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General => Archive => General Music Archives => Topic started by: Zook on January 26, 2014, 11:22:37 AM
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Hello folks and welcome to the second installment of my Top 50 albums thread, almost two years in the making. First I'd like to address my previous list. Simply put, it was a farce. Most of it anyway. Quite frankly, I didn't have 50 albums to complete it so there were several albums that kind of just took up the vacant spots. Not to say those albums weren't great, but they wouldn't make my top 50, if I'm going by the "rules" of course. Also, some albums were higher on the list based on nostalgia, so you'll see a couple drastic drops in the list of the returning albums. And yes, there will be several repeat offenders, but they're my favorite albums so there.
As I said, my first list was nostalgia based, so for this one, more recent albums I've fallen in love with will be way higher than those I've loved for years, simply because over time, those albums lose that spark. This is certainly not the case for all of my old favorites as my top ten will be SPOILER ALERT very similar to my last list. Only one band has more than 2 entries on the list. I wanted to follow that 2 album per band rule, and plus with the new additions, there simply wasn't room for more than 2 albums per band.
Over the coarse of 2013 I really fell in love with female fronted metal, so the title is a reference to that. Not all the female fronted bands on the list are metal bands however. OK, here we go. I hope you enjoy the new list, and if you think it's too much of a retread, well screw you, it's still better than Ghostbusters 2!
LIST MODIFIED ON PAGE 2
50. Green Carnation - Light of Day, Day of Darkness (2002)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/0/09/Greencarnation_loddod.jpg/220px-Greencarnation_loddod.jpg)
Genre: Progressive/Doom Metal
Returning for the sequel, but unfortunately not getting a bigger role is Green Carnation's monster 60 minute masterpiece, Light of Day, Day of Darkness. This song/album is just epic beyond scale. That being said, as awesome as the song is, I only listen to it a few times a year. Not to knock the rest of the epic, but the song really reaches it's peak at the 16 minute mark, but then that only lasts for 2 minutes. If the whole song had the same intensity, it'd be much higher, but as it is, it sits nicely at #50. Fans of dark atmospheric Doom Metal will love this. It's quite a journey. Check it out.
49. HolyHell - HolyHell (2009)
(https://c3.cduniverse.ws/resized/250x500/music/590/7974590.jpg)
Genre: Power Metal
Power Metal is a waning genre for me, but sometimes I come across a gem like HolyHell's self titled debut. As an added bonus the band contains female powerhouse Maria Breon. Her name might not have any significance as she isn't associated with any other known bands, but she has pipes that will make Ann Wilson blush. I'm picky about my female singers. A lot of symphonic or goth bands tend to have the Tarja style Operatic female vocals that I just don't care for anymore. I can listen to old Nightwish, but Tarja clones are to strong, and not pleasant. I much prefer the sweet and beautiful styles like Sharon of Within Temptation. Maria has the sweet and beautiful along with ear piercing wails and also a sinister tone as well. She's the full package. But what about the band? The music is a mix of classic Heavy metal and Power metal in the vein of Manowar, and although I'm not a fan nor am I familiar with Manowar, I can't deny how awesome their ex-drummer, Rhino sounds on this album. I like to compare HolyHell to Mystic Prophecy. Both bands are all about heaven, hell, angels, demons, fire, hell, hell, hell. The difference being that HolyHell has WAAAAYY better lyrics... And a better singer. My favorite song on the album is actually the ballad, The Fall, which is the case for a lot of albums, but it showcases just how great Maria is. Apparently they are keeping with the Hell theme for their next album, but I hope they do vary it up a little bit as it can get repetitive with the lyrics after a while. If you like Heavy Power Metal with symphonic elements, try this album out.
Favorite song: The Fall
48. Alyson Avenue - Presence of Mind (2009)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/8/80/AlysonAvenue_PresenceOfMind.jpg/220px-AlysonAvenue_PresenceOfMind.jpg)
Genre: Melodic Rock/AOR
I found out about this band when Annette joined Nightwish. This album > Dark Passion Play. Anyway, I always liked that 80s sound like Pat Benatar (even if I don't actively listen to her), and Alyson Avenue is basically a nod to Pat and the likes. Annette sounds a bit different than she does on her Nightwish albums, but still sounds great nonetheless. The music is great, but don't expect anything groundbreaking. It's Solid modernized 80s rock music, but the main focus are the catchy vocal melodies. If you aren't a fan of love songs, be warned. All 11 tracks are on the subject, but that doesn't mean it can't be enjoyed. I'm not a fan of the love lovey love love stuff, but it works for something like this. It's AOR after all. Lend it your ear.
Favorite song: One Touch
Honorable mention:
Kelly Clarkson - Breakaway (2004)
Genre: Pop
This album was on my list for a little while. I've known about Clarkson for years (who hasn't) and heard all the singles from this album (again, who hasn't) but I hadn't decided to give the whole album a listen until I heard the track Hear Me on my girlfriend's shuffle. She was listening to her stuff and I was like "Who's this". It's an exceptional Pop Rock track and the whole album is pretty good. Unfortunately the hype has died down and while I can still acknowledge it as a good album, it just wouldn't make my top 50.
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Green Carnation is the only one I've heard, but it's excellent.
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I like the songs Breakaway and Since U Been Gone. Lovely stuff.
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I haven't listened to GC in a while, but I will be following this list and checking out some of your listings for sure!
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Green Carnation is the only one I've heard, but it's excellent fucking amazing.
Made number 16 on my list I think, it's just perfect.
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I checked out the GC album again and it's still as good as I remember it. They remind me of Anathema in some aspects. The other two albums, though, I could do without.
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Following and shit.
HolyHell sounds interesting. Checked out Alyson Avenue after your last Top 50. Good stuff.
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47. Trillium - Alloy (2011)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/8/8b/Trillium_Alloy.jpg/220px-Trillium_Alloy.jpg)
Genre: Hard Rock/Metal
Mmmm Amanda Somerville aghaghaghagh Oh sorry... Yes... Trillium. Alloy. Flower Metal. Right. Um good band. Amanda Somerville, Beautiful... Ok so she mainly stays behind the scenes as a producer, lyrical editor, choir arranger, back up singer, but she also has a solo career, and now a metal band. Trillium is good, but has the potential to be great. I wouldn't say the music is lacking, maybe I would, it's not the most exciting, but gets the job done. heavy riffs, shred solos. The album isn't balls to the wall all the way through. There are some songs more akin to her second solo album Windows, which we'll get to later (Spoilers). Amanda sounds wonderful with the heavy backdrop and is the perfect kind of female vocalist for a metal band. Jorn lande makes a cameo in the song, Scream It, which like a lot of the songs has dark and angry/angsty lyrics. He sounds great as usual. All in all, Alloy is a good album to rock out to, has some great melodies, and of course AMANDA SOMERVILLE. No bias I swear. I really hope she's able to come out with another album 'cause like I said, there is so much potential.
Favorite song: Coward
46. Missy Higgins - The Sound of White (2004)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/6/6f/Sound_of_white_album.jpg)
Genre: Pop/singer-songwriter
Another mainstay on the list, The Sound of White is a solid album that is far removed from what I normally listen to, but when the Metal Lake goes dry, I have to search somewhere else. I can thank my girlfriend for introducing me to Missy Higgins 'cause otherwise I would never have heard of her. I'm sure Blob would love that. Truth is, I'll listen to anything if it has a good melody and isn't annoying. Missy writes good feel good tunes and really deserves more attention outside of Australia. Her more upbeat songs like Scar and This is How it Goes can be compared to The Goo Goo Dolls to give you an idea of her sound. Her second album, On A Clear Night almost made the list, but there are a couple duds on it. I'd still recommend listening to it though. Her third album sucks though. I don't like the direction she went. If you like acoustic pop rock that isn't TOO poppy, check this album out.
Favorite song: The Special Two
45. Harvest - Chasing Time (2012)
(https://www.progarchives.com/progressive_rock_discography_covers/5078/cover_22110562012_r.jpg)
Genre: Progressive Rock
Another female fronted band, Harvest plays in a similar style to Marillion, who are like their heroes. With their second album, Harvest rock out a bit more this time but are still acoustically driven. Singer Monique Van Der Kolk's pleasant voice is a great compliment to the music. She's not your typical goth or symphonic singer, but more of a folkish style. One of my favorite songs, Intuition has a Porcupine Tree vibe (think Trains) driven by acoustic guitar and a great outro solo. As you might guess, all the songs on Chasing Time are about time in some way. The Machine being about a time machine. Subtle. If you're still reading this, I really suck at write ups. I've listened to this album several times, and I just can't figure out how to describe it. Acoustic rock mixed with folk and progressive elements. There we go. If you like atmospheric Folk Prog, Take a gander. I caught a cold and have writers block. What's your excuse? Oh you know what, the closer, Stars is amazing. Easily my favorite.
Favorite song: Stars
Sorry guys, please bare with me. I hope there's something in my write ups that spark some interest, but this is the part I don't look forward to with my list. I thought rank the albums was bad.
Fuck the flu. I was supposed to have another 3 albums done today besides these.
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Alloy was a bit of a 'meh' album musically (as you kind of allude to). Somerville is excellent as is to be expected. Don't know the other two.
You're writeups don't suck, they're just all over the place. Pop some Ritalin.
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YOU POP SOME RITALIN YOU BALD BASTARD!
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Amanda is amazing but I wasn't too crazy about Trillium.
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I love The Sound of White. xo
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That Green Carnation album I've heard mention of, and it's been on my list of stuff to listen to considering the praise it gets.
Following and stuff.
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Harvest is great. Nice to see them on your list.
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YOU POP SOME RITALIN YOU BALD BASTARD!
Reported as offensive. I was not conceived out of wedlock!
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Harvest is definitely great. Good album.
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Following. Don't know any of these bands so far.
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That Trillium album is actually really good. I'm not normally a big fan of the female metal vocal thing, but that album is pretty slammin.
Interesting to see Missy Higgins, didn't know she was that well known outside of Australia. Not a fan, but she does what she does really well.
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Your write-up made me listen to a few songs by Harvest and I liked them :tup
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:tup
I'll try to have three more today. I slept all day. Haven't been this sick in a long time.
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I told you not to listen to Dystopia!
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;D
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I told you not to listen to Dystopia!
lol DAMN YOU SCHAFFER!!!
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On a positive note, the new album is still kicking my ass. :tup
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Crazy huh?
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Crazy huh?
Totally nuts.
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NUMBER FORTY FOUR
44. Nemesea - The Quiet Resistance (2011)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/2/2a/Nemesea_The_Quiet_Resistance_2011_Album.jpg/220px-Nemesea_The_Quiet_Resistance_2011_Album.jpg)
Genre: Symphonic Rock/Metal
Here's a band I happened upon just browsing my... Sources... And was like Hey these guys are pretty good. Nemesea started out as a dime a dozen Beauty and the Beast band, but on the very next album In Control did a 180 and became an Electronica Rock Band. We'll get to that later. The Quiet Resistance opens with an annoying skipable intro that serves no purpose and then the synth soaked riffage of Caught in the Middle begins. A great opening rocker and great introduction to the powerful voice of Manda Ophuis. More about this song later. The rocking continues with Afterlife and Whenever and then the obligatory ballad, If You Could. High Enough features the lovely Charlotte Wessels of Delain (can't believe I forgot to bring this album when I saw them. I'm sure it would have gotten a big smile out of her) in a rocking duet with some clean male vocals at the bridge rocking it Evanescence style. It's Over features some guest male vocals, and honestly, one of the guys sounds like Chad Kroeger. Not bad though. The melodies are great, my favorite being in the pre-chorus. My favorite song on the album surprise surprise is the second ballad, I Live. Beautiful song. Manda has such a great voice. The last few songs have a bit of a Linkin Park vibe to them. Not bad, maybe a bit too blatant at times. The closing track is an instrumental which definitely screams Linkin Park, but also dates itself as it's about the 2012 apocalypse which of course is now irrelevant. The bonus track which I'm pretty sure is on every release anyway is an homage to Rammstein. Apparently while making the song, it was giving off a Rammstein vibe so they just brought in a Rammstein tribute band singer, and made the lyrics in German. Decent song.
Why is this so low? Let's go back to Caught in the Middle. The bridge. Manda's voice breaks constantly during this short section and it really puzzles me why they didn't do another take. It's so off putting that I made an edit cutting out the whole bridge. Flows nicely I must say. Another thing, the drums are kinda boring. I don't think I'm spoiled by prog, but the guy could have done a few more things within some of the songs, but he kinda just keeps the beat. That being said, if you like Symphonic Rock, or Evanescence and Linkin Park, check this out. Great stuff.
