3) Asphyx – Incoming Death (Century Media)
One of the most underrated bands in the history of death metal came back full force in 2016. With Incoming Death, Asphyx added to their essential back catalogue with a truly crushing effort. In a year that contained some absolutely amazing death metal releases, it was one of the masters of the old guard who clawed their way to the top of the heap.
Ley Track: “Wardroid”
2) Cult of Luna and Julie Christmas – Mariner (Indie Recordings)
There were a bunch of collaborative efforts in 2016 that emanated from the metal world with stellar results. The best of the lot though came from Sweden’s Cult of Luna and U.S. songstress, Julie Christmas. Imagine if one of Cult of Luna’s best efforts was enhanced with soaring, gorgeous female vocals. That’s basically a stripped down definition of what you are getting on this album. Christmas, no stranger to the post-metal world after having performed with “super group” Battle of Mice, not only gives this album another compelling layer to digest, but enhances the already majestic delivery that Cult of Luna manages. It’s a match made in exquisite metal heaven.
Key Track: “A Greater Call”
1) Neurosis – Fires Within Fires (Neurot Recordings)
Neurosis are one of the most important and influential bands in the history of heavy music. Period. Their most recent return from the studio was a triumphant one as once again they’ve delivered an album that melts directly into the crevices of your brain with every listen. This album is as addictive and as mesmerizing as you would come to expect from this band. Living legends and another album to add to such an important legacy.
Key Track: “Fire is the End Lesson”
Honorable Mentions
SubRosa – For This We Fought The Battle Of Ages
Horseback – Dead Ringers
Vanhelgd – Temple of Phobos
Hemelbestormer – Aether
Lament Cityscape & Theologian – Soft Tissue
Worm Ouroboros – What Graceless Dawn
Dead Register – Fiber
Anaal Nathrakh – The Whole of the Law
Gnaw Their Tongues – Hymns For The Broken, Swollen and Silent
Ghoul – Dungeon Bastards
