Bruce Moore's Top Picks of 2023

Bruce’s Top Metal Albums of 2023

As the years roll on I find my taste in metal seems to slowly progress towards the more extreme side of things and my favorite albums of the year definitely reflect that trend. While I still have a soft spot for 80’s Sleaze and Glam metal, I am beginning to really appreciate the darker, heavier side of the genre. So with out further ado, here are my top 5 albums of the year in no particular order.

Primordial- “How it Ends” 
Primordial, an Irish band known for pioneering the fusion of second wave black metal and Celtic folk, thrives on conflict. Their tenth album, "How It Ends," reflects a passionate exploration of their Irish heritage both musically and lyrically. Vocalist A.A. Nemtheanga addresses the fall of humanity in the face of authoritarianism, accompanied by the thunderous and anthemic battle music created band.

Unearth- “The Wretched; The Ruinous”
Unearth, the dedicated metalcore band from Massachusetts, has marked their 25th anniversary with the release of their eighth album, "The Wretched; The Ruinous." Despite the absence of founding guitarist Ken Susi, the band hasn't faltered, delivering their best work in years. The album stands as a testament to Unearth's unwavering work ethic and musical prowess, showcasing their continued commitment to excellence.

Katatonia- “Sky Void of Stars”
"Sky Void Of Stars" marks the 12th full-length album from the Swedish band. Similar to their 2020 release, "City Burials," the album reflects a delicate yet unyielding link to the band's earlier doom metal roots. While embracing a more primitive sound, the album showcases the band's quietly miraculous songwriting, demonstrating a harmonious blend of their past and present musical influences.

Godthrymm- "Distortions"
Distortions, the second part of the trilogy, exhibits a more varied and contemporary approach. Distortions promises to captivate any doom enthusiast, leaving a profound impact. Anticipation is high for the forthcoming final installment of the trilogy.

WAYFARER- “American Gothic”
At its essence, American Gothic serves as an artistic exploration that illuminates the darker chapters of the country's history, accompanied by hauntingly beautiful soundscapes. Despite some lengthier tracks, every element contributes meaningfully to the cinematic flow of the album. American Gothic seamlessly blends genres and diverse song structures, from doom and borderline ballads to country and black metal, without one overshadowing the other—a remarkable achievement. The production and instrumentation are of top-tier quality, positioning the album for well-deserved inclusion in numerous year-end lists.

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