Hey Everybody!

Hard to believe that we are already on this side of 2021 isn't it? Of course if you go by the calendar year, we still have another month till it's officially half way through the year, BUT as someone who talks about music for a living; January-November is the real year and bands who put out their albums after the 2nd week of December are just cruel. So today I'm going to be doing a quick dive through January-May releases of 2021 and picking out my top 40 albums of the first half of the year. If you are new to what I do; here's the rules!

- I have not heard every album released so far this year. 2020 hurt so many of us and we are just starting to rebuild in 2021. So if you don't see your favorite album on here it's because I haven't heard it, haven't heard it enough, or just isn't my bag...baby.

- This is in alphabetical order. Not the actual order of best to least best.

- It will be listed as band, album, FFO (For Fans of), & very brief summary. I got 40 to get through after all in one sitting.

- While some albums may appear here now, it is not finalized for what will make my Best of the Year list. Far too early to tell. Any albums released in the first half of 2021 that I haven't covered here could easily be on the year end list if they grab my attention.

- No EPs, Live Albums, Cover Albums or Compilations, Just Studio LPs!




So Let's Begin!

1.) Accept- To Mean To Die
FFO- Speed Metal, Heavy Metal

Accept have returned with what might be their strongest album in the 21st century. Everything you love from the band, from the riffs to the speed to the grooves to the solos, are here and ready to destroy all in it's path. If you just need a fun album to help you raise your fists in the air, this is one album you simply can't ignore.

2.) Alta Reign- Mother's Day
FFO- Progressive Metal, Melodic Metal, AOR

Formed by legendary drummer of Savatage and Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Jeff Plate. Mother's Day is truly a debut album that shows what the band is capable of, and hints and what is possible to come. With incredibly catchy riffs, fantastic throwback production and songwriting that is sure to garner fans from all over the rock and metal worlds; Alta Reign brings a punch of music that is truly needed this side of the pandemic. Go check them out now and salivate waiting for the next release.

3.) And Now The Owls Are Watching- Dirges
FFO- Blackgaze, Depressive Black Metal

OOF! This concept album is one that truly can tear your soul apart. Not just from the musicality showcased, but from the story told of depression spiraling to death and the afterlife. This album is not for the faint of heart, but it can also be one of the most cathartic listens if you are someone (like myself) who has suicidal thoughts and just wants to feel less alone. If you fit this profile, make sure you are mentally able to go through it or if needed have someone you care about near by or a text/message away to help after. Please know you are still wanted here on earth and reach out for help whenever you need it. Please and thank you!

4.) Anneke van Giersbergen- The Darkest Skies are Brightest
FFO- Anneke van Giersbergen

Anneke hits the soul once again with her latest solo album, rather than making this a pop infused fun time, or a heavy prog metal masterpiece; this album cover the topic of lost love, trying to save love, and trying to grow as a human being. As beautiful as it is, it's a feel good and soul torturing album, depending if anything talked about hits close to home or not. A gorgeous album that should not be missed.

5.) Architects- For Those That Wish to Exist
FFO- Modern Metalcore

The very first appearance of this band in any of my lists, despite being around for quite a number of years. This 2021 album just struck me at a time when I needed it. With it's catchy hooks, spellbinding production and pure soulful lyrics that are just so relateable in today's age. It's a far departure from what I remember of the band's more mathcore days and feels more of a radio friendly, symphonic, and more proggy metalcore affair. Anyone who likes their metal with a good mainstream twinge should give this a shot.

6.) As Everything Unfolds- Within Each Lies The Other
FFO- Melodic Post-Hardcore

The debut album from this UK outfit is just a mesmerizing experience. With it's powerful messages of emotions, proficient songwriting and musicianship and songs that are sure to destroy everything in it's path when shows fully open back up again. This album hits hard with it's breakdowns both lyrically and musically. When the mood strikes, put this on and let the emotions take over you.

7.) Asphyx- Necroceros
FFO- Death Metal, Doom Metalcore

Asphyx continues to reign supreme above all others in it's path. 202S1 needs an album that is this brutal and the band more than delivers on all fronts. I mean, when you hear a song like Botox Implosion, how could you not listen and go "yeah, this feels right"?. For the fast, heavy, doomy, and overall brutalizing, Asphyx delivers!

8.) Bloody Hammers- Songs of Unspeakable Terror
FFO- Punk Rock, Gothic Rock, Heavy Metalcore

Every Bloody Hammers album is a pure treat. You will never get the same album twice. Bloody Hammers finally showcases their more punk influences on this album leading to a short, but incredibly sweet album of horror influences, catchy riffs and terrifying thrills. If only all horror albums could be as fun as Bloody Hammers makes it every single time.

9.) Cannibal Corpse- Violence Unimagined
FFO- Death Metal

The legends of death metal have returned. While the band has had many ups and many more downs in the last few years; the band has scrapped everything up off the floor, reassembled with a new lineup and bringing back the total destruction that you expect. In short, this is the album we needed from Cannibal Corpse right now and death metal fans should be very happy that they continue to deliver over and over again.

10.) Comatose- A Way Back
FFO- Shoegaze, Post Metal, Grunge

A debut album that takes the grunge of the 90s, the shoegaze of the 00s and the experimentation of the 2020s to bring an album that is sure to capture the hearts of those that love Mudhoney as much as they do Explosions in the Sky or Soundgarden as much as they love Pelican. It just covers the ground of emotionally driven music and it's an amazing thing to witness. Check this out immediately.

11.) The Crown- Royal Destroyer
FFO- Melodic Death Metal, Thrash Metal

The Crown is EASILY one of the most underrated bands to come from Sweden. While many bands have come before and after the band, The Crown have been around to put out some of the most pummeling music you can in the melodeath and thrash worlds. Royal Destroyer is no exception. I dare say it's their fastest, heaviest, most incredible album to date The band has more than enough fuel in the tank to continue their path of destruction, try to see if you can catch up and grab on for the ride.

12.) Culak- Glass Sanctuary
FFO- Blackgaze, Doom Metal

The 11th album in 9 years (you read that right) shows the utter best of what this project has done so far. While being an emotional tour of the senses, it also brings incredibly catchy riffs among it's dark attack. You can't go wrong with any Culak release to date, but why not start here and see where the project is today? It's well worth your time.

13.) Cvlt ov the Svn- We are the Dragon
FFO- Black Metal, Pop Rock, Murder Pop

The debut album from this extremely catchy and experimental band shows off what can be done with a wicked sense of black metal atmosphere and lyrical content over the catchiness you hear on mainstream radio. There are comparisons to what Ghost has done as far as the formula of the band, but Cvlt ov the Svn is far more than a band making mainstream evil again, it's making sure that it's hell bound for it's evil tendencies. Check out this fun and...killer...album.

14.) Dark Heavens- Nuclear Eagle
FFO- Alternative Metal, Punk, Experimental

It took me till this year to know about this band, which is a pure shame as Drew from dredg plays in this band. I should have known about this sooner. But alas, here we are. Taking a great influence from Mike Patton and adding their own flares of punk, hardcore and alternative. It really feels like a new wave of Faith No More, without sounding like a ripoff. This is incredible stuff and if you are a dredg fan like myself, tis should tide you over till the next album if/when it comes out.

15.) Ephemerald- Between the Glimpses of Hope
FFO- Melodeath, Folk Metal, Black Metal

In speaking of holding you over, who reading this wants a new Wintersun album without having to wait for Wintersun to make new music and hardest of all, record it? Ephemerald takes what you love about a band like Wintersun, adds it's own tinges of black, folk, and melodeath to create an atmosphere that really brings you to an otherworldly sonic land. This is right where this style should be right now and you will be hard pressed to find anyone who can do this better in 2021. ESPECIALLY considering that this is the band's debut album!

16.) Epica- Omega
FFO- Symphonic Death Metal

Epica is the world's finest example of symphonic death metal. one of the first to really nail it and the band continues to find new ways to perfect it with every release. Quality not quantity. Omega strongly makes the argument of being the band's finest release and it's hard to disagree. Everything you love about the band is here and perfected. It'll be incredibly to hear this in a live setting, but till then, enjoy the sonic bliss that is Omega right now.

17.) Everture- Emerge
FFO- Melodic Metal, Heavy Metal, Modern Metal

2021 has been an incredible year for bands making their debut releases and this is absolutely no exception. What I can best describe as a blend between Evergrey and Mutiny Within; Everture brings a blend of modern metal that matches with melodies and harmonies that could EASILY make it to mainstream radio if mainstream radio would just allow it. Incredible songwriting, as catchy as it is heavy and just an overall great display of musicianship. This is truly incredible music, let alone a debut album. Check this out, seriously!

18.) Flotsam and Jetsam- Blood In The Water
FFO- Thrash Metal

Flotsam and Jetsam could easily make the argument for being one of the strongest thrash metal bands to ever come from North America. While many contemporaries venture off into different territories, the band continues to dismay all doubters with it's beyond heavy thrash assault. Old school and new school thrash fans have no reason to skip Blood in the Water it's all you could ever want and more!

19.) Gojira- Fortitude
FFO- Groove Metal

this could easily be the most polarizing Gojira album if you are a long time fan of the band. If you are brand new to the band, this is the perfect starter album. The band's most accessible and mainstream album to date shows the band displaying their songwriting skills to their max. While it's not filled with the crazy off time signatures that older fans expect. It's a brand of melodic, groove and catchy riffs that are the perfect balance for those of all kind of heavy music fans can enjoy, no matter how mainstream or brutal you say you are. If you want heavier from the band, simply go in backwards order, if you like what you hear here, check out the previous album Magma. Regardless, Gojira is right where they deserve to be in 2021...rejoiced.

20.) Hannes Grossmann- To where The Sun Retreats
FFO- Technical Death Metal, Melodic Death Metal, Progressive Metal

One of the most insanely skilled musicians in the world. Hannes Grossmann has returned with his latest solo album. Rather than just being an assault on the senses or an instrumental affair; Hannes put together a group of some of the best musicians he could get together and created an insane blend of music that features vocals, bass, guitar, and of course mind blowing drumming that all fans of extreme music should love and appreciate. Gorgeous technical and brutal music.

21.) Harakiri for the Sky- Mӕre
FFO- Blackgaze

Harakiri for the Sky is my favorite band that covers the blackgaze/post-black metal realms and Mӕre continues to prove why they are the prime example of what the genres can be. Pure, soul ripping, emotional lyrics, beyond spellbinding songwriting, perfect production of not too clean and not too raw. If you want to find your gateway into either shoegaze, post metal, black metal, etc and you want to see what's on the other side of these genres; Harakiri for the Sky is the band you must check out. The band only gets better and better. One listen and you'll understand.

22.) Joel Hoekstra's 13- Running Games
FFO- Melodic Rock, AOR, Heavy Metal

With a star studded lineup and some of the catchiest rockin' & rollin' songs you may hear in 2021; Running Games showcases perfect songs for those that want to go back to what made 70s and 80s rock and metal so good, but they want that 21st century twinge to really make things blend for audiences of all ages. Just a killer album from start to finish that's well worth your time.

23.) John The Baptist- S/T
FFO- Doom Metal

The debut album of this monstrous Finnish doom metal band is one of the finest examples of that classic, epic and pure doom metal that all but started the heavy metal genre. If you dig the styling of Candlemass, Reverend Bizarre, and even little hints to Celtic Frost and/or Venom; I can't recommend this band enough. Unfortunately, this album is not on many streaming platforms (yet) but it is available to check out at jtb.bandcamp.com. Kickback, listen and enjoy!

24.) The Lion's Daughter- Skin Show
FFO- Horror Metal

The 4th album from this juggernaut of a synth driven progressive sludge metal band is something to truly behold. Take what you love about horror soundtracks (the 70s/80s synths, obviously) and but them over the progressive sludge metal varieties of Mastodon or Baroness and you get chilling yet ever so intriguing musicality that no one side side of Goblin can achieve. The Lion's Daughter really needs to get into writing horror soundtracks, their music just begs to be the background of a killer horror movie.

25.) Liquid Tension Experiment- LTE3
FFO- Instrumental Progressive Metal, Fusion

Well...from 2010 to mid 2020, who could have seen this album coming? Mike Portnoy reunites with John Petrucci for the second time in a year and FINALLY reuniting with Jordan Rudess and Tony Levin to create the catchy, heavy, futuristic, psychedelic, and off the wall instrumental metal that you all know and love. For long time Dream Theater fans, this album just warms your heart hearing 3/5ths of the most well known lineup of the band playing together again and sounding as if they never, ever, stopped. It pretty much goes without saying that this will be my instrumental album of the year, unless something comes out that is so bombastic and so unexpected that this will have to take the silver medal. Until such an album comes out in 2021, LTE are at their rightful spot at the top of the virtuoso mountain. Depending on how the future goes, let's just hope LTE4 will be a much quicker wait than the previous 22 years has had us waiting.

26.) Memoriam- To The End
FFO- Death Metal

I don't think it's any too big of a stretch to say that Memoriam is my favorite pure death metal band going right now. the previous 3 albums have been instant death metal classics that have infinite replay value. To The End brings that passion back with a bit more diversity, peaks, and valleys in the dynamics, but maintaining that dirge driven, politically charged death metal that has kept me at the edge of my seat since day one. Another instant classic!

27.) Moonspell- Hermitage
FFO- Gothic Metal, Progressive Metal

Moonspell is a band that is an ever evolving endeavor and it has always been for the best. With Hermitage, yo9u definitely get to hear what you love about the current day band with all of it's gothic goodness, but with the right amounts of that Katatonia style dark progressive metal to really make the music their own. The perfect Moonspell album at the perfect time.

28.) Nervosa- Perpetual Chaos
FFO- Death Metal, Thrash Metal

Much like Burning Witches mentioned above, this band has gone through quite the lineup changes to get to where they are, but where they are now is at the absolute top of their game. The band is really shining their thrash metal flag high this time around while not losing the brutal death metal speed and intensity to brought them to the party. The band only continues to grow in popularity and it won't be too much longer till the big names in death and thrash metal finally catch on and let Nervosa get that ever so coveted main support slot...or maybe not because they know the band will completely blow them away every single night.

29.) Phantom Elite- Titanium
FFO- Modern Metal, Groove Metal, Symphonic Metal

What is a better way to describe this band than HDK meets Gojira? Taking the best elements of symphonic metal and fusing it with the musicality and songwriting of heavy technical groove riffs of modern metal to combine such a unique and astounding presence. Titanium is filled to the brim with catchy songs, brutal riffs, and a formula that works so very, very well. If this sounds intriguing, even in the slightest, you should really give this a shot.

30.) Portal- Avow
FFO- Blackened Death metal, Experimental, Nightmares

Portal, holding the crown of the most sonically brutal band from the southern hemisphere (if not simply the entire world) is back with not one but TWO brand new albums! While their other album, Hagbulbia, is white noise soundscapes from the deepest inner circles of hell; Avow is where more of their signature style is still in tact. pummeling rhythms, crushing tones, and the overall dread that you are falling into the hell of your worst nightmares. Seriously, go check this album out, go into a pitch black room, no windows, no lights, no candles, nothing. sit in that room and put on Avow. See how long you can last until insanity overtakes you? My guess is it'll before the album is done.

31.) Pounder- Breaking The World
FFO- Speed Metal, Heavy Metal

Pounder has shown within two albums why heavy metal will never die. The latter of these two albums, Breaking The World, takes everything there is to love about the debut album and makes it even catchier. This is everything you love about 70s and 80s heavy metal packed into an absolutely solid album that deserves anyone's attention that still holds Accept, Exciter, Judas Priest, Iron Maiden, and Razor to the high regards that they do deserve.

32.) Robin McAuley- Breaking The World
FFO- AOR, Melodic Hard Rock

Robin McAuley's first true solo album is everything you want from this legendary vocalist. His voice shines as strong as ever among all of the heavy hitting riffs, powerful dynamics, and the ever so catchy melodies and harmonies that you have come to expect from any endeavor McAuley attaches himself to musically. An unexpected, but purely incredible treat of an LP.

33.) Scar of the Sun- Inertia
FFO Gothic Metal, Groove Metal, Melodic Metal

The band's 3rd release in a decade showcases the band's evolution and how strong the band has become. The themes, the sorrow, the grooves, the overall atmosphere is combined to make an exceptional album that takes you on so many unexpected twists and turns. It's well worth the mournful ride.

34.) Subterranean Masquerade- Mountain Fever
FFO- Middle Eastern Folk Metal, Progressive Metal, Progressive Rock

You know, when I first started That Drummer Guy, this band went from a band that I felt so bummed about because I never thought that the band would get back together to release a 2nd album, to releasing 3 albums and 2 EPs in my 10 years of being around in music. Mountain Fever is absolutely a catalyst moment for the band as it showcases the absolute shining examples of what the band is capable of and what we can only hope can come in the future. While the album has sadly fallen on the wayside for the pressing matters of the conflicts of Israel and Palestine; I can only hope that as many people can be safe in this horrible situation and people will be able to go forward living in peace and freedom. But to get off my soapbox. This album is absolutely worth your time if you are the adventurous type. If you dig it, be sure to check out the rest of the band's catalog. I can't imagine you'll be disappointed.

35.) Therion- Leviathan
FFO: Therion's Whole Catalog

Simply put, This album is a best of Therion with brand new material. So if you like your symphonic metal with hints of very little death metal and a lot of operatic moments. Therion is the band you need in your life.

36.) Transatlantic- The Absolute Universe: Forevermore (Extended version)
FFO- Epic Progressive Rock

Mike Portnoy has been a busy guy lately and appearing twice in this top 40 alone. While the latest Transatlantic effort is technically two different albums (the other being The Absolute Universe: The Breath of Life (Abridged Version), the one in question is the whole kit and caboodle. Full story, full music, everything. The Abridged version has some missing parts, but also some re imagined parts to make everything fit. Both version are well worth the prog trip, but you know me, if there is a double disc concept album to hear, I want the big bad booty daddy version. Transatlantic has never let down their fan base and this time around, they gave us two brand new experiences to enjoy. Check them both out and see what's right for you.

37.) Tribulation- Where The Gloom Becomes Sound
FFO- Gothic Metal, Black N Roll, Heavy Metal

Now we're going to be talking about one of the most evil albums of 2021 and this is Tribulation at their absolute best so far. Everything you love about the band with a very focused sound, but expanded enough to showcase where the band can go from here. Dark, evil, gloomy, devilishly catchy and everything that you could want in a band that is just too hard to properly describe. Check them out and enjoy the fruits of their hell-driven delights.

38.) Violet Cold- Empire of Love
FFO- Blackgaze, Appreciation that Love is Love No Matter with Whom

If the FFO didn't give it away enough, Violet Cold's latest album (available for FREE on bandcamp at violetcold.bandcamp.com) is exactly what it sounds like a blackgaze album that is liberal leaning, ANTIFA supporting, BLM supporting, LGBTQ+ supporting music that is another outlet to say that love is love no matter who you are in love with. Beautiful music (if you can appreciate blackgaze) and an album that is worthy of attention from anyone around the world. Even if it's not your bag, you may have a friend that would love it, check it out and spread the word and the message that, once again, LOVE IS LOVE!

39.) W.E.T.- Transmission
FFO- Heavy Metal, Hard Rock, AOR

My favorite Jeff Scott Soto project is back and releasing the best in catchy melodic metal. that great 80s sound updated with 21st century tones to make this a crystal clear listening experience that will have you banging your head with a giant grin on your face. W.E.T. is just that band that deserves your attention.

40.) Wheel- Resident Human
FFO- Progressive Metal

Combine moments of Riverside, Porcupine Tree, Pain of Salvation, Tool and their own brand of prog to create a band that is meant to be a driving force in the 21st century. As dark as it is catchy. Thought provoking as it is memorable. And an absolute wonderful album that has the potential to stand the test of time. If this is just the band's debut LP, just wait for what will come in the future!



And that's it folks, 40 of my favorite albums of 2021 from January to May that I think deserve your attention. What have we learned from this? There are so many new bands to love this decade, we are all going through emotionally rough times and yearning to get better, and the quality of music has not stopped just because a pandemic stood in our way. I can't wait to see what comes out between June and the 2nd week of December (like I said, if you release an album in mid to late December, you are just evil).

See you on the flip side of 2021, dudemeisters!

- Josh Rundquist (That Drummer Guy)

That Drummer Guy's Grab Bag Lists & Favorites of 2020



Hey Everybody, I'm not done with my lists yet! As the main course is over; consider this last segment of lists dessert. This won't be anywhere near as formal, but just showing off the other stuff I enjoyed in 2020 in a ranked order OR just one specific thing mentioned and that's about it. No FFOs, no paragraphs why I like said thing(s), or tiresome rules. It's a good way to show that I'm not just about showing off albums at the end of the year, but give some insight into what else I enjoy. So let's get into it

Top 3 Songs of 2020
1.) Zeal & Ardor- Vigil
2.) Anaal Nathrakh- The Age of Starlight Ends
3.) Enslaved- Homebound

Top 3 EPs of 2020
1.) Zeal & Ardor- Wake of a Nation
2.) The Arson Choir- Invisible Monsters
3.) Nitesoil- Abusement Park


Top 3 Epics of 2020
1.) Green Carnation- The World Without A View
2.) Angellore- A Romance of Thorns
3.) Atavist- Loss

Top 3 Covers of 2020
1.) Khemmis- Rainbow in the Dark (Dio)
2.) Allegaeon- Roundabout (Yes)
3.) Oceans of Slumber- Wolf Moon (Type O Negative)


Favorite Album Cover of 2020
Macabre- Carnival of Killers


Top 3 PS4 Games of 2020
1.) Yakuza- Like A Dragon
2.) Doom Eternal
3.) Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time
*I can't imagine Cyberpunk 2077 wouldn't be on this list had it come out earlier*


Top 3 Older PS4 Games (Games, i got this year that were not released in 2020)
1.) Cuphead
2.) Assassin's Creed: Odyssey
3.) Untitled Goose Game


Top 3 Older Nintendo Switch Games of 2020 (just got one a couple months ago, I have a lot to catch up on)
1.) Super Mario Odyssey
2.) Super Mario 3D All Stars
3.) Angry Video Game Nerd I&II Deluxe


Top 3 TV Shows of 2020
1.) Bojack Horseman (R.I.P. greatest show ever to grace the screen)
2.) Big Mouth
3.) Curb Your Enthusiasm


Top 3 Movies of 2020 (I've watched very few 2020 movies this year)
1.) Borat: Subsequent Movie Film
2.) You Can Not Kill David Arquette
3.) If there was any others, they tie here. Movies this year is a complete blur to me


Top 3 AEW Matches
1.) Stadium Stampede The Elite vs The Inner Circle (Double or Nothing)
2.) Hangman Page & Kenny Omega vs The Young Bucks (Revolution)
3.) Cody vs Brodie Lee Strap Match (Dynamite)


Top 3 Wrestlers
1.) Darby Allin
2.) Orange Cassidy
3.) Tetsuya Naito

Top 3 Things Worldwide
1.) Trump is leaving January 21st 2021
2.) Great Music still came out in 2020
3.) ...that's about it.


Top 5 Hopes for 2021
1.) The pandemic starts to end, if not fully end
2.) The USA starts to become respectable
3.) My mental health becomes stronger and healthier
4.) That Drummer Guy continues to grow as I hit a decade in business
5.) Get into a position where house hunting may be possible


And there we go, my last lists of 2020. To make things very simple. Soon I will be Making a page of everything from 2020 in these lists in a TL;DR version. I also plan on having a State of That Drummer Guy Address sometime this week as well.

Thanks for sticking around!

