METALEATER.COM
February 9, 2010
Metaleater 2007 Recap

Man, how time flies. 2007 came and went in the blink of an eye, and as one gets older, time goes by faster and faster. Trust me. That's the real downside when it comes to looking back on the past year. The upside, however, is being given the opportunity to remember all the events that took place, both the good and the bad. In this case we are, of course, talking about this big ol' thing we love so much called the Metal world.

Was 2007 a good year for Metal? Absolutely. In the midst of everything that transpired, be it certain stand-out album releases, a kick-ass live gig, or some news bit that created a buzz that had the whole town talking, some moments are definitely worth mentioning. This year saw phenomenal releases by some of Metal's most talented institutions: ARCH ENEMY, NIGHTWISH, DARK TRANQUILLITY, BEHEMOTH, ONSLAUGHT, KING DIAMOND, DIMMU BORGIR, EXODUS, MACHINE HEAD, SYMPHONY X, among many others. Newcomers DIVINE HERESY, led by ex-FEAR FACTORY guitarist Dino Cazares, delivered an excellent debut, as did Los Angeles' ECHOES OF ETERNITY. It's a crying shame that the "mainstream" continues to keep Metal out of their "spotlight" as some of the most talented musicians DO in fact derive from this genre. Okay, sure enough bands like LAMB OF GOD, SLAYER, METALLICA, MASTODON, HELLYEAH and TRIVIUM do get mentioned a lot, but as a whole, Metal seems to continuously get pushed to the curb. What a travesty, eh? Hopefully that changes in 2008.

Although it's impossible to mention every single good thing that happened in 2007, here are some of my thoughts on the positives: Perhaps one of the most revered events was the coming of HEAVEN AND HELL. Most thought this would never happen, but finally at long last it did and much to the delight of the Metal community at large, we can expect a full-length album from Dio, Iommi, Butler and Appice in 2008! MEGADETH also releasing their long-awaited "United Abominations" album through Roadrunner Records. It's always great to see a veteran band going strong, even many years after what most people would call their "golden years". Hell, look at HELIX - they've been around for over 30 years and they're still kickin' it! Another major story was Finland's NIGHTWISH unveiling their new vocalist, Anette Olzon, who was met with criticism on both sides of the fence. Many just could not get past the idea of someone replacing Tarja Turunen. Like it or not, Olzon's addition did in fact create a new dimension for the band, and you can't knock them for trying something different.

As I mentioned earlier, along with the good there is always the bad stuff. Metal suffered its fair share of disappointments and tragedies in 2007. DECAPITATED drummer Witold "Vitek" Kieltyka died tragically after succumbing to injuries sustained in a van accident while on tour in Russia. Such a sad loss for Metal, especially at such a young age. We all remember Vitek and keep him in our hearts. QUIET RIOT vocalist Kevin Dubrow sadly passed away as well. That came as a shock to me. I remember being 10 years old when I first heard "Cum On Feel The Noize" and "Metal Health". My friends and I loved blaring those songs on the ghetto blaster day after day, people yelling at us to turn it down. I've asked myself quite a few times "Why are all these Metal guys dying off at such young ages?" The answer could be obvious or remain a mystery, but any way you look at it, it's a damn shame. I, along with all the crew here at METALEATER, remember the fallen in 2007, and we send out our heartfelt condolences and sympathy to their families and friends.

Ending 2007 on a positive note, we salute Swedish Metal titans ARCH ENEMY for earning the number one spot as METALEATER's Spin Of 2007. It was obvious that the band put forth a tremendous effort in creating this monster, "Rise Of The Tyrant". The choice was unanimous and we're pleased to recognize ARCH ENEMY for their hard work, as well as DARK TRANQUILLITY, DETHKLOK, EXODUS, KING DIAMOND, MACHINE HEAD and every other band who appears in our 2007 top 30 Metal releases list.

So with the passing of one year comes the entrance of a new one and we're looking forward to delivering more quality Metal-related coverage to you in 2008. Let's make this year the heaviest yet!

All the best in 2008 to you all.

Tony Antunovich
Director

METALEATER's Top 30 Metal Releases Of 2007

METALEATER Spin Of 2007

ARCH ENEMY - Rise Of The Tyrant
  1. ARCH ENEMY - Rise Of The Tyrant [Century Media]
  2. DARK TRANQUILLITY - Fiction [Century Media]
  3. DETHKLOK - The Dethalbum [Williams Street]
  4. EXODUS - The Atrocity Exhibition: Exhibit A [Nuclear Blast]
  5. KING DIAMOND - Give Me Your Soul... Please [Metal Blade]
  6. MACHINE HEAD - The Blackening [Roadrunner]
  7. NIGHTWISH - Dark Passion Play [Roadrunner]
  8. DIMMU BORGIR - In Sorte Diaboli [Nuclear Blast]
  9. ONSLAUGHT - Killing Peace [Candlelight]
  10. PIG DESTROYER - Phantom Limb [Relapse Records]
  11. SYMPHONY X - Paradise Lost [InsideOut Music]
  12. OVERKILL - Immortalis [Bodog Music]
  13. HELLOWEEN - Gambling With The Devil [SPV/Steamhammer]
  14. TURISAS - The Varangian Way [Century Media]
  15. BEHEMOTH - The Apostasy [Century Media]
  16. ENSIFERUM - Victory Songs [Candlelight]
  17. BARONESS - The Red Album [Relapse]
  18. ECHOES OF ETERNITY - The Forgotten Goddess [Nuclear Blast]
  19. EVILE - Enter The Grave [Earache]
  20. DEVIN TOWNSEND - Ziltoid The Omniscient [InsideOut Music]
  21. FINNTROLL - Ur Jordens Djup [Century Media]
  22. SOILWORK - Sworn To A Great Divide [Nuclear Blast]
  23. DAATH - The Hinderers [Roadrunner]
  24. SIRENIA - Nine Destinies And A Downfall [Nuclear Blast]
  25. MAYLENE AND THE SONS OF DISASTER - II [Mono Vs. Stereo]
  26. SLEEPYTIME GORILLA MUSEUM - In Glorious Times [The End Records]
  27. MAYHEM - Ordo Ad Chao [Season Of Mist]
  28. DIVINE HERESY - Bleed The Fifth [Century Media]
  29. DOWN - Over The Under [Warner]
  30. NOVEMBERS DOOM - The Novella Reservoir [The End Records]