Favorite song: I Live
43. Amanda Somerville - Windows (2009)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/9/95/Amanda_Somerville_Windows.jpg/220px-Amanda_Somerville_Windows.jpg)
Genre: Singer-songwriter/Rock
The last album on the list to feature the bodacious, babelicious Amanda Somerville. This time not so metal. Honestly I'd rather her release another solo album like this than Trillium. Windows is a bit of a genre mash-up album and that's good, but some songs don't leave as great a mark. While mostly being Soft Rock, there are a couple rockers like Inner Whore which is great. She can be my... Um anyway, as I mentioned, this album is a hodge podge of genres including a lounge song. It's alright. Her voice is perfect for it though. She should really be more famous with a voice like that. Hey, you know what my favorite song is? The wedding ballad. Yeah, it's a wedding song, like it could be played at a wedding. I love it though. I love ballads. You can have my man card. I don't care. Songs like Path of Safe Return and Moth would do great on Contemporary radio. Just really good tunes similar to say, Michelle Branch, without the Hetfieldisms. Windows is a definite improvement over her debut, and I hope she releases something again soon. It can only get better.
Favorite song: All That I Am
42. Tom Petty - Full Moon Fever (1989)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/4/4d/Tom_Petty_Full_Moon_Fever.jpg/220px-Tom_Petty_Full_Moon_Fever.jpg)
Genre: Rock & Roll
Remember those drastic drops I was talking about? Here's the first one. I've loved Tom Petty since I can remember. Dancing with my mom standing on her feet to the album is a great memory. So to have this as my number one album made sense, but then I took my nostalgia goggles off and while it's still a great album, it's not perfect as I thought for so many years. The first half is phenomenal. Side A is perfect. Side B however does drop in quality. Side A is all about rocking out, while side B takes a different turn into an almost country style at times. Still great songs mind you, but not up to snuff with Side A. After saying all that, I will say that Full Moon Fever is more consistent than anything he's done with The Heartbreakers. I have the Anthology and it's really all I need from Tom Petty. But if you like Tom, and somehow haven't heard this album, WHAT'S WRONG WITH YOU?! Listen to it NAO. Also, be on the look out sometime in 2084 when KrotchRaut releases their version of Runnin' Down a Dream. :metal :metal :metal
Favorite song: Side A
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I've never heard that Amanda Sommerville one. I should.
Tom Petty is cool, I like when his songs come on, but never really felt the urge to check his catalog.
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I've never heard that Amanda Sommerville one. I should.
Tom Petty is cool, I like when his songs come on, but never really felt the urge to check his catalog.
1. Do it.
2. His singles are the best from him. I listened to Damn the Torpedoes on YouTube, which is one of his highest ranked albums, and it had a few stinkers on it. I'd say get the Anthology. It's pretty cheap nowadays, and includes stuff from Full Moon Fever too.
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I probably should've given that Petty album a better chance (and him in general) but I found "I Won't Back Down" such an annoying song as a kid that I never did.
Nemesea I like and the only stuff I've heard with Somerville is Trillium and the Kiske thing (which I didn't rate). I'll track this one down for a listen.
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I told you not to listen to Dystopia!
lol DAMN YOU SCHAFFER!!!
What a coincidence, I just listened to this to psyche me up for the new album.
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I've been days of raging all day in a tissu--
Nevermind.
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I've never heard that Amanda Sommerville one. I should.
Tom Petty is cool, I like when his songs come on, but never really felt the urge to check his catalog.
:iagree:
I got my fill of this album when you couldn't go an hour without hearing him on some radio station back when it was released. Not much of a fan of Petty's voice anyway.
Love that Nemesea album. In Control and Mana do nothing for me, but this one is fantastic. Made my Top 50 v2. I discovered it at progstreaming.com, and just randomly clicked on this album. One of the better finds I've gotten there.
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I told you not to listen to Dystopia!
lol DAMN YOU SCHAFFER!!!
What a coincidence, I just listened to this to psyche me up for the new album.
The new album slays Dystopia.
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41. The Offspring - Ignition (1992)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/7/7c/The_Offspring-Ignition.jpg/220px-The_Offspring-Ignition.jpg)
Genre: Punk Rock
Here's the other album that took a huge fall down the rankings. There's nothing wrong at all with this album. It's great from start to finish. THE BEST Offspring album. But as I said before, over time, I just like other albums and bands more nowadays. Ignition doesn't get the nostalgia treatment, The Offspring has just been off my radar. Plus them sucking now doesn't help anything. Anyway, Ignition is amazing melodic Punk Rock. Before they hit the mainstream and became a goofy rock band, The Offspring were writing some pretty mature music. Yeah, they still wrote the occasional goofy song, but the songs had more heart. They had something to prove. And they did, from the opening "fucks" of Session to the fade out of Forever and a Day, These guys played their hearts out. For serious songs, besides Gone Away, they've never been able to touch the brilliance and sadness of Dirty Magic. Just a powerful emotional song. Actually, this album has more serious songs than any other album of theirs. Dexter Holland is a great lyricist when he's not just trying to be funny. If your first introduction to The Offspring was say Americana (which is great) but you don't like the overall silliness, check out Ignition, or even Smash, or the debut. Great stuff.
Favorite song: Dirty Magic
40. Megadeth - Countdown to Extinction (1992)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/b/b3/Countdown.jpg/220px-Countdown.jpg)
Genre: Heavy/Thrash Metal
This album is a big part of my childhood as it was in my life before I was really even a fan of the band. My older brother was the big Metallica and Megadeth fan so besides hearing the singles on the radio in the early 90s, I was hearing the albums when my brother was blasting them. I didn't really become a fan of Megadeth as in buying their albums until the late 90s. I want to say the first Megadeth album I did buy was Risk, but it could have been Cryptic Writings. It's fuzzy, but I do remember only buying Risk because Ex Wrestler Goldberg used Crush 'Em as his entrance for a while. I remember Megadeth playing live on WCW Nitro and after the song ended Goldberg returned. Cool stuff. But enough about that shitty song. What about Countdown to Extinction? Well, it showed Megadeth becoming more mainstream and straightforward Metal rather than the Thrash they were playing before. Rust in Peace was decent, half good half suck, so I think it was time Dave changed things up. It worked. Symphony of Destruction might be simple, but it's a solid metal rocker. lol metal rocker. Anyway, it's certainly not the best on the album, but a great introduction to their new sound. I'm sure there were riots when fans heard the ballady Foreclosure of a Dream, but it's a great song. Sweating Bullets is hilariously fun song. Proof that Megadeth (at the time) hadn't lost their thrash is Ashes in Your Mouth. My favorite on the album, and my favorite Megadeth over all. The song slays. There are a few filler songs on here, but they aren't bad. All in all, this album owns, and is essential to anyone's metal collection.
Favorite song: Ashes in Your Mouth
39. Sirenia - Nine Destinies and a Downfall (2007)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/f/fa/Nine_Destinies_and_a_Downfall.jpg/220px-Nine_Destinies_and_a_Downfall.jpg)
Genre: Symphonic Gothic Metal/Rock
This album is relatively new to me, and unfortunately the only album of theirs I'm gonna like, which is weird cause research has told me that this is the most hated from Sirenia fans. It is a drastic change in their sound, but that's what makes it great to me. I'm not a fan of Beauty and the Beast bands. They bore me, and the growls ruin what might be good songs. While this album does have growls, they're only on 3 songs, and they're actually done well and don't detract from the songs. I remember when I would have never said that. Thanks Obama KrotchRaut! Monika Pedersen has a unique voice, but it's quite nice. The songs pretty much all follow the same formula. In a perfect world, all of these songs could be radio singles. What can I say, I'm a sucker for well written hooks. Mainstream music isn't all bad. Mostly bad, but not all bad. One minor flaw is that the songs after a while sort of start to sound the same because of their formulaic nature. Not the melodies, it's just the songs are sort of predictable. Except the closing ballad, Glades of Summer. That changes it up to end the album on a sorrowful but great note. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Otm4RusESNU
Favorite song: The Other Side
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Ignition is a terrific album.
Countdown is classic.
Dunno the other one.
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No comment
No comment
No comment
Don't know any of these albums. Probably know some individual songs from Offspring, but that's about it. Megadeth was out of my range back in the day.
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WUDYA MEAN I'M OUTTA YOUR RANGE?
JUST NOT.... Your... (https://metalinjection.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Sad-Dave-Mustaine-150x150.jpg)
38. Vanden Plas - Christ 0 (2006)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/2/2c/Christ_0_album_cover_by_Vanden_Plas.jpg/220px-Christ_0_album_cover_by_Vanden_Plas.jpg)
Genre: Progressive Metal
Here's another newcomer to my collection... Except it isn't quite new. When I joined DT.net in 2006, there were 2 albums that were all the buzz: 10,000 Days and Christ 0.. Oh and some live album was being talked about as well. Can't remember the band though. Sleep Arena or something. Anyway, I tried 10,000 Days, and it was eh. I actually bought it, but never made it through the whole thing. I've heard most of it. The nifty packaging was all fucked up too. Then shortly after I bought it they rereleased it with better packaging. What the fuck? Huh? Oh right, Vanden Plas. So I didn't give Christ 0 a listen until 2010, but just put it on and was doing something else not really paying attention. It didn't sound that interesting. Fast forward like a month ago, my co-worker walks by me and says, "VANDEN PLAS" "Huh?" "Vanden Plas, have you heard of them?". It took me a few seconds to figure out what the hell he was asking since I was half asleep, but I was like, "oh Vanden Plas, yeah I've listened to Christ 0 a while back." So after that I decided to give it another chance, and it was ok. Nothing wrong with it. Decent prog Metal. I listened again the next day, and it started sounding better. After maybe the 3rd or 4th listen the album finally clicked, and what a great click. I'm really glad I gave this album another chance, 'cause it is truly something special. Usually I tend to avoid all the popular stuff being talked about as it tends to get over hyped for me. When I discover something on my own, it always has a greater impact. This happened with Stone Sour's Come What (Ever) May. My brother's like "listen to this, it's awesome". So I did, and was like "eh". Months later I decided to give it a go again, and was like 'this is awesome". So yeah, Christ 0 is a pretty awesome album. Great melodies, great instrumentation, great vocals. I'd say check it out, but I think everyone on the forum has heard it already.
Favorite song: Somewhere Alone in the Dark
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Now you're talking! Great album. Don't think there's a single VP album I don't love. Looking forward to the new release this month too!
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I actually have this album. It's all right.
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The last two selections are pretty good. With Sirenia, I prefer Ailyn's vocals though. The Vanden Plas CD is the best thing I've seen on your list so far. :tup
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Vanden Plas is a great band.
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37. Mercenary - The Hours That Remain (2006)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/1/1e/THtR.jpg/220px-THtR.jpg)
Genre: Melodic Death Metal/Progressive Metal
I don't really remember how I discovered this album, it might have been someone else's list. Who knows, but I have tried out Mercenary before with 11 Dreams, but I didn't like it. The Hours That Remain is a huge improvement, but that might be due to the overall clean vocals on the album. Not many bands, OK only one band can get my attention when growls are prominent throughout an album, but we'll get to that later. There are some metalcoreish style vocals, but they actually don't sound awful. The album itself is awesome. Heavy Fucking Metal throughout with great vocal melodies. The production is that "wall of sound" style that is just relentless, but for a band like Mercenary it's required. I've listened to some of their other albums that came after The Hours That Remain, but they really can't touch the quality of it. Their newest album was pretty good though. Great album. Go listen.
Favorite song: Lost Reality
36. Delain - April Rain (2009)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/0/06/Delain_April_Rain.jpg/220px-Delain_April_Rain.jpg)
Genre: Symphonic Rock/Metal
Delain were another one of those Beauty and the Beast bands who realized that that style is tired and old and boring [citation needed] and for their next album decided to have 99% clean female vocals. Good job Delain, I'm proud of you. Besides, any band with Charlotte Wessels should always give her the spotlight. Delain changed their style to a more poppish Symphonic Rock and Metal, and it really was for the better. Although I did enjoy the songs they played live from the first album, I couldn't get through Lucidity. It bored me. The music on April Rain is more alive, and interesting as are the melodies and such. Charlotte is great and her accent bleeds through which makes her voice more attractive. Virtue and Vice is the only song to feature any growls and they only appear in the bridge. Marco Hietala of Nightwish makes another cameo appearance on a couple of songs, and it's always great to hear his voice. I'm glad I finally gave Delain a chance because I initially wrote them off as soon as I found out there were growls. The band only got better...