- That Drummer Guy (Josh Rundquist)

Alrighty folks, here it is. The big bad booty daddy of 2020 lists; my top albums of the year. Its in the rules, but I feel like I have to stress this again and again and again, I didn't get to hear as many albums as I normally do thanks to 2020 being a terrible year. So many albums that I have that may deserve more love that shown here if any love shown, deserve that love and praise and I will more than likely go back to those albums as some point as I most likely have said albums and for a few weeks I'll have to time to go back and see what I missed. But I stand by my Top 10 whole heartedly. these top 10 albums are what I feel to be the best albums of the year and I won't be revising my thoughts. Let's see how many you agree/disagree with!

So here are the rules:

1.) The list is a Top 50 with 10 honorable mentions. I am really hoping to get back to the Top 100 in 2021. There are simply albums that I know are magnificent that I simply didn't hear, hear enough of, or give enough of a chance to really enjoy in 2020. I know they will be told to me and I know you'll have a great argument on why they should make the list somewhere; but I'm one man and 2020 got the better of me this go around. So enjoy the list as is. Thank you.

2.) The Top 50 must be LPs. No EPs live albums, compilations, rarities, etc. Simply a studio ALBUM released in 2020 before mid-December. If you have an album out after that. What can I tell you, you should have released it in January.

3.) The Top 50 are ranked from 50-1. Honorable Mentions are in alphabetical order.

4.) The entries include Artist Name, Album Name, and FFO (For Fans Of) section. Followed by my short thoughts on the release.

5.) The Top 50 will also have a curated Spotify list with a song off each album in order from 50-1. So you can enjoy the bands in countdown order; or put it on random and make your own ranking.

6.) These are just my own thoughts. No sponsors, no payola, no favors. Just my views. With that; If an album is at 50 does not mean it sucks compared to album 1. all 50 albums and 10 honorable mentions are worthy of praise and deserve to be talked about and any album talked about could be AOTY in someone's eyes. This is a judgement free zone. No negativity here. Just talking great music from beginning to end.

So...let's begin!

10.) Dark Tranquillity- Moment
FFO- Melodic Death Metal

Yes, I will forever say that Finland has the best melodeath in the world, but that does that mean they are the only place to continue to make stellar melodeath. Sweden's legendary melodeath band, Dark Tranquillity has returned after 4 years with a new lineup and IO dare say, a new sense of what the band should be. EASILY the most commercial and mainstream album the band has done in their career; the majority of the album has been taken over with clean vocals (there may be even a song or two where there is no harsh vocals on it at all, don't quote me, I may be wrong) and the harsh vocals are used more for effect rather than the main voice of the band. DT has always been one of the most underrated Swedish bands for absolutely no good reason; the band has more than proven that they are a real staple of melodeath and metal in general with Moment. At the time of writing this, I may have only had the album a couple of days; but even now I feel like I am ranking this album too low. It will be a genre defining album in years to come, mark my words.

9.) Oceans of Slumber- Oceans of Slumber
FFO- Death-Doom Metal, Progressive Metal, Gothic Metal

The band's 3rd major label LP is the most bombastic of the bands short, but amazing career so far. Between Dobber's stellar songwriting, The new lineups new inspirations into the band, and Cammie's soon to be legendary vocals (it's already legendary, just give it time for the rest of the world to hear); the self titled album showcases the best of the band with their ever somber display of emotions. If this is your first listen, imagine a mental hell-driven mix of Candlemass, Edge of Sanity, Enslaved, and a female fronted Evergrey and you start to get closer to what this band is all about. The journey you'll take with every Oceans of Slumber album is unprecedented and the self titled album is the most majestic and epic feeling so far.

8.) Wills Dissolve- Echoes
FFO- Progressive Death Metal, Post Metal

A sophomore album that is one song at over 31 minutes of length filled to the brim with outer worldly progressive death metal and atmospheric post metal that feels like a blend of Edge of Sanity, Green Carnation, ISIS, and Morbid Angel? Did these guys specifically write this album for me? It really feels like it! But in all seriousness; Echoes is a mammoth of a song that explores so much musically and lyrically that it will take multiple listens to start to comprehend, but once you do, it will be all worth it. It's no wonder that both Wills Dissolve and the previously reviewed Oceans of Slumber are from the same city. There is something in the water of Houston, Texas that is creating some of the best progressive death metal this side of Dan Swano. And epic that truly deserves it's place in progressive death metal history is on display with Echoes. Listen and hear for yourself.

7.) Falconer- From A Dying Ember
FFO- Power Metal, Folk Metal

The lone power metal on this year's list (I seriously can't explain it, it just worked out that way) is the final album we will hear from Sweden's Falconer. Everything about this album finalizes the band at it's top form and there is no better way to go out than that. Creating basically a best of Falconer of brand new material; Falconer really gave longtime fans the proper sendoff and farewell with FADE (ah,, AH, see what they did there?). When I learned mid-interview that the band was breaking up, I felt my heart crush and I was at a complete loss for words. Thankfully, Falconer has written their last words and it's everything you'd want from the legendary band. Now let's see what the future has in store for the former members of this band going forward.

6.) Pain of Salvation- PANTHER
FFO- Progressive Metal, Pain of Salvation

Daniel Gildenlow is one of the most profound songwriters in prog history and that continues with PANTHER. This is a bit of a polarizing album as In The Passing Light of Day has become the new favorite album of POS fans. Many were hoping the band would continue in that vein, but that just wouldn't be in Daniel's musical vision. The easiest (and still wrong) way to describe this album is the 2020 version of the 2007 album, Scarsick. It has a bit of a modernized Road Salt production as well matching up with modern music synths and styles, yet is a portrayal of where we are as a society in 2020 (well, per-pandemic...maybe even during the pandemic as well). The album is a complete trip, check it out and see if you are up for the ride.

5.) Svalbard- When I Die, Will I Get Better?
FFO- Blackened Hardcore, Dream Pop, Blackgaze

Easily the most jaw dropping discovery of 2020 for myself. Svalbard is what I've wanted from a band. A complete mix of Astronoid, Alcest, Ringworm, and Venom Prison. It's the most complete feeling of ethereal chaotic bliss one could imagine. Dream pop moments that Astronoid has made famous in metal over blackened hardcore that can make the kids in the pit go absolutely bonkers. Its so calming and so raging at the same time. It's almost a paradox, except it actually works. There's a reason this made the top 5. Listen...just listen.

4.) Enslaved- Utgard
FFO- Progressive Black Metal

Enslaved...I'm pretty sure I've said it with every release since I started reviewing albums, but Enslaved only gets better with every album. On Utgard, the band not only has had a lineup change, but they also doubled down on their formula of progressive black metal. The black metal hearkens back to the early day Enslaved album (just with WAAAAAAY better production) but the progressive elements are at their absolute best. It feels like a never ending battle between Bathory vs Pink Floyd, Unleashed vs. King Crimson, Mayhem vs Yes. I can't say enough great things about Enslaved. They are one of my favorite bands for a reason and Utgard solidifies that for another album cycle.

3.) Anaal Nathrakh- Endarkenment
FFO- Soundtrack To The End Of The World In 2020

In speaking of another band that only gets better as they go along; Anaal Nathrakh has unleashed their finest epic masterpiece to date with Endarkenment. The perfect musical score of the downfall of humanity, ESPECIALLY in 2020. AN basically points out that humanity is screwed from our own doing, but hey, at least we got some great music. Endarkenment is easily the most musical album the band has produced, but the utter apocalyptic chaos is in full gear. 2020 absolutely sucks, but it's because of 2020 we have a song where the chorus rings out 'A THOUSAND COCKS, BEGIN TO ROAR'. What else could you want in 2020? Well, besides the world getting back to normal.

2.) Silent Skies- Silent Skies
FFO- Piano Driven Somber Music

Tom Englund of Evergrey and Redemption on vocals & Vikram Shankar of Redemption, Lux Terminus, and Threads of Fate decided to put out the absolute polar opposite album than stated above with the self titled debut from Silent Skies. Just vocals, piano and synths with light use of strings and orchestration used for good measure. People think Adele is the pinnacle of somber music. Well outside of metal, that could hold some truth, but Silent Skies has taken her place on the mantle and made some of the most tear jerking, emotional, and GORGEOUS music that you can have in this style. If a full LP of these emotional ballads was not enough to tear you apart; they also decided to cover The Eurythmics' Here Comes The Rain Again to add that last ghostly punch to the soul for extra emotional value. I knew about this project for quite a while now and I am so happy to FINALLY see it come to fruition in 2020. In a world where so many of us have shed tears over this year; Silent Skies comes and more emotions to the pyre of tears. And you know what? I wouldn't want it any other way.

1.) Green Carnation- Leaves of Yesteryear
FFO- Progressive Metal, Gothic Metal

Green Carnation wrote my favorite song/album of all time 'Light of Day, Day of Darkness' and by some means, I was able to experience that album live before my eyes at ProgPower 2016. I cried that day because I never in my life would have imagined I'd get the opportunity to witness such an event. Flash forward to 2020 and I could easily cry again because Green Carnation wrote their first album in 14 years with Leaves of Yesteryear. Everything you love about the band is on full display. Whether you love the prog epics, the faster, near black metal styling or just some fantastic songwriting that hits your soul so hard and doesn't let go. between all 4 original songs and a tear jerking cover of Black Sabbath's Solitude (what an underrated Sabbath song); Green Carnation has risen up from some of the darkest things one could go through (seriously, just look up what Light of Day, Day of Darkness is about) and being able to release not only the best prog album of 2020, but one of the best albums of the 21st century. I am so thankful to have this band back in any capacity and it really feels like they are here to stay. Also! be sure to check out the band's brand new epic, 'The World Without A View" available ONLY on Bandcamp. I had to get that plug in as My interview with Kjetil mentioned that they were working on a new song that may come out in 2020 and low and behold, it happened. Also back on track, check out Leaves of Yesteryear. It will change your views on what progressive music is and can be.


And there we go. All 50 of the best albums in 2020 in my eyes and 10 honorable mentions. 2020 was an amazing year for music, I truly believe that. And I hope you found at least 1 band or album that grabbed your interest enough to discover something new. I'll be back for the finale on Monday with my grab bag of random things I loved this year. I will most likely not be giving reviews for any of them because...I'm 0% energy and need a recharge for 2021, but I always like showing off that I'm not just an album guy and I have other interests as well. I will also be adding a Spotify playlist of the best 50 albums of the year that will show off a song from each band listed (as long as they are on Spotify) in case you don't want to search for anything yourselves.

Thanks again for reading and I hope you have a good (as possible) last few weeks of the year before we hopefully and can start steering the ship of life back on track in 2021.

- Josh Rundquist (That Drummer Guy)

Already at the Top 20 of 2020. This is where things are going to get quite...controversial. I say that because as I've stated in the rules so far, I did not get to every album I could this year and there are, what I'm sure are, juggernauts of albums that I've missed out on. Once again, I hope things can get back to plan in 2021, but until then, let's show off the best of 2020 in my eyes with only 10 more albums to go for tomorrow.

So here are the rules:

1.) The list is a Top 50 with 10 honorable mentions. I am really hoping to get back to the Top 100 in 2021. There are simply albums that I know are magnificent that I simply didn't hear, hear enough of, or give enough of a chance to really enjoy in 2020. I know they will be told to me and I know you'll have a great argument on why they should make the list somewhere; but I'm one man and 2020 got the better of me this go around. So enjoy the list as is. Thank you.

2.) The Top 50 must be LPs. No EPs live albums, compilations, rarities, etc. Simply a studio ALBUM released in 2020 before mid-December. If you have an album out after that. What can I tell you, you should have released it in January.

3.) The Top 50 are ranked from 50-1. Honorable Mentions are in alphabetical order.

4.) The entries include Artist Name, Album Name, and FFO (For Fans Of) section. Followed by my short thoughts on the release.

5.) The Top 50 will also have a curated Spotify list with a song off each album in order from 50-1. So you can enjoy the bands in countdown order; or put it on random and make your own ranking.

6.) These are just my own thoughts. No sponsors, no payola, no favors. Just my views. With that; If an album is at 50 does not mean it sucks compared to album 1. all 50 albums and 10 honorable mentions are worthy of praise and deserve to be talked about and any album talked about could be AOTY in someone's eyes. This is a judgement free zone. No negativity here. Just talking great music from beginning to end.

So...let's begin!


20.) Wolfheart- Wolves of Karelia
FFO- Melodic Death Metal


Nearly 41 minutes of unrelenting melodeath chaos. This is BY FAR the fastest Wolfheart album to date. The blasts on this album are at an insane BPM, the orchestration and songwriting are in top form and Wolfheart continues to prove why Finland has the best melodeath in the world. The album is not all about speed, it can slow things down and crush you beyond dust with it's riffs and heart-aching melodies and harmonies at the same time. For sheer melodic brutality, you need to pick this one up immediately!


19.) Long Distance Calling- How Do We Want To Live?
FFO- Mostly Instrumental Progressive Post Metal


Long Distance Calling has been that meant so much to me over the years; releasing some of the very best albums of the 21st century. Now that the band is 7 albums deep in LPs; the band is bringing new and older flavors to their latest release to make for some of the best work they have ever done. A great mix of soundscapes, atmosphere, sound-clips, and songwriting make this album stand out in the best of ways. Eric A. Pulverich showcases his voice on the song Beyond Your Limits (the only song with singing on the album) and the break from the spacey soundscape fells like a welcome change and proves that you never know what to expect with the band. With every subsequent listen, I love this album more and more and I can only hope that you';ll give it the time and check it out for yourself. There is so much to love here, don't miss out.


18.) Amiensus- Abreaction
FFO- Melodic Black Metal, Progressive Black Metal



Amiensus is a treasure in the world of black metal. Even with only 3 albums to their catalog, the band is solidifying their importance to the genre going forward. Constantly proving that music is ever evolving, Abreaction showcases the band evolving themselves with many different genre bending moments that especially hit in the 2nd half of the album. I dare say the song All That Is Unknown has a very uplifting riff in it that you don't expect to hear for a great example. Minnesota has been getting some amazing black metal bands in the 2010s with Panopticon and Obsequiae. Amiensus, once touring is back to normal, will be taking things by storm, without a shadow of a doubt.


17.) Paradise Lost- Obsidian
FFO- Doom Metal, Goth Rock



Paradise Lost is back showing off how versatile of a band they truly are. Known for their legendary death/doom metal of yesteryear, their industrial and goth rock middle age and their mixture of both in today's age; Obsidian showcases both sides of the band to the best of their abilities. No matter what you like about the band, it's showcased somewhere on this album and it makes the album so much more diverse and spectacular to listen to. They are as somber as ever, but the band makes you happy that they are as strong as ever.


16.) Toehider- I LIKE IT!
FFO- Toehider



Let's get it out of the way *ahem* I LIKE IT! Toehider has that sensibility of songwriting, genre bending, quirkyness, and all out fun that you are just not going to experience anywhere else. Go Full Bore is a great example where they song is so fast, thrashy, catchy and lighthearted; then out of nowhere you hear a segment of late 80s/early 90s inspired black metal completely out of nowhere before going back into its fun, cheerful, Maiden(?) inspired riffing. The whole album if filled with emotion be it happy or somber. It's an album that I really think you will....(sorry for this)...LIKE!


15.) Mr. Bungle-The Raging Wrath Of The Easter Bunny Demo
FFO- Thrash Metal, Experimental



I contemplated putting this release on the list. Don't get me wrong, this is thrash metal album of the year, without a single question otherwise. But as it is labeled as "demo" and I am a stickler for just having LPs on this list; i gave up the notion on this one when I saw every one else referring to this as the 4th Mr. Bungle album and I'll be doing you, myself and anyone else who reads or shares this list a gigantic disservice if I don't put this album in. Taking out the fluff of the original demo (which, never got to have many *bunny* ears checking it out) This album is pure, unadulterated thrash metal just as the original demo showed off, just updated for modern audiences. It helps that Scott Ian of Anthrax and Dave Lombardo of Fantomas, Suicidal Tendencies, and formerly of Slayer help round out the Bungle lineup to make this the thrash masterpiece that it is. So many people look at Reign in Blood or Peace Sells or Master of Puppets as the best thrash albums ever made, if not the best metal albums ever made. I hope in time, people get to hear this album and discover what you can REALLY do with thrash.


14.) My Dying Bride- The Ghost of Orion
FFO- Death/Doom Metal



This album can and will bring you to tears with it's sorrow. It's the most commercial (if that's even the right word to use) album of the band's career with the most clean vocals shown off by the band and the growls/screams used very sparingly. Seriously, when you understand what Tired of Tears is actually about; you'll feel your heart ripped out of your body. This is another emotional wreck of an album in the best way possible. Just make sure you have something to wipe your eyes with as you really listen to the album; you will have to. Phenomenal...PHENOMENAL album.


13.) Fates Warning- Long Day Good Night
FFO- Progressive Metal



This absolutely would have been a top ten album had I just had the time to listen to this album more before it was list time. That's not even an option. The fire got lit under Fates Warning with their previous album and the band has kept that fire lit as strong as ever. This is some of the best progressive metal you will hear in 2020 and ina year like this, that's more than you could ask for. Just check it out for yourself!


12.) Dawn of Solace- Waves
FFO- Melodic Doom Metal

When Tuomas of Wolfheart wanted to make Wolfheart heavier, faster, and more aggressive; the other side of his songwriting was not going to be properly used. So he resurrected Dawn of Solace to show off his melodic doom metal side. No screams or growls here, this is purely focused on melodic singing and songwriting while having that HEAVY doomy side fully intact. It makes this album nearly a poppy doom album, if such a thing could ever exist. This was another album I swore was going to be number 1 Album of the Year winner. This is a must listen for anyone reading this list.



11.) Haken- Virus
FFO- Progressive Metal



In the past decade, the band has put out 6 of the finest quality progressive metal albums you could ever expect from a band in the style. It's how I imagine people felt when Dream Theater broke through in the 90s and they released amazing album after amazing album. Virus continues on from the concept of Vector, which of course continues on the story of...actually no. The story needs to be dissected for yourself so I'll let you do that if it intrigues you further. Virus, musically, is the heaviest Haken album by far, showing off progressive metal with sides of blasts and thrash metal with some drop tuning goodness. This is how you make a progressive metal album stand out in 2020. Haken is only going to continue to grow bigger and bigger into the world's next progressive metal icons, that is, if they haven't already established that fact.


And there you go, everyone. 40 albums down, 40 albums that deserve your attention, and hopefully a couple you actually WILL check out Tomorrow is the Big Bad Booty Daddy of them All, The Top 10 Albums of 2020. Hope to see you there.

Welcome everyone! Part 4 is upon us and rather than make a whole big speech in the middle of this list. Let's get right into the reason your here. Albums 30-21 of my list of the best albums of 2020.

So here are the rules:

1.) The list is a Top 50 with 10 honorable mentions. I am really hoping to get back to the Top 100 in 2021. There are simply albums that I know are magnificent that I simply didn't hear, hear enough of, or give enough of a chance to really enjoy in 2020. I know they will be told to me and I know you'll have a great argument on why they should make the list somewhere; but I'm one man and 2020 got the better of me this go around. So enjoy the list as is. Thank you.

2.) The Top 50 must be LPs. No EPs live albums, compilations, rarities, etc. Simply a studio ALBUM released in 2020 before mid-December. If you have an album out after that. What can I tell you, you should have released it in January.

3.) The Top 50 are ranked from 50-1. Honorable Mentions are in alphabetical order.

4.) The entries include Artist Name, Album Name, and FFO (For Fans Of) section. Followed by my short thoughts on the release.

5.) The Top 50 will also have a curated Spotify list with a song off each album in order from 50-1. So you can enjoy the bands in countdown order; or put it on random and make your own ranking.

6.) These are just my own thoughts. No sponsors, no payola, no favors. Just my views. With that; If an album is at 50 does not mean it sucks compared to album 1. all 50 albums and 10 honorable mentions are worthy of praise and deserve to be talked about and any album talked about could be AOTY in someone's eyes. This is a judgement free zone. No negativity here. Just talking great music from beginning to end.

So...let's begin!


30.) Magic Dance- Remnants
FFO- AOR, Melodic Rock, Heavy Rock
Magic Dance, had I had more than a few days to listen to it, would be so much higher up on the list. But the band loves releasing their albums in December and I can only do so much. The band has gone through so many different eras and genres since their inception, yet it always sounds like the same band. Be it synth wave, AOR, or even on Remnants, heavy hard rock. And I am here for the whole ride. Remnants starts to see the band really showing off their heavy sides by incorporating a short burst of double bass and heavy guitar soloing; yet, the band doesn't stray from what brought people to the (magic) dance with their 80s flair and modern substance. Since discovering the band with their Vanishings album; I have been enjoying the band more than one maybe even should and I find that to be a great thing. Magic Dance is pure ear candy and if you can enjoy what came out of 80s music, you'll definitely agree.
29.) THEM- Return to Hemmersmoor
FFO- Horror Metal, Heavy Metal, Power Metal
The name, the style, the conceptual ideals, the voice; come on. Don't make me spell out who the band has been heavily influenced by. THEM has released their 3rd album in the storied saga of KK Fossor and it's more than evident that the band is continuing to forge their own path in what horror metal can really be. Every album is connected, yet stands out on it's own accord and Return to Hemmersmoor just may be their best work yet. Dive in and check out why THEM should be on your radar.


28.) Let us Prey- Virtues Of The Vicious
FFO- Metal

Let us Prey is a band that is more than hard to describe just using words. They are a band that is not afraid to play...well...EVERYTHING! You can hear them go from metalcore riffing to power metal melodies to hard rock sensibilities to death metal to progressive metal all on the turn of a dime. Here's the kicker; it all fits seamlessly. The songs are very chaotic and sporadic, but that's what makes it work and flow together so very well. Your first listen will grab you and make you pay attention an d every subsequent listen, you'll start to unpack the layers of everything that's going on musically and lyrically. I love when a band has instant replay value and that's what you get with Let us Prey. You need to find out why for yourself.


27.) Trivium- What The Dead Men Say
FFO- Metalcore, Thrash Metal, Heavy Metal
Trivium lit a fire under themselves that I have seen a band light in a long, LONG time. Fates Warning is the last long standing band I can think of that out of nowhere started putting out the best albums of their career decades into the band. What do you like about Trivium? It's on this album. What do you wish Trivium did more on an album? It's on this album. The band is at their most mature when it comes to songwriting abilities throughout this release and it more than shows that they just want to keep putting out great music. I can't wait to see what's next.
26.) Lik- Misanthropic Breed
FFO- Old School Death Metal
The legendary guitar tone, the drumming style, the vocals, the song lengths. You can tell that Lik has a passion for old school death metal that is unrelenting and pulls you into the grave with it's melodies, harmonies, soloing, and songwriting structure. Simply put, Lik proves that the patented European death metal you know and love is undead and well. Every release is a sheer horrific delight to listen to; go check these guys out!
25.) Protest The Hero- Palimpsest
FFO- Mathcore, Progressive Metal, Symphonic Metal
Protest The Hero has come back to the LP format in a huge way with this release. Not only do you get the Protest The Hero you know and love. Their style is uncompromising and makes your jaw drop trying to comprehend how they pull it off. Not only that, but you get a new sense of symphonics on the album that I was not expecting on this album. If Protest The Hero wasn't already at the top of their game, they write a new concept album that really makes you appreciate the art of the LP in 2020 and shows that albums are here to stay. Even if they weren't your thing in the past, this album may change your mind.


24.) Witch Taint- Sons of Midwestern Darkness
FFO- Black Metal, Comedy Metal
Witch Taint has brought back the 90s black metal in full force with their debut album. The guitar tone has the raw aggression that made the music stand out. They've always decided to incorporate different genres throughout the album that I will not give away in this release (it'll ruin the fun). If you are a metalhead and you can take metal not so seriously, I mean it with all of my dead, black heart; go pick this album up and enjoy the love that is presented before you.