Tony Antunovich

Top 25 Releases Of 2007

  1. DARK TRANQUILLITY - Fiction [Century Media]
  2. ARCH ENEMY - Rise Of The Tyrant [Century Media]
  3. KING DIAMOND - Give Me Your Soul... Please [Metal Blade]
  4. BEHEMOTH - The Apostasy [Century Media]
  5. DIMMU BORGIR - In Sorte Diaboli [Nuclear Blast]
  6. NIGHTWISH - Dark Passion Play [Roadrunner]
  7. HELLOWEEN - Gambling With The Devil [SPV/Steamhammer]
  8. EVILE - Enter The Grave [Earache]
  9. DIVINE HERESY - Bleed The Fifth [Century Media]
  10. ECHOES OF ETERNITY - The Forgotten Goddess [Nuclear Blast]
  11. ABORTED - Slaugther & Apparatus: A Methodical Overture [Century Media]
  12. EXODUS - The Atrocity Exhibition: Exhibit A [Nuclear Blast]
  13. TURISAS - The Varangian Way [Century Media]
  14. WITHIN TEMPTATION - The Heart Of Everything [Roadrunner]
  15. NIGHTRAGE - A New Disease Is Born [Lifeforce]
  16. SVARTSOT - Ravnenes Saga [Napalm Records]
  17. RIDE THE SKY - New Protection [Nuclear Blast]
  18. ONSLAUGHT - Killing Peace [Candlelight]
  19. THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER - Nocturnal [Metal Blade]
  20. DAATH - The Hinderers [Roadrunner]
  21. OVERKILL - Immortalis [Bodog Music]
  22. PRIMAL FEAR – New Religion [Frontiers]
  23. SCORPIONS - Humanity - Hour 1 [Ariola/Sony BMG]
  24. MEGADETH - United Abominations [Roadrunner]
  25. ICED EARTH - Framing Armageddon: Something Wicked Part 1 [SPV/Steamhammer]

Top Disappointments Of 2007

  1. The tragic passing of DECAPITATED drummer Witold "Vitek" Kieltyka. Rest in peace brother.
  2. The death of QUIET RIOT vocalist Kevin DuBrow. "Cum On Feel The Noize" was a classic when I was a kid. You'll be remembered, Kevin.
  3. ICED EARTH - It's great to see Barlow back for sure. However, I think the dismissal of Tim Owens could have been handled more professionally.
  4. ANNIHILATOR - Metal [SPV/Steamhammer] - This is an absolute travesty to say the least. Sounds more like SUM 41! What the hell happened?
  5. OZZY OSBOURNE - Black Rain [Epic Records] - As much as it pains me to deem this a disappointment, it's even more painful to listen to. No disrespect to Zakk whatsoever as he remains one of my favs.

Top DVDs Of 2007

  1. NIGHTWISH - End Of An Era [Nuclear Blast]
  2. VADER - And Blood Was Shed In Warsaw [Metal Mind Productions]
  3. KATAKLYSM - Live In Deutschland: The Devastation Begins [Nuclear Blast]
  4. MEGADETH - That One Night - Live In Buenos Aires [Image Entertainment]

Top Live Shows Of 2007

  1. ARCH ENEMY, INFERNAL MAJESTY, SOULSCAR, SINNED - Vancouver, BC - Commodore Ballroom
  2. AMON AMARTH, SONIC SYNDICATE - Vancouver, BC - Croatian Cultural Centre
  3. HEAVEN AND HELL - Vancouver, BC - Pacific Coliseum
  4. DIMMU BORGIR - Vancouver, BC - Commodore Ballroom
  5. SCORPIONS - Vancouver, BC - PNE Forum

High Expectations For 2008

  1. JUDAS PRIEST - Okay, I said the same thing last year but "Nostradamus" never capitalized in 2007. Thankfully, the album will be released in 2008. Let's bring back the true PRIEST.
  2. ANTHRAX - Alright, the new singer has been found. Let's get a new album out already!
  3. HATE ETERNAL - Erik Rutan appears to have a solid vision for the future. Alex Webster has joined the ranks as well. This should be a great addition to the Death Metal catalog.
  4. KATAKLYSM - The masters of extreme will be releasing "Prevail" in 2008. Cover your asses 'cause they're going to get kicked hard.
  5. INFERNAL MAJESTY - "Systematical Extermination" has been in the making for over two years. Hopefully 2008 is the year it gets released.

Brian Davis

Top 25 Releases Of 2007

  1. DARK TRANQUILLITY - Fiction [Century Media]
  2. ECHOES OF ETERNITY - The Forgotten Goddess [Nuclear Blast]
  3. ONSLAUGHT - Killing Peace [Candlelight]
  4. FEAR MY THOUGHTS - Vulcanus [Century Media]
  5. ONE MAN ARMY AND THE UNDEAD QUARTET - Error In Evolution [Nuclear Blast]
  6. DETHKLOK - The Dethalbum [Williams Street]
  7. EVILE - Enter The Grave [Earache]
  8. ARCH ENEMY - Rise Of The Tyrant [Century Media]
  9. DAATH - The Hinderers [Roadrunner]
  10. SENATE - The Great Northern Scene Kill [Independent]
  11. MORS PRINCIPIUM EST - Liberation=Termination [Listenable Records]
  12. ABORTED - Slaugther & Apparatus: A Methodical Overture [Century Media]
  13. DIVINE HERESY - Bleed The Fifth [Century Media]
  14. OVERKILL - Immortalis [Bodog Music]
  15. OPETH - The Roundhouse Tapes [Peaceville]
  16. BEHEMOTH - The Apostasy [Century Media]
  17. DIMMU BORGIR - In Sorte Diaboli [Nuclear Blast]
  18. DEIMOS - Dead::Set::Soul [Independent]
  19. RISE TO ADDICTION - A New Shade Of Black For The Soul [Mausoleum]
  20. CLUTCH - From Beale Street To Oblivion [DRT]
  21. EXODUS - The Atrocity Exhibition: Exhibit A [Nuclear Blast]
  22. NUCLEAR BLAST ALL-STARS - Out Of The Dark [Nuclear Blast]
  23. THE CURSED - Room Full Of Sinners [Locomotive Records]
  24. DEW-SCENTED - Incinerate [Nuclear Blast]
  25. BENEATH THE MASSACRE - Mechanics Of Dysfunction [Prosthetic Records]

