06) Taphos, Come Ethereal Somberness (2018)

Probably my favorite album of last year. Extremely good modern death metal out of Denmark. 

07) Slaegt, Domus Mysterium (2017)

Another Danish band that everyone in the band really got into, I can’t decide between this or their new album The Wheel. I picked this since it was what I started with. If you like Cloak, you’ll probably like Slaegt. 

08) Vorum, Poisoned Void (2013)

A death metal album that I really loved when I first heard it, and continue to listen to a lot today. Members recently formed Concrete Winds which is a completely savage follow up. 

09) Venenum, Venenum and Trance of Death (2011 & 2017)

I couldn’t just pick one album. I completely love this band, in fact I got Sean to paint the logo on my leather jacket. The debut release blew me away and I was anxiously awaiting the follow up for years to the point where I emailed the elusive band asking if they were going to release more material. Trance of Death didn’t disappoint, what a fucking album! This band goes under the radar for most people, but they’re one of the best around. I wish they would come to the states. 

10) Taake, Noregs Vaapen (2011)

I’ll round it off with an even 10. This is one of the best black metal releases of the decade in my opinion. The rock n roll elements they threw in on this record blew me away, it’s so good. 

Runner Up: Shining, Redefining Darkness (2012)

Love them or hate them (most likely hate), this album completely crushes. The guitar work, and even the vocal projection, is amazing.