23.) Macabre- Carnival of Killers
FFO- Macabre, Murder Metal
I can't describe Macabre any better with the FFO than that. They are a band onto it's own. Some of the most insane riffs about some of the worlds most insane serial killers and then out of nowhere you start hearing songs like Wheels on The Bus or other children's songs and you start wondering what the hell is going on. That's more than the Ted Bundy charm here and makes you want to attend the carnival. It's as serious as it is silly and the album cover is simply Album Cover of the Year. Just...just go check it out. My words can only do so much to entice you.
22.) Winterfylleth- The Reckoning Dawn
FFO- Black Metal, Folk, Atmospheric

Winterfylleth has been a long time favorite black metal band for me with their sense of nature inspired music that really makes you appreciate the world around you. They are also a band that can take you into the bowels of the underworld with a song like Absolved in Fire that feels like the music score of a horror movie. The band truly stands out among it's contemporaries with their unique songwriting sensibilities. The Reckoning Dawn continues this trend and they only get stronger and stronger with every release. Kick back, listen, and enjoy!
21.) Imonolith- Imonolith
FFO- Groove Metal, Heavy Metal
You can tell that 2020 has been a great year when this was Album of the Year for me for so long and now it's pains me to see it at number 21. That is not indicative how the quality of this album among others as this album SLAYS. Sometimes you don't need to write the most chaotic, odd time signature, epic metal masterpiece. Sometimes you just need to write some crushing riffs, bring a sense of groove that's been missing in a lot of metal as of late and hey, why not throw in Jens Kidman of Meshuggah for a guest spot on a song. Imonolith is labeled as an All Star Metal Band and don't get me wrong, everyone in this band is more than worthy of living up to an All Star moniker. The problem is most supergroups tend to...let's say...not live up to the hype as often as you'd want? Imonolith does not need that label as the band stands out on their own even if you don't know their past work. Go pick this one up for one of the catchiest, heaviest, grooviest and ill say it, BEST albums of 2020!

And there you have it folks, 40 albums down! In past years this would be the beginning of the end of the list as it would normally be the top 20 done in just one segment. But tomorrow you are getting Part V: 20-11. The enticement continues, hope you stick around.

- Josh Rundquist (That Drummer Guy)

Hey Everybody! Welcome to part 3 of this shortened list in 2020. Lots of love received so far and I hope that continues onward. Let's keep this part brief and get into the list.

So here are the rules:

1.) The list is a Top 50 with 10 honorable mentions. I am really hoping to get back to the Top 100 in 2021. There are simply albums that I know are magnificent that I simply didn't hear, hear enough of, or give enough of a chance to really enjoy in 2020. I know they will be told to me and I know you'll have a great argument on why they should make the list somewhere; but I'm one man and 2020 got the better of me this go around. So enjoy the list as is. Thank you.

2.) The Top 50 must be LPs. No EPs live albums, compilations, rarities, etc. Simply a studio ALBUM released in 2020 before mid-December. If you have an album out after that. What can I tell you, you should have released it in January.

3.) The Top 50 are ranked from 50-1. Honorable Mentions are in alphabetical order.

4.) The entries include Artist Name, Album Name, and FFO (For Fans Of) section. Followed by my short thoughts on the release.

5.) The Top 50 will also have a curated Spotify list with a song off each album in order from 50-1. So you can enjoy the bands in countdown order; or put it on random and make your own ranking.

6.) These are just my own thoughts. No sponsors, no payola, no favors. Just my views. With that; If an album is at 50 does not mean it sucks compared to album 1. all 50 albums and 10 honorable mentions are worthy of praise and deserve to be talked about and any album talked about could be AOTY in someone's eyes. This is a judgement free zone. No negativity here. Just talking great music from beginning to end.

So...let's begin!

40.) Kataklysm- Unconquered
FFO- Melodic Death Metal, 7 String


When your album starts with nice little atmospheric overtones before you feel the crushing power of the Northern Hyperblast; you know Kataklysm has returned in a big way. Their previous album may have been the most polished and filler free album; but Kataklysm has gone in a bit of a new direction, sonically. Yes, the band is finally trying out 7 string guitars and if you thought the band sounded massive before; you haven't heard anything yet. From pure, unadulterated chaos to the patented mid tempo groove to the band actually writing a BALLAD; this album is showing the band spreading it's wings like never before; but this flying monster has only begin to roar, just wait till it breathes fire in the future.


39.) Dead End Finland- Inter Vivos
FFO- Modern Metal, Melodic Death Metal

Finland just has the best melodeath...it just does! Dead End Finland is expanding their sound even farther and reaching new heights with Inter Vivos. The sound is an ever growing grandiose display of melodies, harmonies, and modern synths and orchestration. A severely underrated band that truly deserves your love, give the band a chance and be sure to check out their back catalog as well. You will see how well new and old and mesh together into something spectacular.



38.) Ascension Of The Watchers
FFO- Synth-Driven Gothic Rock

Burton C Bell may have left Fear Factory this year, but that does not mean the man has not been staying busy musically. Ascension of the Watchers has released their 2nd album after 19 years together (and 12 years since their debut), so it was about time they got back together for some new music. A melancholic display of cinematic, orchestrated goth music that is heavy enough for metal fans, but Gothic enough for those at the goth raves to dance. The album feels completely like a music score of a film with its peaks and valleys. A sheer display of brilliant songwriting is on full display. This album proves that the split from Fear Factory may just benefit both sides going forward.



37.) Intronaut- Fluid Existential Inversions
FFO- Progressive Metal, Post Metal, Atmospheric

I truly feel that the band truly discovered who they are with Valley of Smoke and since that time, have only grown to show off what they are capable of by growing ever stronger. Dynamics is the name of the game on this album from technically crushing inspired riffs on one end and some of the most emotional atmospheric soundscapes on the other, with the band simply being themselves in between. This is a level of musicianship that bands should strive to achieve; knowing what to play, what not to play, where to implement both sides to achieve musical greatness. Intronaut does not disappoint and this album is another fantastic example of their quality.



36.) Carnation- Where Death Lies
FFO- Old School Death Metal, Death Metal

Carnation is a monster in and of itself. With a rawness and aggression of the OSDM days, but updated with what death metal has become over the years and you have a band that's truly in bloom. Where Death Lies is a crash course in death metal that brings all metalheads together in the name of...metal! Don't miss out on this one, no matter where your metal tastes lay. This will have something for you.



35.) Shrapnel- Palace For The Insane
FFO- Thrash Metal

When you can find a band that showcases the best of what thrash is capable of; you sit down and pay attention to what is in front of you. Taking the early days of Metallica mixed in with flavors of Kreator, Warbringer, Testament, and the band's own chemistry; Shrapnel created a modern thrash metal masterpiece of the finest quality. Catch these guys before they are headlining the biggest metal festivals in the world.



34.) Napalm Death- Throes of Joy in the Jaws of Defeatism
FFO- Death Metal, Grindcore, Post Rock?

Some say that every Napalm Death album sounds the same. I say they clearly are not listening hard enough! This album is showcasing the band at quite possibly their most experimental. Of course the glory of their death metal and grindcore is still ever present, but the introduction of post rock, shoegaze and just plain mellow moments and songs is something that you simply donb't expect. It's honestly a welcome change and shows the band, even after 40 plus years of existence is not afraid to push the boundaries from here to eternity.



33.) Carach Angren- Franckensteina Strataemontanus
FFO- Symphonic Black Metal, Industrial Metal, Mary Shelley

A concept album of the original telling of the legendary horror novel; Carach Angren always push the boundaries of conceptual black metal and this album showcases that at it's rawest and purest form. The lineup may have changed, but the intensity of the band is ever present and here to stay. If you enjoy the story of Frankenstein, or black metal, or just want to see what the hubbub of what Carach Angren is after all this time...give this a shot!



32.) Hum- Inlet
FFO- Sludge Metal, Shoegaze, Space Rock

Hum has returned after way too long of a hiatus (22 years!). And the band has returned in their strongest form to date. The heaviest work of their career matched up with the most dreamy lyrics and soundscapes has an effect of seriously feeling out of this world.The rise of post metal, sludge metal and other contemporaries really came after the band had ceased; but Inlet shows that the originators are back to show the students how it's really done.



31.) Killer Be Killed- Reluctant Hero
FFO- Groove Metal, Metalcore, Experimental

Has it really been 6 years since the band's self titled debut album? SERIOUSLY? it still feels like it came out yesterday for me. Anyways, after said 6 years, the band is back and the wings of the band are truly flown to full spread. It's so poppy, catchy, heavy, thrashy, metal and fun to listen to. The choruses are the biggest hit of the album while the instrumentation is at top form, while everyone in the band truly shines; when Max Cavalera comes in to do his sparse, but perfectly instilled vocals, you know the music is going to get brutal. This album simply rules. Go now! Go and check it out!



And there we go folks, Only 30 albums left to go. Let's see if you find any music you dig if you haven't from this list already. Tune in tomorrow for Part IV: 30-21!

- Josh Rundquist (That Drummer Guy)

Alright kids, today's the day! I finally get to unleash the best of the best (of what I heard in a year where I had to cut my album rankings in half because...2020...) and try to show off some of the best music you should give a shot. This year will be flying by much faster as it's only 10 a day instead of the normal 20 a day, but this should still be a fun ride.

So here are the rules:

1.) The list is a Top 50 with 10 honorable mentions. I am really hoping to get back to the Top 100 in 2021. There are simply albums that I know are magnificent that I simply didn't hear, hear enough of, or give enough of a chance to really enjoy in 2020. I know they will be told to me and I know you'll have a great argument on why they should make the list somewhere; but I'm one man and 2020 got the better of me this go around. So enjoy the list as is. Thank you.

2.) The Top 50 must be LPs. No EPs live albums, compilations, rarities, etc. Simply a studio ALBUM released in 2020 before mid-December. If you have an album out after that. What can I tell you, you should have released it in January.

3.) The Top 50 are ranked from 50-1. Honorable Mentions are in alphabetical order.

4.) The entries include Artist Name, Album Name, and FFO (For Fans Of) section. Followed by my short thoughts on the release.

5.) The Top 50 will also have a curated Spotify list with a song off each album in order from 50-1. So you can enjoy the bands in countdown order; or put it on random and make your own ranking.

6.) These are just my own thoughts. No sponsors, no payola, no favors. Just my views. With that; If an album is at 50 does not mean it sucks compared to album 1. all 50 albums and 10 honorable mentions are worthy of praise and deserve to be talked about and any album talked about could be AOTY in someone's eyes. This is a judgement free zone. No negativity here. Just talking great music from beginning to end.

So...let's begin!

50.) Sodom- Genesis XIX

FFO- Thrash Metal, Black Metal, Speed Metal
The only reason this is not higher is because I've only had this album about a week or so and I'm trying to maintain some kind of honesty in my list order. This album is a return of form for the band, HEAVILY focusing back to their black metal riffs, but keeping things just as fast and thrashy as ever. The production is raw, the songs are rapid fire, and old school fans of Sodom should be all over this album as fast as they can.
49.) From Hell- Rats & Raven
FFO- Horror Metal, Heavy Metal, Death Metal
This was actually the last album that I did a full on review for in 2020 and it was worthy of me writing every word listed. If you want your horror metal in more of a thrashy, death metal inspired vain; From Hell absolutely delivers. From beginning to end you hear genre bending, sheer power and Hell-driven metal that is simply uncompromising. Just check it out for yourself!
48.) The Ocean- Phanerozoic II: Mesozoic | Cenozoic
FFO- Post Metal, Progressive Metal, Electronic
Part two of their concept of exploring the different ages of the world; Phanerozoic II: Mesozoic | Cenozoic shows the band morphing from it's primal sludgy sound in the beginning of the album to more electronic inspired sound at the end. much like feeling like you traveled through the periods yourself. Of course the album is not a completely left of center album for the band, but it shows what the band is truly capable of given the time and resources...and that is creative. A sheer delight of an album. I can't wait to see what's next.
47.) The Black Dahlia Murder- Verminous
FFO- Melodic Death Metal
Consistent, yet inspired. That describes TBDM to an absolute T. The band over the span of the last two decades has really shown how a band can find what works for the band, yet always find a way to outdo themselves in some capacity. On Verminous, the choruses and guitar tones are the shining lights of this dark and bleak album. Among the chaos, the harmonies and melodies that come through at the right moments just make you pay attention and see the band has always been more than just the brutality on display. The band never stops growing and this album proves that there is no chance of slowing down any time soon.
46.) Midnight- Rebirth By Blasphemy
FFO- Black N Roll, Thrash Metal, Speed Metal
Midnight strikes again with Rebirth By Blasphemy. Their consistent sound of the best of metal genres in the 80s mixed with the unique sense of timing and arrangement makes the band standout among so many bands of a similar style. If you want a relentless taste of evil aggression, Midnight is here for your devilish delight.
45.) Ad Infinitum- Chapter I: Monarchy
FFO- Symphonic Metal, Gothic Metal
Melissa Bonny is one of the most standout vocalists of the late 2010s and 2020 is proving that her shine is only beginning to grow stronger. In a band she completely formed on her own, Ad Infinitum showcases her vision of dark, symphonic metal that has some of the catchiest riffs and choruses you will hear in it's style. Bonny's voice, while not showing off her ferocious screams that she puts on display in Rage of Light, does show off every other talent of her sound with soaring highs, somber lows and ear catching mids that is just meant to grab you and not let go. The band is only getting started and the future is going to be darkly blessed with Ad Infinitum for years to come.
44.) Psychotic Waltz- The God-Shaped Void
FFO- Progressive Metal
Everything before March 2020 feels like it was decades ago thanks to to the last 9 months. This phenomenal album is one of the first 2020 albums I heard and it's miraculous that we live in a universe where this dangerously underrated band came back together to release such a dark, atmospheric, tribal, and melodic piece of progressive metal. The band has always been known in the prog inner circles, but The God-Shaped Void showcases that band deserves to break out and be known the world over. Everything about this album rules. Just listen for yourself.
43.) Armored Saint- Punching The Sky
FFO- Heavy Metal, Hard Rock
Always known for their signature blend of crossing the streams of glam rock and thrash metal; Armored Saint has put out one of their greatest albums with Punching The Sky. Whether you like the ear candy rock songs, the heavy metal anthems or want to hear the band explore their prog tendencies; Punching The Sky has it all and then some. Armored Saint is here to stay.
42.) Falset- We Follow Or Lead The Way
FFO- Modern Metal, Progressive Metal, Hard Rock
The band is so much more than their lineage (of course, referring to James LaBrie's son, Chance LaBrie, drumming for the band). Falset's debut album shows a sense of modern metal that sounds so inspired and catchy. Adding just the right moments of prog and radio rock into their fused sound creates some of the catchiest metal songs you will hear this year. Imagine a bastard offspring of TesseracT, Alter Bridge, and Dream Theater and you'll get closer to what this band is all about. Their debut album shows the band is going to explore as much ground as they can while being jaw-droppingly catchy. Jump on the hype train now. These guys deserve it!
41.) Boris- NO

FFO- Thrash Metal, Crust Punk, Noise

By far the fastest BPM Boris album to date; The band never records the same album twice. In the past they've done everything from post rock to J-Rock, to noise collaborations with Sunn 0))) and Merzbow. This time around, the band is exploring their metal and punk roots with short, heavy, and crazy songs that is sure to bring out the circle pits when live shows come back into the world. The album only slows down just enough for you to get in a breath or two before pummeling you over and over again. This is easily the most fun Boris album and a great gateway album for heavy fans that want to see one side of the band's style.



And there we go folks; 10 down, 40 to go. The list will only get wilder, crazier, and hopefully even better from here on out. Tune in tomorrow for Part III: 40-31

- That Drummer Guy (Josh Rundquist)

Wouldn't you know it? At the time of of this post going live; there is a month and 4 days left of this wretched year. Seriously 2020 has been such a crappy year for everyone. If you got out unscathed, you have miraculous powers that belong to be monetized.

Fortunately; 2020 has also been a year where a lot of great music was released. Some are held back till 2021, but a majority of music still came out and it's at it's most glorious. That trend will only continue as the next few years goes onward.

With this being the last Friday in November, it's time for me to arise with my written thoughts and preach out all of the great music that you may have missed this year. Although this year as many exceptions. I simply could NOT get to every great album made in 2020. There are some by bands I loved for decades that I simply just did not have the time to sit down and enjoy the way I should have. Add that to the pains of 2020 and I actually had to scale myself back about 50%. This year will be a Top 50 of 2020, with 10 Honorable mentions and a big ol list of other stuff after all of that is done. I have deep regret not making a Top 100 this year, but I had to be honest with myself and admit that 2020 got the better of me and I am only one man. I am really hoping in 2021 that things will be getting back as scheduled with the mammoth Top 100 list. But until then; I really hope the upcoming 7 parts will be enough to suffice.

So here are the rules:

1.) The list is a Top 50 with 10 honorable mentions. I am really hoping to get back to the Top 100 in 2021. There are simply albums that I know are magnificent that I simply didn't hear, hear enough of, or give enough of a chance to really enjoy in 2020. I know they will be told to me and I know you'll have a great argument on why they should make the list somewhere; but I'm one man and 2020 got the better of me this go around. So enjoy the list as is. Thank you.

2.) The Top 50 must be LPs. No EPs live albums, compilations, rarities, etc. Simply a studio ALBUM released in 2020 before mid-December. If you have an album out after that. What can I tell you, you should have released it in January.

3.) The Top 50 are ranked from 50-1. Honorable Mentions are in alphabetical order.

4.) The entries include Artist Name, Album Name, and FFO (For Fans Of) section. Followed by my short thoughts on the release.

5.) The Top 50 will also have a curated Spotify list with a song off each album in order from 50-1. So you can enjoy the bands in countdown order; or put it on random and make your own ranking.

6.) These are just my own thoughts. No sponsors, no payola, no favors. Just my views. With that; If an album is at 50 does not mean it sucks compared to album 1. all 50 albums and 10 honorable mentions are worthy of praise and deserve to be talked about and any album talked about could be AOTY in someone's eyes. This is a judgement free zone. No negativity here. Just talking great music from beginning to end.

So...let's begin!



Ages- Uncrown
FFO- Melodic Black Metal

If you like your black metal with a great epic feel, evil atmosphere, and completely solid from start to finish; Ages is a band you need to check out. Uncrown shows the 2 man project growing ever stronger with melodies and harmonies in all the right sections, pure chaos throughout and an overall sense that black metal is still in great hands after all these years. While it's been 5 years between albums; Ages is grown ever stronger. See why for yourself!

Burning Witches- Dance With The Devil
FFO- Heavy Metal, Speed Metal, Power Metal

Burning Witches has been on an all out assault since their inception just 5 years ago. The band's 3rd album shows the band at their most mature sounding; showcasing their speed, tenacity, and killer riffs that are sure to bring in old school and new school metalheads alike. Plus, the album ends with a cover of Manowar's Battle Hymn. What else could you possibly need?

Cloudkicker- Solitude
FFO- Instrumental Metal, Instrumental Post Rock

Ben Sharp's return to metal is in full force here with Solitude. While the last several years has been filled with Cloudkicker going into many different territories from grunge to acoustic to even looped music; Cloudkicker will always be best known for it's Metal roots and it took a pandemic for that side to return. The album hearkens to what fans loved about the band, but also brings in everything it's learned from it's left of center ventures to create the most captivating music of the band's career. Make sure to go pick this one, plus the whole Cloudkicker catalog out on Bandcamp. Every Cloudkicker release is Pay What You Want, so you have nothing to lose.

The Flower Kings- Islands
FFO- Progressive Rock

One can make the argument that The Flower Kings are at their best when they feel they have the freedom to write what they want and just let their instruments do the talking. That's what happens here with this double disc LP. Of course Roine Stolt's legendary vocals are shown throughout, but the stars of the show is the instrumentation displayed by everyone in the band. It can go from jazzy to heavy to subdued to classy in turns of a dime and it all feels so very natural. Islands is a great starting point for new fans because it shows the band at their best and shows off all they are capable of, and so much more.

Grave Digger- Fields of Blood
FFO- Power Metal, Heavy Metal

The last album in their Scottish War Trilogy; Fields of Blood is one of the heaviest power metal albums released in 2020 (which has actually been quite smaller than previous years). It perfectly captures what it feels like to be in the battlefields of Scotland and fighting for your life. It's fun, it's educational, it's Grave Digger. You simply can't lose!

Hjelvik- Welcome to Hel
FFO- Viking Metal, Heavy Metal, Black N Roll

Seeing Erland Hjelvik branching out on his own and bringing his visions of Nordic tales to the forefront is something that just makes you smile. Everything you loved about his previous band is shown here, but it's so much more heavy metal. It's like a blackened Manowar or a more rock and roll Amon Amarth. Regardless. It pummels you from start to finish just like fighting a Nordic God. This is a must listen fro those that dare to brave the storm.

Katatonia- City Burials
FFO- Progressive Metal, Industrial Metal, Doom Metal

This one pains me not to have higher, but 2020 simply did not give me the chance to give me the time to give this album the time it deserves to enjoy and rank properly. Originally planned as a solo album from frontman Jonas Renske; Katatonia decided to branch out into brand new territory with more industrial programming and atmospheric overtones, but it also starts to bring back some of the Doom elements of the band's very early career. It is absolutely an album that is like wine; it gets better with every listen and everything starts to culminate so much more into what is Katatonia's broadest departure but also their most return to form album. Simply, just listen and you will understand.

Obsidian Kingdom- Meat Machine
FFO- Progressive Metal, Industrial Metal, Experimental

Obsidian Kingdom is a band that refuses to make the same album twice. You will never know what you will get with each subsequent release. The band's 3rd release, Meat Machine truly feels like a concept album with it's themes of human nature and the perversity, over saturation of character, and evil desires that tarnishes one's mind. The music perfectly matches that sensibility. If you need to be able to compare this album to something; let's say it's a mix of Mr. Bungle and Fantomas with some Peeping Tom thrown in for good measure. Of course the band is not a Mike Patton rip off of any kind. Meat Machine is a one of a kind experience in 2020 and it's indeed worthy of your time.

Pallbearer- Forgotten Days
FFO- Doom Metal, Progressive Metal

If I had been able to give this album more time, it easily would have fit in with one of my absolute favorite albums of the year. Sadly, that was just not the case. The band's 4th album shows the band being more than   just known for their doom driven crushing riffs, but added a newly accepted layer of progressive rock and metal that really makes the music sound even more grandiose and inspired. Of course the band still sounds like Pallbearer, but just...more than Pallbearer. This album is a full on grower and you should give it the chance to flourish and take over you.

Sons of a Wanted Man- Kenoma
FFO- Post Black Metal, Hardcore

Finding that sweet spot of not being too black metal and not too hardcore to create a sound of their own. It gets as brutal as Ringworm, but has a beauty of Alcest, all layered in a raw production that will satisfy both sides of the equation. I know Belgium isn't the first thing you think of when it comes to blackened hardcore and blackgaze, but it's about time you look in that direction and enjoy the fruits of their labor. With this being their first LP, the band will only continue to grow into a pure monster that will take over by force.


And there we go folks. My ten honorable mentions of 2020. I know, I know, it feels wrong to me as well having so few, but these ten are indeed worthy of praise and to be enjoyed. Hopefully you will for yourself. Return Monday for Part II: 50-41

- That Drummer Guy (Josh Rundquist

I don't always have the time to be able to do single album reviews these days, but when I do, you know that album is going to be a great one.

When you have a band featuring the talents of past and present members of some of the best California metal bands around; you’re bound to expect some killer heavy metal to enjoy. That’s exactly what From Hell brought with their 2014 debut album Ascent from Hell. 6 years have past since this release and band has undergone some changes to become stronger than ever with Rats and Ravens. Building off the first album, Rats and Ravens filters their unique blend of Thrash Metal, Death Metal & even hints of Power Metal at times to make an unholy sound of metal that needs to be represented in 2020.