Top Disappointments Of 2007

  1. It is tragedy more than disappointment, but the untimely death of Witold "Vitek" Kieltyka of Poland's DECAPITATED stunned the world. Just 23 years old and one of the most talented drummers we have ever seen, let alone one of the nicest guys you could ever meet. Sincerest sympathies to his brother Vogg and the rest of their family, as well as thoughts and support to the band's vocalist Covan and hopes for full recovery from this tragic accident. METALEATER salutes you and will never forget your contributions to Metal.
  2. The disbanding of CARNIVAL IN COAL. One of the most brilliant lights in the world of Metal shines no more.
  3. VITAL REMAINS - Icons Of Evil [Century Media]. Not an awful album, but nowhere near the explosive capacity the band has displayed on prior occasions.
  4. WITH PASSION - What We See When We Shut Our Eyes [Earache]. An absolutely flawless technical album, absolutely ruined by some of the worst vocals in the history of the world.
  5. Emo and the poor misguided people that listen to it.

Top DVDs Of 2007

  1. Waking Up Dead [MVD Visual] - Think the life of a rock star is all fun and games? Try telling that to ex-SAIGON KICK/SKID ROW drummer Phil Varone; it nearly ate him alive.
  2. VADER - And Blood Was Shed In Warsaw [Metal Mind Productions] The only thing better than VADER in the studio is VADER live.
  3. Metalocalypse - Season One [Turner Home Ent.] - Does it count? It should. DETHKLOK is a phenomenon, and the Metal is genuine. Works for me.

Top Live Shows Of 2007

  1. Seattle Metal Fest 2007 (OVERKILL, DESTRUCTION, INTO ETERNITY, ARSIS) - Seattle, WA - The Showbox
  2. Metal For The Masses Tour (THE HAUNTED, DARK TRANQUILLITY, INTO ETERNITY, SCAR SYMMETRY) - Seattle, WA - El Corazon
  3. INTO ETERNITY, ECHOES OF ETERNITY - Seattle, WA - Studio Seven
  4. ANGER MANAGEMENT - Portland, OR - Rock 'N' Roll Pizza
  5. RUSTMINE - Portland, OR - Rock 'N' Roll Pizza

High Expectations For 2008

  1. AUTUMN'S END - Their drummer Joey Kamka endured a brutal crash that severed his brain stem and fractured his skull, leaving him in a coma. Was this another violent, tragic end to the life of one of the best drummers in Metal? Hell no, the man defied the odds. His is the greatest Metal story of the year; he's already back behind the kit and bashing out the tunes with his band of brothers. I can't even imagine the fuel and inspiration these guys have coming into 2008, but I guarantee they are well aware of their fortune and their new album will be a true marvel. Hails, Joey - you are the true embodiment of Metal's spirit, resilience and determination.
  2. OPETH - Mikael Åkerfeldt claims it is the best album the band has ever created. I can't wait to find out.
  3. BIOMECHANICAL - "Cannibalised" This band is at the forefront of redefining the world of Metal as we know it; the final installment of the trilogy in an already brilliant concept story has all the markings of a Metal landmark, just like its predecessors. Oh, and how about a US tour?
  4. INTO ETERNITY - They've spent nearly all of 2007 on the road, they've proven they have one of the most distinct and reliable sounds in all of Metal, now it's time to further the legacy with another masterpiece album.
  5. RUSTMINE - "Self Destruct" These guys have put a lot of time into refining their sound and building on an already strong foundation. Their first full length release should be very solid.

Corey Bonnett

Top 25 Releases Of 2007

  1. ONSLAUGHT - Killing Peace [Candlelight]
  2. EXODUS - The Atrocity Exhibition: Exhibit A [Nuclear Blast]
  3. DARK TRANQUILLITY - Fiction [Century Media]
  4. MACHINE HEAD - The Blackening [Roadrunner]
  5. DETHKLOK - The Dethalbum [Williams Street]
  6. MELECHESH - Emissaries [The End Records]
  7. BLOOD TSUNAMI - Thrash Metal [Candlelight]
  8. ARCH ENEMY - Rise Of The Tyrant [Century Media]
  9. TURISAS - The Varangian Way [Century Media]
  10. LEGION OF THE DAMNED - Sons Of The Jackal [Massacre Records]
  11. DAATH - The Hinderers [Roadrunner]
  12. DARKEST HOUR - Deliver Us [Victory Records]
  13. MUNICIPAL WASTE - The Art Of Partying [Earache]
  14. OBITUARY - Xecutioner's Return [Candlelight]
  15. THE ABSENCE - Riders Of The Plague [Metal Blade]
  16. INFERNAEON - A Symphony Of Suffering [Prosthetic Records]
  17. SKELETONWITCH - Beyond The Permafrost [Prosthetic Records]
  18. 3 INCHES OF BLOOD - Fire Up The Blades [Roadrunner]
  19. PIG DESTROYER - Phantom Limb [Relapse Records]
  20. ENSIFERUM - Victory Songs [Candlelight]
  21. DEVILDRIVER - The Last Kind Words [Roadrunner]
  22. CEPHALIC CARNAGE - Xenosapien [Relapse Records]
  23. OPETH - The Roundhouse Tapes [Peaceville]
  24. SOILWORK - Sworn To A Great Divide [Nuclear Blast]
  25. ECHOES OF ETERNITY - The Forgotten Goddess [Nuclear Blast]

Top Disappointments Of 2007

  1. ICED EARTH - Framing Armageddon: Something Wicked Part 1 [SPV/Steamhammer]
  2. OZZY OSBOURNE - Black Rain [Epic Records]
  3. RUSH - Snakes And Arrows [Atlantic]
  4. ANNIHILATOR - Metal [SPV/Steamhammer]
  5. HELLOWEEN - Gambling With The Devil [SPV/Steamhammer]

Top DVDs Of 2007

  1. HEAVEN & HELL - Live At Radio City Music Hall 2007 [Rhino Records]
  2. AC/DC - Plug Me In [Sony]
  3. METAL CHURCH - Dynamo Classic Concerts 1991 [RSK Entertainment]

High Expectations For 2008

  1. I look forward to scheduled new releases from IMMORTAL, INTO ETERNITY, TESTAMENT, NEVERMORE, HATE ETERNAL and hopefully WINTERSUN's "Time" will finally hit the music store shelves!