Favorite song: On The Other Side
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That's a pretty good one from Mercenary. Their latest album would be my favourite though.
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I need to give that one another listen. I only have Holding on to Serenity on my phone right now and that's a bonus track.
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ooo, I didn't even know there was a bonus track for that one, I'll have to check that out when I got home, thanks man.
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Delain is great. So glad they opened for Kamelot, forcing me to check them out. And this is hottie #2 that I've personally met from your list (Amanda was the other).
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Shouldn't her first name be "Nuclear"?
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She can nuclear my wessels.
I made a correction to Light of Day, Day of Darkness. I had the release year as 2006, but it actually came out in 2002. I might have done this last time too as my copy is a re-release.
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I'll post the next batch tomorrow. I know everyone is anxiously waiting. Sorry for the delay.
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Hurry it up bitch.
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no u
Before I continue I have a confession to make. I done goofed. I need to revise my list as I've come to the conclusion that some albums don't belong while others do. So here is my
Top 50 Albums 2014 - The Reboot:
50. Green Carnation - Light of Day, Day of Darkness (2006)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/0/09/Greencarnation_loddod.jpg/220px-Greencarnation_loddod.jpg)
Genre: Progressive/Doom Metal
Returning for the sequel, but unfortunately not getting a bigger role is Green Carnation's monster 60 minute masterpiece, Light of Day, Day of Darkness. This song/album is just epic beyond scale. That being said, as awesome as the song is, I only listen to it a few times a year. Not to knock the rest of the epic, but the song really reaches it's peak at the 16 minute mark, but then that only lasts for 2 minutes. If the whole song had the same intensity, it'd be much higher, but as it is, it sits nicely at #50. Fans of dark atmospheric Doom Metal will love this. It's quite a journey. Check it out.
49. HolyHell - HolyHell (2009)
(https://c3.cduniverse.ws/resized/250x500/music/590/7974590.jpg)
Genre: Power Metal
Power Metal is a waning genre for me, but sometimes I come across a gem like HolyHell's self titled debut. As an added bonus the band contains female powerhouse Maria Breon. Her name might not have any significance as she isn't associated with any other known bands, but she has pipes that will make Ann Wilson blush. I'm picky about my female singers. A lot of symphonic or goth bands tend to have the Tarja style Operatic female vocals that I just don't care for anymore. I can listen to old Nightwish, but Tarja clones are to strong, and not pleasant. I much prefer the sweet and beautiful styles like Sharon of Within Temptation. Maria has the sweet and beautiful along with ear piercing wails and also a sinister tone as well. She's the full package. But what about the band? The music is a mix of classic Heavy metal and Power metal in the vein of Manowar, and although I'm not a fan nor am I familiar with Manowar, I can't deny how awesome their ex-drummer, Rhino sounds on this album. I like to compare HolyHell to Mystic Prophecy. Both bands are all about heaven, hell, angels, demons, fire, hell, hell, hell. The difference being that HolyHell has WAAAAYY better lyrics... And a better singer. My favorite song on the album is actually the ballad, The Fall, which is the case for a lot of albums, but it showcases just how great Maria is. Apparently they are keeping with the Hell theme for their next album, but I hope they do vary it up a little bit as it can get repetitive with the lyrics after a while. If you like Heavy Power Metal with symphonic elements, try this album out.
Favorite song: The Fall
48. Missy Higgins - The Sound of White (2004)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/6/6f/Sound_of_white_album.jpg)
Genre: Pop/singer-songwriter
Another mainstay on the list, The Sound of White is a solid album that is far removed from what I normally listen to, but when the Metal Lake goes dry, I have to search somewhere else. I can thank my girlfriend for introducing me to Missy Higgins 'cause otherwise I would never have heard of her. I'm sure Blob would love that. Truth is, I'll listen to anything if it has a good melody and isn't annoying. Missy writes good feel good tunes and really deserves more attention outside of Australia. Her more upbeat songs like Scar and This is How it Goes can be compared to The Goo Goo Dolls to give you an idea of her sound. Her second album, On A Clear Night almost made the list, but there are a couple duds on it. I'd still recommend listening to it though. Her third album sucks though. I don't like the direction she went. If you like acoustic pop rock that isn't TOO poppy, check this album out.
Favorite song: The Special Two
47. Harvest - Chasing Time (2012)
(https://www.progarchives.com/progressive_rock_discography_covers/5078/cover_22110562012_r.jpg)
Genre: Progressive Rock
Another female fronted band, Harvest plays in a similar style to Marillion, who are like their heroes. With their second album, Harvest rock out a bit more this time but are still acoustically driven. Singer Monique Van Der Kolk's pleasant voice is a great compliment to the music. She's not your typical goth or symphonic singer, but more of a folkish style. One of my favorite songs, Intuition has a Porcupine Tree vibe (think Trains) driven by acoustic guitar and a great outro solo. As you might guess, all the songs on Chasing Time are about time in some way. The Machine being about a time machine. Subtle. If you're still reading this, I really suck at write ups. I've listened to this album several times, and I just can't figure out how to describe it. Acoustic rock mixed with folk and progressive elements. There we go. If you like atmospheric Folk Prog, Take a gander. I caught a cold and have writers block. What's your excuse? Oh you know what, the closer, Stars is amazing. Easily my favorite.
Favorite song: Stars
46. Nemesea - The Quiet Resistance (2011)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/2/2a/Nemesea_The_Quiet_Resistance_2011_Album.jpg/220px-Nemesea_The_Quiet_Resistance_2011_Album.jpg)
Genre: Symphonic Rock/Metal
Here's a band I happened upon just browsing my... Sources... And was like Hey these guys are pretty good. Nemesea started out as a dime a dozen Beauty and the Beast band, but on the very next album In Control did a 180 and became an Electronica Rock Band. We'll get to that later. The Quiet Resistance opens with an annoying skipable intro that serves no purpose and then the synth soaked riffage of Caught in the Middle begins. A great opening rocker and great introduction to the powerful voice of Manda Ophuis. More about this song later. The rocking continues with Afterlife and Whenever and then the obligatory ballad, If You Could. High Enough features the lovely Charlotte Wessels of Delain (can't believe I forgot to bring this album when I saw them. I'm sure it would have gotten a big smile out of her) in a rocking duet with some clean male vocals at the bridge rocking it Evanescence style. It's Over features some guest male vocals, and honestly, one of the guys sounds like Chad Kroeger. Not bad though. The melodies are great, my favorite being in the pre-chorus. My favorite song on the album surprise surprise is the second ballad, I Live. Beautiful song. Manda has such a great voice. The last few songs have a bit of a Linkin Park vibe to them. Not bad, maybe a bit too blatant at times. The closing track is an instrumental which definitely screams Linkin Park, but also dates itself as it's about the 2012 apocalypse which of course is now irrelevant. The bonus track which I'm pretty sure is on every release anyway is an homage to Rammstein. Apparently while making the song, it was giving off a Rammstein vibe so they just brought in a Rammstein tribute band singer, and made the lyrics in German. Decent song.
Why is this so low? Let's go back to Caught in the Middle. The bridge. Manda's voice breaks constantly during this short section and it really puzzles me why they didn't do another take. It's so off putting that I made an edit cutting out the whole bridge. Flows nicely I must say. Another thing, the drums are kinda boring. I don't think I'm spoiled by prog, but the guy could have done a few more things within some of the songs, but he kinda just keeps the beat. That being said, if you like Symphonic Rock, or Evanescence and Linkin Park, check this out. Great stuff.
Favorite song: I Live
45. Amanda Somerville - Windows (2009)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/9/95/Amanda_Somerville_Windows.jpg/220px-Amanda_Somerville_Windows.jpg)
Genre: Singer-songwriter/Rock
The last album on the list to feature the bodacious, babelicious Amanda Somerville. This time not so metal. Honestly I'd rather her release another solo album like this than Trillium. Windows is a bit of a genre mash-up album and that's good, but some songs don't leave as great a mark. While mostly being Soft Rock, there are a couple rockers like Inner Whore which is great. She can be my... Um anyway, as I mentioned, this album is a hodge podge of genres including a lounge song. It's alright. Her voice is perfect for it though. She should really be more famous with a voice like that. Hey, you know what my favorite song is? The wedding ballad. Yeah, it's a wedding song, like it could be played at a wedding. I love it though. I love ballads. You can have my man card. I don't care. Songs like Path of Safe Return and Moth would do great on Contemporary radio. Just really good tunes similar to say, Michelle Branch, without the Hetfieldisms. Windows is a definite improvement over her debut, and I hope she releases something again soon. It can only get better.
Favorite song: All That I Am
44. Tom Petty - Full Moon Fever (1989)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/4/4d/Tom_Petty_Full_Moon_Fever.jpg/220px-Tom_Petty_Full_Moon_Fever.jpg)
Genre: Rock & Roll
Remember those drastic drops I was talking about? Here's the first one. I've loved Tom Petty since I can remember. Dancing with my mom standing on her feet to the album is a great memory. So to have this as my number one album made sense, but then I took my nostalgia goggles off and while it's still a great album, it's not perfect as I thought for so many years. The first half is phenomenal. Side A is perfect. Side B however does drop in quality. Side A is all about rocking out, while side B takes a different turn into an almost country style at times. Still great songs mind you, but not up to snuff with Side A. After saying all that, I will say that Full Moon Fever is more consistent than anything he's done with The Heartbreakers. I have the Anthology and it's really all I need from Tom Petty. But if you like Tom, and somehow haven't heard this album, WHAT'S WRONG WITH YOU?! Listen to it NAO. Also, be on the look out sometime in 2084 when KrotchRaut releases their version of Runnin' Down a Dream. :metal :metal :metal
Favorite song: Side A
43. The Offspring - Ignition (1992)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/7/7c/The_Offspring-Ignition.jpg/220px-The_Offspring-Ignition.jpg)
Genre: Punk Rock
Here's the other album that took a huge fall down the rankings. There's nothing wrong at all with this album. It's great from start to finish. THE BEST Offspring album. But as I said before, over time, I just like other albums and bands more nowadays. Ignition doesn't get the nostalgia treatment, The Offspring has just been off my radar. Plus them sucking now doesn't help anything. Anyway, Ignition is amazing melodic Punk Rock. Before they hit the mainstream and became a goofy rock band, The Offspring were writing some pretty mature music. Yeah, they still wrote the occasional goofy song, but the songs had more heart. They had something to prove. And they did, from the opening "fucks" of Session to the fade out of Forever and a Day, These guys played their hearts out. For serious songs, besides Gone Away, they've never been able to touch the brilliance and sadness of Dirty Magic. Just a powerful emotional song. Actually, this album has more serious songs than any other album of theirs. Dexter Holland is a great lyricist when he's not just trying to be funny. If your first introduction to The Offspring was say Americana (which is great) but you don't like the overall silliness, check out Ignition, or even Smash, or the debut. Great stuff.
Favorite song: Dirty Magic
42. Megadeth - Countdown to Extinction (1992)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/b/b3/Countdown.jpg/220px-Countdown.jpg)
Genre: Heavy/Thrash Metal
This album is a big part of my childhood as it was in my life before I was really even a fan of the band. My older brother was the big Metallica and Megadeth fan so besides hearing the singles on the radio in the early 90s, I was hearing the albums when my brother was blasting them. I didn't really become a fan of Megadeth as in buying their albums until the late 90s. I want to say the first Megadeth album I did buy was Risk, but it could have been Cryptic Writings. It's fuzzy, but I do remember only buying Risk because Ex Wrestler Goldberg used Crush 'Em as his entrance for a while. I remember Megadeth playing live on WCW Nitro and after the song ended Goldberg returned. Cool stuff. But enough about that shitty song. What about Countdown to Extinction? Well, it showed Megadeth becoming more mainstream and straightforward Metal rather than the Thrash they were playing before. Rust in Peace was decent, half good half suck, so I think it was time Dave changed things up. It worked. Symphony of Destruction might be simple, but it's a solid metal rocker. lol metal rocker. Anyway, it's certainly not the best on the album, but a great introduction to their new sound. I'm sure there were riots when fans heard the ballady Foreclosure of a Dream, but it's a great song. Sweating Bullets is hilariously fun song. Proof that Megadeth (at the time) hadn't lost their thrash is Ashes in Your Mouth. My favorite on the album, and my favorite Megadeth over all. The song slays. There are a few filler songs on here, but they aren't bad. All in all, this album owns, and is essential to anyone's metal collection.