The artwork on this album is as beautiful as it is haunting setting the tone for what you are about to hear. Rats and Ravens is wonderfully dynamic in sound; from anthemic tunes like They Come at Night to the speedy and blast beat assaults of The Witch to the nearly 7 minute epic closer in Am I Dead, which is bound to be a new fan favorite. The production throughout has a gritty, raw, and sinister tone that perfectly captures the torment you hear in the lyrics. Of course, everyone in the band has their moments to shine with hell driven riffs and solos, blazing fast double bass, and vocals from frontman and guitarist, Sinn, can go from pure King Diamond worship to pure evil growls of the undead.

Overall, Rats and Ravens is a dirty and gritty hell ride that is well worth the price of admission No matter your taste in metal, you are bound to find something to love about From Hell. Check out Rats and Ravens when it comes out (date added here) and hear some of the most horrific and tantalizing metal you’ll hear to start off the 2020s.


From Hell- Rats and Ravens out May 22nd on Scourge Records

- Josh Rundquist (that Drummer Guy)

Hey everybody!

So rather than do another edition of Backwards Marathon this week, I wanted to do something special and talk about  albums that have come out between January and March 2020. The past 3 months have been, to put it lightly, rough? So let's combat that with some killer music that can hopefully give you something to help you through the tough time we are all facing for the foreseeable future (Week, Month, Months, longer?).

Same basic usual as usual. Just studio LPs of original content (a cover or two is fine). This is in alphabetical order rather than ranked because rankings for the best albums of the year will come in December. A playlist featuring a song off each album will be in the Spotify playlist below. Now rad on and enjoy!



Dawn of Solace- Waves
FFO- Melodic Doom, Heavy Metal, Hard Rock

This has potential to be the best album of the year for me. It is the perfect blend of doom, rock, metal and atmosphere that can be as haunting as it is beautiful. Tuomas Sukkonen is known best for the Finnish Melodeath band, Wolfheart; but as Wolfheart is getting fast, heavier and more extreme, he wanted to counterbalance that intensity with more melodic music and Dawn of Solace was reborn. Almost all clean vocals through the entire album (90%-10% screams used almost entirely as backups). I needed an album like this in 2020 and you might need this as well. Once listen is all it should take to suck you in and never let go.

Dead End Finland- Inter Vivos
FFO- Modern Metal, Melodic Death Metal

The band's first album in 4 years sees the band incorporating more modern metal flavoring to their melodeath sound and it works seamlessly. With the right mixture, it can combine the best elements of pop and metal and maker something truly unique. That's exactly what is going on here. Every song is as catchy as it is heavy and it's a true sight to behold. This is definitely one to keep your eyes out for towards the end of the year.

Imonolith- State of Being
FFO- Groove Metal, Hard Rock, Metalcore

Take 5 of the best musicians in Canada and have them form a band that doesn't sound much like any of their other bands and forming a sound that is truly their own. Some songs are so catchy they could be on top 40 rock radio, other songs are so heavy that they could fit in on any death metal show. This is truly awesome stuff that fits that void for rockers and metalheads to agree on a band from all sides. This will be one of the best albums of 2020 come the end of the year and if this is merely the debut album from this quintet; everything about this band will only get better and better. Jump on the Imonolith train now before it leaves the station (psst, this just came out today, go check it out).

Intronaut- Fluid Existential Inversions
FFO- Progressive Post Metal

There's a joke you could make that every Intronaut album sounds more and more like a Cloudkicker album with vocals on it. WHile it's not far from the truth; that is also a term of endearment. Since Valley of Smoke, Intronaut has only improved with every subsequent album and their unique blend of atmosphere, progressive riffs, post rock/metal arrangements and of course having Cloudkicker's Ben Sharp actually playing some guitar on this album, shows the band getting stronger and stronger. This is an album from the band I always wanted and I'm so happy we finally got it in 2020.

Kvelertak- Splid
FFO- Black N Roll, Heavy Metal, Punk Rock

What an album to come out on Valentine's Day. This being the band's 4th album since their 2010 debut has only seen the band continue to shine not only musically, but across the world in popularity. Ever since Dave Grohl's ringing endorsement of the band, Kvelertak has been showing the masses what they are capable of and Splid is their best outing yet. Everything you could want in an album from black metal to pop punk to straight up rock and roll is here and then some. This is easily one of the most fun albums you'll hear all year. Go check it out and get a genuine smile on your face in these dark times.

Lost Symphony- Chapter 1
FFO- Instrumental Progressive Metal, Power Metal, Neo-Classical Metal

THis debut release is nothing short of majestic. featuring some of the greatest guitarists in the world being able to show off their skills on the fret-board from Marty Friedman to Bumblefoot to Jeff Loomis to the late Oli Herbert; this album just shreds as much as it feels like it is an electrified version of classical pieces composed centuries ago. This is incredible work and just like the name implies, this is only Chapter 1. There is much more to come and it will be totally worth it.

My Dying Bride- The Ghost of Orion
FFO- Melodic Death/Doom Metal

The legends of death/doom have returned with what may be their saddest release to date. This is a complete tearjerker of an album and that's exactly what makes this album stand out. Their melancholic tones, maudlin lyrics, and somber atmosphere is the perfect example of what this style is capable of accomplishing. This album also happens to be their most mainstream album as well, with predominantly clean vocals; which is a strange turn for the band, but it paid off. if you need an album that matches what many people are feeling right now, put this album on and let the cathartic feelings flow through you.

Psychotic Waltz- The God Shaped Void
FFO- Progressive Metal

The first 2020 promo I received and it's from a band I never imagined would return with new music. Before this, Psychotic Waltz was nearly lost to the ages in the US with their style of prog metal mixed with flute and beautiful songwriting. This return album is what you would want from a band of this caliber and it feels like they picked up right where they left us in 1996. If you want your prog metal not sounding djenty or just like everything else that's out there, check out what is one of the most underrated prog bands to graciously come back into our lives.

Sons of A Wanted Man- Kenoma
FFO- Blackened Post Metal

A band that I discovered only this year and they have become a band that I can't stop listening to over and over again. Hardcore, post metal and black metal making a great sense of how the post black metal genre should sound. Original and awe-inspiring. This is definitely an album that fits the overall vibe of 2020 quite well, just a few seconds of any song off this album should tell you all that you need to know. This is fantastic music.

Thematic- Skyrunner
FFO- Modern Progressive Metal, Post Rock, Cinematic

Best concept album of 2020 so far. This is such an uplifting album and a great message in these hard times. Don't give up, keep trying, and you will make it through. The music is so varied, yet flows together so naturally. The lyrics feel so natural and tells the story perfectly, and the songs are executed to perfection. While this record will go under a lot of people's radars, that needs to be remedied immediately. If you are a prog nerd, a music geek, or just a lover of good cinematic storytelling; Skyrunner has something for you. Simply jaw dropping music.


And there you have it folks, my personal list of the 10 best albums of 2020 in the first quarter. It's hard to believe that April is right around the corner and Qt 2 will begin. While time may feel like it is going way too slow during everything going on right now, remember that time moves by way too fast; don't spend this time miserable. Make the time for what you love, catch flicks at home, don't put off doing that hobby you love anymore, and if you are reading this, I can only imagine you dig metal and rock music, so why not check out these ten albums and see the rabbit hole you crawl into this year.

Until next time, this is That Drummer Guy saying, SEE YA!

- Josh Rundquist (That Drummer Guy)

Metallica, the band that got me into music, the band that got me into metal, and the band that was the very first I ever got sick of hearing. When I was in 5th grade I discovered Metallica and for the next 3 years I was obsessed with the band, I could name ever single song in track listing order off the top of my head and I made it my duty to be able to play every single song on drums. By 2003, St. Anger came out and it was time for me to discover other forms of music out there, which I did. But I can’t deny that Metallica brought me to the dance, despite going home with pretty much everyone else. Today, since we are all caught up in our own sanitariums at home, why not cover the 10 album discography of the band so far ranked from 10th to 1st and see how much you disagree with me on the biggest metal band the world may ever know.


The Rules

1.) No EPs, cover albums, live albums, b-side albums, or best of/greatest hits collections. Just original studio LPs. Albums that have a cover or two on it are just fine.

2.) This is just my opinions on the albums in question. No outside influences other than my own and is far from a definitive world ranking. If you have a different ranking, AWESOME! Keep that up!

3.) The reason for doing this to help people get into a band/artist/etc and give ideas of what to expect if they decide to dive into the work.

4.) This is ranked from least favorite to favorite (countdown/TRL style). I will give a few words about every album as we go down the list.

5.) There will be a Spotify playlist (where applicable) to go along with the list with a song off each album so you can get another idea of what to expect. The songs will either be my favorite song off the album or one that represents the album the best in my eyes. (if you are reading this on social media, click the official link to get the playlist)

6.) Have fun and spread the word....SPREAD IT!


LET'S BEGIN!



10.) Reload (1997)
Despite what others, including the band, will tell you; this album feels like a 100% b-sides album disguised as a full LP. There are a couple good songs on it that I can still dig, the rest is simply not enjoyable to my ears. They easily could have made this an EP or a 7” single even and had a MUCH stronger release than what was shown here. While the biggest songs of the alternative era of Metallica are here, It’s not their best and yeah...it’s their worst.



9.) Hardwired...To Self Destruct (2016)
I can’t believe this double album is turning 4 years old this year. It does not feel like it should be at all. It still feels like 2 years max. Anyways, in all honesty, I’ve yet to ever give this album a proper spin. There are some cool fast songs shown off, other songs that really give a Load/Reload feel and others that are just...there? Considering this release is actually smaller than Load and it’s put over 2 discs, this is another shining example of less being more (or at least better) taking off at least half of this record would have made this one of the best releases, if not the best album since ...And Justice For All. Otherwise it just feels like an album that is there, nothing really more, nothing really less.


8.) St. Anger (2003)
Much like I hinted at in the beginning, I thank St. Anger for the sole reason that it made me want to check out other music instead of just listening to Metallica all day. This album is where I finally found flaws in music and realized not everything is as it’s cracked up to be. This “Commercial Suicide” album is a hard listen, tone wise. Everything feels off in the production, and it’s not just Lars turning off the snares on his snare drum. Watch Some Kind of Monster, St. Anger is the soundtrack to that film not just because it was being made and the whole premise of the film, but it’s gargled mess of a group of guys that really needed a break from each other taken some time apart and regather themselves to find out who they are. As that didn’t happen, we got this. The songs, when looking back, are not as bad as you remember them to be. Seriously, just listen to the studio DVD that came with the album, it feels like a much more cohesive experience, then again, the band was sober, the band was full, and Bob Rock was on his way out. Still, this is the black eye of the band that left a shiner to this day.


7.) Death Magnetic (2008)
This album is what some consider to be the return album for the band as it was thrashy again, the songs were fast, the snares were turned back on, and the production wasn’t garbage. To me? Songs went on for way too long and went nowhere, there was fast songs, but also slow and medium paced songs; so speed doesn’t mean good. The snare was back on, but it still doesn’t sound good and the production is was too hot. The mix and mastering is clipping in ways that make it so hard to even joy the album if there was things to enjoy. Overall this is the best album in the last 23 years of the band, but what is that really saying?


6.) Metallica (1991)
Yeah this album is where the albums actually start getting good. Overplayed? You bet your sweet bippy! But there is a reason why they are overplayed, when they came out, there are good songs. And the rest of the album has other great songs on it as well. Sure there’s not the speed you know and love of the first 4 albums, but there are songs that are some of the strongest in the band’s catalog that definitely don’t get the love that they deserve. This album remains on Billboards Top 200 for good reason, it is that classic album that paved the way for heavy music to get on mainstream radio and mainstream rock fans to go the other way and discover some heavier metal than they were used to hearing. It was win/win in the music world. You can fault the band for man, MANY things, but not for the black album. It’s earned it’s right as one of the most popular albums ever made.


5.) Kill ‘em All (1983)
Where it all began. Some say it’s the birth of thrash metal (which is actually not true), some say it’s the first true metal album (also not true), but it was the first time that thrash metal started gaining the recognition that it deserved and would continue to receive as the years and decades went forward. The production is raw, yet enjoyable. The speed, the velocity, the lyrics, the imagery, everything was here and then some. While the band did not gain their fame from this album, it was not far away when the band only got better from here.


4.) Load (1996)
Yup, this album is better than 2 of the big 5 Metallica albums to my ears, and you convince me to think differently. I’m not just a metalhead, I’m a music fan, and the songs that are on this album are great songs. You got your fast songs, almost ballads, epics, and left of center songs. Yes this was the album where a lot of people said the band was dead and buried. For me that’s not true (they got killed after this album), but it is the album where taking a chance both worked and hindered the band at the same time. They were making the music they wanted to make and that alienated a lot of hardcore fans, but it also brought in more fans, it’s a catch-22. I will always stick up for Load, I have no reason to say a bad word about it from Ain’t My Bitch To The Outlaw Torn (one of their best epics) this is Metallica as creative as I ever wanted them to get.


3.) ...And Justice For All (1988)
For the longest time this was my favorite Metallic album, over the years that changed. Why? That shouldn’t happen, it’s their proggiest album, it has their longest songs to date, it has the more pure anger and aggression you’ll ever hear from the band. All of that is 100% true, I guess it does come down to the fact that over the years production has started to matter to me when it comes to favorite albums and Justice has no bass. Yeah, it’s that simple. Arguably they didn’t need bass on this album as One launched them onto the radio and being the biggest metal band in the world. From the non-objective side; bass would have filled out these songs so much better and gave them a life that only feels 7 5% there when it could have been 100%. I still enjoy this album and feel it’s essential listening; but not first album essential. It’s a bronze medal.


2.) Master of Puppets (1986)
WHAT DO YOU MEAN THAT MASTER OF PUPPETS ISN’T YOUR FAVORITE ALBUM FROM METALLICA? IT’S THE GREATEST ALBUM EVER MADE!!!1 Well, it’s not my favorite. It’s a great album. Awesome production, great songwriting, some of their best songs to date are on this seminal album; but it’s just not my favorite. Is it worthy of being called the best metal album of all time? There’s a lot of merit for it of course, and of curse when you add best is just subjective; but yes, it’s worthy of all the praise it will receive till the end of time. It is that good, even with some songs being overplayed on the radio or by guitarists looking for a band to join at Guitar Center.


1.) Ride The Lighting (1984)
Now THIS is what I call Metallica’s finest hour. Everything I loved about Metallica is in this album from songs referencing execution, the plague, and H.P. Lovecraft, to the production being that perfect mix of clean and raw, to the perfect and I mean PERFECT guitar tone to my ears. This had that right timing for the band where they were still hungry for what they wanted to be, having their pure aggression of Kill Em All and before the world would finally recognize them. There was a reason why this was the band’s first big label album. It had so many cylinders firing at all the right times to make this an album where the band could write a ballad like Fade to Black, a biblical song like Creeping Death, and even a label mandated “single” like Escape; and they could do no wrong. This is their finest hour to me and unless they change that on the next album, it always will be.


And there you have it folks, I finally talked about the biggest band in the world. Did I do this one because almost all people in the world with internet connection are stuck at home, on social media and bored and would most likely pay attention to this than any other band I’ll ever cover before or after this? Totally! Will this have more comments than people actually checking out the list and the actual reasons why it’s ranked the way that it is? Of course. Will most people even get to this last paragraph before getting mad at me for my ranking order, especially with not putting Master of Puppets at number 1? Like you have to ask! But hey it’s all fun and these are only my thoughts. Thanks for sticking around and just in case you never checked out Metallica for whatever reason; check out my Spotify playlist for Metallica to see a song off each album and see what’s right for you, if anything.


Till next time, this is That Drummer Guy saying, SEE YA!
- Josh Rundquist )That Drummer Guy)

I will die on this hill; Alice in Chains is NOT a grunge band (unless you only count Layne Staley's YAAARRRLLS which so many bands ripped off, badly). They just got their popularity around the same time as the rest of the bands in that genre were picking up. And they have made 6 killer albums since 1990. So hard to believe that 30 years later, the band is still putting out amazing work and it's a true sight to behold. Today I am going to cover all the ground I can in making a list from number 6 to number 1, ranking every AIC album to date. If you want an introduction on this hard rock/heavy metal/sludge metal band? Well, here's my best shot at doing so for you.


The Rules

1.) No EPs, cover albums, live albums, b-side albums, or best of/greatest hits collections. Just original studio LPs. Albums that have a cover or two on it are just fine.

2.) This is just my opinions on the albums in question. No outside influences other than my own and is far from a definitive world ranking. If you have a different ranking, AWESOME! Keep that up!

3.) The reason for doing this to help people get into a band/artist/etc and give ideas of what to expect if they decide to dive into the work.

4.) This is ranked from least favorite to favorite (countdown/TRL style). I will give a few words about every album as we go down the list.

5.) There will be a Spotify playlist (where applicable) to go along with the list with a song off each album so you can get another idea of what to expect. The songs will either be my favorite song off the album or one that represents the album the best in my eyes. (if you are reading this on social media, click the official link to get the playlist)

6.) Have fun and spread the word....SPREAD IT!


LET'S BEGIN!

6.) Alice in Chains (1995)
Oh I'm sure I'll get crapped on for this, I can sense it already. But here's my reasoning. The last AIC album is where you really feel the cracks in the band...badly. Not at all to say the album is bad, but just listen to the lyrics. Granted, the lyrics have always had some darkness to them, and this isn't even their darkest album. But this album has the kind of lyrics and delivery that says that the band needed at least a break from each other and that sadly happened. The songs that we got during this time are actually some of the most experimental in the band's discography. After the success of the band's previous album and really experimenting with acoustics on their Jar of Flies EP (which may be their best release to date), this album sees the trademark sound left for doomier, symphonic, acoustic, and out there songs. This is also the first time in AIC's career path where the influences of sludge metal and doom metal would come into play on some of the band's lesser known songs off the album. This may actually be the perfect gateway album. If you like the slower, heavier side; keep going forward in their discography. If you like the faster and metallic sound; go backwards in the catalog.

5.) Black Gives Way to Blue (2009)
Talk about a water shed album in the band's career. Many people, to this day, still believe the band should not of carried on without Layne Staley. That he made the band with his vocal delivery. I'm just going to say it right here right now. William Duvall does Staley better than Staley! YOU HEARD ME! I'm not talking about how Layne had that style first and how that came from his tortured soul, that's putting personal matters into it. I'm talking about on ability. You put on any AIC song from the last three albums and tell a passive AIC song that Staley sang this song, 9 out of 10 people would believe you. He's that good. Plus, the band was always Jerry Cantrell's. He made the band what is to this day with his songwriting, tuning, style, and his on vocal delivery. Black Gives Way to Blue proves both of these points perfectly. The songs are just as catchy and as heavy and as emotional as you would hear on any previous album; just updated. This showed that the band was not doing this for the money, but because Alice in Chains still had life that needed to be lived. This is seriously a fantastic album.

4.) Facelift (1990)
It may be strange to see not only the band's most popular album, but also their most "metal" album not in the number 1 spot to a lot of people. There's every reason that it could be as it is filled to the brim with tasty metal riffs, catchy choruses and songs that live on to  this day on top 40 rock radio. Of course Man in the Box is on this album, the band's biggest hit ever and while it may be overplayed by radio and cover bands alike (i know, I had to cover it myself a lot), overplaying of a song does not make it any less good. Of course songs like Love, Hate, Love and We Die Young show the speed differences and songwriting abilities of the band that would come later. Yeah, this album is worthy of all the love it gets to this day, without question.

3.) Rainier Fog (2018)
By far and away the band's heaviest album. This is not rock in the slightest. This is a sludge metal, doom metal album and it's exactly what it needed to be. This is probably the least known AIC album, which is weird to say as it's the band's latest album. I just see no one talk about it. Maybe it was because it was way too heavy for standard rock radio these days, maybe some people just wanted to hear Man in the Box part II; REGARDLESS, this album is for every fan of the band's heavy side and the lyrics, tones, songwriting, and delivery punctuate that to a T. This is amazing stuff that should be forgotten no longer. There is the argument that these are the best written songs of the band's career and I would not dismiss that claim...seriously!

2.) The Devil Put Dinosaurs Here (2013)
The strangest title in the band's discography is also the band's best work in the new era (which is now longer than the original era in 2020). This was a perfected version of Black Gives Way to Blue, but also different enough. While there are some more metal songs and hard rock songs on here, the band continues on with their sludgier and doomier sounds. IN all honesty, the song, Phantom Limb may be their best song they've recorded. The title track even makes a lot more sense when you listen to the song and see how it works in context. This is a seriously underrated album but it is one of their best works. Go give this one a shot.

1.) Dirt (1992)
I mean, it is not only AIC's best album, but it's one of the best albums of the 20th century. This had everything you could want in an album of this nature. Heavy, dark, personal, catchy, different, twisted, and at the time a tonal shift from the bands more metallic sound and going into work just before things got doomy. It's not an album to be described with just words; listen to the album, front to back. You'll understand why so many people consider this the best album of the 90s, the best albums in alternative metal, wrongly the best album in grunge, and one of the best albums of all time. Just do it, trust me.



And there you go folks, all 6 albums ranked 6 to 1, showing off all the LPs of Alice in Chains. If you are only somewhat familiar with the band, I hope this gives you enough intrigue to check them out and see if they are you bag. Or just listen to the playlist below and see if you like what you hear.

Until next time, This is That Drummer Guy saying, SEE YA!

Death's legacy is one that simply can't be messed with. 7 Albums that spanned so many different fans, bands, metalheads, and what could possible be done with death metal. While the band was only around for 11 years; they are arguably the most important band in all of death metal in terms of originality, style, lyrics, and more. Today I am taking the impossible task of ranking these albums 7 to 1. I will stress right now that I love every single death album and it is rare for me to listen to Death and not go out of my way to listen to the entire discography. While that may sound like a daunting task in and of itself; it's only 5 hours, but a worthy 5 hours. I will also say that there is no wrong order to ranks these albums. We may disagree on the other of 1 or all 7 albums, but that is a great things because that means people are appreciating al 7 albums, as they should be. Is this list I'm about to make final? With Death, that's almost impossible as it changes even for myself, BUT, more often than not, this is the order I will go with. So let's get to it!

The Rules

1.) No EPs, cover albums, live albums, b-side albums, or best of/greatest hits collections. Just original studio LPs. Albums that have a cover or two on it are just fine.

2.) This is just my opinions on the albums in question. No outside influences other than my own and is far from a definitive world ranking. If you have a different ranking, AWESOME! Keep that up!

3.) The reason for doing this to help people get into a band/artist/etc and give ideas of what to expect if they decide to dive into the work.

4.) This is ranked from least favorite to favorite (countdown/TRL style). I will give a few words about every album as we go down the list.

5.) There will be a Spotify playlist (where applicable) to go along with the list with a song off each album so you can get another idea of what to expect. The songs will either be my favorite song off the album or one that represents the album the best in my eyes. (if you are reading this on social media, click the official link to get the playlist)

6.) Have fun and spread the word....SPREAD IT!


LET'S BEGIN!

7.) Spiritual Healing (1990)
Chuck Schuldiner's 3rd album is a great take on religion with it's fantastic album cover and title track. The rest of the album contains that signature death metal sound that you heard on the band's previous two albums, but it was beginning to experiment with it's sound. More proggier moments, more song structure differences, and above all, the music was getting much more technical and melodic. Lyrically, it started focusing more on life and what is going on with it, rather than just horror themes, but that is a great thing to accomplish with spreading your wings and showing all that can be done with a genre. This is a fantastic album that is worthy of it's underrated praise in the midst of all of Death's work.