Luc Ben Hayoun

Top 25 Releases Of 2007

  1. AMORPHIS - Silent Waters [Nuclear Blast]
  2. TAROT - Crows Fly Black [Nuclear Blast]
  3. DIMMU BORGIR - In Sorte Diaboli [Nuclear Blast]
  4. ENSIFERUM - Victory Songs [Candlelight]
  5. FINNTROLL - Ur Jordens Djup [Century Media]
  6. NIGHTWISH - Dark Passion Play [Roadrunner]
  7. MAYHEM - Ordo Ad Chao [Season Of Mist]
  8. SOILWORK - Sworn To A Great Divide [Nuclear Blast]
  9. MASTERPLAN - MK II [AFM Records]
  10. PAGAN'S MIND - God's Equation [Limb Music]
  11. IRON FIRE - Blade Of Triumph [Napalm Records]
  12. RIDE THE SKY - New Protection [Nuclear Blast]
  13. MACHINE MEN - Circus Of Fools [Century Media]
  14. ARCH ENEMY - Rise Of The Tyrant [Century Media]
  15. EXODUS - The Atrocity Exhibition: Exhibit A [Nuclear Blast]
  16. MORS PRINCIPIUM EST - Liberation=Termination [Listenable Records]
  17. GRAVEWORM - Collateral Defect [Nuclear Blast]
  18. IRON SAVIOR - Magatropolis [Dockyard 1]
  19. ICED EARTH - Framing Armageddon: Something Wicked Part 1 [SPV/Steamhammer]
  20. MYSTIC PROPHECY - Satanic Curses [Massacre Records]
  21. NIGHTRAGE - A New Disease Is Born [Lifeforce]
  22. OBSCURANT - First Degree Suicide [Woodcut Records]
  23. KORPIKLAANI - Tervaskanto [Napalm Records]
  24. MANTICORA - The Black Circus [Massacre Records]
  25. SIRENIA - Nine Destinies And A Downfall [Nuclear Blast]

Top Disappointments Of 2007

  1. MNEMIC - Passenger [Nuclear Blast] - (should be renamed sub-MESHUGGAH)
  2. NOCTURNAL RITES - The 8th Sin [Century Media] - Except for a couple of tracks the overall impression of this album is mediocre.
  3. PAGANIZE - Evolution Hour [Candlelight] - Where are the melodies?
  4. PAIN - Psalms Of Extinction [Roadrunner] - Too many keyboards.
  5. SONATA ARCTICA - Unia [Nuclear Blast] - Too many keyboards in Metal are like too much mayo in a sandwich.

Top DVDs Of 2007

  1. DEEP PURPLE - Live In Montreux [Deep Purple Records]
  2. MEGADETH - That One Night - Live In Buenos Aires [Image Entertainment]

Top Live Shows Of 2007

  1. HEAVEN AND HELL - Vancouver, BC - Pacific Coliseum
  2. SCORPIONS - Vancouver, BC - PNE Forum
  3. CRADLE OF FILTH - Vancouver, BC - Commodore Ballroom
  4. DIMMU BORGIR - Vancouver, BC - Commodore Ballroom

High Expectations For 2008

  1. NIGHTWISH coming to Vancouver this spring!
  2. New album from HEED
  3. IMMORTAL's new album (still waiting)!

Philip Wickstrand

Top 25 Releases Of 2007

  1. THERION - Gothic Kabbalah [Nuclear Blast]
  2. DEVIN TOWNSEND - Ziltoid The Omniscient [InsideOut Music]
  3. SIRENIA - Nine Destinies And A Downfall [Nuclear Blast]
  4. TURISAS - The Varangian Way [Century Media]
  5. NIGHTWISH - Dark Passion Play [Roadrunner]
  6. TENOCHTITLAN - Tezcatl [Metalism]
  7. ENSIFERUM - Victory Songs [Candlelight]
  8. AFTER FOREVER - After Forever [Nuclear Blast]
  9. HELLOWEEN - Gambling With The Devil [SPV/Steamhammer]
  10. FINNTROLL - Ur Joredens Djup [Century Media]
  11. HIGH ON FIRE - Death Is This Communion [Relapse]
  12. KING DIAMOND - Give Me Your Soul... Please [Metal Blade]
  13. ALABAMA THUNDERPUSSY - Open Fire [Relapse]
  14. MÅNEGARM - Vargstenen [Black Lodge]
  15. TYPE O NEGATIVE - Dead Again [SPV/Steamhammer]
  16. OAKHELM - Betwixt And Between [Forest Moon Special Products]
  17. CHRIS CAFFERY - Pins And Needles [Locomotive Records]
  18. REDEMPTION - The Origins Of Ruin [InsideOut Music]
  19. EPICA - The Divine Conspiracy [Nuclear Blast]
  20. PORCUPINE TREE - Fear Of A Blank Planet [Atlantic]
  21. SIGH - Hangman's Hymn [The End Records]
  22. MIDDIAN - Age Eternal [Metal Blade]
  23. SLOUGH FEG - Hardworlder [Cruz del Sur]
  24. DARK TRANQUILLITY - Fiction [Century Media]
  25. THRESHOLD - Dead Reckoning [Nuclear Blast]

Top Disappointments Of 2007

  1. Jon Schaffer treating Ripper Owens like nothing more than a stage prop by booting him to bring back Barlow, who quit ICED EARTH in the first place. Schaffer uses the "fans wanting it" as his excuse, which is basically the same as dumping your current girlfriend for an ex because your friends liked her better. Schaffer covers himself well by calling anyone in the press who disagrees with him a "trash journalist", much like McCarthy would accuse his enemies of being Communists. Jon Schaffer has no integrity.
  2. Oregon Doomsters MIDDIAN getting sued by another band with the same name, getting dropped by Metal Blade and having their debut album permanantely taken out of print. That's awfully damn harsh.
  3. Watching the legendary BAD BRAINS mail it in two nights in a row in front of sold out audiences back in April. $22 a pop and you only give us an hour of flat, unispired performances? Screw that.
  4. MOONSORROW - V: Havitetty [The End Records] - This isn't a bad album, but if you walk into a five star restaurant and got served a three star meal, wouldn't you also feel let down?
  5. SONATA ARCTICA - Unia [Nuclear Blast] - These are all good songs, but the pacing and tempo are all so similair that very few of them stand out at all on here. I'm sure they'll be fine in a live show, but trying to get through this album is a bit of a task.

