I finally finished listening to everything I wanted to this month. It started off a little slow for me but ended up being an amazing month with several really great releases. Because of that, this list is a little bigger than most of my monthly lists with 7 and some honorable mentions. I’m approaching 700 releases that I have listened to this year. I think the year end list is going to be hard to narrow down.
Dread Cycle by The Absolution Sequence
Technical Death / Groove Metal from Australia
Debut album from these guys after 3 EP’s and it’s an absolute banger. 3 guitarists, 2 rhythm and 1 lead, along with bass, 2 drummers (alternating tracks) and vocals. It’s quite a lineup and does not disappoint. Plenty of techy goodness in here.
To Withhold the Need to Conquer by Aspen Sanctum
Atmospheric Black Metal from the US
Debut album from this band out of Michigan. Atmospheric black metal or as they call it, midwest black metal. Drawing inspiration from Americana, post hardcore and atmospheric black metal, there is a lot going on in here and keeps things interesting.
Exil by Gleichmacher
Black Metal from Germany
One of my favorite black metal albums this year so far and the best one from this month. If you like harsh German black metal, this one is for you.
Elegi by Jotungrav
Progressive Black / Folk Metal from Finland
Debut album from this originally solo, now a duo project. Founded in 2015 by Matias Stenman of progressive post metal band Sargassus, he incorporates elements of black metal and folk metal within a progressive metal framework. Fellow Sargassus member Matias Rokio joined in 2022 and is taking on drum duties. Jotungrav draws inspiration from early 2000s–2010s viking/pagan metal scene and mythology.
Obsidian Shores by Suffocate the Skies
Melodic Death Metal from the US
Second album from these guys. There are some symphonic elements in here but they are not super forward in the mix so even if you’re not a fan of symphonic metal, you may still like this one. Certainly worth a listen for fans of melodic death metal.
Peril Of Freedom by Djevelsort
Black Metal from Norway
This is a definite listen for black metal fans. Some fantastic bass work in here with Rich Gray (Aeon Zen, Annihilator, Belnejoum, Entity of Chaos and others) filling in on fretless bass.
Malevolent by Martyrium
Blackened Thrash Metal from the Netherlands
From their Bandcamp, “For nearly three decades, MARTYRIUM have carried the banner of blackened thrash metal through the Dutch underground. Unconcerned with trends and passing fashions, the band have remained committed to a sound built on aggression, speed and atmosphere.” Fantastic album.
Honorable Mention
Melodic Death Metal from Finland
Death Metal from Venezuela
Depressive Black Metal from the US
Black Metal from Germany
Melodic Death / Thrash Metal from the UK
Progressive Technical Death Metal from France
Just purchased a copy of Aspen Sanctum on BC Friday. Such a good album, I've had it on repeat.