2010-2019 was an amazing decade for black metal. Tons of great records by some incredible bands. And while black metal has become a bit commoditized as of late, here’s a nod to the five best records of the decade who are keeping the tradition alive:
05) Shining, Redefining Darkness (Spinefarm – 2012)
You’re probably scared of this band. In fact, many journalists are scared to cover this band. Not us, of course. The live show is quite the spectacle and not for the faint of heart. But all that aside, Redefining Darkness is one of this band’s strongest records in a catalog that most bands can only dream of. Redefining Darkness is soulful, bluesy and, of course, heavy. Niklas Kvarforth and Peter Huss are such an underrated songwriting team and they channel both Guns N’ Roses and Danzig on this particular record. And… surprise! Who produces this record? None other than King Diamond guitarist Andy LaRocque!
Key Track: “For the God Below”
04) Mayhem, Esoteric Warfare (Season of Mist – 2014)
This is as close to a “traditional” extreme metal record that Mayhem will ever create. But let’s not call it an extreme metal record, because it’s some rather filthy black metal. It does, however, feature a number of songs that tend to be more straight forward and less experimental and progressive than their other releases. It works. This record contains, perhaps, my favorite vocal performance from Attila Csihar.
Key Track: “Psywar”