Top DVDs Of 2007

  1. HEAVEN & HELL - Live From Radio City Music Hall [Rhino]
  2. KORPIKLAANI - Live At Wacken 2006 [Napalm Records]
  3. KATATONIA - Live Consternation [Peaceville]
  4. CHTHONIC - A Decade On The Throne [SPV/Steamhammer]

Top Live Shows Of 2007

  1. Heathen Crusade II, featuring BAL-SAGOTH, MÅNEGARM, SKYFORGER, VREID, RUDRA, SLOUGH FEG, MAEL MORDHA, OBTEST and HORDES OF YORE - St. Paul, MN - Station 4 - Hands down, the best show I have ever been to.
  2. SLOUGH FEG w/ DARKBLACK and EALDATH - Portland, OR - Mt. Tabor Legacy
  3. LACUNA COIL w/ WITHIN TEMPTATION, KYLESA and STOLEN BABIES - Portland, OR - Aladdin Theatre
  4. OAKHELM w/ DARKBLACK - Portland, OR - Kelly's Olympian
  5. HEAVEN AND HELL - Vancouver, BC - Pacific Coliseum

High Expectations For 2008

  1. The Paganfest USA tour - ENSIFERUM, TURISAS, TYR and ELUVEITIE all on the same tour, with OAKHELM as local support for the Portland and Seattle stops? Are you f*cking serious??? Joygasm!
  2. That SYMPHONY X, EPICA and INTO ETERNITY tour is also looking pretty good.
  3. A new album from HOLLENTHON, eh? Let's hope it actually comes out this time.
  4. The announcement for Heathen Crusade III - I can't wait to see who will be playing the next installment.
  5. That whatever band the former members of MIDDIAN decide to form does well. These guys bust their asses and deserve to benefit from their hard work, rather than getting kicked around by some lawsuit bozos.

Nick Cacioppo

Top 25 Releases Of 2007

  1. OXBOW - The Narcotic Story [Hydrahead Records]
  2. PORTAL - Outre [Profound Lore]
  3. SUTCLIFFE JUGEND - This Is The Truth [Ground Fault Recodings/Hospital Productions]
  4. DEATHSPELL OMEGA - Fas [Southern Lord]
  5. SLEEPYTIME GORILLA MUSEUM - In Glorious Times [The End Records]
  6. PIG DESTROYER - Phantom Limb [Relapse Records]
  7. GLORIOR BELLI - Manifesting The Raging Beast [Southern Lord]
  8. ARKHON INFAUSTUS - Orthodoxyn [Osmose Productions]
  9. ANTIGAMA - Resonance [Relapse Records]
  10. RWAKE - Voice Of Omens [Relapse Records]
  11. IMMOLATION - Shadows In The Light [Century Media]
  12. SUNSET RUBDOWN - Random Spirit Lover [Jagjaguwar]
  13. CRIONICS - Neu Throne [Candlelight]
  14. TODAY IS THE DAY - Axis Of Eden [Relapse Records]
  15. THE ANGELIC PROCESS - Weighing Souls With Sand [Profound Lore]
  16. CAINA - Mourner [Profound Lore]
  17. THOSE POOR BASTARDS - Hellfire Hymns [Tribulation Recording Company]
  18. TWO GALLANTS - Two Gallants [Saddle Creek]
  19. ATAVIST - II: Ruined [Profound Lore]
  20. COBALT - Enter The Birds [Profound Lore]
  21. RAJOITUS - Maailman Hautajainen [Independent]
  22. THE ROHAN THEATRE BAND - Perfect World [Hobgoblin Records]
  23. JONAS HELLBORG - Art Metal [Bardo Records]
  24. MONARCH! - Dead Men Tell No Tales [Independent]
  25. TOMBS - Tombs [Black Box Records]

Top Disappointments Of 2007

  1. THE RED CHORD - Prey For Eyes [Metal Blade]
  2. JESU - Conquerer [Hydra Head]
  3. Lord Worm exiting CRYPTOPSY... AGAIN!
  4. DARKEST HOUR - Deliver Us [Victory Records]
  5. Phil Anselmo’s various vanity projects prohibiting EYEHATEGOD and CROWBAR from doing any touring or recording.

Top Live Shows Of 2007

  1. OXBOW - NY - Irving Plaza
  2. MADE OUT OF BABIES, RWAKE, UNEARTHLY TRANCE - NY - Club Midway
  3. MARYLAND DEATH FEST - Baltimore, MD - Sonar
  4. MELVINS - Irving Plaza - NY
  5. ISKRA, THE COMMUNION, DISSSYSTEMA - Philadelphia, PA - Disgraceland

High Expectations For 2008

  1. THE COMMUNION finding a drummer and recording a full-length.
  2. The new album from DEATHCYCLE.
  3. PORTAL coming to America.
  4. A new album from STARKWEATHER, with shows to follow.
  5. The new album from SOILENT GREEN.

Jeff Treppel

Top 25 Releases Of 2007

  1. BARONESS - The Red Album [Relapse]
  2. ARCH ENEMY - Rise Of The Tyrant [Century Media]
  3. MACHINE HEAD - The Blackening [Roadrunner]
  4. HACRIDE - Amoeba [Listenable]
  5. MAYLENE AND THE SONS OF DISASTER - II [Mono Vs. Stereo]
  6. SYMPHONY X - Paradise Lost [InsideOut Music]
  7. NOVEMBERS DOOM - The Novella Reservoir [The End Records]
  8. RUSH - Snakes And Arrows [Atlantic]
  9. DETHKLOK - The Dethalbum [Williams Street]
  10. EARTHLESS - Rhythms From A Cosmic Sky [Teepee]
  11. DHG - Super Villain Outcast [The End Records]
  12. SONATA ARCTICA - Unia [Nuclear Blast]
  13. ALCHEMIST - Tripsis [Relapse]
  14. BULLETS AND OCTANE - Song For The Underdog [Ares]
  15. DEVIN TOWNSEND - Ziltoid The Omniscient [InsideOut Music]
  16. SLOUGH FEG - Hardworlder [Cruz Del Sur]
  17. PHAZM - Antebellum Death 'n' Roll [The End Records]
  18. THE 69 EYES - Angels [Cleopatra]
  19. HIGH ON FIRE - Death Is This Communion [Relapse]
  20. DIMMU BORGIR - In Sorte Diaboli [Nuclear Blast]
  21. MUNICIPAL WASTE - The Art Of Partying [Earache]
  22. HIMSA - Summon In Thunder [Century Media]
  23. PARADISE LOST - In Requiem [Century Media]
  24. GHOST BRIGADE - Guided By Fire [Season Of Mist]
  25. PIG DESTROYER - Phantom Limb [Relapse]

