Introduction
The 2010s were a vibrant decade for metal, producing a vast array of albums that pushed the boundaries of the genre. While some releases gained widespread acclaim, others slipped under the radar despite their artistic merit. This article shines a spotlight on ten of the most underrated metal albums from the 2010s, exploring their nuances and why they deserve more recognition.
1. Gojira – L’Enfant Sauvage (2012)
French metal band Gojira has always been at the forefront of progressive and technical metal. With “L’Enfant Sauvage,” they crafted an album that blends heaviness with intricate musicianship. The record explores themes of humanity and nature, delivering powerful riffs and emotional depth. Despite its brilliance, it often gets overshadowed by the band’s later works.
2. Enslaved – RIITIIR (2012)
Norwegian band Enslaved has consistently evolved their sound, and “RIITIIR” is a testament to their innovative spirit. The album blends black metal with progressive elements, creating an epic soundscape. Though it received positive reviews, it remains less celebrated compared to their earlier albums like “Axioma Ethica Odini.”
3. Kvelertak – Meir (2013)
Kvelertak’s “Meir” is an exhilarating fusion of rock ‘n’ roll, punk, and black metal. Known for their high-energy performances, the band captured that essence on this album. It’s an infectious record packed with catchy hooks and relentless energy. Despite its critical acclaim, it often flies under the radar in discussions about the decade’s best metal albums.
4. The Ocean – Pelagial (2013)
German collective The Ocean delivered a concept album with “Pelagial,” which takes listeners on a journey from the surface of the ocean to its deepest depths. The album’s structure mirrors this descent, offering a unique listening experience. Its ambitious narrative and execution make it a standout work that deserves more recognition in the progressive metal scene.
5. Alcest – Les Voyages de l’Âme (2012)
Alcest’s “Les Voyages de l’Âme” blends shoegaze with black metal, a style often referred to as “blackgaze.” The album is a dreamy exploration of ethereal soundscapes, offering a serene yet powerful listening experience. Despite its innovation, it often gets overshadowed by Alcest’s other releases like “Écailles de Lune.”
6. Leprous – Coal (2013)
Norwegian progressive metal band Leprous released “Coal,” an album that showcases their ability to blend complex rhythms with emotive melodies. The record features introspective lyrics and a wide range of dynamics, making it a compelling listen. While Leprous has gained a dedicated following, “Coal” often remains underappreciated compared to their other works.
7. Ne Obliviscaris – Portal of I (2012)
Australian band Ne Obliviscaris released “Portal of I,” a debut that seamlessly combines elements of extreme metal with classical and jazz influences. The album is characterized by its intricate compositions and dual vocal approach. Despite its innovation and complexity, it remains underrated in the metal community.
8. Vektor – Terminal Redux (2016)
Vektor’s “Terminal Redux” is a concept album that combines thrash metal with progressive elements. Its sci-fi narrative and technical prowess make it a unique entry in the genre. The album received critical praise but struggled to achieve the commercial success it deserved, leaving it underappreciated in the broader metal landscape.
9. Revocation – Deathless (2014)
American band Revocation is known for their technical proficiency and “Deathless” is a prime example of their talent. The album blends technical death metal with thrash, delivering complex riffs and aggressive energy. Although it received positive reviews, it often gets lost among the decade’s more high-profile releases.
10. Tribulation – The Formulas of Death (2013)
Swedish band Tribulation’s “The Formulas of Death” is a masterful blend of death metal and psychedelic rock. The album’s atmospheric and experimental approach sets it apart from conventional metal releases. Despite its innovative sound, it remains underrated outside of its cult following.
Conclusion
The 2010s were a decade of experimentation and evolution in metal, with many bands pushing the boundaries of the genre. While some albums received the recognition they deserved, others remained underrated despite their artistic brilliance. The albums highlighted in this article showcase a range of styles and innovations, proving that the metal scene is as diverse as it is dynamic. These records are worth revisiting for any metal enthusiast looking to explore some hidden gems from the past decade.