Richard Christy wears many hats (and one diaper). While his day job on the Howard Stern Show consists of making hysterical phone calls among other things, most metalheads know him as one of the best metal drummers out there. His band Charred Walls of the Damned have released two albums on Metal Blade, while he’s also spent time behind the kit in Death and Iced Earth, among others. Here’s Richard’s top five albums of the year, with an honorable mention.
5) Demon Hunter, True Defiance (Solid State)
Demon Hunter writes some of the catchiest metal songs ever and I’ve been a fan of theirs for many years now. They achieve something that I always think is one of the most important aspects of songwriting – their songs stick in your head. I love catchy metal and this band writes some super catchy songs.
4) Death, Vivus (Relapse)
I’m a little biased because I play on this album, but I’m SOOOO happy with the reissues that Relapse are doing with the classic Death albums. When I listen to this album it brings back so many great memories for me, I’m so lucky that I was a member of Death, my favorite band in the world. I miss Chuck every day and I’m so happy that Relapse and Chuck’s family and friends are helping to make sure that his music is never forgotten.
3) Lamb of God, Resolution (Epic)
I LOVE these guys personally and I love their music! I traveled with them on tour in 2004 and they’re the most awesome guys ever, I had such a blast. It was a tough year for the band and I’m so happy that Randy is finally free and the guys are back out on tour kicking ass!
2) Testament, Dark Roots of Earth (Nuclear Blast)
One of the most reliable bands in metal, when they put out a new album you know it’s going to sound like Testament and you know it’s going to be awesome!
1) Coheed and Cambria, The Afterman: Ascension (Hundred Handed, Inc.)
An absolute masterpiece, I listen to this album every day since it came out and I’m counting down the days until I see Coheed at Radio City Music Hall in NYC next year! Plus I’m super psyched to hear part 2 of this double album next year, I’ve already heard one song that they’ve played live called Iron Fist and it is freakin’ epic!
Honorable Mention: Paranorman and Frankenweenie Soundtracks – Two amazing movies with equally amazing music! I’m a HUGE fan of horror soundtracks and these two are right up there with the best of them!