Favorite song: Ashes in Your Mouth
41. Sirenia - Nine Destinies and a Downfall (2007)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/f/fa/Nine_Destinies_and_a_Downfall.jpg/220px-Nine_Destinies_and_a_Downfall.jpg)
Genre: Symphonic Gothic Metal/Rock
This album is relatively new to me, and unfortunately the only album of theirs I'm gonna like, which is weird cause research has told me that this is the most hated from Sirenia fans. It is a drastic change in their sound, but that's what makes it great to me. I'm not a fan of Beauty and the Beast bands. They bore me, and the growls ruin what might be good songs. While this album does have growls, they're only on 3 songs, and they're actually done well and don't detract from the songs. I remember when I would have never said that. Thanks Obama KrotchRaut! Monika Pedersen has a unique voice, but it's quite nice. The songs pretty much all follow the same formula. In a perfect world, all of these songs could be radio singles. What can I say, I'm a sucker for well written hooks. Mainstream music isn't all bad. Mostly bad, but not all bad. One minor flaw is that the songs after a while sort of start to sound the same because of their formulaic nature. Not the melodies, it's just the songs are sort of predictable. Except the closing ballad, Glades of Summer. That changes it up to end the album on a sorrowful but great note. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Otm4RusESNU
Favorite song: The Other Side
40. Vanden Plas - Christ 0 (2006)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/2/2c/Christ_0_album_cover_by_Vanden_Plas.jpg/220px-Christ_0_album_cover_by_Vanden_Plas.jpg)
Genre: Progressive Metal
Here's another newcomer to my collection... Except it isn't quite new. When I joined DT.net in 2006, there were 2 albums that were all the buzz: 10,000 Days and Christ 0.. Oh and some live album was being talked about as well. Can't remember the band though. Sleep Arena or something. Anyway, I tried 10,000 Days, and it was eh. I actually bought it, but never made it through the whole thing. I've heard most of it. The nifty packaging was all fucked up too. Then shortly after I bought it they rereleased it with better packaging. What the fuck? Huh? Oh right, Vanden Plas. So I didn't give Christ 0 a listen until 2010, but just put it on and was doing something else not really paying attention. It didn't sound that interesting. Fast forward like a month ago, my co-worker walks by me and says, "VANDEN PLAS" "Huh?" "Vanden Plas, have you heard of them?". It took me a few seconds to figure out what the hell he was asking since I was half asleep, but I was like, "oh Vanden Plas, yeah I've listened to Christ 0 a while back." So after that I decided to give it another chance, and it was ok. Nothing wrong with it. Decent prog Metal. I listened again the next day, and it started sounding better. After maybe the 3rd or 4th listen the album finally clicked, and what a great click. I'm really glad I gave this album another chance, 'cause it is truly something special. Usually I tend to avoid all the popular stuff being talked about as it tends to get over hyped for me. When I discover something on my own, it always has a greater impact. This happened with Stone Sour's Come What (Ever) May. My brother's like "listen to this, it's awesome". So I did, and was like "eh". Months later I decided to give it a go again, and was like 'this is awesome". So yeah, Christ 0 is a pretty awesome album. Great melodies, great instrumentation, great vocals. I'd say check it out, but I think everyone on the forum has heard it already.
Favorite song: Somewhere Alone in the Dark
39. Mercenary - The Hours That Remain (2006)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/1/1e/THtR.jpg/220px-THtR.jpg)
Genre: Melodic Death Metal/Progressive Metal
I don't really remember how I discovered this album, it might have been someone else's list. Who knows, but I have tried out Mercenary before with 11 Dreams, but I didn't like it. The Hours That Remain is a huge improvement, but that might be due to the overall clean vocals on the album. Not many bands, OK only one band can get my attention when growls are prominent throughout an album, but we'll get to that later. There are some metalcoreish style vocals, but they actually don't sound awful. The album itself is awesome. Heavy Fucking Metal throughout with great vocal melodies. The production is that "wall of sound" style that is just relentless, but for a band like Mercenary it's required. I've listened to some of their other albums that came after The Hours That Remain, but they really can't touch the quality of it. Their newest album was pretty good though. Great album. Go listen.
Favorite song: Lost Reality
38. Delain - April Rain (2009)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/0/06/Delain_April_Rain.jpg/220px-Delain_April_Rain.jpg)
Genre: Symphonic Rock/Metal
Delain were another one of those Beauty and the Beast bands who realized that that style is tired and old and boring [citation needed] and for their next album decided to have 99% clean female vocals. Good job Delain, I'm proud of you. Besides, any band with Charlotte Wessels should always give her the spotlight. Delain changed their style to a more poppish Symphonic Rock and Metal, and it really was for the better. Although I did enjoy the songs they played live from the first album, I couldn't get through Lucidity. It bored me. The music on April Rain is more alive, and interesting as are the melodies and such. Charlotte is great and her accent bleeds through which makes her voice more attractive. Virtue and Vice is the only song to feature any growls and they only appear in the bridge. Marco Hietala of Nightwish makes another cameo appearance on a couple of songs, and it's always great to hear his voice. I'm glad I finally gave Delain a chance because I initially wrote them off as soon as I found out there were growls. The band only got better...
Favorite song: On The Other Side
New albums tonight!
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37. Pyramaze - Legend of the Bone Carver (2006)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/c/c5/Pyramaze-Legend_of_the_Bone_Carver.jpg/220px-Pyramaze-Legend_of_the_Bone_Carver.jpg)
Genre: Power Metal
Last time Pyramaze was on my list it was their album Immortal, featuring Matt Barlow. I had said that it was one of the best Power Metal albums I've ever heard, and that's still true, but while I love most of the songs on Immortal, there honestly are a couple duds. So that being said, I've decided that I do in fact enjoy their previous effort, Legend of the Bone Carver more as it's solid all the way through. Now, the album title is pretty cheesy and I'd be lying if I said the album itself wasn't too, but it's that good kind of cheesy. It's the basic story of good vs. evil, but told rather well, and that's something that a lot of Power Metal bands just can't do, and why I don't enjoy a lot of Power Metal anymore. Another factor of why this album works and others don't is the vocals. Lance King tears it up, and it was really quite a shame as to why he left the band, cause he was a great fit. The concept is rather easy to follow so I'll refrain from telling it. I love the addition of the female vocals in She Who Summoned Me. It really adds a nice touch. Legend of the Bone Carver has great hooks, is heavy, and is just an all around fun album to listen to. Most Power Metal sucks, a lot of the more popular stuff too, but this album is great.
Favorite song: The Birth
36. Sins In Vain - Enemy Within (2010)
(https://www.metal-archives.com/images/2/6/1/8/261856.jpg)
Genre: Alternative Gothic Metal with sprinkles of Thrash (totally a real genre)
Ok, I literally just discovered this band like 3 days ago so this album being on my top 50 and this high might seem odd to some of you, but this is a great album. Sadly they already split up, and even more sadly, it's almost impossible to find this album for purchase. Amazon has the mp3s, and there is one site that is supposedly selling a physical copy, but I bought Within Temptation's Hydra yesterday, and I should have ordered this instead. Hailing from Sweden, Sins in Vain were a female fronted Gothic Metal band who I'd say were a mixture of Evanescence and Flyleaf I suppose. No shitty screams though. Some might say the vocals don't match the intensity of the music, but I disagree. Linnèa Renholm Persson does a fine job of keeping up with the heavy, and well, not every female singer needs to be Floor Jansen. The songs are more on the melancholic side, but really catchy, and as I said, really heavy. Apparently Peter Wildoer assisted with drum duties. I read that on Encyclopedia Metallum so I don't know how true that is. Like I said, there is almost nothing on the web about this band. They recorded this amazing album and then got abducted by aliens or something. The album is $5.99 on Amazon mp3 so it's definitely in Wolfking's price range as he buys tons of albums and doesn't even listen to them. :biggrin:
Favorite song: Frozen
35. Touchstone - Wintercoast (2009)
(https://www.spirit-of-metal.com/les%20goupes/T/Touchstone/Wintercoast/Wintercoast.jpg)
Genre: Progressive Rock/Metal
I discovered Touchstone while doing my daily browsing, and came across their newest album Oceans of Time. That album is killer. But Wintercoast was the next album of theirs I checked out and it's quite brilliant as well. Opening with a narrative by Jeremy freakin' Irons, we're introduced to the story of Wintercoast which I'm still trying to figure out, but Anyway, the title track is immense. Clocking in at 10 minutes, it's a roller coaster ride of melodies and riffs. It's a real heavy hitter. If you're unfamiliar with Touchstone, they actually have 2 lead singers, one male, one female. Both of which are amazing. Kim Seviour is more of the folky singer songwriter type, while Rob Cottingham draws his influences from Pink Floyd, having a bit of David Gilmore in his voice, but not sounding quite like him. Either way, both vocalists mix perfectly together creating great diversity. Oh, and dat bass. One of my favorite elements of Touchstone, the bass playing. The bass cuts through the music with such a great tone, and just sounds amazing. Back to the songs, the single rocker Strange Days is actually a great introduction to the band and their sound. Voices gives a more atmospheric tone while Line in the Sand is more soft, but picks up towards the end with some Steve Harris style bass work and heavier keyboard driven solo spot. My favorite on the album and probably my favorite Touchstone song is The Witness. Divided into two parts, this is a beautiful piece of music. The first part has a heavy Pink Floyd vibe and is a great set up to the more stripped back part 2. The song is about (as far as I can tell) a man who witnesses a car accident, but doesn't do anything about it, and later finds out that the woman involved has died, and now he deeply regrets not doing anything to help. It's pretty deep, and the music helps bring out those emotions as much as the vocals. The climax of the song features some beautiful lead guitar work too. The guitars in general of Touchstone are awesome and the guy knows how to shred. Touchstone really is an amazing band, and quite honestly, all their albums could make my list. You'll be doing yourself a great service to check out this great band's body of work.
Favorite song: The Witness
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First off... what's with the 'reboot'. How was it different (I'm not going back and comparing it manually).
Second... Pyramaze is awesome. Both albums. I thank you for those. If that really is a real genre, you lost me at "Alternative Gothic". and I swear I recognize Touchstone. I think Nick has played them on his radio show.
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I think somebody sent you a Touchstone track early in your roulette (maybe?)
I really like that Touchstone album, but my goodness it is one of the hottest masterings I've ever heard.
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First off... what's with the 'reboot'. How was it different (I'm not going back and comparing it manually).
Second... Pyramaze is awesome. Both albums. I thank you for those. If that really is a real genre, you lost me at "Alternative Gothic". and I swear I recognize Touchstone. I think Nick has played them on his radio show.
Alyson Avenue and Trillium are no longer in my top 50.
Do you not like Evanescence? I'd consider them to be Alternative (somewhat) Gothic.
You should recognize Touchstone. I sent you The Witness in your roulette, you turd.
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I really like that Touchstone album, but my goodness it is one of the hottest masterings I've ever heard.
I think the mastering is fine. I can actually listen to it and enjoy it without my ears bleeding. Can't say the same for Queensryche's new one. That is the hottest mastering I've ever heard.
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I noticed that mine was made/distributed in 2012, so maybe it has a different mastering than yours. It is VERY audible in several places.
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I noticed that mine was made/distributed in 2012, so maybe it has a different mastering than yours. It is VERY audible in several places.
If yours is a digipak then we both have the rerelease, which I think was also remastered, but even if it was remastered too loud, and I won't argue it is loud, it never bothered me. Lorenguard's debut is pretty freakin' loud too, but still isn't as loud as Queensryche.
The thing about Queensryche is if you turn it down, it's too low. There's no middle point where the audio is at a good volume.
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First off... what's with the 'reboot'. How was it different (I'm not going back and comparing it manually).
Second... Pyramaze is awesome. Both albums. I thank you for those. If that really is a real genre, you lost me at "Alternative Gothic". and I swear I recognize Touchstone. I think Nick has played them on his radio show.
Alyson Avenue and Trillium are no longer in my top 50.
Do you not like Evanescence? I'd consider them to be Alternative (somewhat) Gothic.
You should recognize Touchstone. I sent you The Witness in your roulette, you turd.
Evanescence... don't care for them too much. Nothing horrible, but I never did anything more than listen to whatever I happened to come across.
Touchstone... I know, I was just trollin ya. :pr: I did actually listen thru the whole album. It was ok, but nothing I'd go back to intentionally. Although, Nick has played tracks from Discordant Dreams that I liked.