Top Disappointments Of 2007

  1. OZZY OSBOURNE - Black Rain [Epic Records]
  2. TYPE O NEGATIVE - Dead Again [SPV]
  3. NIGHTWISH - Dark Passion Play [Roadrunner]
  4. QUEENS OF THE STONE AGE - Era Vulgaris [Interscope]
  5. NUCLEAR BLAST ALL-STARS - Out Of The Dark [Nuclear Blast]

Top DVDs Of 2007

  1. Metalocalypse - Season One [Turner Home Ent.]
  2. NIGHTWISH - End Of An Era [Nuclear Blast]
  3. IRON MAIDEN - Death On The Road [Sanctuary]
  4. APOCALYPTICA - The Life Burns Tour [Jive]

Top Live Shows Of 2007

  1. MACHINE HEAD, ARCH ENEMY - Hollywood, CA - The Avalon
  2. Metal For The Masses Tour (THE HAUNTED, DARK TRANQUILLITY, INTO ETERNITY, SCAR SYMMETRY) - Hollywood, CA - The Avalon
  3. SLOUGH FEG - Hollywood, CA - Relax Bar
  4. AMON AMARTH, HIMSA - Hollywood, CA - The Avalon
  5. BORIS w/ KURIHARA - Los Angeles, CA - Echo Plex

High Expectations For 2008

  1. DEATH ANGEL - Killing Season
  2. CHILDREN OF BODOM - Blooddrunk
  3. ANTHRAX - TBA
  4. JUDAS PRIEST - Nostradamus
  5. IN FLAMES - TBA

Aaron Grossman

Top 25 Releases Of 2007

  1. DETHKLOK - The Dethalbum [Williams Street]
  2. ARCH ENEMY - Rise Of The Tyrant [Century Media]
  3. THREE - The End Is Begun [Metal Blade]
  4. SYMPHONY X - Paradise Lost [InsideOut Music]
  5. PINK CREAM 69 - In10sity [Frontiers]
  6. COHEED AND CAMBRIA - No World For Tomorrow [Sony]
  7. DARK TRANQUILLITY - Fiction [Century Media]
  8. SCORPIONS - Humanity - Hour 1 [Ariola/Sony BMG]
  9. BARONESS - The Red Album [Relapse]
  10. THE END - Elementary [Relapse]
  11. RUSH - Snakes And Arrows [Atlantic]
  12. LORDI - The Arockalypse [The End]
  13. KAMELOT - Ghost Opera [SPV/Steamhammer]
  14. CIRCUS MAXIMUS - Isolate [Sensory Records]
  15. SOILWORK - Sworn To A Great Divide [Nuclear Blast]
  16. CLUTCH - From Beale Street To Oblivion [DRT]
  17. MAYLENE AND THE SONS OF DISASTER - II [Mono Vs. Stereo]
  18. NIGHTWISH - Dark Passion Play [Roadrunner]
  19. NOVEMBERS DOOM - The Novella Reservoir [The End Records]
  20. PELICAN - City Of Echoes [Hydrahead Records]
  21. ICED EARTH - Framing Armageddon: Something Wicked Part 1 [SPV/Steamhammer]
  22. YAKUZA - Transmissions [Prosthetic]
  23. SIGH - Hangman's Hymn [The End Records]
  24. CANDLEMASS - King Of The Grey Islands [Nuclear Blast]
  25. EDEN'S CURSE - Eden's Curse [AFM Records]

Top Disappointments Of 2007

  1. TYPE O NEGATIVE - Dead Again [SPV] - For a moment, you think these guys are back in full force. Then the first track ends and the rest of the album devolves into a complete mess of chaotic song structures, muddy riffs, and Billy Graham inspired lyrics. Biggest disappointment of the year by far.
  2. OZZY OSBOURNE - Black Rain [Epic Records] - Ozzy's voice doesn't sound quite as bad as you'd imagine, but it's pretty damn close. I love me the Blizzard and I loves me some Zakk Wylde, so what the hell happened here?
  3. MACHINE HEAD - The Blackening [Roadrunner] - Continuing my yearly tradition of being unimpressed by albums beloved within the Metal Community.
  4. SONATA ARTICA - Unia [Nuclear Blast] - Normally I love Melodic Finnish Metal, but then again, Melodic Finnish Metal normally has some decent lyrics and hooks that stay in my head for more than five seconds. As far as AOR tinged Progressive Power Metal goes, I'll stick with CIRCUS MAXIMUS or MASTERPLAN, thank you.
  5. Continuing Metal Elitism - The same old song and dance has been going on for years, and it's getting pretty damn tiresome.

Top DVDs Of 2007

  1. HEAVEN AND HELL - Live At Radio City Music Hall [Rhino Records]
  2. NIGHTWISH - End Of An Era [Nuclear Blast]
  3. LED ZEPPELIN - The Song Remains The Same (2 Disc Special Edition) [Warner]
  4. Metalocalypse - Season One [Turner Home Ent.]

High Expectations For 2008

  1. LED ZEPPELIN - The reunion bug bit for a few shows, but can they stand each other long enough for a full tour?
  2. HEAVEN AND HELL - Ozzy's pretty much shot at this point, guys. Cut your losses and do an album with Ronnie.
  3. JUDAS PRIEST - At this point, they must've done enough research on Nostradamus to write his biography. Can we get to the music already?
  4. ICED EARTH - With Matt Barlow back in the fold and part two of the "Something Wicked" arc due, you can almost forgive Jon Schaffer for his handling of the "Ripper" situation. Almost.
  5. "The Chemical Wedding" - Bruce Dickinson adapts his classic Aleister Crowley themed concept album to the big screen. Someone get me a U.S. release date. And a copy of the soundtrack.

