TOP TEN: All Time Rock / Metal Albums
Pictured: Doyle Wolfgang Von Frankenstein of The Misfits (Shot and Designed by Casma)
Music has an unparalleled ability to shape our lives, evoking emotions, memories, and serving as a companion through highs and lows. These albums have braided themselves into my very existence, igniting passions, and shaping my perspective. From essentials to criminally underrated works, each album on this list holds a special place in my heart, resonating with me on a personal level.
Roadrunner Records
10. Glow On (2021) — Turnstile
“A generational landmark.” The third studio album by the Baltimore powerhouse showcases their willingness to experiment with different styles and sounds. It is a testament to their creative fearlessness to push the boundaries of hardcore. The album's fusion of punk, metal, and merengue creates a distinctive sound that is both hard-hitting and infectiously groovy.
Personal Favorites:
“UNDERWATER BOI”
“ENDLESS”
“NEW HEART DESIGN”
Closed Casket Activities
9. Thousand Mile Stare (2017) — Incendiary
Criminally underrated. Brian Audley crushing riffs, Danny Hammer’s thundering drums, and Brendan Groan’s raw vocals serve a visceral and powerful listening experience. Incendiary unapologetically explores deep themes of personal struggle, social justice, and the human condition, adding that extra layer of emotional weight. A must-listen for hardcore and metal fans and (in my humble opinion) the best hardcore record to come out of Long Island.
Personal Favorites:
“Still Burning”
“Hanging From the Family Tree”
“Poison”
Epitaph Records
8. Horizons (2008) — Parkway Drive
A relentless, unapologetic assault on the senses. Parkway Drive’s second studio album is regarded as one of the most influential in the metalcore genre. With their signature blend of crushing breakdowns, blistering guitar riffs, and Winston McCall's ferocious vocals, the Australian greats deliver an auditory barrage that will leave you speechless.
Personal Favorites:
“Feed Them to the Pigs”
“Carrion”
“Idols and Anchors”
Elektra Records
7. Metallica (1991) — Metallica
An essential listen for metal-heads. The fifth studio album from thrash metal legends consists of unforgettable hooks, musical range, and overall brilliant performance. The Black Album is a timeless work and stands as Metallica's most influential album.
Personal Favorites:
“Sad But True”
“Through the Never”
“Of Wolf and Man”
Vagrant Records
6. Good Mourning (2003) — Alkaline Trio
Peak Emo. The second studio album delves into the depths of emotional sorrow and misery. Alkaline Trio’s performance is equally outstanding, with sophisticated guitar work and explosive rhythms that perfectly suit the gloomy theme of the record. Matt Skiba delivers every message with raw passion, cutting deep to the core.
Personal Favorites:
“This Could Be Love”
“Continental”
“All on Black”
Geffen Records
5. American Psycho (1997) — The Misfits
A divisive record among fans, and I’m on the right side. Notable for being the first release featuring Michale Graves, their fifth studio album presents a dramatic shift from Danzig's dark, gritty Elvis-like vocals. American Psycho introduces a fresh melodic approach, integrating elements of pop-punk and alternative rock while maintaining their horror gimmick.
Personal Favorites:
“Resurrection”
“This Island Earth”
“The Haunting”
Hellcat Records
4. Coral Fang (2003) — The Distillers
Ruthlessly empowering. The Distillers’ third studio album stands out from their previous works, diving into heartbreak, betrayal, and self-discovery themes. The Los Angeles band showcases their ability to experiment with elements of punk and post-hardcore. Brody Dalle's raspy vocals are complemented by heavily distorted riffs and propulsive drumming projecting every message conveyed.
Personal Favorites:
“Drain the Blood”
“The Hunger”
“Love Is Paranoid”
Warner Records
3. Nightmare (2010) — Avenged Sevenfold
An eerie and emotive rollercoaster. Avenged Sevenfold’s fifth studio album, and the first following the passing of drummer Jimmy “The Rev” Sullivan. This record is woven with grief, loss, and redemption themes while taking you through the darkest corners of the mind. The band showcases range through the emotion of M. Shadow’s raspy vocals, Synyster Gates, Zachy Vengence’s sonic riffs, and intricate solos.
Personal Favorites:
“Buried Alive”
“Tonight the World Dies”
“Save Me”
Reprise Records
2. American Idiot (2004) — Green Day
A blessing in disguise. After nearly completing Cigarettes and Valentines (2003), the master tapes were mysteriously stolen from their studio. The Oakland group subsequently released their seventh studio album, American Idiot (2004): A rock opera that tells the story of a societal outcast in a post-9/11 society. A timeless masterpiece consisting of catchy protest anthems, tackling themes of political corruption, and media manipulation that are very much prevalent today.
Personal Favorites:
“American Idiot”
“Jesus of Suburbia”
“St. Jimmy”
Reprise Records
1. Insomniac (1995) — Green Day
The Official Soundtrack of My Life. The fourth (and best) studio album by Green Day can be characterized as an aesthetic trauma dump. The record stays true to the band’s sound with catchy guitar riffs, energetic drumming by Tré Cool, and Billie Joe Armstrong’s honest lyrics, exploring themes of depression, existential angst, and of course, insomnia. Overall, Insomniac unleashes a torrent of raw and authentic energy that resonates with me on a personal level.
Personal Favorites:
“Armatage Shanks”
“Stuck with Me”
“Stuart and the Ave.”