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Haven't heard any of these besides Green Carnation. :biggrin:
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37. Pyramaze - Legend of the Bone Carver (2006)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/c/c5/Pyramaze-Legend_of_the_Bone_Carver.jpg/220px-Pyramaze-Legend_of_the_Bone_Carver.jpg)
Genre: Power Metal
Last time Pyramaze was on my list it was their album Immortal, featuring Matt Barlow. I had said that it was one of the best Power Metal albums I've ever heard, and that's still true, but while I love most of the songs on Immortal, there honestly are a couple duds. So that being said, I've decided that I do in fact enjoy their previous effort, Legend of the Bone Carver more as it's solid all the way through. Now, the album title is pretty cheesy and I'd be lying if I said the album itself wasn't too, but it's that good kind of cheesy. It's the basic story of good vs. evil, but told rather well, and that's something that a lot of Power Metal bands just can't do, and why I don't enjoy a lot of Power Metal anymore. Another factor of why this album works and others don't is the vocals. Lance King tears it up, and it was really quite a shame as to why he left the band, cause he was a great fit. The concept is rather easy to follow so I'll refrain from telling it. I love the addition of the female vocals in She Who Summoned Me. It really adds a nice touch. Legend of the Bone Carver has great hooks, is heavy, and is just an all around fun album to listen to. Most Power Metal sucks, a lot of the more popular stuff too, but this album is great.
Favorite song: The Birth
This album is absolutely incredible. Their best work IMO.
Second... Pyramaze is awesome. Both albums.
They have 3 albums.
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Forsaken Kingdom was the only song I could get into on Melancholy Beast.
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Second... Pyramaze is awesome. Both albums.
They have 3 albums.
Well suck me sideways, so they do! Is it worth getting?
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Second... Pyramaze is awesome. Both albums.
They have 3 albums.
Well suck me sideways, so they do! Is it worth getting?
Matt Barlow wasn't a great fit for the band. I actually didn't give it many spins, but it didn't really do much for me. I might get the cd out and have a spin. Definitely a listen before you buy scenario here.
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I'm not sure but I have a feeling Chad is missing the first Melancholy Beast (by "both" I think he meant 2nd and 3rd)
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Well I wouldn't necessarily call Evanescence gothic, more like pop metal, but I'll check out Sins In Vain regardless.
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What constitutes as Gothic? I'm not really quite sure anymore.
More updates :soon:
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I'm not sure but I have a feeling Chad is missing the first Melancholy Beast (by "both" I think he meant 2nd and 3rd)
Bingo. I have Legend and Immortal. I downloaded the three free tracks from their website for Melancholy Beast, and will have a go at it.
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34. Into Eternity - The Scattering Of Ashes (2006)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/d/d0/IntoEternityScatteringOfAshes.jpg/220px-IntoEternityScatteringOfAshes.jpg)
Genre: Melodic Death/Power Metal
Coming in at #34 is the real life version of KrotchRaut, Into Eternity. That is if KrotchRaut had insane high pitched wails and talent. Even though I much prefer the thicker, fuller production values of their previous album, Buried in Oblivion, that one had a few songs I didn't really care for. The Scattering of Ashes on the other hand is awesome from start to finish. As I mentioned with the production, it's very thin and all around cold feeling. The kick drum sounds like a snare drum, and the bass guitar is almost non existent. That alone might turn potential listeners away, but the songs more than make up for it. I actually heard of Into Eternity before Stu Block joined Iced Earth, but at the time I hated growls. Growls still mostly suck, but I was totally against them at the time. Plus, whatever song I heard sounded like a huge mess. So Timeless Winter was my first real introduction to the band, and it was pretty awesome. Into Eternity just does the growls and stuff the "right" way to my liking. Stu is able to effortlessly transition from growls to wails to shrieks and the music is sort of like Power Metal which keeps things from getting boring. Everything blends together brilliantly to create some heavy, intense, but melodic metal. RORORORO!
Favorite song: Timeless Winter
33. Iron Maiden - Seventh Son Of A Seventh Son (1988)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/c/c0/Iron_Maiden_-_Seventh_Son_Of_A_Seventh_Son.jpg/220px-Iron_Maiden_-_Seventh_Son_Of_A_Seventh_Son.jpg)
Genre: Heavy Metal
Iron Maiden's last truly great album before they took a decade off to make shitty music (Sorry Wolf) Seventh Son is a Metal masterpiece. It's apparently only a loose concept album, but the story is pretty clear to me. I always find that bands are the most inspired when they make concept albums. Sound wise, the album is a continuation of Somewhere in Time, but easing back on the synth. Present are all the trademark Maidenisms, galloping riffs, one line repeated choruses, Bruce Dickinson singing stuff. After ten years of being a fan, the album still sounds fresh to me. Infinite Dreams has the best instrumental section and manages to keep from being boring even with the lack of a chorus. Can I Play With Madness is silly, but it's not bad, people. The epic title track (aren't all title tracks pretty epic?) has a kick ass ripping solo section to close the song, and I also love to folky close to The Prophecy, another one that gets too much hate. I'm glad Maiden ended the 80s on a good note, cause it would take another 10 years before they returned to form, but they did manage to squeeze out a few good tunes in the 90s. Just not full albums.
Favorite song: Infinite Dreams
32. Blind Guardian - Imaginations from the Other Side (1995)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/e/ed/IFtOS.jpg/220px-IFtOS.jpg)
Genre: Power/Thrash/Speed Metal
Blind Guardian suffering from Roid Rage. That's the perfect way to describe this album. And it's awesome! I don't know what happened, but Hansi just decided he was going to start fucking screaming, and it worked. The songs are heavier, but still melodic and the band just tears it up. The majority of Blind Guardian's lyrics are fantasy, but the band stands out from other power metal acts because they manage to not make them so cheesy, and that goes for the music as well. Even on their next album which is a concept album based on Lord of The Rings lore, it still manages to have a serious tone... Except maybe Mirror Mirror. That song is pretty cheesy. It really wouldn't matter though on Imaginations, because I think a metal fan would be so busy rocking the fuck out to the music that they wouldn't notice or even mind some cheesy lyrics. There are also some religious themed lyrics, but don't go the preachy route. Actually, Hansi really only writes about two things: various fantasy and religion. Blind Guardian is all about soaring solos, and they are ever present here. The style of this album was ex drummer Thomen Stauch's favorite and something he wanted to keep doing, so when he left the band after A Night at the Opera he created a new band called Savage Circus, which is basically a Blind Guardian clone band, but has the exact music and even vocal style of Imaginations From The Other Side. It's a pretty good album, and would be a great follow up to Imaginations if they kept going that route, although it would be more of the same. If you've never heard Blind Guardian, this might be the best place to start. The album is one of a kind, and their style would soon change drastically... Except for the solos, there would still be lots and lots of soloing. :metal
Favorite song: And The Story Ends
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3 killer albums. Maiden is classic and that BG is incredible, love it.
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SSOASS is amazing!
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SSOASS is amazing!
QFT
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I'm not a fan of Into Eternity and of course Iron Maiden is awesome. However, it's even more awesome to see Blind Guardian! :metal
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31. Nightwish - Imaginaerum (2011)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/1/18/Nightwish_imaginaerum_cover.jpg/220px-Nightwish_imaginaerum_cover.jpg)
Genre: Symphonic Metal
The first Nightwish album in my opinion that is good all the way through. I didn't like the first album with Annette Olzon aside from like 3 songs, but Imaginaerum is brilliant. Annette is on fire, and the songs are great. As I said before, concept albums really bring out the best in bands. Bass player Marco Hietala is more of a lead vocalist this time around and really shows his range. I actually didn't know he could sing that well, but he has a great voice. This album is simply Nightwish doing what Nightwish does best, but a concept album so it's even better in that regard. I'm not thrilled about the middle section of Scartale, but it doesn't ruin the song for me. The same can be said about the second half of Song Of Myself, although I did make an edit because if the song comes on shuffle, I don't always want to sit through 6 minutes of spoken word. Unfortunately, as great as Annette is here, it would be her last album with Nightwish as she contracted Ripper Owens Syndrome, the two album curse. But now Nightwish has an even better singer in Floor Jansen so fuck yeah!
Favorite song: Song of Myself
30. Ayreon - 01011001 (2008)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/a/ae/Ayreon_-_01011001.jpg)
Genre: Progressive Rock/Metal
Many Ayreon fans don't like this album, but I think it's Arjen's best work. I love the atmosphere throughout, and it's his only album where I can listen all the way through without getting bored, and without there being any stinkers. Well, Disc 1 does have these two tracks that might be a little on the so bad it's good side of things but really, they aren't that bad. Arjen isn't exactly known for his awe inspiring lyrics. The cast of singers this time around is huge and they are all excellent. Even Daniel Gindenlol who I really don't like sounds great here. The stand out for me is one of my favoirte singers, Hansi Kursch, who very much stands out from the rest due to his awesomely distinct voice and from being awesome. Awesome! 01 is darker than Arjen's other works, and I guess that's due to him having personal issues, but I think it brought out the best in him. And it really helps to have such an amazing cast of singers. Did I mention the singers on this album are great? Some of the songs are goofy I'll admit, even on Disc 2, but as a complete package, this album is outstanding.
Favorite song: Waking Dreams
29. Within Temptation - The Unforgiving (2011)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/4/43/Album-cover.jpg/220px-Album-cover.jpg)
Genre: Symphonic Rock/Metal
I think The Unforgiving is Within Temptation's crowning achievement. Oh look, a concept album, those are neat. By this point it was clear that they really wanted to take things to the mainstream, OK, who am I kidding, it was clear with The Silent Force, but they really solidified that mainstream rock/metalness of their sound with The Unforgiving. Some people frown upon the every song is a potential single formula, but I think it's great if the songs are good. I never had a problem with mainstream music, well, only the shitty mainstream music. My girlfriend even likes this album. Sharon has developed her rock voice, and although I kind of miss the angelic way she used to sing, it wouldn't really work with their style now. But it's cool, she still sounds great, and the band has a balanced mix, and rockin' the fuck out. Within Temptation keep getting better and better with each new album, but it's really unfortunate how crappy their new album sounds. The songs are good, but ruined by bad production. Although, even with good production, The Unforgiving still remains their best, and my favorite of theirs.
Favorite song: A Demon's Fate
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Nice update - really like the Nightwish and WT .................the Ayreon not so much.
I agree with everything you said about WT (except about missing the old falsetto stuff) and my favourite song there is A Demon's Fate :tup
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Nightwish and Ayreon are awesome! :tup
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Three good albums, and I'll grant ya that The Unforgiving is WT's best. But 01011001 and Imaginaerum are far from the best from either Ayreon or Nightwish.
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no u
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I got that Nightwish album, but I have never listened to it. That Ayreon album was actually a bit of a disappointment for me.
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01011001 is still my favorite Ayreon album, just ahead of THE and ITEC
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01011001 (why doesn't the forum just go with "Y"?) is good, but still pales in comparison to THE, and now that I've given so much more time to it, TTOE.
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Binary and Imaginarium are not top three albums for either band. I don't know what is left to come, so I for all I know you agree with me, although I'm guessing that is not the case. Either way, that Blind Guardian album is better than both of those.
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I think The Human Equation is extremely overrated. I get bored after the 3rd song.
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Excellent update. The WT CD of course being my favorite. Lots of great songs on The Unforgiving and it's hard to pick a favorite track. A Demon's Fate is definitely one of them, though I would also put In The Middle Of The Night, Faster, and Iron up there.
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I think The Human Equation is extremely overrated. I get bored after the 3rd song.
I've heard people call it out on that, so I would give it more spins to see if it had that effect on me. It really just never did. There's too many memorable melodies and lovely little moments scattered about an already memorable list of tracks for it to tire on me.
Different strokes I guess. And I'm not saying 01011001 is a bad choice by any means. Anything Arjen touches is gold. :tup
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28. Damnation Angels - Bringer of Light (2012)
(https://metalholic.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/337520-300x300.jpg)
Genre: Symphonic Power Metal
I can't say I'm a fan of PelleK's other work, but I love this album. I love metal music with a real orchestra. It's the perfect combination. The sound is huge and PelleK has a great voice. The album starts out with an instrumental that sets up the rest of the album and demonstrates what to expect for the next hour. A huge bombastic orchestral dramatic metal opus. The orchestra carries the songs more than PelleK, but he's a matching presence (contradiction?), delivering soaring highs and just delivering an excellent performance. My least favorite song is definitely the Metallica cover, No Leaf Clover, but it stays true to the original even with PelleK matching James Hetfield's redneckish singing, which is why I'm not the fondest of it. The last song, Pride (The Warrior's Way) is the second longest song on the album, and probably my second favorite behind The Longest Day of My Life. I love the oriental sounds. I'm not sure what's going on with Damnation Angels since PelleK is doing his solo stuff, but I hope they make another album, 'cause I just can't get into his solo albums.
Favorite song: The Longest Day of My Life
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Dunno that one.
