Staff picks by corrupt

Each of Nevermore's albums showcases a unique facet of their sound, often shaped in part by their ever-changing line-up of second guitarists. However, it was Steve Smyth, of Forbidden fame, who elevated the band to yet unseen artistic heights. There is simply no other band out there who do or have done what Nevermore did, and it's almost like capturing lightning in a bottle for so much talent to come together in one outfit. To me, This Godless Endeavor, is the absolute pinnacle of their creativity and artistic expression. Every song on this album fits perfectly into the bigger picture; each riff and drum beat is beautifully crafted, and Warrel Dane's haunting vocals and deeply profound lyrics have never been delivered with more passion, range, or energy.

This is not an album, it's a painting; a perfectly framed photograph; a poem in which the author is both narrator and observer; a mirror that reflects your soul; an emotional, noir, brutal, sorrowful, and cold experience that you just cannot shake.

I firmly believe that this is one of the best albums ever recorded, including musical styles beyond metal, and I cannot believe it's been 20 years since I first played it on my iPod in 2005. But I remember that moment like few others in my life because it opened my eyes to the true emotional meaning of music.

I have always considered Nevermore one of the best bands that have ever existed. 20 years ago they were at the peak of their creativity, releasing three albums in five years that re-defined US heavy power/heavy thrash metal with this being the transition between Dead Heart in a Dead World and This Godless Endeavor.

All three albums are worth checking out, but it’s Enemies of Reality‘s anniversary

#1 passed away this week. An absolute legend of a musician and artist of the beat to the soundtrack of a whole generation's anger and rage. Few bands today will be what Slipknot was for millennials around the turn of the century and Joey Jordison was one of their driving forces for almost 20 years. Rest in peace you magnificent person. Many a night of teenage angst is now also a testament to your memory. And this album, at least for me, towers over those times. The symbol of a confused yet maturing generation trying to find its place in this world.

This currently re-released album is an overlooked gem in Sólstafir's back catalogue. A raw, dare I say "warm" but fierce output along a path, the band has long since strayed from; with good production and more than a few elements that will surprise you.

If you haven't heard it yet, you're missing out. Dødheimsgard raise the creativity bar for experimental bands everywhere. Call it avant-garde, call it black, call it industrial, or call it post. This is a musical milestone that combines Dødheimsgard's unique extreme sound with a wide variety of influences and an unequalled vocalist duo. If metal is more for you than melodic riffs and blast beats, this is your album.