Nathan Dufour

Top 25 Releases Of 2007

  1. THE DILLINGER ESCAPE PLAN - Ire Works [Relapse]
  2. PIG DESTROYER - Phantom Limb [Relapse]
  3. AKERCOCKE - Antichrist [Earache]
  4. DARK TRANQUILLITY - Fiction [Century Media]
  5. NEUROSIS - Given to the Rising [Neurot]
  6. BETWEEN THE BURIED AND ME - Colors [Victory]
  7. ARCH ENEMY - Rise Of The Tyrant [Century Media]
  8. MINSK - The Ritual Fires Of Abandonment [Relapse]
  9. DREAM THEATER - Systematic Chaos [Roadrunner]
  10. COLDWORKER - The Contaminated Void [Relapse]
  11. CLUTCH - From Beale Street To Oblivion [DRT]
  12. SWALLOW THE SUN - Hope [Spinefarm]
  13. MAYHEM - Ordo Ad Chao [Season Of Mist]
  14. SOILWORK - Sworn To A Great Divide [Nuclear Blast]
  15. DOWN - Over The Under [Warner]
  16. THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER - Nocturnal [Metal Blade]
  17. THE RED CHORD - Prey For Eyes [Metal Blade]
  18. DIMMU BORGIR - In Sorte Diabli [Nuclear Blast]
  19. NILE - Ithyphalic [Nuclear Blast]
  20. PAIN OF SALVATION - Scarsick [InsideOut Music]
  21. MACHINE HEAD - The Blackening [Roadrunner]
  22. VITAL REMAINS - Icons Of Evil [Century Media]
  23. BURN IN SILENCE - Angel Maker [Prosthetic]
  24. KILLWHITNEYDEAD - Nothing More Nothing Less [Tribunal]
  25. ANIMOSITY - Animal [Metal Blade]

Top Disappointments Of 2007

  1. LENG T'CHE - Marasmus [Relapse]
  2. CEPHALIC CARNAGE - Xenosapien [Relapse]
  3. ION DISSONANCE - Minus The Herd [Century Media]
  4. A LOVE ENDS SUICIDE - In The Disaster [Metal Blade]
  5. DARKEST HOUR - Deliver Us [Victory]

Top Live Shows Of 2007

  1. The Band Of Brothers Tour - Regina, SK - The Exchange
  2. The Metal Blade 25th Anniversary Tour w/ CANNIBAL CORPSE, THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER, THE RED CHORD, GOATWHORE and THE ABSENCE - Regina, SK - The Distrikt
  3. THE LOCUST - Regina, SK - The Exchange
  4. DYING FETUS, BLOODSHOTEYE, COVENANCE - Regina, SK - Mutlipurpose Room at the University Of Regina
  5. AMON AMARTH, DARKEST HOUR, GOATWHORE - Regina, SK - The Exchange

High Expectations For 2008

  1. IN FLAMES
  2. INTO ETERNITY
  3. KATAKLYSM
  4. METALLICA
  5. IRONS

Eric Chiasson

Top 25 Releases Of 2007

  1. EXODUS - The Atrocity Exhibition: Exhibit A [Nuclear Blast]
  2. OVERKILL - Immortalis [Bodog Music]
  3. MESSIAH'S KISS - Dragonheart [SPV/Steamhammer]
  4. BLACK SABBATH - The Dio Years [Rhino]
  5. HEAVEN AND HELL - Live At Radio City Music Hall [Rhino Records]
  6. KING DIAMOND - Give Me Your Soul... Please [Metal Blade]
  7. SEVEN WITCHES - Deadly Sins [Locomotive]
  8. HELLOWEEN - Gambling With The Devil [SPV/Steamhammer]
  9. OZZY OSBOURNE - Black Rain [Epic Records]
  10. MOTÖRHEAD - Better Motörhead Than Dead [SPV/Steamhammer]
  11. MEGADETH - United Abominations [Roadrunner]
  12. DOWN - Over The Under [Warner]
  13. ARCH ENEMY - Rise Of The Tyrant [Century Media]
  14. ICED EARTH - Framing Armageddon: Something Wicked Part 1 [SPV/Steamhammer]
  15. HAMMERFALL - Steel Meets Steel - Ten Years Of Glory [Nuclear Blast]
  16. BURNING POINT - Burned Down The Enemy [Metal Heaven]
  17. BATTLELORE - Evernight [Naplam]
  18. GAMMA RAY - Land Of The Free II [SPV/Steamhammer]
  19. EVILE - Enter The Grave [Earache]
  20. LOST EDEN - Cycle Repeats [Candlelight]
  21. RIDE THE SKY - New Protection [Nuclear Blast]
  22. NOSTRADAMEUS - Pathway [AFM Records]
  23. HEAVENLY - Virus [AFM Records]
  24. BLOOD TSUNAMI - Thrash Metal [Candlelight]
  25. MASTERPLAN - MK II [AFM Records]

Top Disappointments Of 2007

  1. 2007 has been an great year for Metal; one of the best in a while. But 2007 is finishing on a rather sad note with the death of QUIET RIOT singer Kevin DuBrow. People can call him a "has been" all they want but QUIET RIOT's "Metal Heatlh" was the first Metal album to reach #1 on Billboard's album chart back in 1983. This was a huge step for Metal and it showed the world that Metal was here to stay; And here we are today...true Metal fans all around the world standing loud and proud. R.I.P. Kevin, may you bang you head to the heavenly skies.

Top DVDs Of 2007

  1. AC/DC - Plug Me In [Sony]
  2. HEAVEN AND HELL - Live At Radio City Music Hall [Rhino Records]
  3. HELLOWEEN - Live On 3 Continents [SPV/Steamhammer]
  4. KISS - Kissology Vol. 1, 2, 3 - Like AC/DC, KISS may not be Metal music-wise, but both bands were intense and crazy like no other bands in the '70s. They have raised the bar on how a good show should be like, both musically and visually.
  5. MEGADETH - That One Night - Live In Buenos Aires [Image Entertainment]

Top Live Shows Of 2007

  1. HEAVEN AND HELL w/ MEGADETH and DOWN - Quebec City, QC - Pepsi Coliseum

High Expectations For 2008

  1. A studio album from HEAVEN AND HELL. Finally, new material from one the original BLACK SABBATH lineup in almost two decades.
  2. Matt Barlow is back where he belongs... as frontman for ICED EARTH.
  3. A new FORCE OF EVIL album?
  4. The new JUDAS PRIEST album.
  5. A new ANTHRAX album with new singer Dan Nelson?

