30) Ensiferum, Winter Storm (Metal Blade)
This may not be Ensiferum’s strongest record. While it retains the bold, battle-driven Viking sound the band is known for, the classic melodies and track differentiation aren’t as prominent as in previous releases. However, it’s still an Ensiferum album and remains an enjoyable listen, making it well worth a spot on a year-end list. Despite higher expectations, Winter Storm landed a bit further down the rankings.
Key Track(s): “From Order To Chaos”
29) Darkestrah, Nomad (Osmose)
Dark, chaotic pagan elements fused with pristine folk movements are relaxing and extreme at the same time. The blend is undeniably attention-grabbing, which is why it stands out as one of this year’s best.
Key Track(s): “Kök-Oy”
28) Lord Dying, Clandestine Transcendence (MNRK Heavy)
Lord Dying’s latest album, Clandestine Transcendence, goes beyond traditional metal sludge, incorporating thrashy, heavy elements alongside one of the most compelling and heartbreaking songs of the year, “A Bond Broken By Death.”
Key Track(s): “A Bond Broken By Death”
27) Wolfheart, Draconian Darkness (Reigning Phoenix Music)
At this point, it’s nearly impossible to have a bad Wolfheart album. With seven records in eleven years, mastermind Tuomas Saukkonen shows no sign of tiring in his creative drive. A true inspiration, each album grows either darker with emotion or more intense with rage. Draconian Darkness introduces more elements, delivering a well-executed blend of melodic death metal with occasional progressive touches.
Key Track(s): “Grave” “The Gale”
26) Necrophobic, In The Twilight Grey (Century Media)
Welcome to a different kind of church. Blackened death metal outfit Necrophobic presents a darkened ceremony that transcends the realms of thrash, black, and death metal, creating a unique sound only they can deliver. Their latest offering, In The Twilight Grey, is angry, aggressive, dark, and powerful, well worth a listen.
Key Track(s): “As Stars Collide”
25) Funeral, Gospel Of Bones (Season Of Mist)
2024 has had its ups and downs, and for the challenging moments, there’s music like Funeral that reminds you you’re not alone during your personal struggles. Somehow, Funeral understands, with their music radiating a profound sorrow that touches you deeply. Funeral delivers a strong, impactful record for 2024, without a doubt.
Key Track(s): “Procession of Misery”
24) Arð, Untouched By Fire (Prophecy)
Untouched By Fire excels to an extraordinary level of doom, reaching the slow, emotional depths crafted by Winterfylleth’s Mark Deeks. The sophomore album offers a haunting experience with its slow-paced rhythms, as emotion steadily rips through the surface.
Key Track: “Casket of Dust”
23) Vltimas, Epic (Season Of Mist)
With their second album since 2019’sSomething Wicked Marches In, ex-Morbid Angel’s David Vincent and his crew have delivered a ruthless follow-up with Epic. The album presents a sharper sound, with the blackened thrash style excelling throughout, making it a strong contender for 2024.
Key Track(s): “Miserere”