6.) Individual Thought Patterns (1993)
It really took till the 2011 remix of this album to fully appreciate everything that was going on with Individual Thought Patterns. Much like Metallica's ...And Justice For All, the bass is nearly impossible to hear, the rest of the production feels low as well, but what it lacked behind the board, it made up for in front of it. The band seemed to be in turmoil for a lot of it's years, but that also led to some of the band's work. The Philosopher is a great example of that with the song being a shot at former guitarist, Paul Masvidal; which was also featured on Beavis and Butthead.. But outside of that. This marked the first of two albums drummed by Gene Hoglan. Overall, Individual Thought Patterns was the last album that featured the signature Chuck death growls before switching over to screaming and while the music was becoming more and more intricate and less of the signature death metal sound, it signaled that times had to change for the band and that was sure to come with the band's last two albums.

5.) Human (1991)
Human was the last album of 4 in 5 years (87-91) and the band was going as strong as it possibly could at this time. Paul Masvidal and Sean Reinert made their only appearances with the band on this album before forming Cynic. This was also the first album where the technical side of the band really began to flourish and show that the band was much more than a horror themed metal band, but actually a quite intriguing, and intellectual band. Many consider this album to be that perfect blend of technical and death metal, which influenced so many bands to later form the technical death metal genre. It's understandable why as this album is worthy of the praise and love it gets to this very day.

4.) Scream Bloody Gore (1987)
The first Death album, and what some consider to be be one of the first, pure death metal albums. This album is primal, horror inspired from start to finish, and has a sense of originality that was just unheard of at the time. It's just about 38 minutes and every second is filled with that signature sound that so many bands would try to replicate immediately after release. If you want an introduction into everything that would eventually be possible in metal, Scream Bloody Gore not only opened the door to extreme metal, death metal, and of course later technical and progressive death metal; they butchered the door. Go listen and understand why.

3.) Symbolic (1995)
This album is 25 years old this year and nothing makes sense anymore...ANYWAYS... Symbolic is the first album to feature screams instead of growls, which was a huge watershed moment for not only the band, but death metal in general. Chuck's voice became sounding more like a black metal singer and in turned, that led more bands to try the idea of progressive black metal down the road. The core essence of the band is still here, but you can also tell that this was a last album for the band. Chuck even wanted this to be the last Death album as he wanted to set his focus to Control Denied. Many people say this is the band's best album, and I totally understand that notion. It has everything from perfect production, fantastic songwriting, and proficiency and that overall sense that music was really changing in general. If you haven't you may even want to start with Symbolic to see where technical and progressive music fleshed out with death metal seamlessly.  

2.) The Sound of Perseverance (1998)
The final death album, that actually was meant to be the first Control Denied album. This is the most vastly different album in Death's whole catalog and for that reason, it is either widely loved or hated. I am of the former, this album was my introduction to the band thanks to the magnificent drumming of Richard Christy. The album is pretty much a death metal record in vocals only, but of course, this was also of Chuck's latter screaming era vocals. It's over the top technical music performed by some of the best musicians to ever grace the band. The end of the album also features a cover of Judas Priest's Painkiller, which may be the band's most notorious cover. Overall, if you like your death metal on the far extreme end of musical proficiency, you are going to love The Sound of Perseverance, I know I do.

1.) Leprosy (1998)
Funny enough, on the bands opposite end of the spectrum, does lie my favorite Death album. Many people know me as a prog guy who loves music in different time signatures with different genres and instrumentation, but sometimes...sometimes I just want that primal rage to come out and attack. That's what Leprosy accomplished. Taking everything that made Scream Bloody Gore created it and perfected it with better songwriting, better production and the most killer instrumentation of the pure death metal era of the band; this is THE death metal album to me. There's so many great ones, ones that you could say are better than this, bands you could say are better than Death, entire genres that are better than this, but to me; Death's Leprosy stands alone. Death Metal truly made it's mark in 1988, 32 years ago this year...damn I'm going to be 32 this year, let's get to the end of this shall we?


Chuck Schuldiner created not only the death metal sound you know and love, but also helped create what would later become technical death metal, progressive death metal, and to an extent, progressive black metal. Chuck was taken away far too soon in 2001. Thankfully, his memory forever lies on between these 7 albums from Death (and 1 Control Denied album, seriously, go check out The Fragile Art of Existence, it's mindblowing). One of my all time favorite bands can never die. Thank you Chuck and Co past and present for making Death a reality.

Until next time, this is That Drummer Guy saying, SEE YA!

Well, this is going to be a controversial one isn't it? I feel like no matter how I rank all 13 albums, it will be sure to upset someone as to why I put Album Y over Album X or Album B over Album A; but that is the nature of the beast and hey, it's my list and well, if you've read any of my previous Backwards Marathon entries; you know the rules by now. ANYWAYS; Opeth has never been a band to sit on their laurels. Mikael Akerfeldt and Co. write the music they want to write be it black metal, progressive death metal or 70s inspired psychedelic progressive rock. Honestly...I wouldn't have it any other way. Let's talk about this monolithic Swedish metal band in all it's glory from the number 13th ranked album to number 1!

The Rules

1.) No EPs, cover albums, live albums, b-side albums, or best of/greatest hits collections. Just original studio LPs. Albums that have a cover or two on it are just fine.

2.) This is just my opinions on the albums in question. No outside influences other than my own and is far from a definitive world ranking. If you have a different ranking, AWESOME! Keep that up!

3.) The reason for doing this to help people get into a band/artist/etc and give ideas of what to expect if they decide to dive into the work.

4.) This is ranked from least favorite to favorite (countdown/TRL style). I will give a few words about every album as we go down the list.

5.) There will be a Spotify playlist (where applicable) to go along with the list with a song off each album so you can get another idea of what to expect. The songs will either be my favorite song off the album or one that represents the album the best in my eyes. (if you are reading this on social media, click the official link to get the playlist)

6.) Have fun and spread the word....SPREAD IT!


LET'S BEGIN!

13.) Heritage (2011)
It is so strange to think that the entire 2010s decade did not feature any screams or growls from Opeth and the start of the new era of the band began with Heritage. The real watershed (yes, pun intended) album from this band came as a shock to a lot of people, but to others, they saw this coming for a long time. It's the beginning of their more 60s-70s psychedelic, progressive rock route. There is still some heavier moments to be had, but there is so much more that reminiscences of bands like Gentle Giant or Camel instead of Edge of Sanity or, let's face it, almost every Opeth album before it. It is still a very enjoyable album if you let go of your notions about the band; and that goes both ways. If you are a prog nerd, ignore the fact the band was a progressive death metal band; if you are a death metal fan, realize this is not your Opeth albums of the past. Go in with a clear conscious and truly appreciate the album for what it is; a great throwback album to the influences Akerfeldt grew up, just more...evil.

12.) Ghost Reveries (2005)
No way you saw this one coming, did you? Hell, the only Opeth shirt I own is the Ghost Reveries one. What a lot of fans consider to be their "break out" album in the United States is the one where even people I knew in real life started figuring out who Opeth was and either dug them, hated them, or thought someone misspelled Otep. But back on point, this is an album that may come off as the last "traditional" sounding Opeth album; the progressive death metal vibes are hear nearly from start to finish. Only two songs; Hours of Wealth & Isolation Years are completely clean sung, which for Opeth, on either side of the equation, is almost unheard of having two clean songs. The album features some of the absolute best production from the band and tracks such as Ghost of Perdition and The Grand Conjuration became some of the best known Opeth songs ever. It is a classic album, it is worthy of all the praise it gets to this day, but for me; I just dig 11 albums more. *shrugs*

11.) In Cauda Venenum (2019)
The latest Opeth album is what the newest era of the band should have started with and there wouldn't have been nearly as much backlash from the old school fans of the band. It's a perfect blend of prog, hard rock, even metal moments, but all as evil, if not their most sinister album to date. One other awesome detail about this album as it is performed entirely in English AND Swedish; a first for the band. Both have their charms to it. The English version is easier to digest for a 'Merican like myself, but the Swedish version sounds much more evil, which I have to believe is the reason why it finally happened after all this time. There is a reason why people say this is the best Opeth album of the prog era. Go find out why for yourself.

10.) Morningrise (1996)
The 2nd and last album to feature black metal vibes to the band; Opeth's sophomore album is one of a sense of where the band was really finding it's footing and knowing where the band would go in the future. It's much proggier than before with a higher prominence of bass. The song structures also started becoming much more of the Opeth reference that a lot of the band's fans love them for. Lest not forget the band's longest song to date, the 20 minute epic, Black Rose Immortal. In retrospect, it makes you wonder what would have happened if the band would have ventured down the black metal route more than death metal on subsequent albums to follow. How differently would the heavier and extreme sides of prog be from what they are now? Well, give Morningrise a shot and be amazed at an album that newer fans of the band may not even realize exists!

9.) Pale Communion (2014)
This album is an apology for Heritage or a complete F U to everyone that hated Heritage; I can't put my finger on it. All I know is that I love it. It doubles downs on the proggy side of the band, but also features a lot of call backs to the band's previous works (especially played on the keys). Of course not screams or growls to be had on this one as a lot of naysayers of the band said would happen. But just look at a song like Eternal Rains Will Come; it absolutely feels like a traditional Opeth song, just proggier and clean sung. If you would have thrown this on Ghost Reveries or Watershed, no one would have been the wiser. This is what I feel is the most forgotten album of the prog era of the band and it shouldn't be. It is a fantastic album and really hearkens so many traits of the band that are that classic sound and just stand out as pure Opeth. Go back and give this album a shot, seriously!

8.) Orchid (1995)
The album that started it all is arguably the LEAST Opeth sounding album. It has the more black metal influence the band ever used, honestly, this is a progressive black metal album. While some of the signature Opeth style riffing comes into play at times, it is much more in the background for a more raw, sinister, tone. It also features a lot more folkish elements than I had remembered previously. and I swear for the life of me, Green Day stole a riff from In the Mist She Was Standing and made the song Holiday. Call me cooky, call me wacky; I hear it every time and the riff is so similar. If Morningrise was the band figuring out what the band wanted to become, Orchid is the band figuring out who they are. It's well worth a listen and for the most evil of you; this may end up as your favorite Opeth album!

7.) Sorceress (2016)
My personal favorite of the prog era Opeth albums. It's their heaviest of all four albums. It has a corrupt, spooky hard rock vibe throughout that is just undeniably awesome. There is arguments to be made that the main riff of the title track is one of the heaviest riffs the band will EVER put out. it's a very dark album and it flows together so very, very well. WHile the album can get complex, it's one of the simplest albums of the band's catalog by design so it can focus on the riffs, lyrics and tone. If you want to be won over by the prog era of the band, this album may seal the deal.

6.) Watershed (2008)
The album title is more than just a subtle nod; this is the final Opeth album of what people thought they knew about the band and they really started to showcase all sides the band was capable of. It can go from one of the most brutal songs the band ever put out in The Lotus Eater to absolutely haunting ballads like Porcelain Heart or Coil. Many diehards will say this is the last great Opeth album; I detest that wholeheartedly as I will say to this day that Opeth have yet to put out a bad album. Watershed is that last glimmering shadow of the bands progressive death metal side as it slowly evaporates into the prog rock era and that is far from a band thing. Never force a band to put out music their heart is not into, it will come off as cheap and unauthentic. It's a last hooray of the band you knew and a quick hello of the band that was to come and for that reason, it still holds up 12 years later in the best way.

5.) Deliverance (2002)
Without question, this is the band at it's absolute heaviest. This is the extreme, progressive death metal pushed to it's absolute limit, while still maintaining that great balance of solace space and haunting quiet moments (nothing ballady, just quieter). Of course prog nerds like myself will say that the ending riff of the title track is one of the greatest riffs in progressive death metal, and yeah...IT IS! There's a reason why even in the prog era of the band that Opeth still play this song, almost always to close out the show. It still holds up 18 years later (I feel so old now). Also, Steven Wilson had his hand in producing this album amongst two others I'll touch on later. Not so much on this album as those two others, you really feel Steven Wilson's influence on the band, but I do feel that Opeth really shined off on Steven Wilson on Deliverance for Porcupine Tree for albums such as In Absentia, Deadwing, and Fear of a Blank Planet (well, to an extent FoaBP). For the heaviest of all Opeth albums, you may as well start here.

4.) Still Life (1999)
For no other reason other than forgetfulness on my end, this is my least listened to Opeth album. I do not understand why as it is a pure masterpiece of an album. In a sense, this may be the 2nd most varied Opeth album right behind Watershed. It is the last album you hear any traces of black metal in the band's sound. Opeth was almost a peak classic Opeth here with it's blend of progressive death metal, folk elements and stunning clean vocals mixed with ferocious growls. it's also the band's 2nd foray into concept albums as is a haunting love story about lust, love, betrayal, anger, revenge and the afterlife. This may be Opeth at peak lyrical form. It turns out, it's not just me as a lot of Opeth fans forget about this album and the real staying power. Some may say it even tops my top choice as the best Opeth single (which is completely warranted, it's that good). Discover this nearly lost gem and all the power it truly holds.

3.) Damnation (2003)
Written at the same time as 2002's Deliverance (just released 6 months as opposed to releasing a double album); Damnation is the band's FIRST clean vocal only album. That's right kids, that didn't start with Heritage, it started here with, at the time, the most experimental album in the band's catalog. It takes many nods to the 60s-70s prog that would be a main focus later. It also sounds a lot like that point in time era Porcupine Tree (and vice versa). The song, Hope Leaves, happens to be one of my all time favorite Opeth songs for good reason. This album is a haunting soundtrack of an album and I dare say, is what made Akerfeldt realize he didn't have to finish Opeth as a death metal band which led to everything that would be to come. Such a great album.

2.) My Arms, Your Hearse (1998)
How is this album 22 years old already? Life goes by way too fast...ANYWHOO! My Arms, Your Hearse is the band's first concept album. In a very cool way of making everything flow together not just conceptually, every song ends with the title of the next track, which is an awesome way to experience the album once you start paying attention to the lyrics. But this album has it all, black metal, death metal, folk metal, progressive metal, progressive rock, a haunting story and just a stellar album of the band's massive catalog. I've seen it reference that people consider this album to be the band's Dark Side of the Moon and in an odd sense, I do hear it. It's the band finally realizing what the band can be and going full throttle into it and every album to follow. While the production is raw by today's standards; it totally fits the vibe of the album and just has a signature stamp that you'll hear going forward. To me, this is almost the band's best work...almost...

1.) Blackwater Park (2001)
You knew it was this one, I mean come on! Blackwater Park has everything you need in an Opeth album musically, lyrically, thematically, with stellar production from Steven Wilson (even his vocals on a few of the songs, most notably, Bleak). When you go back and look at the reception for this album, it's mindblowing, at the time, no one really heard music like this before. like a mix of Edge of Sanity, Porcupine Tree, Camel, and Celtic Frost. To anyone that thinks this album is overrated or bland or boring, either you were never into this style to begin with, you overheard the album so much that it doesn't have an impact on you anymore, or, most likely, you hear this album heralded as the band's best album and you have to be that cool music elitist who takes a long drift from your cigarette as you hear someone talk about it, and talk about how the album is trash and consider people who enjoy this album to be plebs. This is Opeth at it's most Opeth and there is a damn good reason it is regarded by people, like myself, as the best Opeth album made so far...simply, it's because it is the best Opeth album so far.

Look, the entire Opeth catalog will not be everyone's bag. You may just like the classic prog era the band is in now, you may only enjoy the seminal progressive death metal albums, you may be one of those people who stopped listening to Opeth after Dan Swano stopped producing them and only enjoy Orchid and Morningrise. I only ask of one thing, give all the eras of the band a shot, even if it is just the playlist I make below (if the band is even remotely up your alley). You may be surprised by what you actually realize you enjoy from the band, what your favorite band may have been inspired by from Opeth, or hell, even remember why you don't like the band. Just give them a fair, honest shake. You may be glad you did!

Till next time, this is That Drummer Guy saying, SEE YA!

- Josh Rundquist (That Drummer Guy)

Baroness, in the last 17 years since it's beginning, has gone through some of the best ups a band could possible achieve and some of the lowest. From Grammy Nominations to life threatening bus crashes; this progressive and sludge metal band has done what some bands will never reach on either end of the spectrum. In between all of that is 6 (or 5 depending on how you look at it) LPs that have all been based around the color spectrum. While that phase of the band is now in the past; It's time we should look at these albums and give them the praise they deserve and rank them in order from 6 (yes, I'm going 6 here, folks) to 1.

The Rules

1.) No EPs, cover albums, live albums, b-side albums, or best of/greatest hits collections. Just original studio LPs. Albums that have a cover or two on it are just fine.

2.) This is just my opinions on the albums in question. No outside influences other than my own and is far from a definitive world ranking. If you have a different ranking, AWESOME! Keep that up!

3.) The reason for doing this to help people get into a band/artist/etc and give ideas of what to expect if they decide to dive into the work.

4.) This is ranked from least favorite to favorite (countdown/TRL style). I will give a few words about every album as we go down the list.

5.) There will be a Spotify playlist (where applicable) to go along with the list with a song off each album so you can get another idea of what to expect. The songs will either be my favorite song off the album or one that represents the album the best in my eyes. (if you are reading this on social media, click the official link to get the playlist)

6.) Have fun and spread the word....SPREAD IT!


LET'S BEGIN!

6.) Green (Yellow & Green) (2012)

The whole reason why there is some debate as to whether the band has put out 5 or 6 albums or this release is actually two EPs put together as an EP. I'm removing the semantics of it all (and just an easier way to cover the color spectrum) by just saying they are two different LPs and carrying on. Let's actually get into Green now, shall we? Green shows the band at it's lightest side to date. While there are songs like Psalms Alive and The Line Between that actually pick up the pace a bit in comparison; the rest of Green is much more focused on showing variation of their traditional sound by adding a bit more folk, country, southern, and atmospheric vibes. It's a chill album that is easy to just kick back, relax, and enjoy. A perfect counterweight to Yellow, yet they blend in together so well. If you're not so much into heavier stuff but wanna give Baroness a shot, this is where you should start. I do love all 6 LPs, but something had to take the bottom rung.

5.) Red Album (2007)

13 years ago this album came out, that blows my mind, that means I graduated 13 years ago...ANYWAYS! Red Album is where most sludge metal and some prog fans discovered the band. This is actually where I first started hearing rumblings of the band's existence. It came out at the right time as well, right when people wanted a heavier version of Clutch or a mellow version of Mastodon; that is Red Record. So many southern grooves, monolithic riffs, poppy but sludgy hooks and just the beginning (in LP form) of where the band was bound to go. Some say this is the heaviest Baroness album, and there's arguments to be made for that. I just happen to know it's a shining example of a band on the rise.

4.) Blue Record (2009)

This was where fans of the band started to realize that the band was doing something quite cool and naming their albums after different colors. Blue Record is definitely the companion album to Red Album. Depending on who you ask THIS is the heaviest album from the band, Much like Red Album, there's arguments to be made with this one as well for that claim. The songs are more filtered and exactly what they need to be. Not afraid of showing more variation of sound, which makes the heavier aspects of the album that much heavier. More people started catching onto the band at this point and the band was continuing to grow and grow. This is such a killer album.

3.) Yellow (Yellow & Green) (2012)

Yellow is the other release to the aforementioned Green release (as you can tell by the title...Yellow & Green...) Not just the longer of the two releases, but much faster, heavier, poppier, and head bobbing music. All three singles from Yellow & Green were all taken from Yellow and yeah, it's easy to understand why. Yellow feels like the natural successor to Blue Record while Green showed off more of the bands experimental and softer side. It's easy to understand why Yellow & Green were released together as they have that perfect ebb and flow counterbalance. While both of these were the last release before the bands horrific bus crash, this was a great watershed moment for the band as to what was to come for their last two albums of the color spectrum.

2.) Gold & Grey (Orange (2019)

The band's latest LP, and the last of the color spectrum run of LPs; Gold & Grey (it's the orange album for the sake of the color spectrum) is one that takes you though the bands most varied music to date. Many short musical interludes, great atmosphere, the mellow songs are tear jerking and the heavy songs make you headbang. It's a perfect album for someone like me. The elephant in the room on this album is the production as it is mixed very hot and for many audiophiles it is unlistenable. If you are like me and just like amazing songs; this will not be a factor for you. Now that nearly a year has past since the release of this album; appreciate it for what it is, a mindblowing album. There's a reason it has a 91% rating on Metacritic.

1.) Purple (2015)

Yes, the first album after their terrifying bus accident, where we were not even sure if the band would continue; the band released their most commercially accessible album and I can't lie; it's my favorite for good reason, it's just that good! It feels like every song was specially crafted to be as musical ear candy as possible. It's the most rock centric album of the band's catalog as well, featuring many nods to bands like Thin Lizzy and Queen, while still being the Baroness you know and love. Though, many of the long time fans of the band started dropping off at this point (isn't always the first album to have mass commercial success that a band can no longer be in your back pocket?), that is completely fine as Baroness finally achieved the success they had always wanted musically and are able to tour and be themselves. Shock Me was nominated for a Grammy for good reason. If you want the absolute best start of where to begin with Baroness; It's Purple.



And there you have it, folks; all 6 LPs in the Baroness discography from 6 to 1. There is not a bad apple in the bunch and every album has a bite of solid, solid goodness. Be it heavier, mellower, commercial or experimental, the band has something for you. Thanks again for reading this list and tune in next Friday for another band retrospective discography.

Till next time, this is That Drummer Guy saying, SEE YA!

- Josh Rundquist (That Drummer Guy)

HIM is arguably the most successful metal band to come out of Finland. With their major exposure in the US thanks to Bam Margera and being celebrated by the chain store, Hot Topic; the band spoke to a generation of people who wanted that right mix of goth, pop, rock, and metal. Did they succeed? For the world’s scope, they certainly did. But what about to my ears? Well explore this with the latest edition of Backwards Marathon covering all 8 of HIM’s studio LPs, which of course, could not be released on a better day...VALENTINE’S DAY to talk about some Love Metal!


The Rules

1.) No EPs, cover albums, live albums, b-side albums, or best of/greatest hits collections. Just original studio LPs. Albums that have a cover or two on it are just fine.

2.) This is just my opinions on the albums in question. No outside influences other than my own and is far from a definitive world ranking. If you have a different ranking, AWESOME! Keep that up!

3.) The reason for doing this to help people get into a band/artist/etc and give ideas of what to expect if they decide to dive into the work.

4.) This is ranked from least favorite to favorite (countdown/TRL style). I will give a few words about every album as we go down the list.

5.) There will be a Spotify playlist (where applicable) to go along with the list with a song off each album so you can get another idea of what to expect. The songs will either be my favorite song off the album or one that represents the album the best in my eyes. (if you are reading this on social media, click the official link to get the playlist)

6.) Have fun and spread the word....SPREAD IT!


LET'S BEGIN!


8.) Screamworks: Love in Theory and Practice (2010)
This album was absolutely not recorded with my preferences in mind. While this is Ville Valo’s first album after getting sober; the album has a very diverse and poppy side to them. Kind of like a 80s gothic poppy 2000s album. While this album will hit right at home for some people and I gotta commend Valo for getting sober and making the band last as long as it did after; This is the one album I never go back to. Nothing captured my interest long enough for must spin again qualities. I imagine it could also be a good gateway album for those that aren’t really into rock music to get a first taste of what HIM could do for them.

7.) Tears On Tape (2013)
The band’s final album is one that does not feel like it should have been their swansong, though in a way, it still does. This is everything that the band was known for with a new, final, spin. Some songs are quite doomy, other songs are quite poppy, others are straight ahead rockers, others are haunting ballads. If that doesn’t describe HIM in a nutshell, what does? All in all, it’s the band’s farewell, but it is quite an enjoyable listen and if the band ever comes back down the road...I wouldn’t mind a proper farewell album.


