TOP 10 of 2020

1

Napalm Death are incredible. Sixteen albums in, and they are still reinventing themselves while still keeping their extremity, integrity and socially conscious fabric in tact. Throes is brutal, dynamic and consistent. An important album from an amazing band. Album of the year.

2

Omens is a remarkable album that welcomes repeat listens, and many of them. It is not as immediate as albums such as Lore or Reflections, but it is a better album, and it is exciting to see a band not willing to please anyone but themselves, and what they stand for as artists.

3

We didn’t see this one coming. One of the best thrash albums of the past few years, and this was written when they were teenagers. So very cool. So very very cool. Bring on new material.

4

Reluctant Hero rips! Greg, Max and Troy form a formidable vocal trio, often all appearing on one track, but perhaps the hero here is Ben Koller from Converge. Their second offering is more cohesive, and while their debut was exciting, this sounds like a proper band now, and we can’t wait to hear album #3. KILLER!

5

As the year wore on, it was the heavier art that we gravitated to the most, and after Tomb’s EP earlier in the year, this full length was highly anticipated. Under Sullen Skies sees Tombs in career best form. This is a brilliant release. Let’s hope that this lineup stays together. Well done!

6

Another late year entry. Dephosphorus are a favourite. The Greek quartet are brutal, caustic, and galactic. From the first listen, Sublimation drew us in time and time again. A grower, but a stayer. KILLER stuff from a brilliant band. Just wish they toured!!

7

Dark, so dark. Brilliant, so brilliant. Fiona is a true artist, and this is a true highlight. Amazing!

8

Part II was always going to be a favourite. This one is a little more dynamic and progressive than the first part. Very TOOL like in parts, but they do it very well. A very cool album for fans of Cult of Luna, TOOL, and ISIS. Where they go from here will be very intriguing.

9

Phil Anselmo may have been #cancelled, but not in our eyes. What he brings to this release is a whole heap of bravery - a soul laid bare. Some of these songs are decades old, yet they sound contemporary. The musicianship here is impressive. Phil has made some errors, but En Minor is flawless.

10

Criminally underrated. These Indian dudes released a rocking album that thrilled us time and time and time again. This is an album that is a ton of fun, catchy, well written and engaging. Was #1 for a very long time!!

So Close

Mamaleek - Come & See

Pearl Jam - Gigaton

Imperial Triumphant - Alphaville

Pluralone - I Don’t Feel Well