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You do now, BEEOTCH!
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Fabulous album. Made my Top 50 v2.
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Gonna try to bust out a bunch of updates over the weekend. Sorry for the delay.
No I'm not.
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No I'm not.
You should be.
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27. Iron Maiden - Somewhere in Time (1986)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/9/9b/Iron_Maiden_-_Somewhere_in_Time.jpg/220px-Iron_Maiden_-_Somewhere_in_Time.jpg)
Genre: Heavy Metal
I didn't like Powerslave that much. There's a few good songs, but the middle portion is kinda shit. I'd still rank it above most of the post reunion material though. Somewhere in Time was a huge improvement over Powerslave, and the addition of the relevancsizer wasn't a detractor at all. The songs were more energetic, heavier, and were all well written and catchy even without the help of any songwriting from Bruce Dickinson. I believe he is usually the one who writes all the singleworthy stuff. After a brief intro, the title track kicks you in the face with an extremely catchy, but heavy as fuck riff, and doesn't stop until the 7 minutes are over. Iron Maiden hasn't really been on my currently playing list of bands in a while, and I don't know how often Wasted Years was played on the radio, but in my 10 years as a fan, the song has never gotten old, and I never grew tired of it. It's just a great song. I can see Heaven Can Wait doing that though, although that song isn't bad either. Sea of Madness picks up where the title track left off with the pounding metal onslaught. My least favorite would be Loneliness of the Longest Song Title Ever (I may have done this joke before in my last list, and if so I apologize... it's not that long). The two closing tracks, Deja Vu and Alexander the Great are pretty epic, if not a bit silly. Alexander the Great I imagine is where Jon Schaffer got his inspiration for The Glorious Burden as it reads like a history book, but the instrumental/solo section is amazing. Seventh Son was an amazing follow up, but Somewhere in Time still slays it.
Favorite song: Alexander The Great
26. Iced Earth - Something Wicked This Way Comes (1998)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/d/d6/SomethingWickedThisWayComes.jpg/220px-SomethingWickedThisWayComes.jpg)
Genre: Metal/Power Metal
I liked The Dark Saga. It has my favorite Iced Earth song, but it lacked oomph. Something Wicked gives us that oomph. Kinda picking up where Burnt Offerings left off with the "I hate organized religion" lyrics which is cool with me, this album combines the heaviness of BO with the accessibility of The Dark Saga to create a mainstream, but heavy album. Jon was feeling ballad happy though because every other song is a ballad, so the album might not have the best flow for some people. I've actually re-ordered the track list to a pretty good line up, but I had to omit Watching Over Me. The album is fine as is though. Jon is pretty inspired and the whole "band" sounds great. The bass is thick and audible, and the drums sound natural, and Larry's lead playing is stellar. This album also saw the birth of the Something Wicked storyline, and the ending trilogy is amazing. One of the best things IE has ever done. The riffs are incredible, and Matt tears it up on vocals. If you were thinking of getting into Iced Earth, this is probably the best place to start. It isn't a thrash monster like Night of the Stormrider, but it's a heavy, accessible, and kick ass Metal album.
Favorite song: The Coming Curse
25. Blind Guardian - A Night At The Opera (2002)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/7/73/A_Night_at_the_Opera_%28Blind_Guardian_album_-_cover_art%29.jpg/220px-A_Night_at_the_Opera_%28Blind_Guardian_album_-_cover_art%29.jpg)
Genre: Symphonic Power Metal
Hansi decided one day he was going to stop fucking screaming and start fucking wailing. A Night at the Opera sees Blind Guardian changing from Thrash/Speed/Power Metal to Symphonic Power Metal. Hansi is one of my favorite singers, and his high notes are just incredible. I really like the mix here. Most BG fans seem to complain about it, and I will agree it's loud, as in, Hansi will give you a headache, but the mix as a whole never bothered me. It still sounds better than the remix from the recent box set, where audio drops down, and the kick drums are way too quiet, one of the best parts about the original mix. There is lead guitar playing literally throughout every song, which always had me wonder how the hell they're able to memorize all that live. It sounds cool though. this is still very much a Power Metal album, but not enough for the drummer to stick around. This is some of Thomen's best work I think. It was actually hard for him to play live which is why they've never played Battlefield. Although their next album was a dud, Blind Guardian would pick things up again for 2010's At The Edge of Time, where they would have a real orchestra and return to their thrashier roots. I recommend that album as well. I almost forgot to mention the 14 minute masterpiece that is And Then There Was Silence. The epic to end all Power Metal epics. At 14 minutes, this song never slows down (even at the slow parts) and even at 14 minutes, it has a rather typical song structure, and flies by. It's so enthralling that it's over before you know it. It's just an amazing song. It was actually released as the albums' lead single which is rather odd, but at the same time makes perfect sense. Listen to it NAO.
Favorite song: And Then There Was Silence
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I didn't like Powerslave that much. There's a few good songs, but the middle portion is kinda shit.
*screams internally*
But SIT is amazing, so there's your redemption. :lol
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Aces High - awesome
2 Minutes to Midnight - good
Losfer Words - fun but just good
Flash of the Blade - meh
The Duelists - I remember liking the solo section, but meh
Back in the Village - meh
Powerslave - cool
Rime of the Ancient Mariner - awesome
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They're pretty much all awesome. Yeah, it doesn't have all the sprinkles of prog the following two albums did, but when I think of MAIDEN, I think fucking Powerslave. It consistently wows me.
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They're pretty much all awesome. Yeah, it doesn't have all the sprinkles of prog the following two albums did, but when I think of MAIDEN, I think fucking Powerslave. It consistently wows me.
Really? I usually just play the discs...
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They're pretty much all awesome. Yeah, it doesn't have all the sprinkles of prog the following two albums did, but when I think of MAIDEN, I think fucking Powerslave. It consistently wows me.
Really? I usually just play the discs...
What?...wait. Are you telling me no one else has a record needle for a dick?
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I wish. It's like a tic tac down there.
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I wish. It's like a tic tac down there.
lol
Awesome Maiden and Iced Earth picks! I think I'll play both of those this weekend.
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That is amazing update. All three of those are awesome. Great to see ANATO, that's probably a top 3 BG album for me.
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Somewhere in time. :tup
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More updates today. Writer's block is a bitch, but I'm almost done with the next batch of 3, and I'll try to write 3 more today as well. Maybe I should just keep these damn things to like two sentences...
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That's what slows mine down as well. "What the hell do I say about these damn albums anyway?" :lol
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I've listened to a lot of these albums a gazillion times and I don't know how to describe them at all. Damn reviewers and their nifty way with words.
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Just let it flow. Don't think too much about it.
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24. Nemesea - In Control (2007)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/a/a6/Nemesea_-_In_Control.jpg)
Genre: Electronica Rock
So I listened to Mana the other day in its entirety, and I was wrong. There are no growls at all. Unfortunately there wasn't a lot of good on it either. Well, I got through the whole thing fine, but it was just kind of there. Nemesea were definitely a different band when they started, but Manda's voice isn't really suited for the operatic style. So with the next album they decided to just completely change their style, and I think I'm the only one who actually liked the direction they went. Yes, In Control isn't a fan favorite. I guess Nemesea fans like that generic goth metal sound, but there wasn't a whole lot of melody to be had, and Manda was going to far out of her range. Sure she can sing, and can hit some high notes, but not the operatic kind of high notes. She's a rock singer. An addition to their new style, they got a new drummer, who's playing is a lot more exciting here than on The Quiet Resistance, which is odd since the songs on In Control are simpler. The songs on In Control all stay within a formula, which is kinda noticeable, but they don't sound the same. By now you might have noticed that I like music with a lot of catchiness and melodies, so as long as those songs keep me entertained, I don't mind the tried and true formula they all have. I really like the electronica sound on this album. I don't normally listen to anything electronica, but Nemesea makes it sound good to my ears. They kept the electronica sound for The Quiet Resistance but got heavier, and a little industrial, but In Control to me is a better album for its catchiness and the fact that the drummer wasn't sleeping during the recording of his parts.
Favorite song: Never
23. Symphony X - V: The New Mythology Suite (2000)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/c/cf/SymphonyXV.jpg/220px-SymphonyXV.jpg)
Genre: Progressive Power Metal
V is Symphony X's Scene From a Memory. Originally to be the epic title track on Twilight In Olympus, V got it's own album due to time restrained or whatever, but being more fleshed out as an album, I can't imagine one epic song being better. That and if we got Twilight in Olympus the song, we wouldn't have the beautiful Communion and the Oracle. So there's that. This would be the last album to feature 99% clean singing from Russell Allen before he got possessed by a demon. Newcomer Michael Lepond does a good job of keeping the consistency of the bass playing, although he's not as prominent as Thomas Miller was on The Divine Wings of Tragedy. Still pretty audible though. V can be cheesy at times, but it's mostly just epic. Romeo has a knack for Orchestrations, and I really hope he finally uses a real orchestra on the next Symphony X album. Communion and the Oracle is my all time favorite SX song. Everything about it is magical. The album ends with the 12 minute epic, Rediscovery Part 2 (part 1 being a short but sweet segue) and just tears it up. Symphony X isn't shy when it comes to epics and this one doesn't disappoint. V is a blast from start to finish and was a turning point for SX's sound. A lot of fans didn't like where they went, but their next album would be their masterpiece.
Favorite song: Communion and the Oracle
22. Delain - We Are The Others (2012)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/8/87/Delain_we_are_the_others.jpg/220px-Delain_we_are_the_others.jpg)
Genre: Symphonic Pop Rock/Metal
Initially, I was turned off by this album due to the title track. The melody of the chorus sounded and still sounds similar to that of The Killers Somebody Told Me. Fortunately the rest of the album kicked ass, and eventually the title track grew on me and I could listen passed the melody of that awful song. We Are The Others shows Delain getting even more mainstream but also heavier. They do the pop stuff really well, and I kinda prefer they stick to that. An example being Are You Done with Me, a purely poppy song, but oh so good. Delain still knows how to be heavy as fuck though, and the opener, Mother Machine is a perfect example. After some metallic sound effects, the song explodes onto the scene with a killer riff, and pretty much stays heavy even with the poppy vocals by the lovely Charlotte Wessels. Not being up on my Pat Benatar lyrics, at first I though Hit Me With Your Best Shot was a cover, but it's original. Yep... Where Is The Blood is one of my favorites and features Burton Bell from Fear Factory. You might remember him from such songs as the Cemetery Gates cover by Dream Theater & guests, where he sounded fucking awful, but he sounds great here. Not sure why Generation Me needed a PG-13 f-bomb, but still a good song nonetheless. Are You Done With Me is my favorite on the album, and it really should have been a huge hit. It's perfect for radio. Oh well. To wrap things up, Delain is a great rock band. They're better than Evanescence, and with some label backing, they probably could be just as big as them. If you like the poppier side of metal and great female vocals, Delain is for you.
Favorite song: Are You Done With Me
21. Touchstone - Oceans of Time (2013)
(https://www.progarchives.com/progressive_rock_discography_covers/4128/cover_171091672013_r.jpg)
Genre: Progressive Rock/Metal
I discovered Touchstone with this album, and it was quite an experience. They're kind of like Harvest, but heavier, and proggier, and have duel male/female vocals. I wasn't aware of how prominent the male vocals would be in Touchstone as he's only on one song on Oceans of Time. For this album they kind of updated their sound, but still have that signature Touchstone sound. The songs here are more atmosphereic and a lot more proggy. I don't know what it is about me liking poppy elements in metal, but that fact that at cetain points Kim sounds like Madonna in Contact really turns me on lol. I can't express enough love for the bass tone of this band in general. On this album especially, it reminds me of Haken, which is one thing I do like about that band. The bass is so thick and juicy. Anyway, Fragments threw me for a loop and took some time to appreicate, but it's one of my favorites on the album. Spirits of the Age and Shadow's End are a couple of the more atmospheric/ambient tracks and are great as well. One thing that's quite new to me is when a band re-records one of their earlier songs and puts it on their new album. I don't mean a demo, but a song from 2 albums ago. Solace first appeared on Wintercoast, and Touchstone gave it a nice heavy update for Oceans of Time, adding guitar and drums, and a kick ass solo. I definitely like the new version better. The title track clicked for me one night when my girlfriend, daughter, and I were stuck in traffic waiting on a train to pass. Oceans of Time came on shuffle and I had downloaded the album like the previous night, so I had no idea who the band was. So being in the car, the music was amplified 10x the awesome, and the sounds, and bass, and drums hit so hard, and it was just so cool and PROG. Touchstone as a band also clicked for me that night. And people say downloading is bad. Well... Nevermind. This album rocks!