6.) Dark Light (2006)
When I was a junior in high school, this is when all the “cool kids” finally discovered HIM and boy, was Wings of a Butterfly overplayed by everyone I know. Without question this is the most accessible album the band ever put out. And yeah, Wings of a Butterfly ended up being the band’s biggest hit (I THINK?) in the states and it’s actually a shame I didn’t give the rest of an album a chance at the time. I was in the pigheaded mindset still that if WOAB was the single, the album won’t be any better. I was wrong. It’s a very solid poppy goth rock album and yeah, If you want the HIM experience in it’s catchiest form, Dark Light is the album for you.

5.) Deep Shadows and Brilliant Highlights (2001)
I gotta credit this album in the same way as Dream Theater’s Falling Into Infinity. This was not the vision of the album the band wanted, the writing process was strenuous thanks to the record label and getting a producer that just did not mesh well with the band (though some ideas Valo actually admits benefited the songs); this album was the album that saw the meteoric rise of the band from their previous release...and tried to make it more of a cash cow than authentic. The end result was in the middle with the lyrics and songs still sounding great, but it is definitely a poppy album for the band and they did the best they could under the situation they were in. Absolutely worth a spin as some songs are absolute classics.


4.) Love Metal (2003)
Not just the genre name given to the band throughout the years, but the most organic and authentic HIM album made. After the frustrations of their previous album, The band wanted to go in a more authentic route and spin out tunes of where the band was at the time. You get a very rocky, heavy, and fun album that just sounds like the band is the happiest they were ever at (which is funny considering the lyrics of almost every single HIM song). If you want to see the sides of the band that showcase what the band is all about, both as their signature sound, and sounds you never really here in the band again, check this one out.

3.) Razorblade Romance (2000)
Surprised to see this one at number 1? At one time I would be as well. This was the album that brought me to the goth prom. This is not only the breakout album for the band, but the sound that is the most recognizable for the band (unless Dark Light was your entry way, then that is more of what you are used to). To this day, my favorite HIM song is Right Here In My Arms, I just think it is the perfect “single” song. Heavy, catchy, poppy, haunting, and even has a frigging hand clap section! What’s not to love? This will always have a near and dear spot in my heart as when I checked it out at the time, it was the album I needed...though I couldn’t relate entirely as I never had a girlfriend in high school, so...yeah…ANYWAYS!!!! This is the signature HIM album, go check it out if you wanna know what the hubbub was all about.


2.) Venus Doom (2007)
Boy, did this album come out at another great time in my live. This is the heaviest, angriest, doomiest, and on some days, BEST album HIM ever put out. While this album does suffer the Downward Spiral effect; where this album was made when Valo was essentially in mental hell from mental health issues, relationship issues, and sobriety issues. When you hear the lyrics on this album, you definitely hear it. Seriously, if you love bands like Anathema, My Dying Pride, Woods of Ypres, and yeah let’s face it, Type O Negative; This will become your favorite Him album. Seriously, this is the biggest departure the band ever took and even though the circumstances were horrific; the final product is a masterpiece.


1.) Greatest Love Songs Vol. 666 (1997)
Yeah, this is my favorite era of Him, along with Venus Doom (seriously, these two album could even change places by the time I write this up). This was the raw,k gothic, haunting, sinister, and atmospheric. And the guitar tone...yeah this has one of my favorite guitar tones on an album. I get that the tone won’t be for everyone, but this is how you make a freaking heavy guitar tone work. While some songs on this album were later re-recorded and re-covered on Razorblade Romance; I honestly prefer the original versions of all of those songs (though I will happily enjoy either version). This also features my favorite cover of Blue Oyster Cult’s Don’t Fear The Reaper. I love when a band can take a song and make it their own, in this case, just slowing it down, beefing up the guitar, make it more haunting and BOOM; you got it! While I wouldn’t recommend this as the first album you listen to if you’re not into the heavier side of things, I think this is a great album to experience and maybe even appreciate the most from the band.



And there you have it folks. 8 albums from 1997 through 2013 that showcased to the world what Love Metal is all about. Some bands have tried to duplicate it, it only comes off as imitating it poorly. HIM is that band where some feel embarrassed to like or feel like it’s a guilty please. I for one, am not ashamed to say I love so much of HIM’s catalog and I do not believe in guilty pleasures (if you like something, embrace it). While the band is gone, take the time to revisit the band and see what they were like. Heck, even take the Spotify playlist down below, light some black candles, and have a dark, lustful Valentine’s Day.


Till next time, this is That Drummer Guy saying, SEE YA!

- Josh Rundquist (That Drummer Guy)

I've said it many times in my life and I will continue saying it for as long as I can; dredg is my favorite non metal band of all time. Sure, their can be some heavier tinges to their style (their early day promos giving off major Deftones and Sepultura vibes) but the band is known for their Art Rock, Prog and Pop elements. All the way back from my Mike Portnoy Forum days, a good friend I made from the forum; Angra1, introduced me to the band and once I finally pulled the trigger on seeing the band, I was floored. Every time, minus one, I got the setlist from the show and some autographs and actually hang out with members me. Actually bassist, Drew Roulette, knows me as the guy who wore an Iced Earth shirt to their show as I had just saw Iced Earth a couple days prior to my first dredg show. they are a fun, quirky, and astonishingly breathtaking band that deserves your attention. While the band just has 5 albums so far, and their latest album was 9 freaking years ago; the band is hoping to rectify that soon with a 2020/2021 release) till then, it's about time you got caught up to speed with the bad. Here is my personal ranking of the band's LPs in descending order.

The Rules

1.) No EPs, cover albums, live albums, b-side albums, or best of/greatest hits collections. Just original studio LPs. Albums that have a cover or two on it are just fine.

2.) This is just my opinions on the albums in question. No outside influences other than my own and is far from a definitive world ranking. If you have a different ranking, AWESOME! Keep that up!

3.) The reason for doing this to help people get into a band/artist/etc and give ideas of what to expect if they decide to dive into the work.

4.) This is ranked from least favorite to favorite (countdown/TRL style). I will give a few words about every album as we go down the list.

5.) There will be a spotify playlist (where applicable) to go along with the list with a song off each album so you can get another idea of what to expect. The songs will either be my favorite song off the album or one that represents the album the best in my eyes. (if you are reading this on social media, click the official link to get the playlist)

6.) Have fun and spread the word....SPREAD IT!


LET'S BEGIN!

5.) Leitmotif (1998)

The band's first LP is a not in any way a shabby album. It's actually a delightful album that showcases where the band would go eventually, but also traces of where the band was before Leitmotif with some heavier moments and particularly on the song Yatahaze, the only use of screams on any dredg LP in a fiery unleashing of lyrics near the end of the track. Basically, If you like the heavier side of the band, or just wanna start from the beginning and work your way forward, Leitmotif is quite possibly the album that may sink you into the band. But prog nerds, don't be scared, the prog, art and experimental moments are here as well and of course is more fleshed out as time rolls on.

4.) Chuckles and Mr. Squeezy (2011)

Boy, oh boy...this sure brought on some controversy didn't it? If you are just hearing about the band for the first time from this list; let me explain. after 3 monumental pieces of progressive rock, hard rock and art rock; dredg decided to take an element of their sound that was always hinted at in their music and make that the focal point of a full album...the electronic sides. Some of the best songs from the band have this element in the songs, but always was sued as a spice, never the main course of the meal. Even hip hop producer, Dan the Automator, produced the album and his influence is on nearly every track. While many fans couldn't have more turned off by this course of action...I actually really enjoy it. *GASP!!!!* Yes, I'm serious. This is not going to be an album everyone enjoys and some people downright hate this album; I find it refreshing and such an easy listen for lonely nights (which I tend to have a lot). the dredg sound is still there and honestly, if the album was presented as dredg + Dan the Automator; I don't think the hate would be as strong. It's a collaboration album and to me at least, it works. If you're not really into prog or hard rock, this might even be the first album you should check out. 9 years have passed, let's be honest, it's a left of center album, but a damn good left of center dredg album.

3.) The Pariah, The Parrot, The Delusion (2009)

These last three albums can be in any order at any time. They are truly 3 masterpiece albums for 3 different reasons and is arguably one of the strongest 3 album stretches achieved by ANY band (fight me, jerks!) TPTPTD is quite possibly the most straight ahead album in the band's catalog. While there are many quirky moments and quite a number of interludes (not always instrumental interludes mind you), there only enhance the other songs, not hinder the album and nowhere near filler. There are some heavier moments on this album, hard rock moments, one riff that sounds like a complete nod to CKY, and some of the most inspirational lyrics you'll hear in a non religious context (seriously, the band is atheist). If you want that closer to modern hard rock of around a decade ago sound, this should be the album  you hear first.

2.) El Cielo (2002)

The band's 2nd concept album and to many fans (even myself depending on the day) is the band's finest work. It is a concept album about sleep paralysis and the lucid dreaming that can come from it. the songs much the the album we just talked about, does have some interludes, but they are short, sweet, and fill out the concept of the album perfectly. Apparently, if you sync this album up Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless mind, it syncs up nearly perfectly ala Dark Side of the Moon and The Wizard of Oz or 2112 and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (I should try that with all 3 some time). But case in point, if you want to know that dredg is all about, this is THE album...

1.) Catch Without Arms (2005)

...on the other hand; if you want the best SONGS the band has done to this date, this is the album you MUST check out first. Produced by the band and legendary producer, Terry Date; PLUS ex Queensryche guitarist, Chris DeGarmo, helped out on arranging the songs and album. This lead to the band at their most song orientated. No interludes (though short bursts of sound effects and quirky moments at the end of some songs). This, more often than not, is the album I go back to more than any other as it is just that kind of album that feels like a full on sonic concept, but really, it's just an absolutely solid album from start to finish that just feels right every time you put it on. This is also the album that got the band a lot of mainstream attention with the single Bug Eyes, they even got to play on Jimmy Kimmel Live! and got to be apart of the Taste of Chaos tour that happened not long after. This is the album that really shows the other side of what the band is all about.


And there you go folks; all 5 dredg albums to date, ranked from 5 to 1. Like I said, I love this band to death and they are one of the most underrated and underappreciated bands around. When they come back, give their new album the love that it will deserve and thanks again for checking this out. And be sure to check out the Spotify playlist to check a song off each album in descending order to help you get into the band.

Till next week, this is That Drummer Guy saying, SEE YA!

- Josh Rundquist (That Drummer Guy)

This is one band I was going to get to in Backwards Marathon, but I was really hoping that it was going to be under better circumstances. This past week, we lost original COC drummer, Reed Mullin at just the age of 51. This one really hit me hard as Reed became a good friend of mine ever since I interviewed him for the first time in 2014. Since then we hang out, drank together, shared music and drumming stories, and just enjoyed each other’s company. I unfortunately was not able to see Reed play his last tour in Minneapolis as I was in the hospital at the time. And after seeing the setlist and especially knowing what’s happened now; I wish I could have seen him that last time.


All of that said, here’s the best tribute I could possibly give Reed and all of COC, by ranking every studio LP from the band from my least favorite to my favorite. Some surprises, some not to surprising. Regardless, especially if you are not familiar with Corrosion of Conformity; I hope you enjoy this list and get to check out some new music for your ears. Let’s Fly On!

The Rules

1.) No EPs, cover albums, live albums, b-side albums, or best of/greatest hits collections. Just original studio LPs. Albums that have a cover or two on it are just fine.

2.) This is just my opinions on the albums in question. No outside influences other than my own and is far from a definitive world ranking. If you have a different ranking, AWESOME! Keep that up!

3.) The reason for doing this to help people get into a band/artist/etc and give ideas of what to expect if they decide to dive into the work.

4.) This is ranked from least favorite to favorite (countdown/TRL style). I will give a few words about every album as we go down the list.

5.) There will be a spotify playlist (where applicable) to go along with the list with a song off each album so you can get another idea of what to expect. The songs will either be my favorite song off the album or one that represents the album the best in my eyes. (if you are reading this on social media, click the official link to get the playlist)

6.) Have fun and spread the word....SPREAD IT!


10.) IX (2014)
I must start off with saying that there is not a COC album I don’t dig, but in a list like this, something has to go last. This was the last album of the trio format that the band had explored since the self titled album and last album before Pepper Keenan rejoined the band full time. There is much to enjoy about this album as it features both the southern grooves and the hardcore punk elements in a great crossover style. I guess if I had to put a reason why it’s at the bottom is because this album really could have benefited from Pepper rejoining at this point. HE just has the perfect voice for that style of the band and it’s missing here. It is still 100% worthy of checking out and enjoying.


9.) Animosity (1985)
The 2nd album from COC is very much still in the hardcore punk style that was created on the band’s debut album. This era of the band is very militant of it’s love from the fanbase or it’s ignored by those that love the later era of the band. I fall in the middle as I love all of their work and throwing on the first two Corrosion of Conformity albums is just so much to listen to and drum along to, in my case. This was right before what was going to change the band coming up on their EP, Technocracy, then completely explored on their third album, but for those hardcore punk and thrash fans, you gotta hear this album if you haven’t already.


8.) Wiseblood (1996)
The second album of the Pepper Keenan led era is one that really showed the band solidifying their roots in the southern rock, southern metal, and groove era and it’s awesome to hear. It feels so natural and the production simply rules. Many fans of this style caught on with the band’s previous album, but this is where the fans stuck around and knew the band was the real deal. If you dig this era or at leas this style, you need to give this one a shot.


7.) Eye for an Eye (1983)
The band’s debut album is one of my favorite hardcore punk and crossover thrash albums. The production is raw, the songs are unrelenting, the style just screams 80s hardcore. While some prefer Animosity as the songs are more polished, I really think the debut album is just something to behold as one of the best of it’s style. If this not your scene, but you’ve always been curious, give this and Animosity a shot and see what you’ve been missing.


6.) Deliverance (1994)
Oh boy, I’m going to get chastised for having this so so aren’t I? Pepper Keenan’s first album on lead vocals is the 2nd album to explore more of southern styles, but first that really solidified the band and really got people’s attention. So much so, it is regularly referred to as their best album. And I totally understand why. It has some of their best songs, the production is top notch, and just hearing Pepper sing is just a glorious thing to enjoy. I absolutely recommend this album as a great starting point for the band and something to really enjoy, it may end up being your favorite from the band as well.


5.) Corrosion of Conformity (2012)
The band’s first album in 7 years showed a shake up of the band. Pepper was out, and the band was back to being Woody, Mike and Reed as a trio. This is a COC crossover thrash/Hardcore Punk album in 2012 and it’s as awesome as it sounds. The sound is just updated enough, the production is VASTLY better but the spirit is completely there and it’s a sight to behold. I actually saw the band during the tour for this album and it was awesome seeing them at The Triple Rock in Minneapolis and with 399 other people just getting to experience a reprisal of everything I missed not being alive in the early to mid 80s and seeing what that hardcore punk scene was really about. This album is the best representation of that and you should give it as spin and see if it is for you.


4.) Blind (1991)
Blind is a watershed album for the band. The very first album to explore the southern sounds of the band, but it also goes in to the more heavy metal direction that would stay with the band from this point forward. This is also the only album to feature Karl Agell on vocals, which really makes this album feel like a one off. For that reason, it is such a unique experience. Mixing just the right amounts of punk, metal and southern grooves. It feels like a blend of Metallica, Suicidal Tendencies and 38. Special. It’s a great album that deserves the praise that it gets.


3.) In The Arms of God (2005)
This was the album that brought me to the dance and depending on how the future goes (at least up to date anyways) this is the only COC album without Reed Mullin on drums. On this album they got NOLA Jazz and fusion drummer Stanton Moore to play drums on the album. This is by far the heaviest album in the band’s catalog and the album that brought me to the dance. This was Corrosion of Conformity at it’s most metal and it’s a great experience for that. The songs are so catchy and heavy, the production is loud but perfect for the style, and Pepper just shines with his vocals. This is such a great album and if you are a metalhead, you may wanna start with this album first or even one other album I’ll bring up later.


2.) America’s Volume Dealer (2000)
This album continues to win me over every single time I listen to it. Without question, this is the most diverse album in the band’s catalog. It has some of the heaviest guitar tones of it’s style on this record, it has some of the band’s lightest songs, and some of the most radio friendly songs as well. Everything you could possibly want in a COC album is showcased in some way on this album and for someone like me, that’s exactly what I want in an album. Never too much of one thing and everything flows together. I never see this album talked about a lot, or really even at all, but there is a reason why so many songs were always showcased from this album in the Pepper eras of COC. You should find out too.


1.) No Cross No Crown (2018)
This was the revival album of Corrosion of Conformity. This is the album that people have been craving for 13 years since In The Arms of God. When Pepper Keenan rejoined COC and the band announced they were going to be writing a new album, everyone knew the band was back with a vengeance and yeah...this album SLAYS! It’s crushing, it’s heavy, it’s COC at it’s highest potential and the album just shines for that reason. Some wil say that the use of instrumental interludes (4 in total) makes the album exceed it’s welcome and it goes on too long, ignore those people, those interludes feel so natural and really make the album flow together from one song to the next. This was the first album since America’s Volume Dealer (2000) to have the classic lineup together and sadly, after 18 years, that will be the last album of that lineup. Check out Reed’s last drumming on this record and just hear how happy the band is to be back together and just rage together once again, it truly is their finest work (at least to date).



And there we have it folks, all 10 Corrosion Of Conformity LPs counted down to the very best. COC is a treasure that should never be forgotten and these 10 albums are perfect examples of why. Be sure to check out their EPs and live albums as well, as everything is absolutely worth checking out, but for this I hope I did the band and Reed proud by showing off the band in the best light I can. And if you are only reading this on social media. be sure to click the link and check out the curated playlist I made featuring a track off every album ranked.



Till next time, this is That Drummer Guy saying, SEE YA!
- Josh Rundquist (That Drummer Guy)

Welp, I didn’t wait long to to cover the band that helped inspired the name of this series. Between the Buried and Me is actually one of the most varied bands in the 21st century in prog. Of course, following what was said about the 2007 album, Colors, they are Adult Contemporary Progressive Death Metal. I still think that is a natural fit for the band as they can go from deathcore to Queen to Dream Theater to Mr. Bungle like it is nothing. Over the course of the band’s history they have released 9 proper studio LPs, a covers album, and a “mini” album that might actually be their best work (too bad I can’t include it on this list, but that’s the way it goes.) Let’s go over these 9 proper studio albums and rank them from the bottom to the top!


The Rules

1.) No EPs, cover albums, live albums, b-side albums, or best of/greatest hits collections. Just original studio LPs. Albums that have a cover or two on it are just fine.

2.) This is just my opinions on the albums in question. No outside influences other than my own and is far from a definitive world ranking. If you have a different ranking, AWESOME! Keep that up!

3.) The reason for doing this to help people get into a band/artist/etc and give ideas of what to expect if they decide to dive into the work.

4.) This is ranked from least favorite to favorite (countdown/TRL style). I will give a few words about every album as we go down the list.

5.) There will be a spotify playlist (where applicable) to go along with the list with a song off each album so you can get another idea of what to expect. The songs will either be my favorite song off the album or one that represents the album the best in my eyes. (if you are reading this on social media, click the official link to get the playlist)

6.) Have fun and spread the word....SPREAD IT!




9.) Between The Buried And Me (2002)

The album that started it all. While this album absolutely has hints at what the band would become down the line; the self titled album showcases a lot of brutality that you will just not hear on any other release. Really showing off the deathcore elements with breakdowns, some absolutely ruthless vocals (both highs and lows) and that great feeling of a band that is throwing everything they can into an album and knowing exactly where to go from there on out. This is BTBAM at it’s more primal and it’s a great listen for that reason.


8.) The Parallax II: Future Sequence (2012)

The endind of the long running sub-story that had been running through the band’s discography since 2003’s The Silent Circus finally gets it’s full fledged and climactic ending. Upon repeated listens, I gotta give this album more credit than I have in the past. The songs are absolutely solid, the production is stellar and this is a great conclusion to this on running story. It will just help tremendously if you check out The Hypersleep Dialogues (like mentioned earlier, this may be my favorite work from the band) first to get more of a grasp of the story, and check out the connected songs made previously. Even then, don’t expect to understand the story on your first listen. It’ll take a while.


7.) Automata I (2018)

Is this a gray area? Sure. You can either look at Automata I & II as one album, two separate albums or even two EPs that form one album. For the benefit of less confusion I’m taking it as two different albums. They are listed as I and II so there! Anyways...The beginning of the Automata story is another concept album which BTBAM have been masters at since they began doing concept albums. It’s a very intriguing story and musically it goes through many different twists and turns (even more so on Automata II). If you dig the shorter songs of BTBAM, this may be a great starting point for you as it shows where the band is at now, but also gives you the full point of the songs as well.


6.) Coma Ecliptic (2015)

Oh boy...here we go… So this was a polarizing album, eh? It’s amazing in hindsight why it is polarizing because musically, this is a pure BTBAM album. The proggyness is shining through more than ever, sure, but that doesn’t detract from the music at all (at least in my prog sighted mind anyways). The problem comes down to (for most people) the vocals. For typical prog fans, this will be the album for you to check out first as it has longer songs, very proggy moments and the most clean vocals you will find on any BTBAM album. For long time fans of the band, that can be a bad thing as they missed the screams that either took over or were at least complimented by the clean vocals to make a great contrast. Vocals aside, this is another fantastic concept album that really grabs you and takes you on a great, dreamy, adventure. It may be the red-headed step child to a lot of fans, but whether you are a long time fan of the band, just getting into the band, or just skipped on this album for whatever reason; go give this one a shot. It’s worth it.


5.) Automata II (2018)

THIS is where the fun is at! If you dug Automata I but felt like something was missing, this is the album to go check out next. The progressive death metal epics are all on this 2nd half of Automata. While Automata I does end with the 10 minute epic, Blot, that was just a taste of things to come with the final 4 songs shown off here. If this is the direction that the band goes in going forward, I will be very, VERY happy with what’s coming next.


4.) The Silent Circus (2003)

I honestly had this in 2nd place for quite a bit, that’s how varied my list order can get at times. This was the album that brought me to the dance. This took the ideas that were shown off on the self titled album but brought them into full light. Almost all of the tropes that you know and love from the band are shown off in some way on The Silent Circus, just in smaller doses. The songs still have brutal riffs and are a main showcase, but the prog elements are sneaking their way in throughout the album and they really make it stand out. This also features the first time that clean vocals became a main part of the band rather than just a spice in the recipe. If you need any proof of where the band was going to go in the future, just listen to the song Mordecai; Still one of my all time favorite BTBAM songs, that second half is pure unadulterated beauty.


3.) Alaska (2005)

It’s amazing to think that The Silent Circus and Colors were only 4 years apart and in between was the perfect bridge of an album called Alaska. For prog nerds like myself, this was what got everyone’s attention (though as stated earlier, The Silent Circus is what brought me into town). The prog is becoming more of a focus for the band while the deathcore is all but gone. They are a progressive death metal band at this point, just quite a brutal one. Much like The Silent Circus prior, this is just a stunning display for musicianship with even better production and songwriting. And like Mordecai for myself on The Silent Circus, prog fans dropped their jaws the first time they heard Selkies: The Endless Obsession. The second half of this song is pure beauty with one of the best solos of the band’s career to date. Alaska has become a lost gem in the grand scheme of things, but it is an album of wonder that needs to be remembered.


2.) The Great Misdirect (2009)

Actually one of only 3 albums to NOT be a concept album, which is odd to think about if you are not a prog fan. After the Success of Colors, the band wanted to show off they were more than capable of telling multiple stories in their music and hence, The Great Misdirect. This album is filled to the brim with stunning songwriting, mindblowing production (especially with the 2019 remix/remaster) and some of most creative ideas to ever be shown off on a BTBAM album. And of course, how could you not love a 17 minute epic like Swim to the Moon, I mean SERIOUSLY! If you want to enjoy a BTBAM filled with prog but don’t wanna have to keep up with a long running story to enjoy it, check this one out.


