05) Be’Lakor, Coherence (Napalm Records)

The follow-up to 2016’s Vessels was probably one of my most anticipated records of the year. These Australian melodic death metal giants have continued to amaze me, as they can no longer do any wrong. It is only up from here for them. Be’Lakor’s Coherence is one strong record, one that will hopefully bring them to the U.S once they are no longer under lockdown (check out my interview).

Key Track: “Foothold”

04) Swallow The Sun, Moonflowers (Century Media)

Swallow The Sun has made another heartbreaking masterpiece with Moonflowers. We first heard this record with an orchestra, as the soothing instrumentals were a significant sign that their excellence continues to prevail. The biggest surprise was hearing Oceans of Slumber’s Cammie Gilbert’s impeccable vocals on “All Hollows’ Grieve” (check out my interview).

Key Track: “All Hollows’ Grieve”

03) Hypocrisy, Worship (Nuclear Blast)

Hypocrisy’s Worship is the best way to celebrate the group’s overall thirtieth anniversary and the first new album in eight years. Remaining consistent with their sound and style, these Swedish death metal masters have shown that aliens, “They Will Arrive” (check out my interview).

Key Track: “They Will Arrive”

02) Witherfall, Curse Of Autumn (Century Media)

Curse of Autumn, the third chapter of Witherfall, doesn’t have an homage to horror and their fallen drummer, Adam Sagan, which we heard in 2017’s Nocturnes and Requiems and 2018’s A Prelude To Sorrow. Instead, their third offering gets more personal and executes experimental styles to explore, such as “The River,” a song in memory of vocalist Joseph Michael’s father. The band has stretched their boundaries, where it has once again shown their overall musicianship and Michael proving to be one of the top modern metal vocalists. Curse of Autumn is a record you do not want to pass up on and one that should remain in your weekly rotation (check out my interview and review).

Key Track: “Another Face”