Album Reviews

A landmark of American metal that remains as powerful today as upon release. 'Ashes of the Wake' combines crushing groove metal with politically charged lyrics that feel increasingly relevant. 'Laid to Rest' and 'Now You've Got Something to Die For' are genre-defining.

The Swedish djent pioneers deliver another mind-bending assault on the senses. 'Immutable' is Meshuggah at their most focused and ferocious, with polyrhythmic patterns that challenge even seasoned listeners. 'The Abysmal Eye' and 'Broken Cog' are essential modern metal.

Ghost's fifth album is a masterclass in theatrical rock. 'Impera' explores themes of empire and decay through the lens of 80s arena rock, with Tobias Forge's songwriting reaching new heights. The production is immaculate, and tracks like 'Kaisarion' and 'Spillways' are instant classics.

Gojira's seventh album finds the French metal titans embracing their progressive side while maintaining their environmental message. 'Fortitude' is more accessible than previous efforts, but tracks like 'Into the Storm' and 'Born for One Thing' still pack a devastating punch.

A sprawling double album born from grief, 'Hushed and Grim' is Mastodon's most emotionally resonant work. Dedicated to their late manager Nick John, the album balances crushing heaviness with moments of surprising tenderness. It's prog-metal at its most ambitious and rewarding.

Metallica's eleventh studio album proves the thrash legends still have plenty of fire left. '72 Seasons' delivers crushing riffs and introspective lyrics exploring the formative years of life. While not reinventing their sound, tracks like 'Lux Aeterna' and 'Screaming Suicide' show the band at their most energetic in years.

Pearl Jam's eleventh album finds the Seattle legends in reflective mood, tackling climate change and mortality with their trademark earnestness. 'Gigaton' rewards patience, with deeper cuts revealing hidden gems. Eddie Vedder's voice remains a powerful instrument.

Against all odds, AC/DC delivered one of their strongest albums in decades. Dedicated to Malcolm Young, 'Power Up' is pure, unadulterated AC/DC - crunching riffs, thunderous rhythms, and Brian Johnson's unmistakable vocals. 'Shot in the Dark' is an instant classic.

Muse returns with their most politically charged album yet. 'Will of the People' blends their signature bombast with dystopian themes and genre-hopping experimentation. From the thrash metal of 'Kill or Be Killed' to the synth-pop of 'Compliance,' this is Muse at their most unpredictable.

The Stones' first album of new material in 18 years proves rock's greatest band still has gas in the tank. 'Hackney Diamonds' is lean, mean, and surprisingly vital, with Jagger's vocals and Richards' riffs as potent as ever. A worthy late-career statement.

Slipknot's seventh album is their most experimental to date, blending their signature aggression with unexpected sonic detours. While not their heaviest work, tracks like 'The Dying Song' and 'Yen' showcase a band unafraid to evolve. A divisive but intriguing chapter.

Green Day's fourteenth album is a return to form that balances their punk roots with arena-ready hooks. 'Saviors' doesn't break new ground, but tracks like 'The American Dream Is Killing Me' prove Billie Joe Armstrong's pen is as sharp as ever. A solid addition to their catalog.