986. Either way, if you like thrash, you’re all about this.
15) Tool (debut)
Sure, there’s been excitement about a Tool album, but when even Maynard is getting psyched, you know something’s brewing, and we’re not just talking blankets.
