We’re in the throes of wrapping up 2013, and as you’ll read by the respective lists produced by the staff, the year has been jam-packed with killer releases, big events, and a few bummers as well. Therefore, give pause to the albums that (here’s a cliche) “rocked” your world in 2013. Hopefully, they’ll hang around for a good while, remaining as impactful as they are today. Usually that’s the case, sometimes…not so much. Regardless, it’s one of the great things about metal – there’s never a lack for albums and bands in which to consume. We are lucky. – David E. Gehlke
General housekeeping
Alas, our “Best-of 2013” festivities have begun. The first three down? Gehlke, Coe, and Bowling. Consume and enjoy!
Features
Borknagar offshoot Cronian prove to be more than just some artistic haven for its main constituents.
Scottish grind/death fiends Man Must Die head into indie-ville with a full head of steam.
The legendary Leif Edling talks about his new band, Avatarium, and the mighty and still vital Candlemass.
Reviews
Holiday classics get the death metal treatment on JJ Hrubovack’s Death Metal Christmas.
American post-black mongers So Hideous engage in a rage on Last Poem/First Light.
Into the land “out-there” death/black metal we go with Cult of Erinyes’ Blessed Extinction.
Nightwish continue the good times with Floor Jansen on their Showtime, Storytime DVD.
The Ruins of Beverast have become critical darlings via their Blood Vaults – The Blazing Gospel of Heinrich Krame.
L.A. avant-garde crew Lake of Blood find the go-between atmosphere and extremity on Omnipotens Tyrannus.
Iron Mask (not to be confused with the rest of the bands with “Iron” in their name) create melodic metal worth hearing on Fifth Son of Winterborn.
Before the Dawn might be no more, but Wolfheart is pretty good substitute given how good the band’s Winterborn debut is.
Perhaps the only Cascadian black metal band that matters, Wolves in the Throne get into the live arena with BBC Session 2011 Anno Domini.
NWOBHM legends Saxon re-do some old classics on Unplugged and Strung Up.
The news in ten
1. Therion preps new rock opera.
2. Carcass and The Black Dahlia Murder team up for the 2014 Decibel Magazine tour.
3. Footage of In Flames recording their new album in Germany is available.
4. Max Cavalera to write music for ESPN’s coverage of the 2014 World Cup.
5. Watain releases the video for “Outlaw.”
6. Hammerfall to return to action in 2014.
7. Behemoth releases video for “Blow Your Trumpets Gabriel.”
8. Paul Di’Anno reiterates his retirement plans.
9. Nile announces a round of touring for 2014.
10. Iron Maiden and Metallica to team up for 2014 Sonisphere.