Article written by Roger Casadejús Pérez
2. Death – “Symbolic” (1995)
“Symbolic” is often regarded as a landmark in both death metal and progressive music. The late Chuck Schuldiner, the mastermind behind Death, pushed the boundaries with complex compositions and thoughtful lyrics. Tracks like “Crystal Mountain” and the title track “Symbolic” demonstrate the intricate guitar work and philosophical themes that characterize the album. Its influence on the genre cannot be overstated.
3. Gojira – “From Mars to Sirius” (2005)
Gojira’s “From Mars to Sirius” is a modern masterpiece in progressive death metal. The French band combines environmental themes with a powerful mix of heavy riffs and melodic interludes. Songs such as “Flying Whales” and “Global Warming” showcase the band’s ability to craft epic soundscapes that are both thought-provoking and intense. This album cemented Gojira’s place in the metal pantheon.
4. Cynic – “Focus” (1993)
Cynic’s “Focus” is a groundbreaking album that blends jazz fusion, progressive rock, and death metal. Released in 1993, it was ahead of its time, featuring layered guitar work, ethereal vocals, and technical drumming. Tracks like “Veil of Maya” and “How Could I” are perfect examples of the band’s innovative approach to music, making it a cornerstone in the progressive death metal genre.
5. Atheist – “Unquestionable Presence” (1991)
Atheist’s “Unquestionable Presence” is a technical marvel in the world of progressive death metal. Released in 1991, the album is known for its complex rhythms and philosophical lyrics. Songs like “Mother Man” and “An Incarnation’s Dream” display the band’s proficiency in combining jazz influences with intense metal elements, making it a staple for fans of the genre.
6. Edge of Sanity – “Crimson” (1996)
“Crimson” by Edge of Sanity is a unique concept album consisting of a single, 40-minute-long track. Released in 1996, it tells a science fiction story through intricate musical passages and powerful vocals by Dan Swanö. The album seamlessly transitions between melodic and heavy segments, showcasing the band’s storytelling abilities and musical prowess.
7. Between the Buried and Me – “Colors” (2007)
“Colors” by Between the Buried and Me is widely regarded as a modern classic in progressive death metal. Released in 2007, the album is a continuous journey through various musical styles, from technical metalcore to jazz and even bluegrass. The band’s ambitious approach is evident in tracks like “Ants of the Sky” and “White Walls,” solidifying their reputation as innovators in the genre.
8. Enslaved – “Below the Lights” (2003)
Enslaved’s “Below the Lights” is an album that beautifully merges progressive elements with black and death metal influences. Released in 2003, it features a diverse range of musical styles, from the atmospheric “As Fire Swept Clean the Earth” to the complex “The Crossing.” The album is a testament to Enslaved’s ability to evolve while maintaining their roots in extreme metal.
9. Ne Obliviscaris – “Portal of I” (2012)
Australian band Ne Obliviscaris burst onto the scene with their debut album “Portal of I” in 2012. The album is a fusion of progressive death metal with classical and folk influences. Tracks like “And Plague Flowers the Kaleidoscope” and “Tapestry of the Starless Abstract” showcase the band’s technical skill and innovative compositions, making it a standout in the genre.
10. Obscura – “Cosmogenesis” (2009)
“Cosmogenesis” by Obscura is a technical tour de force that has earned its place among the best progressive death metal albums. Released in 2009, it features virtuosic guitar work and intricate compositions. Songs like “The Anticosmic Overload” and “Orbital Elements” highlight the band’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of technical metal, making it a must-listen for fans of the genre.
11. Rivers of Nihil – “Where Owls Know My Name” (2018)
Rivers of Nihil’s “Where Owls Know My Name” is a modern masterpiece that blends progressive death metal with elements of jazz and electronic music. Released in 2018, the album is both heavy and atmospheric, featuring standout tracks like “The Silent Life” and the title track “Where Owls Know My Name.” The band’s innovative approach and emotional depth make this album a significant addition to the genre’s legacy.