Blog Post // 2023-01-01

My Top Albums of 2022, and More!

As I reflect on this past year in music, overall, the music was decent - not amazing, not terrible - decent. Decent was the average rating I gave bands in my reviews. Does that mean that 2023 is going to blow me away? I hope so!

This has been the year where bands finally got back out on the road and got to experience live shows once again, where people felt a sense of community again. Where some parts of life got back to "normal," and some have changed forever. Maybe 2023 will be the year I get to see a band live again?!

I have personally felt like I want to hibernate, just like the bears have started to do. I have been feeling distant and remote. I need music to bring me some life.

There have been some really great songs this past year! Many have been covered in my reviews. Here are my song picks, songs I quite liked, off of albums that I haven't mentioned yet.

Nechochwen - Visions, Dreams and Signs

Irist - Heal

Soulfly - Rot In Pain

Blind Guardian - Blood of the Elves

Sylvaine - Mono No Aware

Top 5 Albums of 2022

Here they are, in no particular order: (drum roll...)

Megadeth - The Sick The Dying and the Dead

I am a pretty strong fan of Megadeth, but I am not a "they can do no wrong" type. I was happy to hear the direction this album went. It somehow felt like they were going back in years; the angst was strong, the talent was undeniable. I was kept happy and feeling solid that Dave Mustaine is king.

Soreption - Jord

I love the pace here, the passion, the heaviness. I know technical death metal isn't for everyone, but a lot of times, it is very much for me! This is an example of an album that is technical, but still maintains a sense of non-robotic life.

Shadow of Intent - Elegy

I knew this band had a lot of dynamics and variety, and I went into this album not knowing how I would feel. It is one of the first albums I recommend to friends because I think it is approachable and entertaining, but still keeps things heavy. I am impressed by it!

Persefone - Metanoia

This band was new to me, and I am glad to have heard them. This album is about atmosphere and contrast. The chug to technicality ratio is just right in this one. 

ColdWorld - Isolation

This band's sound just connects deeply with me, emotionally. It is mostly instrumental, but it makes me think of mixed feelings I have, especially walking through the bush. The keyboard and violin are used in such a nice way!

Wishlist for 2023... (a girl can wish)

We all have it: the desire to hear something specific. 

Here is my realistic wishlist. Not asking for anyone to come back from the dead, or anything.

Wayfarer

This band is unique, and the combination of harsh with western sound is interesting. I want a new album!

Kylesa

I have heard they may be getting back together, and I hope it is true for 2023! This band just seems so natural to me.

Cult of Luna (with Julie Christmas)

This band seems to be pumping out music regularly. They were the last band I saw before lockdown. But I really want to see a Julie Christmas collaboration again. And I told Johannes this was my wish, so it makes it that much more solid, right?

Borknagar

I am holding Oystein to it! He made it sound like an album was coming, and I will be waiting! I find them uplifting, and I could use some this next year.

Aetherian

Melodeath, but the vocal makes it sound unique to me. They stand out from others in this genre.

Beyond Creation

I think it is just time for them to put something out. I have gotten into them the last few years, and I look forward to what they create.

Cairiss

I tread lightly on this one, as this band has very little released and has promised releases for years. But I really enjoy the few songs they have put out. Nice contrast and beautiful landscape.

Immortal Bird

Just the right mixture of chaos and intensity. I look forward to hearing more.

There will be more polls in the new year, so make sure you check the front page and vote! They can help me make decisions about what to review and get insight about your thoughts. My first one is already up, so go and vote!

I sincerely wish you a Happy New Year!