Graham MacSkimming

Top 25 Releases Of 2007

  1. TULUS - Biography Obscene [Indie]
  2. LIVA - De Insulis [Indie]
  3. MAYHEM - Ordo Ad Chao [Season Of Mist]
  4. GALLHAMMER - Ill Innocence [Peaceville]
  5. KING DIAMOND - Give Me Your Soul... Please [Metal Blade]
  6. WORMTONGUE - The Solstice Funeral EP [Indie]
  7. BLACK LOTUS - Light Subsides [Indie]
  8. BEHEMOTH - The Apostasy [Century Media]
  9. WITCHCRAFT - The Alchemist [Candlelight]
  10. DEATHSPELL OMEGA - Ite, Maledicti, In Egnum Aeternam [Southern Lord]
  11. STALAGGH - Projekt Misanthropia [Autopsy Kitchen Records]
  12. NEFASTUS DIES - Urban Cancer [Indie]
  13. YAKUZA - Transmissions [Prosthetic]
  14. MONSTERWORKS - Spatial Operations [Indie]
  15. LUNAR AURORA - Andacht [Indie]
  16. ANAAL NATHRAKH - Hell Is Empty, And All The Devils Are Here [Relapse]
  17. WOLVEN ANCESTRY - The Wrath Of Gaia [Indie]
  18. SLEEPYTIME GORILLA MUSEUM - In Glorious Times [The End Records]
  19. HEARSE - In These Veins [Candlelight]
  20. WATAIN - Sworn To The Dark [Season Of Mist]
  21. TIMOR ET TREMOR - The Winding Path [Indie]
  22. FEN - Ancient Sorrow [Northern Silence Productions]
  23. WOLVES IN THE THRONE ROOM - Two Hunters [Southern Lord]
  24. SVARTSYN - Timeless Reign [Carnal Records]
  25. SLOUGH FEG - Hardworlder [Cruz Del Sur]

Top Disappointments Of 2007

  1. That the new WITCHFYNDE album was too late for release this year.

Top Live Shows Of 2007

  1. HEAVEN AND HELL - Vancouver, BC - Pacific Coliseum

High Expectations For 2008

  1. NEFASTUS DIES, WOLVEN ANCESTRY, and MECHA MESSIAH will develop into major forces in Canadian Metal.
  2. Dark throne will be adopted as mutated grandchildren of Lemmy Kilmister.

Cordula Abston

Top 25 Releases Of 2007

  1. PRONG - Power Of The Damager [13th Planet]
  2. ANNIHILATOR - Metal [SPV/Steamhammer]
  3. SUSPERIA - Cut From Stone [Tabu Recordings]
  4. MINISTRY - The Last Sucker [13th Planet]
  5. NEUROSIS - Given To The Rising [Neurot Recordings]
  6. W.A.S.P. - Dominator [Demolition/Soulfood]
  7. MACHINE HEAD - The Blackening [Roadrunner]
  8. CANDLEMASS - King Of The Grey Islands [Nuclear Blast]
  9. OVERKILL - Immortalis [Bodog Music]
  10. TYPE O NEGATIVE - Dead Again [SPV/Steamhammer]
  11. SYMPHONY X - Paradise Lost [Inside Out/SPV]
  12. STATIC-X - Cannibal [Warner Bros/Wea]
  13. DOWN - Over The Under [Warner]
  14. EXODUS - The Atrocity Exhibition - Exhibit A [Nuclear Blast]
  15. DUBLIN DEATH PATROL - DDP 4 Life [God Fodder Records]
  16. QUEENS OF THE STONE AGE - Era Vulgaris [Interscope/Universal]
  17. SERJ TANKIAN - Elect the Dead [Warner]
  18. PRO-PAIN - Age Of Tyranny/The Tenth Crusade [Rawhead/Soulfood]
  19. ONSLAUGHT - Killing Peace [Candlelight]
  20. DIMMU BORGIR - In Sorte Diaboli [Nuclear Blast]
  21. DREAM THEATER - Systematic Chaos [Roadrunner]
  22. ICED EARTH - Framing Armageddon: Something Wicked Part 1 [SPV/Steamhammer]
  23. DIVINE HERESY - Bleed The Fifth [Century Media]
  24. NIGHTWISH - Dark Passion Play [Nuclear Blast]
  25. LIZZY BORDEN - Appointment With Death [Metal Blade]

Top Disappointments Of 2007

  1. CRADLE OF FILTH - Eleven Burial Masses [Peaceville/SPV] - Strange release with a concert from 2001 - only the artwork is new here. What's up with that?
  2. AS I LAY DYING - An Ocean Between Us [Metal Blade] - Where are the unique features?
  3. SIRENIA - Nine Destinies And A Downfall [Nuclear Blast] - The cliche factor is just too high, and the band lost their roots only to drift in the waterway of NIGHTWISH or WITHIN TEMPTATION.
  4. ENTOMBED - Serpent Saints [Candlelight/Soulfood] - The album has some interesting cool aspects but it's not convincing overall - especially compared to previous releases.
  5. ILLNATH - Second Skin Of Harlekin [Deathlight Records] - This band seems to limit itself by not being consequent and over-using the keyboards.

Top Live Shows Of 2007

  1. SACRED REICH - Wacken, Germany - W:O:A 2007
  2. CELTIC FROST, KREATOR, LEGION OF THE DAMNED, WATAIN - Stuttgart, Germany - LKA
  3. HEAVEN and HELL - Dessel, Belgium - Graspop Metal Meeting 2007
  4. RUSH - Mannheim, Germany - SAP Arena
  5. IRON MAIDEN / IN FLAMES / MASTODON - Ludwigshafen, Germany - Südweststadion

High Expectations For 2008

  1. WELTENBRAND - The gothic metallers' "comeback" tour with DARK DIAMONDS and ROZENCRANTZ
  2. PRONG - European Tour 2008
  3. ANTHRAX - A new album?
  4. LEGION OF THE DAMNED - Feel The Blade
  5. Checking out new festivals in summer!
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