Favorite song: Thunder & Crickets Contact
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Only know V, but it's awesome.
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Only know V, but it's awesome.
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Not a fan of Manda trying to do opera-style vocals. At all. I gave both Mana and In Control a few chances, but can't stand them. Quiet Resistence on the other hand is fabulous.
V... classic. And I think this is the better of the two "V" titled albums.
We Are the Others... excellent album. Delain is solid top to bottom. Really enjoyed this as I got prepped for them opening for Kamelot.
Touchstone... is the song you gave me in my Roulette from this album?
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This still a goer?
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Yeah, sorry. I've been busy the past two weeks. I did just get a signed and personalized copy of my next entry. :biggrin:
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I did just get a signed and personalized copy of my next entry. :biggrin:
Well come on, what is it!?
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I did some rearranging, and that particular album got moved up a few spots.
20. Theocracy - Mirror of Souls (2008)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/8/8e/Theocracy_Mirror_of_Souls.jpg/220px-Theocracy_Mirror_of_Souls.jpg)
Genre: Power Metal
This is an odd one for me. Theocracy is a Christian Power Metal band with strong Christian lyrics, and I'm an atheist, but yet this album is bloody awesome. Although, if it wasn't for the infectious melodies, and excellent music, I probably wouldn't like this album at all. The lyrics to me are on the goofy side, especially Laying The Demon To Rest, which, until I get confirmation from Matt Smith, is about masturbation. And in the biggest Shamalamalan twist ever, I love singing along to Bethlehem, which is about the birth of Jesus. The title track is a monster 22 minute song, with again, kinda goofy lyrics. I just don't get the whole, God/Jesus take the wheel mumbo jumbo. Still the title track is awesome. Unfortunately the next album was a rehash, so Mirror of Souls is the only thing by Theocracy I care for, but it is one hell of an album. I just have to pretend the lyrics are being told as fantasy. And I apologize if my opinion offends you, wait, no I don't HAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHA*cough* :angel:
Favorite song: Mirror of Souls
19. Kamelot - Karma (2001)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/6/60/Kamelot_karma.jpg/220px-Kamelot_karma.jpg)
Genre: Power Metal
So one day in early 2006 I'm browsing Myspace... It's a social media website, kinda like Facebook, when I stumbled upon some random person's profile, and their song of choice was this really fast melodic metal song with a fairly unique vocalist. The first thing I noticed though was the guitar and vocal melody reminded me of that song at the end of The Land Before Time. No joke. I grew up with that movie. I still like that song. Anyway, well, the song on the Myspace profile was called Forever, and it instantly clicked, and I had to find out more about this band with the cheesy name. But enough about how I discovered Dream Theater, let's talk about Karma. This album didn't make my last list because of a few songs that hadn't really clicked in the 6 years I've been a fan. One of those songs was The Light I shine On You. Something about the chorus didn't quite sit right with me, but after listening to the whole album on a random night of driving, the song finally clicked. The whole album clicked. I liked most of the album anyway, but now I liked every song. Kamelot is such a great band and although they have their fair share of cheesyness that goes with the genre, they set themselves apart by being more mature, and having, as I said, a unique vocalist like Roy "Moby" Khan. Forever is still my favorite Kamelot song, and I can't end this write up without givng a shout out to the awesome Elizabeth Trilogy. The fastest 12 minutes ever. Simply amazing.
Favorite song: Forever
18. Iced Earth - Burnt Offerings (1994/2002)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/3/3c/BurntOfferings.jpg/220px-BurntOfferings.jpg)(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/8/8b/Burnt_Offerings_Album_Remastered.jpg/220px-Burnt_Offerings_Album_Remastered.jpg)
Genre: Thrash/Power Metal/hint of Death Metal
I put two dates because the remix is like a whole new album. It must have been a bitch to fix the drums, cause on the original version, the drums sound like ass. Noticeable mistakes, and sloppy as fuck. Jon was a very angry man in the early 90s. After Night of the Stormrider, Century Media decided to be dicks or something and Jon being a dick himself wanted all the spotlight of being a dick, so he and the label didn't get along. Thus Burnt Offerings was created. Not quite the thrashy power metally stuff like NOTR, but more thrashy death metally stuff. Very dark and brutal, but only like two growly moments, so new comer Matt Barlow isn't trolling it up. I don't want to mislead. Matt's anger, or Jon Schaffer's anger sounds genuine as heard through Matt. And Schaffer does sing some trade offs in the title track which is an angry rant to the label. The theme of Burnt Offerings is very anti-religious, but to quote the song Brainwashed, "Christ it's nothing personal". Jon hates organized religion, but he doesn't going around bashing god or Hey Zeus. Now let's talk about one of the coolest songs to ever exist. Dante's Inferno. I said Blind Guardian's And Then There Was Silence was the greatest power metal song ever, well Dante's Inferno is the greatest Thrash Metal song ever. A 16 minute trip through Hell. I've been listening to this 16 minute song for 10 years, and it never bores. It's just remarkable. Jingleboy is a ninny. If you're only familiar with that remake with Stu Block on vocals, go listen to the original immediately, and forget that remake exists. Some like the rawness of the original 1994 version, but I recommend the remix. It's cleaner, crisper, and tighter. The drums really are that bad.
Favorite song: Dante's Inferno
17. Redemption - This Mortal Coil (2011)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/9/90/This_Mortal_Coil_%28cover%29.jpg/220px-This_Mortal_Coil_%28cover%29.jpg)
Genre: Progressive Metal
This album and I have a bit of a history. My favorite bands have been disappointing me, and when This Mortal Coil came out, I was quick to point out everything wrong with it. I was just expecting it to suck. Well, guitarist and founder Nick Van Dyk just so happens to post here occasionally, and responded to my claims, and long story short, I made a huge ass of myself. The album did finally click eventually, so all is well. The first 6 songs are incredible. My favorites being a tie between Dreams From The Pit and Let It Rain. Ray Alder may not have the strongest voice anymore, but he sings with so much emotion it hurts. No other singer can portray what Nick writes in his lyrics like Ray can. The album is based on Nick's struggles with cancer, and his victory in beating it. Congrats again! Nick is such an amazing songwriter and his band is one of the best in Prog Metal right now. Unfortunately, they aren't very popular even to prog fans, but they have 4 spectacular albums (not counting the debut), and if you like prog metal, Redemption is not a band to pass up.
Favorite songs: Dreams From the Pit, Let It Rain
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I actually think Matt Smith is one of the best lyricists in Christian music, he never seems to be overbearing to me. Though, I am admittedly coming from the other side of the issue.
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Never checked out Theocracy, but those other three are incredible.
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I actually think Matt Smith is one of the best lyricists in Christian music, he never seems to be overbearing to me. Though, I am admittedly coming from the other side of the issue.
It's really a non issue. It's just the fact that I know the songs aren't intended to be fantasy that makes it all silly to me. That being said, Mirror of Souls is still better than most power metal in general. Some bands can't even write fantasy without sounded absolutely ridonkulously stupid, so probs to Matt and Co.
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I should give them a listen.
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You should indeed.
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Liking all those :tup - I can't say that any of those bands would crack my top 50 but they're all quality. If I had to pick one it'd be the Kamelot.
Like Zook I'm not religious at all but that doesn't stop me enjoying music that isn't in your face preachy/judgmental. it always helps when I can't understand the lyrics :) I had Holy Soldier on my listens the other day, Stryper etc.... and Theocracy is certainly worth a listen. This is the only album of theirs I have and by the sounds that's no tragedy.
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I thought I tried something from Theocracy once, and didn't like it at all, but I'm intrigued based on your writeup. Added to the list.
Iced Earth... you know where I stand on them. In fact, I'm going to see the show in a couple of weeks, but I doubt I'll stick around for them. I'm only going for Floor really. Might check out Sabaton... but IE ain't mah thang.
This Mortal Coil and Karma are two fantastic albums. Not my fav's by either band, but fucking awesome none-the-less.
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What is your beef with Iced Earth?
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Just don't like the music. Can't say specifically why. I tried the Athens DVD, and a few songs here and there. They just don't float my boat.
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FWIW, I am also an athirst and I give Mirror of Souls :tup :tup as well.
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I am also an athirst
here you go dude
(https://hopebringschange.files.wordpress.com/2011/03/jesus-christ.jpg)
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Stupid iPad typing.
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:lol
Update maybe on Monday. Twas recording a new song today, and we'll be continuing tomorrow. 2 new songs this year, and we might be changing our vocal style a bit to something like Mercenary. We might.
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Recording didn't go so great the second day. In fact, we recorded nothing... There was even discussion to start a new, more serious band :lol
16. Rainover - Transcending The Blue And Drifting Into Rebirth (2014)
(https://www.wormholedeath.com/home/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/Rainover_cover.jpg)
Genre: Gothic Metal
This is my favorite album of 2014. Yep, only 4 months in, but it's that good. I almost didn't give it a chance though. Upon hearing the first song, Rebirth on their youtube page, I wasn't really into it. The singer was good, but the instrumentation was pretty basic, and not all that enthralling. Spoilers: I love Rebirth. Something told me I should listen to the whole album, and well, damn, I guess I just wasn't used to this type of Gothic Metal. By the way, this is the album I got personalized and autographed. "For Steve with love. Thanks for your support!" That put a big smile on my face. Like when I ordered Nemesea's In Control, and Manda wrote a quick "Thanks for your order" on the receipt. Rainover's sound is more of the traditional Gothic Metal or so I've read. The music is quite simple, but creates an atmosphere along with the powerful voice of singer Andrea Casanova. Her vocal style is sort of on the operatic side, but not to the point of Tarja and her clones. She has a beautiful clean voice, and when need be, she takes it up to the extreme with the operatic style. There is also male singer, Antonio Perea, who sings clean, growls, and those deep doomy vocals. The growls are few and far between and only serve as back up or trade offs, so they don't detract. As I said, the music is simpler, the drums especially, which are the AC/DC 4/4 style, but unlike Nemesea's The Quiet Resistance which I felt called for busier drumming, the drumming here fits the music perfectly. The songs are mostly mid tempo, and very melancholic and moody, but far from boring. Like I said, the atmosphere is incredible. All in all, this is a brilliant album and this band deserves a huge following.
Favorite song: Dusk and Dawn
15. Metallica - Ride The Lightning (1984)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/8/82/Metallica_-_Ride_the_Lightning_cover.jpg/220px-Metallica_-_Ride_the_Lightning_cover.jpg)
Genre: Thrash Metal
My favorite Metallica album, and yes, it is better than Master of Puppets. Escape is awesome, as is Trapped Under Ice. If there's one flaw, it's that they wrote Call of Ktulu first instead of Orion. What can I say? This album is a classic. Every song including Ktulu is brilliant. Just raw power and energy (lol). The album never misses a beat, or loses momentum. Just one excellent song after the other. I'll never understand the hate for Escape. It's a catchy metal tune. They've written them before and after. it's not the greatest of mixes, as the bass drums are way too quiet, but they were still a new band. Fight Fire With Fire is better than Battery too. What else can I say? Ride The Fucking Lightning.
Favorite song: Creeping Death
14. The Magnificent - The Magnificent (2011)
(https://www.melodicrock.it/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/magnificent.jpg)
Genre: AOR/Classic Rock, Metal
I can't say I'm a huge fan of AOR music, and maybe I wouldn't be a fan of this band at all if it wasn't for Circus Maximus' singer, Michael Eriksen being involved, but nonetheless, The Magnificent is some of the best cheese I've ever heard. I call the band cheesy because their style is a throwback to 80s glam with the center point of the lyrics being about love. Journey and Whitesnake are some of their influences to give you an idea. Eriksen brings his A game as usual wailing like he did 6 years ago on The 1st Chapter, and even sounding better. The instrumentation is awesome too. I found out about this band through the AOR thread here on DTF, and the funny thing is, I'm like the only one who fell in love with the band. The other regulars merely think it's OK, while they are busy smileing buckets over other stuff I don't care for. Oh well, more for me. Although formulaic, the songs have their own identity, and never end up sounding like one another. I've said this about a few other albums on my list, but that's really what I like. I don't mind a formula. They can all have the same structure, but as long as the songs are good, I'm good. This is another excellent debut, and hopefully they can churn out another album sooner rather than later.
Favorite song: Memories
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Dunno about Rainover but the other two :tup And I think The Magnificent is .............duh,duh............magnificent. I sent a track off it in a recent roulette (Bullets) and didn't get much love for it ;D
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Dunno about Rainover but the other two :tup And I think The Magnificent is .............duh,duh............magnificent.
