Top albums of 2015 - Brent

The list is in chronological order.

Blind Guardian - Beyond the Red Mirror

Released in early 2015, “Beyond the Red Mirror” stands as a superb addition to the Blind Guardian discography. It shares many musical themes with their previous release “At the Edge of Time”, for example, heavily orchestrated songs, soaring operatic vocals, and hard hitting riffs.

Favorite Song: The Holy Grail

Enslaved - In Times

Just to start off Enslaved’s previous album “RIITIIR” is one of my favorites. So, when “In Times” came out I was very curious to see if it would follow in the footsteps of their previous record or change directions. After giving it a few spins I’d say they did not veer from the path they set with “RIITIIR”. A prog metal album with black metal themes is nothing new as far as Enslaved, but with impeccable song writing and new lyrical themes this is a solid Enslaved album and one of my overall favorites of the year. 

Favorite Song: One Thousand Years of Rain

Mgła - Exercises in Futility  

“Exercises in Futility” is easily my favorite black metal album of the year. It has a very natural or even organic feeling that separates it from the stereotypical/ generic black metal of today. Some of these traits include superb production quality, instrument layering/harmonizing, and relatively deep defined vocals. Whether you like raw black metal or more progressive stuff I strongly recommend this album.

Favorite Song: Exercises in Futility II

Deafheaven - New Bermuda

Since the 2013 release of “Sunbather” Deafheaven has forged their way in a darker direction. While maintaining their shoegazing and post-metal roots, “New Bermuda” contains a much more black metal atmosphere. This new direction paired with their signature style results in a perilous and depressive journey that doesn’t end until the sweet peacefulness of death (just read the lyrics).

Favorite Song: Luna

Turbid North - Eyes Alive

Without a release in 4 years I can confidently say “it was worth the wait”, Turbid North has done it again. With a mix of death, doom, and prog their sound is unrivaled, creating their own genre dubbed “Alaskan Mountain Metal”. I could hear musical influences from Pink Floyd to Mastodon, leaving each song with its own ambience but adding to the album as a whole.

Favorite Song: Destroyer of Worlds

Baroness - Purple

Being relatively new to Baroness, my first listen to “Purple” was a pleasant surprise to say the least. Since then, it has become a staple album in my daily listening. The musical theme balances between sludge and prog rock, with vocals similar to that of Wolfmother. If you’re looking for fast and heavy this isn’t for you, but if you like top-notch song writing and music with soul, pick this up.

Favorite Song: Shock Me