1.) Colors (2007)

How could it have been anything other than Colors? I mean really? This is the seminal BTBAM and one of the seminal progressive death metal albums. I still like to think of this album as one song, despite being cut up into 8 tracks for easier listening. This also marked one of my favorite shows ever, seeing BTBAM perform Colors in it’s entirety shortly after the album came out in 2007 at The Triple Rock in Minnesota. Myself and 399 other people just raging to this masterpiece of a song. In the beginning of this, I mentioned how BTBAM is referred to as Adult Contemporary Progressive Death Metal; Colors was the album where that all started. The prog is in full form, the death metal sides shine through and there are so many nods to other styles that fit seamlessly. BE it going from typical BTBAM fanfare to Mr Bungle style riffs to a drunken country line-dancing party, it’s all here and then some. Colors was a once in a lifetime album and even if the band doesn’t achieve this popularity again, they will of had this under their belt and it blows my mind this was already 13 years ago…




And there you have it folks, all 9 of Between The Buried And Me’s original studio LPs ranked from the bottom to the top. I’m sure our lists will differ in some way and I would love to hear your list as well. Let me know. And if you are new to the band, make sure to check out the Spotify playlist I made below checking off a song off each album in order lineup that just may get you into the band.


Till next time, this is That Drummer Guy saying, SEE YA!
- Josh Rundquist (That Drummer Guy)

Agalloch is always perfect this time of year in the northern hemisphere. It’s cold, dark, haunting, and really gives you a lot of time to reflect on things. Even if you enjoy the holiday season, most people are sick of the snow after new years comes and goes and there is the potential to deal with 3-4 more months of snow in the forecasts. While Agalloch is not just a winter seasonal band; they are a band that is synonymous with the season with some of their best material. Agalloch can be enjoyed any time of year as they are a very pagan/nature inspired band that really appreciates the earth, the moon and the stars. In this edition of Backwards Marathon, I wanna go over the 5 full LPs form the band and rank them from least favorite to most favorite to give you an idea of what this band is all about, especially if you are a newcomer to this Blackened, Folkish, Pagan Post Rock band that has influences so many bands since it’s inception and will continue to do so after their demise in 2016. While is a band where there is no wrong answer as to what is best or worst; I love the idea of talking about these albums and spreading the word of the music they left us.




The Rules

1.) No EPs, cover albums, live albums, b-side albums, or best of/greatest hits collections. Just original studio LPs. Albums that have a cover or two on it are just fine.

2.) This is just my opinions on the albums in question. No outside influences other than my own and is far from a definitive world ranking. If you have a different ranking, AWESOME! Keep that up!

3.) The reason for doing this to help people get into a band/artist/etc and give ideas of what to expect if they decide to dive into the work.

4.) This is ranked from least favorite to favorite (countdown/TRL style). I will give a few words about every album as we go down the list.

5.) There will be a spotify playlist (where applicable) to go along with the list with a song off each album so you can get another idea of what to expect. The songs will either be my favorite song off the album or one that represents the album the best in my eyes. (if you are reading this on social media, click the official link to get the playlist)

6.) Have fun and spread the word....SPREAD IT!


5.) The Serpent & The Sphere (2014)
I normally see this one listed as the worst work from the band, though I’m torn on that statement. It’s not one of the legacy albums that put their name into the history books, but it does have fantastic songs from beginning to end and the greatest production they ever had the fortune to use. Rather than nature as the biggest inspiration, the songs are much more focused on the stars and the dialog that it can bring to the world. The music has more hints of their black metal side while keeping the rest in check. I’d say as a final album from a band, it feels like a letdown because it would have been great to see one big finale to this entity known as Agalloch and really have stamp down their legacy, but as the final album we received; I think it’s a great gateway for newcomers to the band that love the more sinister and black metal styles of music. It fits quite well.

4.) Pale Folklore (1999)
In all honesty, it’s a complete toss up between this and next album to be talked about as to their ranking order for me. Sometimes Pale Folklore is better to me, sometimes it’s vice versa. But this debut LP is something of haunting wonder. The production has that great balance between clean and raw. The clean tones on this album simply gives you chills every time you hear them, and you really hear the band get a footing of what they want to accomplish. While you don’t hear so much of the doom style going forward; you do hear the beginnings of the post rock elements that will fill the band’s sound till the very end. This has that great black metal vibe as well in it’s guitar tones and structure that really makes this an album that truly stands on it’s own. A fantastic album that I simply can’t believe turns 21 this year (it can finally buy tobacco and beer now).

3.) Ashes Against The Grain (2006)
4 years after what might be considered their masterwork; Agalloch, instead of just recreating the same album twice, created an album that just makes my jaw drop every time I hear it. Between phenomenal production, hauntingly beautiful song structures and instrumentation, and of course some of the best songs of the band’s discography; Ashes Against the Grain is an album that is a standard definition of what Agalloch is about in all facets. Everything that you loved about the band before and everything you will love with the 2 albums to follow it is shown off here in strides. Plus, how great of an opener is Limbs...SERIOUSLY? This is Agalloch at their most...Agalloch!

2.) Marrow of the Spirit (2011)
As you may have realized by this point, Agalloch took their time when it came to writing and recording. It wasn’t just between day jobs and other projects; it was because they wanted to create the best music they possibly could and didn’t want to release anything until it was what they wanted the world to hear. It has been stated by John Haughm that the band’s previous album, Ashes Against the Grain was “Too Polished” and “The worst album” in the band’s catalog (I couldn’t disagree with what more); the band went for almost the entirely opposite direction for Marrow of the Spirit. Instead of clean and polished production, they went as raw as they could while still being audible. Instead of making the songs clean and pretty, the songs have the darkest and most black metal elements the band ever had in one album. And by gum, they knocked it out of the park. While this was my introduction into the band, don’t mistake that for blind love of the band; this album is one of the best albums of the 2010s and I can’t think of much that can possibly rival it. It has the dark, sinister, scary moments that the band can hone in on and make it work miraculously. Even the very post rock sounding Ghost of Midwinter Fires has is great example of the band in their most winter inspired both instrumentally and lyrically. The heaviest Agalloch album bar none.

1.) The Mantle (2006)
Honestly, how could it be ANYTHING other than The Mantle? It is the perfect album from start to finish. Every single note matters, every single word is haunting, the music is something of pure wonder, it is the perfect representation of the band’s winter vibes...seriously, every time it snows here, I think of this album. The production is the perfect blend between clear and raw really giving you chills you may never feel outside of listening to this album. Another thing that really sets this album apart from others is the use of sound clips and actually making the album half instrumental. Agalloch knows when to add lyrics to a song and when not to add lyrics. A song such as The Hawthorne Passage has just as much emotional power as a song like You Were But A Ghost In My Arms. Basically, if you are reading this as it is posted, this is the perfect album to listen to this time of year. And if you live in the Midwest; a big ol snowstorm is coming for us today and if this isn’t your soundtrack to the blizzard, you’re doing life wrong.


And there you go (Pale Folklore)s my ranking of the 5 Agalloch LPs from 5 to 1. If you are new to the band I hope that this list helps you discover your new obsession. If you are new to the band, feel free to tell me how wrong I am with this ranking. And of course check my Spotify playlist with a 5 track sampler of Agalloch with a track off each album talked about above. Till next time, this is That Drummer Guy saying...SEE YA!



- Josh Rundquist (That Drummer Guy)

Mastodon has been pulverizing most listener’s ears since their 2002 album, Remission and what a debut album they unleashed upon the world. 7 albums later, the band is currently thinking about writing the next album (maybe for the 2020/2021 release?). In the span of these 8 albums the band has gone through some wild twists and turns musically, absolutely deserving of their description that has been bestowed upon them; The Pink Floyd of Progressive Metal/Sludge Metal. But what’s my take on these 8 albums from one of my favorite bands? Well let me tell you in the latest rendition of Backwards Marathon.


The Rules

1.) No EPs, cover albums, live albums, b-side albums, or best of/greatest hits collections. Just original studio LPs. Albums that have a cover or two on it are just fine.

2.) This is just my opinions on the albums in question. No outside influences other than my own and is far from a definitive world ranking. If you have a different ranking, AWESOME! Keep that up!

3.) The reason for doing this to help people get into a band/artist/etc and give ideas of what to expect if they decide to dive into the work.

4.) This is ranked from least favorite to favorite (countdown/TRL style). I will give a few words about every album as we go down the list.

5.) There will be a spotify playlist (where applicable) to go along with the list with a song off each album so you can get another idea of what to expect. The songs will either be my favorite song off the album or one that represents the album the best in my eyes. (if you are reading this on social media, click the official link to get the playlist)

6.) Have fun and spread the word....SPREAD IT!



8.) Call of the Mastodon (2006...or 2001, depending on how you look at it.)
The band does refer to this collection of Lifesblood and Slick Leg EPs as the first Mastodon album, and that’s good enough for me to call it an album as well (Just go with it, it’s more Mastodon, there’s no room to complain here). This shows the earlierst indications of what the band would eventually become. At their absolute most primal and raw, the band really shows off more of the extreme, hardcore, and near death metal sides that you do not really see going forward. Amongst the chaos is the aforementioned moments of prog, sludge and rock moments that would really transform later on. PF course there is the argument of two EPs combined is an album and while I love this very much; for the sake of argument, let’s just keep this at last place so the rest of the catalog can be judged fairly. I really just wanted to give this a shoutout as it is very much deserving of the love it can get.


7.) Once More ‘Round The Sun (2014)
The 2nd album after the 4 album element concept was over saw the band hitting more radio rock friendly moments than ever before. Some absolutely shining moments of guitar solos, Brann Dailor’s soaring vocals and tight songwriting. This is a bit of a polarizing album as many say that this album does not have a lot of life to it and feels more bland than anything. Others feel it is their best album to date. I see both sides of the argument and honestly, when it comes to Mastodon, I don’t think there is a wrong ranking order for anyone. All that said, there had to be a last place album somewhere (if we are not counting Call of the Mastodon), so in this case it is OMRTS.


6.) Blood Mountain (2006)
An absolutely controversial pick to have at 6th place. I can already feel the hate coming towards me. I think a lot of the love for this album came about as Blood Mountain was the first album that introduced many people to Mastodon for the first time. And there is some absolutely brilliant songs on this album. I honestly feel This Mortal Soil does not get enough love from the fanbase or anyone else I know (one of my favorite mastodon songs (honestly). And I will say there is nothing really wrong with this album at all and it’s a great representation of the Earth segment of the 4 Album Element Concept. But much like OMRTS before it on this list; 6th place had to go to some album and that’s where we are here.


5.) Leviathan (2004)
Now we are really getting into the albums that I love without questions and made it so absolutely hard to pick an order that I felt confident enough to share with the world. The Water segment of the 4 Album Element Concept is the story of Moby Dick and what a soundtrack to the novel it is! You really hear the tension, the madness, and the compelling story told throughout and it totally grasps you in a way that you have to hear it throughout the end. Plus, it’s always great to hear Neil Fallon of Clutch actually use his growl/heavy voice which has been all but abandoned in Clutch for over 2 decades now (man, I miss that voice!) Plus the final Instrumental track, Joseph Merrick, is such a great unrelated to the concept, track showcasing the fascination of The Elephant Man. Just a classic album and should be heard in English classrooms across the world when they read Moby Dick… I’m Just Saying…


4.) Crack The Skye (2009)
How hard was it to make this list. I’ll put it this way, this used to be my favorite Mastodon for the longest time. The only time to date I have been able to see Mastodon live was seeing the original run of Crack The Skye live and what an absolutely amazing experience it was. It was the second time I saw an album live in it’s entirety and I couldn’t think of a better album at the time. Even up to a couple years ago, I didn’t think this album could be topped; but as life goes, tastes change, people change, bands change. To represent the Air section of the 4 Album Element Concept; The concept is loosely based on Brann Dailor’s sister’s story of suicide and then transformed into a full blown mystical journey. I’ve heard this album referred to as Mastodon’s version of Dark Side of The Moon and it totally makes sense and I dare say, I agree. It has this great atmospheric feel in every track that makes you feel like you are floating in space, no matter how heavy the music can get. The band really showed their prog roots on this album the most they ever have to date. Iof they ever go down this route again, I will not be disappointed.


3.) Remission (2002)
From album that I listened to the least to album that I can’t get enough of; Remission is the debut album (give or take our talk about Call of the Mastodon earlier) from Mastodon and it is pure chaos. Even when things get more mellow, you can feel the tension of the raw aggression that this band is truly capable of. Even with their slight tinges of rock, prog, and even rockabilly guitar leads (Seriously, how great is Crusher Destroyer as an opening track?). The band was brought to the masses of metal in 2002 and for many, this is the best album they will ever put out with the Fire segment of the 4 Album Element Concept. I totally get why, but for me, I have two others I dig more.


2.) The Hunter (2011)
The first album to not be a concept album from the band (once again, give or take Call of the Mastodon). The band showcases almost every style y ou love from the band previously, and so much more. You can have a song like Blasteroid that is just bonkers, to Stargasm which is just a great midtempo, almost ballad, to Creature Lives which may be the greatest achievement the band has laid to record so far (such a beautiful song). Basically, if you want an introduction to Mastdon, the Hunter is the perfect starter album and go decide where you want to go from there. Perfect from start to finish.


1.) Emperor of Sand (2018)
In speaking of perfection, Emperor of Sand is exactly that in all it’s glory. Returning to their concept roots, Emperor of Sand is a concept loosely based on mortality and never truly knowing how long we have on this plain of existence. When you realize that, the lyrics throughout song like Roots Remain becomes so much more haunting. Musically, it’s another album where the music goes everywhere. Show Yourself is the poppiest/Top 40 sounding song in the band’s discography. Other songs like Andromeda show off the bands pure aggression once again, while other songs give off a great flare of Crack The Skye, but rather than being in space, you are in the desert. I know for many it’s hard to fathom how a band’s latest album can be their best work to date, but I follow that up with one question...HAVE YOU HEARD THIS THING???


And there you go folks, another take on Backwards Marathon is over and out. Thank you for checking this out and make sure to check out the Spotify playlist I provided below to check out Mastodon if you are brand new to the band.

Till next time, this is That Drummer Guy saying, SEE YA!

- Josh Rundquist (That Drummer Guy)

Hey Everybody! welcome to the inaugural edition of Backwards Marathon; my weekly retrospective taking a look at music discographies and ranking them least favorite to favorite. I've wanted to do this for quite a while. some of my good friends have done similar in the past, most notably CoverKiller Nation with his Rank 'Em All series and my friend Will at 14:59 studios previously doing a similar thing in written form. Mine will also be written. For the first run of this; I had to choose one of my favorite artists of all time, Devin Townsend. His solo work is some of my favorite music that has been laid down in the last 20+ years. I wanted to focus on everything that his official name in the title of the albums; so no Strapping Young Lad in this trek, though they will come in the future, I promise you that. There is one example in this list that doesn't "officially" have his named attached to the artist name, but it is still listed as a solo album. rather than fight semantics, I'll just go with it. 19 LPs to go through from Punky Bruster: Cooked on Phonics to Empath. Let's get into it....right after the ground rules.

1.) No EPs, cover albums, live albums, b-side albums, or best of/greatest hits collections. Just original studio LPs. Albums that have a cover or two on it are just fine.

2.) This is just my opinions on the albums in question. No outside influences other than my own and is far from a definitive world ranking. If you have a different ranking, AWESOME! Keep that up!

3.) The reason for doing this to help people get into a band/artist/etc and give ideas of what to expect if they decide to dive into the work.

4.) This is ranked from least favorite to favorite (countdown/TRL style). I will give a few words about every album as we go down the list.

5.) There will be a spotify playlist (where applicable) to go along with the list with a song off each album so you can get another idea of what to expect. The songs will either be my favorite song off the album or one that represents the album the best in my eyes. (if you are reading this on social media, click the official link to get the playlist)

6.) Have fun and spread the word....SPREAD IT!


Let's Begin!


19.) Devlab (2004)
This is not an album for the faint of heart, or even a love of song structure. A completely ambient, noise, drone album. If you love your music experimental or you were a big fan of Merzbow or Mike Patton's Adult Theme for Voices, this will be up your alley.

18.) The Hummer (2006)
The other full on ambient album from Townsend, but done in the exact opposite way. Rather than being influenced by drugs and alcohol and seeing what could be made in an album; The Hummer is actually designed to help the listener sleep...no that is the intent of the album. It still is ambient album that will feature a lot of the noise ideas from Devlab, but it's designed for relaxation, meditation and sleep. A noble idea for an album but if you are looking for something that is going to get you hooked into Townsend with his musical capabilities; both these albums in question are not the right starter albums, but are both worthy of a listen. It might even be your bag.

17.) Ghost (Devin Townsend Project) (2011)
This is the closest album to date that has the Ghost vibe mentioned above, but done in a musical way. The album is just layered in relaxation with beautiful instrumentation, soundscape songwriting and majestic vocals. It goes all over the board musically as well, from more folky/country to post rocky stuff and yet it is very much a Devin Townsend album. Quite easily the most beautiful Hevy Devy album to date.

16.) Synchestra (Devin Townsend Band) (2006)
The second and final album under the DTB moniker showed how much stronger the band had become. Where Accelerated Evolution truly felt like a Townsend solo album; Synchestra felt more like a band album. The songs are varied from gorgeous songs, to heavy songs to absolutely silly songs (Vampolka as the prime example). This was the last album before Devin's break from making music (thankfully not for long) but it officially put to rest both the Devin Townsend Band and Strapping Young Lad. It really feels like an end of an era album in hindsight.

15.) Physicist (2000)
Way back when I first discovered SYL and Hevy Devy in general, I heard this album described as a Strapping Young Lad album with Spice Girls lyrics. As silly as it sounds, that is the perfect way to describe this album. For one, it features the lineup of SYL at the time and the lyrics are generally more upbeat than you heard from any of his other albums to that point. The songs are so much fun to listen to, but one downside for many listeners is the production as it is mixed very raw and muddy. I look at it as a sign of that time and give the album it's own flavoring, but it will not be for everyone. If you are SYL fan but never ventured into the solo work of Devin, this is a good spot to start.

14.) Infinity (1998)
The first album to be officially declared a Devin Townsend album (the previous two albums will be coming up in the list later) This album takes more of the pop metal elements (Truth, Christeen) that was featured on Ocean Machine but more of the left of center turns that you would hear in SYL or in his later works (Ants. Noisy Pink Bubbles). This is a great example of what Devin was capable of outside of SYL and really is an album that shows a lot of what was to come down the road.

13.) Ziltoid The Omniscient (2009)
The first Devin Townsend album that was entirely by the man himself; the only exception is some help from Frederik Thordendal of Meshuggah who helped with some drum programming using the now infamous Drumkit From Hell drum software. This concept album about a coffee drinking, guitar playing alien nerd trying to take over the omniverse was a rousing sensation when released as it was what a long time fans wanted to hear from Townsend for such a long time. While the production is a buit more raw than what you normally hear in a Hevy Devy album; it really adds to the atmosphere of the story being told and you are off for an amazing adventure that will leave you banging your head, trying to comprehend the riffs you just heard, and make you have a ton of giggles. It's really the album that showcased who Devin was 11 years ago (Seriously? 11 years ago???!)

12.) Transcendence (Devin Townsend Project) (2016)
Easily the best produced album of Devin's career. Everything is crisp and clear and it just feels like you are in a sonic adventure of sound. This was sadly the final album for the Devin Townsend Project and it's a shame as it really felt like the band was truly starting to sound like a band on this album (sound familiar?). This also lead to Devin taking a quick break to recharge his batteries and get ready to take on his next musical endeavors (also sound familiar?). It's a shame that this album wasn't as well regarded in hindsight now as other albums as it deserves to be with some of the best work every musician in the band has done and killer songs to boot. And again, that production is primo! An excellent album.

11.) Punky Bruster: Cooked On Phonics (1996)
The concept album of a Polish Death Metal band becoming a Punk band in one night and becoming a universal sensation is one that leads to a lot of laughs and rather ironically, some of the best punk songs I've ever heard. This also has the honor of being Devin's first solo album (while his name was not attached to any of his solo work till Infinity). It's a short, sweet, fun, album that holds up to this day. Go check it out.

10.) Dark Matters (Devin Townsend Project) (2014)
While Z2 can be considered a double album along with Sky Blue as they were recorded and released together. I consider them two different albums as they are not connected in any other way. Dark Matters is a soft reboot of the Ziltoid The Omniscient story but done with vastly superior productions, awesome guest voices, and the whole Devin Townsend Project backing Devin rather than how it was originally done in 2009. In hindsight, many people prefer the original ZTO to this album, but I prefer Dark Matters. The songs are fantastic, the musicianship is stellar, and hearing the current AEW World Champion, Chris Jericho as Captain Spectacular just brings the wrestling mark in me so much joy. Give this underrated album the love it deserves.

9.) Sky Blue (Devin Townsend Project) (2014)
The album that went along side Dark Matters for Z2 was a full on DTP album with no connecting songs to Dark Matters story and just a collection of fantastic songs. Again, criminally, this album didn't get the love it deserved in hindsight and I can totally understand how a lot of people feel like Devin and co were burnt out musically at this point. I guess I can just look past that and love this album for the great mix of pop, metal, prog and electronica shown throughout. Seriously, the fact that the title track was not a top 40 hit on the Billboard 200 is an absolute crying shame as it rivals ANY pop song that came out in the 2010s. This along with Addicted were the closest things to Pop Metal albums that Devin has done to date and either of them could have been on the radio. If only life would have been different...

8.) Ki (Devin Townsend Project) (2009)
The first album of the original planned idea for the DTP before it turned into a full fledged band. This album is a somber, haunting and beautiful that has many hints of blues, country, atmospheric and rock elements. When it gets heavy, it feels ferocious (thank you, dynamics!). It's an absolutely dreamy album and just hits you in all the right spots. This is not a metal album, but it's one of the heaviest albums in Devin's career for so many reasons.

*Look, I didn't add Casualties of Cool on here as I consider that to be a completely different band than any of his other work and is a duo band with Che Aimee Dorval. And anywhere you look, this is considered a debut album, so I'm respecting that decision. If you wanna be a stickler and say 'NO, THIS IS A DEVIN TOWNSEND SOLO ALBUM!!!" fine, this is where I would place COC, if it counted.*

7.) Empath (2018)
The return fully solo album from Devin Townsend since 2009's Ziltoid The Omniscient. Empath is the most Devin Townsend album ever made. It goes from SYL riffs to Caribbean overtones and steel drums to absolutely gorgeous rock monuments and all the wackiness you expect from the mad metal scientist at this stage. I had the unfortunate timing to be in the hospital and being forced from being able to check out this album till a month after the album came out (2019 was a terrible year on my end and I do not want a repeat). But had I been able to give this album the proper love that I have for every single Devin release to date, this would be much higher on the list as it deserves. Basically, this is THE starter album for newcomers. Every single thing you want to find in his music is in here at some point. Hey, even NIckelback's Chad Kroger is apart of a choir that sings over blast beats on this album. What more could you possibly want?

6.) Deconstruction (Devin Townsend Project) (2011)
This is the arguably the heaviest album Devin has ever put out, INCLUDING SYL (YOU HEARD ME!!!). This album is absolutely ferocious, bombastic and destroys the listener in so many ways. The story of someone trying to find the meaning of life and then finds it (no spoilers here, listen to the album); Deconstruction takes everything you love about the heavy side of Hevy Devy and pushes it to it's absolute extremes. It also has the added benefit of having some of the greatest voices in metal on this album from Opeth, to BTBAM to Novembers Doom to NIghtwish. Considering how many layers are packed into this album, this is the magnum opus of Devin's career so far. So much substance on one album doesn't seem possible, but it's here. Every extreme is hear for your ears and you may even call it musical masturbation theatrics. In this case, it's an absolutely mighty thing!

