This year, it was difficult for me to choose which albums to write about. There were new releases from all my favorite bands – some highly anticipated, like Wintersun’s Time II. But instead of using my increasingly limited writing time to deconstruct the Chinese Democracy of modern metal, I offer three solid choices that brought me the most enjoyment in 2024.

3. Sonata Arctica – CLEAR COLD BEYOND

            Standout track: California

Sonata Arctica was an elite-tier power metal band in the early 2000s. For blazing-speed, keyboard-heavy, wolf-inspired, cheesy lyric tunes, they were unmatched. In the wake of their success, the band strayed from their roots and ventured into progressive soft rock territory, with Unia (2007) marking the start of a new era. After the dreaded shift, there were a few fake-outs, like Flag in the Ground from The Days of Grays (2009), but overall, the band continued to release slower-tempo, experimental albums that failed to capture my interest.

With that said, Clear Cold Beyond is a clear, cold, return to form for Tony Kakko et al. Most of the tracks, including openers First in Line and California, are fast and catchy. Sandwiched between galloping harpsichords are emotive, power-ballad-like tracks like Dark Empath, Teardrops, and The Best Things. One of the more interesting songs, A Monster Only You Can’t See showcases dynamic shifts and blunt lyrics. Overall, the album draws on the aesthetic of Silence (2001), the storytelling of Reckoning Night (2004), and in true Finnish fashion, it makes an honest social commentary about our dying planet.

Clear Cold Beyond is the comeback fans didn’t know they needed. Perhaps it doesn’t have the same magical energy as Ecliptica (1999), but I’ll take it.

2. Týr – BATTLE BALLADS

            Standout track: Dragons Never Die

Týr has always been one of the most consistent bands in the “Paganfest” scene. Their unique blend of classic metal, progressive riffs, and Viking mysticism has stood the test of time. Battle Ballads offers more catchy choruses, epic melodies and Norse themes. Weaponry-inspired singles Axes and Hammered are straightforward and accessible, while Row’s seaworthy heaviness generates Amon Amarth-appropriated mosh pit antics in a live setting. After the triumphant reprises in Dragons Never Die and Unwandered Ways, folk-inspired songs Torkils Døtur and Vælkomnir Føroyingar provide a reflective interlude with authentic Faroese flair.

Battle Ballads clocks in at just 41 minutes, marking a departure from progressivism toward a streamlined, vibrant soundscape. Every song feels polished, deliberate, and mighty in this impressive metal saga. To all the purists who prefer the Týr of yesteryear, my only advice is to grab your sword and enjoy the adventure.  

1. Dååth – THE DECEIVERS

            Standout track: Purified by Vengeance

I wasn’t particularly interested in Dååth during their prime, though it seemed like they were on every tour in the mid-to-late 2000s. I came across The Deceivers purely by chance, on a new album playlist buried somewhere in Spotify’s abyss. To say I’m impressed is an understatement. The album, packed with star-studded guests like Jeff Loomis, Scar Symmetry, Periphery, Archspire, Ice Nine Kills, and more, is a synergetic explosion of creativity.

The Deceivers is bombastic, heavy, and symphonic. I have never heard a melodic death metal album that so skillfully layers neoclassical riffing with groove and technicality. Each listen reveals new details, such as the perfectly executed operatic vocals at the choral apex in Purified by Vengeance. The whole album is packed with grandiose bangers like Hex Unending, Ascension, and Deserving of the Grave. Each track has something to offer, from ripping solos to ferocious blast beats, to intense breakdowns. And it all comes together with stunning perfection.

Why this album isn’t number one on every year-end list escapes me. It’s hard to say whether its greatness stems from Eyal Levi’s musical evolution or from its many contributors. Nonetheless, with this exercise in effective collaboration, Dååth and company truly deliver.

Other 2024 albums worth checking out, in no particular order:

Fellowship – THE SKIES ABOVE ETERNITY

Wintersun – TIME II

Unleash the Archers – PHANTOMA

Korpiklaani – RANKARUMPU

The Mantle – VIOLENT COSMIC FORTUNE

Ensiferum – WINTER STORM

Opeth – THE LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT

Rotting Christ – PRO XRISTOU

Crypt Sermon – THE STYGIAN ROSE