Pretty much this.
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Dunno about Rainover but the other two :tup And I think The Magnificent is .............duh,duh............magnificent.
Pretty much this.
Exactly this.
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bumping the current crop of top 50 lists to hopefully get some updates soon. If you need to take a prolonged break, let me know and I'll get some other lists started. We've got people waiting in line ready to go.
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Sorry boot that. I supposed I can type a few up tonight.
Sorry, RedLetterMedia. Now I'm tired...
At least I'm almost done right? :angel:
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Yeah, I'm almost done, but I omitted albums that I shouldn't have, and I have little motivation to work on this most days. I already modified my list once, so I'd just like to revamp it and get it perfect. Yeah, it'll never be concrete because new music comes out constantly, but I'm just not satisfied with what I have right now. Thanks for following, but I'm taking too long. People are waiting who are more committed, so give me another year, and hopefully I'll have a top 50 albums list that is satisfying to me, cause ordering that shit is hard. The top ten is somewhat easy, but after that, it's like choosing which kid you like best.
Thanks again, I'm just not into it right now. Plus, I just got my brother a Dave Mustaine guitar pedal, so I need to work on drum tracks. We have a song, but the drums need lots of tinkering.
Also, when I do finally do this again, my write ups are going to be short and sweet.
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Commitment issues? ;D
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It's not you, it's me.
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(https://cdn.uproxx.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/costanza-wink.gif)
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Yeah, I'm almost done, but I omitted albums that I shouldn't have, and I have little motivation to work on this most days. I already modified my list once, so I'd just like to revamp it and get it perfect. Yeah, it'll never be concrete because new music comes out constantly, but I'm just not satisfied with what I have right now. Thanks for following, but I'm taking too long. People are waiting who are more committed, so give me another year, and hopefully I'll have a top 50 albums list that is satisfying to me, cause ordering that shit is hard. The top ten is somewhat easy, but after that, it's like choosing which kid you like best.
Thanks again, I'm just not into it right now. Plus, I just got my brother a Dave Mustaine guitar pedal, so I need to work on drum tracks. We have a song, but the drums need lots of tinkering.
Also, when I do finally do this again, my write ups are going to be short and sweet.
How could you get to number 14 and then say this? ???
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I like to see you squirm.
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I could finish the list for you? ;D
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That might be amusing to see you post the actual rest of the list and write ups based on what you think I might say about the albums. My guess is incoherent babbling.
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Make it happen, should make for a fun read at the least.
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I would gladly read it too. :lol
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13. Dream Theater - Metropolis PT 2: Scenes From a Memory
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/5/55/Dream_Theater_-_Metropolis_Pt._2-_Scenes_from_a_Memory.jpg/220px-Dream_Theater_-_Metropolis_Pt._2-_Scenes_from_a_Memory.jpg)
Genre: Progressive Metal
This was the first Dream Theater album I ever bought, but this wasn't the album that got me into the band. Regardless, SFAM is a brilliant concept album full of great musical jams, and James LaBrie is in top form. Newcomer Jordan Rudess fits right in bringing wacky new sounds to the band, my favorite being the ragtime solo in The Dance of Eternity. After Falling Into Infinity, DT really took it up a notch and created a masterpiece, but really, FiI isn't that bad. Anyway, PLUH!
Favorite song: Beyond This Life
12. Queensryche - Operation: Mindcrime (1988)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/f/f7/Queensryche_-_Operation_Mindcrime_cover.jpg/220px-Queensryche_-_Operation_Mindcrime_cover.jpg)
Genre: Progressive Metal
Another brilliant concept album. Simply flawless. I used to not like The Needle Lies very much, but it's cool now.
Favorite song: The Mission
11. Kamelot - The Black Halo (2005)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/c/cb/Kamelot_blackhalo.jpg/220px-Kamelot_blackhalo.jpg)
Genre: Progressive Power Metal
Another brilliant... Oh wait, said that already. Whatever, it's a brilliant concept album too, and their best album overall. Kamelot made us wait 7 years for another great album.
Favorite song: Memento Mori
10. Circus Maximus - Nine (2012)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/8/84/Circus_Maximus_Nine.jpg/220px-Circus_Maximus_Nine.jpg)
Genre: Progressive Metal
CM changed their style a tad for this one, but they still sound awesome. A little more contemporary and mainstream sounding, but I like it, and the direction they're going.
Favorite song: Burn After Reading
9. Redemption - Snowfall On Judgment Day (2009)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/3/38/Redemption_Snowfall_on_Judgment_Day.jpg/220px-Redemption_Snowfall_on_Judgment_Day.jpg)
Genre: Progressive Metal
This is the album that made Redemption click for me. Tried 'em in 2007 with The Origins of Ruin, but couldn't get into them. Snowfall changed all that, and now I love all their albums except the debut, but not even Nick Van Dyk likes that one.
Favorite song: Love Kills Us All/Life In One Day
8. Stone Sour - House Of Gold & Bones (2012/2013)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/7/73/HouseofGoldandBonesPt1.jpg/220px-HouseofGoldandBonesPt1.jpg)(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/0/0d/Stone_Sour_-_House_of_Gold_%26_Bones_Part_2.jpg/220px-Stone_Sour_-_House_of_Gold_%26_Bones_Part_2.jpg)
Genre: Alternative Metal
This is a double concept album and I was debating whether to separate them since both parts came out at different times, but I might as well list it as one album. Part 1 kicks my ass and shows no mercy while Part 2 is a little more merciful and gentle. This album is described as Pink Floyd's The Wall meets Alice In Chain's Dirt, and it wipes the floor with both of them. If I had listed them separately, Part 1 would probably be even higher.
Favorite song: Absolute Zero
7. Lorenguard - Eve of Corruption: The Days of Astasia - Part One (2011)
(https://www.metal-archives.com/images/3/2/1/5/321561.jpg?1705)
Genre: Power Metal
This unknown US Power Metal band created in my opinion the greatest Power Metal album of all time. I discovered them by simply checking on the status of Progressive Power Metal band, Winterfell, and discovered that their singer is now in a band called Lorenguard. So I check out their YouTube page, and listen to the title track, and wasn't really impressed, but was shocked that Robb Graves (lol) changed his vocal style, and isn't obnoxious anymore. He did grate on my ears after listening awhile, but now he sounds great! And the title track is the weakest on the album. Still pretty good, but The rest of the album is pure gold. If you've heard of them and happened to listen to their first EP or whatever, and wrote them off, well I don't blame you, but Eve of Corruption is amazing. Comma spicing FTW. They don't sound anything like their EP. Different singer, and not shitty. For a self produced and funded debut, it sounds amazing, and for a debut, you'd think these guys were veterans. A Masterpiece of metal.
Favorite song: The Prince and The Pariah
6. Dream Theater - Six Degrees Of Inner Turbulence (2002)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/3/3d/Dream_Theater_-_Six_Degrees_of_Inner_Turbulence.jpg/220px-Dream_Theater_-_Six_Degrees_of_Inner_Turbulence.jpg)
Genre: Progressive Metal
I got into disc 2 before disc 1 oddly enough, it was the track times that kept me hesitant to listen to disc 1, but once The Glass Prison clicked, I was thrashing all around. Not really, but that song is fucking awesome as is the title track. Misunderstood is still my least favorite song here, but I'm OK with it.
Favorite song: The Glass Prison
5. Circus Maximus - Isolate (2007)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/2/24/CMIsolate.gif/220px-CMIsolate.gif)
Genre: Progressive Metal
Here's an instant clicker. Fun fact: I discovered CM with this album in Florida, and bought the CD in Arizona... That wasn't fun at all. What the fu- Michael Eriksen is amazing, and this album is better than both Symphony X's Paradise Lost and DT's Systematic Chaos which came out the same year. Masterpiece.
Favorite song: Abyss
4. Dream Theater - Awake (1994)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/6/65/Dream_Theater_-_Awake.jpg/220px-Dream_Theater_-_Awake.jpg)
Genre: Progressive Metal
DT got heavier and darker, and nobody liked them anymore, but Awake rules. Suck it Rob Van Dam. The bonus track is pretty good I guess.
Favorite song: Scarred.
3. Symphony X - The Odyssey (2002)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/f/fd/SymphonyXTheOdyssey.jpg/220px-SymphonyXTheOdyssey.jpg)
Genre: Progressive Power Metal
The Odyssey marked the beginning of a new era for SX. They got heavier, and they would take 10 years to make albums from then on out. This album is a nice mix of the heavy and softer side of the band, and Russell is awesome and very dynamic, something he isn't anymore. Every song is perfect, but it took me a while to appreciate Incantations of the Apprentice.
Favorite song: The Odyssey
2. Dream Theater - Images and Words (1992)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/8/8d/Dream_Theater_-_Images_and_Words.jpg/220px-Dream_Theater_-_Images_and_Words.jpg)
Genre: Progressive Metal
DT's breakthrough, and every prog metal band's blue print. Simply the best. Better than all the rest. A great mainstream Prog album, and although Take The Time and Pull Me under were butchered for radio play, they didn't need to be. They fly by due to how catchy they are. Surrounded was the first DT song I ever heard, and it remains my favorite.
Favorite song: Twinkle Twinkle Little Star
1. Iced Earth - Night of the Stormrider (1992)
(https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/opmkills/Iced%20Earth/night-of-the-stormrider03.jpg)
(https://rymimg.com/lk/f/l/42359ea71c3a2b1ca643cf5e3c24e829/3443874.jpg)
Genre: Thrash Metal
Yes, those really are the original covers. :lol Although some of the songs on this album sound better with Matt Barlow singing them, especially live, the original is still a masterpiece in thrash metal. Back when Jon Schaffer was young and inspired, he created some of the coolest riffs, and his playing was out of this world. There are two interludes that slow the pace, but otherwise this is ass kicking thrash from start to finish.
Favorite song: "The Stormrider Trilogy" or Pure Evil... or Travel in Stygian
(https://i52.tinypic.com/2mwwnc1.jpg)
And there it is...
NEXT YEAR WILL BE BETTER
50% wont be changed.
Thank you.
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Holy update :lol
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It's a rollercoaster, this list...
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I'm actually considering doing the rest of my list in one post tomorrow just because it keeps slipping my damn mind to do. :lol
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cool update!
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It's a rollercoaster, this list...
I like prog metal. Big whoop wanna fight about it?
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No, I was referring to the on/off thing that's been going on. I actually love most of the albums listed here.
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Oh, thought you were being sarcastic, since the majority of the list is prog in some form.
I'm still not satisfied with the list, (order, missing entries) but I figured what the hell, I'll get it over with. Plus, I didn't think anyone was all that interested.
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Never thought I would see Night of the Stormrider as a number one album but its awesome that it is since it has some badass songs in it. Also thank goodness those original covers weren't used.
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holy crap
great update!!
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Mother of all updates. Quite possibly the most epic single update in a top 50 thread, marred only by Iced Earth. Sorry mang, just ain't ma thang. Otherwise, the other 12 are stellar.
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Holy fuck balls!!! Way to finish! :metal :metal :metal Awesome top 13!
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Thanks guys. I guess it was a good idea to finish the list then eh?
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Nice..........can't say I've even heard that IE - I do like Horror Show. Will check it out.
All the others (aside from Lorenguard , which again I haven't heard) I rate quite highly - one or two will make my top 50.
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Nice..........can't say I've even heard that IE - I do like Horror Show. Will check it out.
All the others (aside from Lorenguard , which again I haven't heard) I rate quite highly - one or two will make my top 50.
The singer on Stormrider is quite different than Barlow on Horror Show, but he's not bad. Lorenguard is amazing.
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Just checked out The Prince and The Pariah - I did like it so will follow up on it. He just couldn't hit the obvious note needed to finish the song with a bang ;D They actually remind me a bit of another band that will be in my Top 50 - I think said band is on another level in some areas but the fact I'm even comparing Lorenguard to them is a big tick from me.
Thanks for the heads up .
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The dude can hit high notes, trust me.
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I trust you ;D Well perhaps he chose a different note so as not to be so obvious - or just to piss me off .
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Best update ever. I was going to do a fun top 13 making fun of you, but this is more like it. I own everything in that update except Lorenguard.
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Best update ever. I was going to do a fun top 13 making fun of you, but this is more like it. I own everything in that update except Lorenguard.
Check it out Kade... it's the tits.
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Best update ever. I was going to do a fun top 13 making fun of you, but this is more like it. I own everything in that update except Lorenguard.
Check it out Kade... it's the tits.
Did you finally listen to the whole album?
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I did... haven't bought it yet, but I did listen to it on Spotify a couple of times.