5.) Addicted (Devin Townsend Project) (2009)
Of all 4 of the original DTP albums, this is the one that closest represents what the band would become when it became a full fledged band. Featuring many of the same lineup. This is essentially a Modern Progressive Pop Metal Album. In a sense, if Devin stuck to making Ocean Machine style music, this would be the modern equivilent. So catchy, so heavy, so cathartic, and such a fantastic album from start to finish. This truly is one of the best albums of the 21st century so far and for damn good reason. One listen and you'll get it.

4.) Epicloud (Devin Townsend) (2012)
What may be considered to be the finest non-SYL Devin Townsend album, and for good reason. This is the first album after the DTP became a full fledged band and what a magnificent album it truly is. Some of the catchiest, poppiest, heaviest, and most frigging beautiful moments of Devin's career are featured here. It's gorgeous on so many ways and is one of my favorite albums of the 2010s decade for good reason. If you want to know what the non-extreme Hevy Devy is all about and see that the maniacal frontman of Strapping Young Lad has a pop side you'd never guess could come to fruition could be; yeah, this is the album you need to hear.

3.) Terria (2001)
The last solo titled album til 2009's Ziltoid the Omniscient. This was for YEARS my favorite album of all time and I still consider it one of the best ways you could ever spend 72 minutes of your time. This album is a love letter to Canada along with being an introspection album of a man in his late 20s about to enter his 30s (yeah, this registered for my highly). It's a magnificent display of melodic atmospheric progressive metal with some of the best heavy songs and ballads Devin has layered to record. Even with ALL of that said, I don't consider this a starter album. Get familiar with Devin's solo work and down the line check out Terria, you'll be able to appreciate it so much more.

2.) Accelerated Evolution (Devin Townsend Band) (2003)
It wasn't till I hit 30 years old where I realized that when I picked up Terria and Accelerated Evolution (my first non-SYL albums) that Accelerated Evolution was the superior album in so many ways. While this album is one of the most atmospheric albums in the Hevy Devy discography, you won't find any extreme fretboard work or blast beats or insane musical time changes. This is an album that is 100% about the songs and making them as perfect as possible. Nothing really goes above mid-tempo on this album (well, in comparison to his other works), There are so many heartwrenching ballads on this album with some of the best emotional screams you will ever hear in songs like Deadhead and Storm. It is an album that is the perfect yin to Strapping Young Lad's Self Titled album (aka, Chickenfeather)'s yang (both released in the same year). An album that is essential to check out.

1.) Ocean Machine (Ocean Machine: Biomech) (1997)
If it wasn't for Green Incarnation's Light of Day, Day of Darkness (the greatest 60 minute song ever); this would be considered my favorite album of all time. It took me a long time to realize that. It was always an album that was at least in my top 3-5 in Dev's discography, but sometimes it didn't click with me the way I wanted. That wasn't until the last few years where I realized how much this (technically 2nd) solo album from Devin Townsend was one of the best albums of the 90s. Whether you want straight up pop rock like Life, a heavy rocker like Regulator, a monster epic like Bastard (my favorite Devin Townsend song), or what a lot of bands stole and made Post Rock/Post Metal out of with The Death of Music; This album truly has it all for the prog nerds (like myself) of the world. Basically, if you wanna hear the pinnacle work of Devin Townsend's early work (and arguably overall), check out Ocean Machine. You'll be glad you did.


And there you go folks. All 19 albums ranked from least favorite to favorite in my humblest of opinions. I thank you for checking this out and hope you stick around every Friday for a new feature of a band or artist';s catalog. Make sure to check out the curated Spotify playlist below (of if you're reading this on social media, click the link and scroll to the bottom) to check out a track from each album listed in the order above.

Till next time, this is That Drummer Guy saying, SEE YA!

- Josh Rundquist (That Drummer Guy)

As the title implies, these are the last lists I'll be doing in 2019. Some of these I said would come in 2020, then I thought to myself, screw it. If I just do the lists, and that's it, I don't need to go into detail about every single thing. I did nearly 600 reviews this year, I'm just going to do some lists and rest.

Everything will be presented with the title and whether it is in ranked order or alphabetical order. No exceptions! Very, very straightforward.

Anyways, here's my last lists and probably last That Drummer Guy Post of 2019 (besides promoting next week's show)...ENJOY!


Top 20 Albums of the 2010s (Alphabetical Order)

Agalloch- Marrow Of The Spirit
Astronoid- Air
Avantasia- Ghostlights
Baroness- Purple
Black Crown Initiate- The Wreckage of Stars
Clutch- Earth Rocker
Devin Townsend Project- Epicloud
Ihsahn- After
Killswitch Engage- Disarm The Descent
Long Distance Calling- TRIPS
Mastodon- Emperor of Sand
Moron Police- A Boat on the Sea
Nevermore- The Obsidian Conspiracy
Nightingale- Retribution
Soilwork- Verkligheten
Swallow The Sun- Songs from the North (I, II, III)
Triptykon- Melana Chasmata
Witherfall- A Prelude to Sorrow
Witherscape- The Northern Sanctuary
Woods of Ypres- Woods V: Grey Skies & Electric Light

Top 10 PS4 Games 0f 2019 (Ranked Order)

Bloodstained- Ritual of the Night
Borderlands 3
The Outer Worlds
Judgment
Days Gone
Trover Saves The Universe
Horizon Chase Turbo
Rage 2
Crash Team Racing
Death Stranding (not far enough into it to truly give it a fair ranking)
(Many more PS4 games I own from this year I haven’t played yet)


Top 10 Games of the 2010s: (Alphabetical Order)

Batman: Arkham Asylum
Borderlands 2
Dead Cells
Doom (2016)
God of War (2018)
Grand Theft Auto V
Howllow Knight
The Last of Us
Red Dead Redemption II
Yakuza 0


Top 10 Movies of 2019 (Ranked Order)

Joker
Us
Once Upon A Time In Hollywood
Avengers- Endgame
A Beautiful Place in the Neighborhood
Captain Marvel
Godzilla: King of the Monsters
Ma
Pokemon- Detective Pikachu
Star Wars Episode XI: Rise Of The Skywalker


Top Movies of the Decade
I just don't have it in me to do a list right now, sorry


Top 5 PPVs of 2019 (Ranked Order)

AEW: All Out
AEW: Double or Nothing
Wrestlekingdom 13
NXT UK Takerover: Cardiff
NXT Takeover: Phoenix


Best 10 Singles Wrestlers of 2019: (Alphabetical Order)

Adam Cole
Aleister Black
Cody
Darby Allin
Joey Janela
Kazuchika Okada
Keith Lee
Kenny Omega
MJF
Will Ospreay


Top 5 Tag Teams in 2019

Best Friends
Lucha Bros
Private Party
Undisputed Era
Young Bucks


Top 3 Matches in 2019 (Ranked Order)

Cody vs Dustin Rhodes- AEW: Double Or Nothing 2019
WALTER vs Tyler Bate- NXT UK Takerover: Cardiff
Joey Janela vs Jimmy Havoc vs Darby Allin- AEW All Out



TV Shows in 2019:
Too crappy of a year on my end to check out anything new besides the show Undone, which is perfection (though I really don’t like it got a 2nd season pickup. Would have been so much more effective to leave it at the cliffhanger it had for an amazing 1 season tv show). Otherwise all the usual suspects. Wrestling, Simpsons, Bobs Burgers, South Park, and Rick and Morty.

TV Shows of the Decade (Ranked Order)
Bojack Horseman
Rick and Morty
The Punisher
Preacher
Undone
> Everything else I watched that premiered between 2010 and 2019

And there we go, everything in entertainment on my end either in 2019 or the 2010s in general. I hope you enjoyed this and wanna see everything that is to come in 2020 and beyond. Till next Decade, this is That Drummer Guy saying..SEE YA!

- Josh Rundquist (That Drummer Guy)

As I begin writing this up, it's 12:12am on Christmas Day 2019. On so many occasions I never thought I would live to see this day for various reasons. But here I am. As of a week from now it will be 202, I can't see the last week being any more eventful than anything else that has happened this year, so why not get this overly drawn out speech out of the way to purge myself to get ready for for the 3rd decade of the 21st century?

2019 was without a doubt, the single worst year of my life. I have had worse things happen in other years, but nothing that came even close to the hell that was the last year of the 2010s. In the beginning of the year I was on the verge of ending everything once again. It was so bad that the cops were actually called on me to see if I was ok. I was completely honest and my life has only gotten worse since that day. Just a few days after the cops came, I got sick. Really, Really sick. 6 years ago sick when I was in the hospital off and on for 8 months sick. I had to go to the ER and find out what was going on, I felt like I was going to die. Turns out I was close to it.

I was experiencing Diabetic Ketoacidosis, Which basically means my blood sugar was way too high and was on the verge of death. So I spent 13 days in the hospital. In all honesty, I don't remember a lot of it as a good portion of that time I was in the ICU. When I finally got a real bed, more horror came my way. When the nurse wanted to look at my feet for any wounds, they found the gaping wound in my foot that I was scared to mention to anyone that I had for too many years. It was caused when I was working at Electronics at a big box retailer and I was instructed to wear a particular type of shoe that my feet did not feel comfortable to wear. I walked too much, big ol calluses and blood blisters came from it and one day years later, it popped and the wound never recovered. My left foot had it as well but it recovered though I do get an occasional callus in the same spot as my right foot had. One look from the doctor and yeah, my big right toe had to be amputated. It was why I was afraid to say anything to any doctor as I was trying to avoid the inevitable. Couple days later and I had the operation. While it actually turned out it could have been worse, only half of it is gone (basically the whole toenail region is gone). It's a weird feeling, I still occasionally get phantom pain there and it's the oddest feeling.

While I was in the hospital, I had some of the worst sleep of my life. Anyone who has had an extended stay in the hospital can tell you that. Nothing like getting checked on every couple hours and getting blood tests or getting a new IV or just making sure that you are still alive. I also had a revolving door of doctors, physicians, and others come in through the different rooms I stayed in (4 in total). Everything from Doctors telling me that I was going to die soon unless I changed my ways to mental health specialists checking to see if I needed to go to the mental health hospital afterwards to spiritual advisors who actually gave great advise about breathing techniques that I am trying to implement to this day. And for the first time in 10 years, I saw my oldest sister out of nowhere. She came to see how I was doing and we had a couple really good talks that day. The single best moment of the hospital stay was a therapy dog came to visit me near the tail end of the stay and it brought me to tears. Just seeing such a little pup wanting to be near by me and letting me per her was spectacular. It really made me miss all my pets that I had over the years, it's so sad to see them all gone now, but that few minutes made up for almost the entire hospital stay.

After I finally got out of the hospital, I was advised to not be able to walk for almost 2 months, which crushed me. Hell, the first 2 weeks or so, I couldn't even get into my own bed as it would cause too much pressure on my stitches and it could pop. So I slept on my couch and I gotta tell you; you don't appreciate having a 55" 4K UHD TV until you are in the hospital nearly for 2 weeks straight. Being able to see things vividly, being able to play my games again and just being able to watch channels and stream things that I couldn't at the hospital was a great way to be able to recover.

I wasn't able to start walking on my own till mid April and even then, I still needed a giant boot on my foot until the scar was healed.But it was great being able to get back to work as I missed it so very, very much. I missed out on a lot. Be it promos that I couldn't give enough attention to unbelievable shows that I had to miss out on as I physically couldn't get there or sometimes even get in the venue; even then, if I could sit or stand all that time. But as soon as I was able to start working on That Drummer Guy again, doing interviews, and recording the show; I couldn't have been happier as it brings me the most joy in life. That joy didn't last long though...

May 17th, my brother died from a combination of kidney failure, high blood pressure, untreated diabetes, being a massive smoker and drinker, and all of his other major organs failing in one day. For anyone that knows me; this was a day that will forever live with me for the rest of my life. I still don't know how to handle it. For the average person, you'd think "of course it will be rough, but he's your brother, he loved you and he wants you to move on." the last word my brother said to me were over the phone and verbatim were "I hope you die, you need to kill yourself, and when you do, I will go to your funeral, and piss on your face and laugh because you are a fucking loser and everyone hates you. Kill yourself." Normally I don't like swearing in these posts, but that was the last words he spoke to me that I heard live. The final words I ever heard him say were in a voicemail a week and a half before he died after he spent the time to call me several times in a row and I hit ignore every time as I know he was doing his usual pattern of pretending to be someone else, I call him out on it, he tells me how worthless I am and tries to get me to kill myself as it will be funny and he will be happier without me around. Those words? "FUUUUUUUCK YOUUUUUUUU". He said it in a quiet yelling voice as if he was in his Kidney dialysis as he thought to call me and get me to end it all. Who would of thought I wouldn't have wanted to answer the phone knowing what was going to happen as it's happened more than enough times?

The night he died, I met up with my oldest sister and her then girlfriend to see my brother still laying there, with his fiancee and her family in the hospital room. My parents were nowhere to be found and didn't bother showing up till the funeral. Seriously, why would I go see my brother with everything he had some to me in the past 30 and 3/4ths years, all the abuse of almost every kind, every single word, ever hit, every lie, every drama story, everything he did to me; why would I dare to go see him with all of this? Well, I was asked to go. As my sister and I were on good terms again and I wanted to be there for her. That's the only reason I wanted to be there for moral support as everyone else was hurting. That's been my role in my life, I either was a venting post, a peacemaker, or the guy people came to for moral support. While it may be looked at as a doormat, and for a lot of people that is all I ever will be, I helped people feel better. If that is my role, I'll wear it. Anyways; My sister said her final words to my brother's body and I let her have them. I know that he was her favorite brother for so many unsung reasons. They thought so much alike, and honestly to a fault as they both really had a stubborn attitude that when they fought, it was vicious, all the way to the end. My sister and I got along in the enjoyment of music and gaming, so I got that going for me, which is nice.

When It was my turn to say my last words to him, so much anger was built up inside me that I just felt like I was going to burst, but amazingly, I held my composure as well as I could have. If there is anything beyond this life, I hope he heard it. I let him know how much he hurt me over 3 decades and he ruined my life to the extent that I may never recover. But I also thanked him because if it wasn't for him, I may not have had the integrity to start my life out of my hometown, start That Drummer Guy and try to do something with my life. My last words to his body were the same words that he left for me. With a middle finger to his face I said "Fuck You!" and left and outside of seeing his head occasionally at the wake/funeral; I never saw him again. *Those are my last curse words, I promise*

You'd sure think that would be the end of it, wouldn't you? NOPE! As I walked out of the room, for about a half hour I found out some of the most horrendous things that have happened in my family that they either caused or had happened to them. I could not have been more hurt by every passing word that was being said. Think of some of the worst things someone can do outside of murder; It was probably covered in this conversation (or one that came a couple months later that killed me in a 2 hour phone call from his ex fiancee). My life has never really been the same. For them, they were talking about it as they were just catching up on what's been happening and sharing horror stories. For me, I was completely appalled as I heard NONE of these stories and it messed me up to the point where my body finally said, Yup, I need therapy again as I can't process any of this on my own. I will not speak of what these horror stories are as they are not my stories to tell; I'll just say that what happened was unforgivable and to the party/parties responsible for the actions; I never wanna see again in my entire life. And I really, really hope I never do.

So taking all of that into consideration, things got better from July(?) out besides the depression episodes I deal with on an almost daily basis. As of this month, I am back in therapy and my next session is in 6 days. I am also seeing a psychiatrist in February to see what I can do as far as medication as I have tried several different medications and none of them have a lasting affect. Let's hope for the best.

A sad side affect from getting myself together is that my weight ballooned since leaving the hospital. I am actually the heaviest I have ever been. 4-5 of my medications can cause weight gain and...it really did. I won't say the weight, but I'll say I'm between 2x-3x shirts again, it actually hurts wearing a belt around my pants and just seeing myself without a shirt on is....I don't understand how anyone could possibly find me attractive. So why am I not working out or even going on walks to shed the weight? Well, my right toe being the biggest issue. Back in August, my scar from the amputation opened back up and since then, I have been scared beyond belief. But today, I get to counteract that, as I now have an exercise bike. As soon as it is setup, I will be working out every single day that I can as it puts zero pressure on my toe and I can get my body moving every day without jerks at the gym or passers by giving me a sarcastic thumbs up as if to say "good job, fat boy. You're trying to live longer." Another reason why I hate being alone, but also feel better being by myself.

And let's get to that last bit of sad stuff for the year...my crippling suicidal depression. Yeah, it's as bad as it has ever been and it hurts so much. Some days I sleep 18 hours days as I simply don't have the will to get out of bed. Even two days ago, I slept as long as I could as I just did not want to face the day. I pretty much took all of December off to work on myself and in some aspects I have and others, the depression keeps me from being able to do anything, even doing the work that I love, being That Drummer Guy. One of the hardest aspects of working from home is that you are alone so often. It sounds appealing when you work in customer service of any kind, not having to deal with others, but when you only have yourself, after a while, it gets to you and it can bring you down so very, very hard. With therapy I am hoping to be able to get the depression out of my mind or at least tolerable, get my anxiety under control and realize the past can control my future anymore, and the biggest one for me is the trauma that caused all of this. From the two therapy sessions I've had, Trauma seems to be the biggest issue going on with me and it's horrendous. PTSD is not just for soldiers, folks. It can happen with any traumatic event and it can hinder you for the rest of your life. But again, I really hope moving forward I can control all of this and find some joy in the new decade.

And let's get into that, the joy of 2019. there has been a lot of good as well. I've done 86 interviews (only one written interview), I've hit 652 interviews overall, I've hit well over 3K likes and followers on Facebook, at 680 subscribers on YouTube (320 away from being able to make money on the platform again) and my show is FINALLY on Spotify amongst the other big podcast stations. It feels so nice being able to upload more than 2 shows at a time now and I was able to start doing that on episode 350, which that alone, I am at 355 episodes of my show now, which is mindblowing to think about. And I wouldn't be here doing what I do without the likes of you reading, listening, checking out, or just supporting my work in any way. Sincerely, thank you.

The 2010s has been an absolute roller coaster for me. Most of my 20s were in this decade. I had so many bands that were created and imploded, so many times I thought I was on the verge of making it in a band to just have it fall downhill, I moved out from my hometown (which would have killed me had I not moved), I moved to Minnesota, I made so many great friends, I had so many great friends that left this mortal coil or just wanted nothing to do with me anymore. I went from being nearly blind as a bat to being able to see again. I spent almost a year in the hospital between hospital visits this decade. I lost family both physically and emotionally. I have discovered so many great tv shows, movies, video games. I went from having a big box tv that helped mess up my vision to now having a gigantic 4K tv to call my own. I got back into wrestling after not watching since 2001. I created That Drummer Guy in 2011 and 2020 will be my 9th year and going strong. As previously mentioned I have done over 650 interviews in 8 and a half years. I have received countless promos, I discovered so many bands that have impacted my life, I have covered so many shows from doing interviews and pit photos. I have been on so many tour buses and partying (only drinking on my end). I went from only being able to do interviews at shows to being able to have my own office setup and being able to talk to anyone who has an internet connection or a phone number. I've been cited on sites such as Blabbermouth, Metal Injection, Metalsucks, Brave Words, Ultimate Guitar, and other sites countless times. I'm cited on Wikipedia for an interview I did with All That Remains. I've broken so many stories that I can't believe I get to say I help break to the world. I did ALL of that as a one man operation. Of course I had help along the way with radio stations, personalities, those in the radio business, the ever long Press Agents that I love for digging my work enough to ever grant me any interview ever. To every single one of you reading this and giving the littlest bit of a care about what I do. I can't say it enough, thank you so very, VERY much! I would not be here without your support and realizing what I do is not in vain. I can't wait to see what 2020 has in store for me.

Oh, and I finally first got laid in this decade. GO ME!

As for the aforementioned 2020 (yes I know some people don't consider 2020 the start of a new decade and 2021 is the real start of the decade, I disagree. The 3rd number from the left changes, that's a new decade to me) I have some plans for things in the That Drummer Guy Universe.

First with That Drummer Guy itself. The show is going on as normal. 2 hours of the best in heavy music today, with interviews as they are available or the week they have a new album to promote. I am hoping to break the 100 count of interviews next year as this is the first year in quite a while that I missed out on it for so many reasons listed above. But I am also planning a couple new things you may get your attention.

I wanna start doing a Song Of The Day collection that I will make posts about here and on social media. Post the song, say a few words about it, and put it into a Spotify playlist that will have 366 songs on it (Don't forget, 2020 is a leap year). It can be a brand new song, it can be an underrated classic, it can be a huge hit of yesteryear, it can be a band I simply want to show off in some way shape or form. I really like the idea of doing that.

Oo Fridays, I wanna start doing a band retrospective of 52 bands and covering their discography to date, then ranking said discography from favorite to least favorite. Obviously I am going to cover artists that have a realistic number of albums I can cover without losing my mind. Buckethead and Frank Zappa are examples of musicians I simply can't cover like that without making it years' worth of time, if at all.

The last Friday of every month, I wanna cover the month's best albums. I tried doing that this year, but starting it February that opportunity got taken away from me. So this coming year, let's try it again. 10 Albums, alphabetical order, a few words on each album just like my best of reviews. Don't get worried, these are not replacing the Best Of lists or even a true representation of what will be on those lists, as new albums always come out and I may discover something after the fact, or I simply don't enjoy an album as much anymore (happens to all of us.)

As far as non-That Drummer Guy stuff goes:

Something Gives has been heartbreaking to make this year, It's taken a lot out of me. The original idea was to get musicians, fans and those in the music business to talk about mental health struggles and how they get through. It turned into my hell of a year (with one exception). I really hope I can bring that original idea back to form in 2020. If anyone reading this is interested in talking about their mental health struggles, let me know if you're up to talk about it on the show and try to help ourselves and others struggling.

Such Good $#!+, I dropped the ball on it. I had the idea for such a long time and I tried to implement it this year and only was able to make a few episodes (to very little fanfare) I also wanna get back to this in some way, shape or form. I may reformat the show. I had friend in the past wanna do a kind of podcast or even just do brief segments on it for crossovers. MAYBE? that will happen again in 2020. I really want it to as I love covering wrestling, gaming, movies, tv, etc. If it happens, It won't be a weekly thing. It may end up being monthly and doing a recap of the past month and stuff to look forward to. If you were looking for my lists of the best of games, movies, etc. That'll come in January. I need time to go over everything. I hope you understand.

One last idea I wanted to make happen is the audio (or video) documentary of That Drummer Guy. Since I was in high school (when I was originally called That Drummer Guy in my cover band days), I wanted to do a Behind The Music style parody of myself and my rise to the top. My cousin, Ben and I came up with the idea in school and I just thought it would be amazing to do. Hell, even if it turns out to be a non-fictionalized documentary of myself, I'd love to make that happen. If it ever comes to fruition, I wanna premiere it August 2nd, 2021; the 10th Anniversary of my very first time being on air. I wanna get all my friends involved in that. Musician friends, social media friends, even those I've never talked to once. I'd love to do a 1-2 hour documentary. If you were up for being involved in the next year; let me know. Let's make this thing happen and celebrate 10 years of That Drummer Guy!

Alright, that is more than enough words. I'm pretty sure I've written more than a novel's worth of words here and I wanna enjoy this last week of the decade. If you made it though this epic saga, you're an amazing human being and you deserve a medal of some kind. BUt seriously, thanks again for all of the love and support this year, this decade and the continuing support going into 2020 and beyond. Have a great rest of the holidays and until 2020 this is That Drummer Guy Saying, SEE YA!


- Josh Rundquist (That Drummer Guy)