As time goes by I feel myself drifting more and more away from metalcore due to the often formulaic and predictable songwriting or relying way too much on gimmicky clichés; however I did thoroughly enjoy most of the albums on this surprisingly monochromatic list :
1.) Thornhill - Heroine :
Deftones, Loathe and Muse had a sweaty, sensual orgy which gave birth to this extremely charismatic and cinematic piece of work from the Australian quartet.
2.) Greyhaven - This Bright and Beautiful World :
Man, what an absolutely bonkers fanfare of "core" music. This record is so multi-faceted that it feels diminishing to simply categorize it as metalcore.
3.) Northlane - Obsidian :
Northlane continue to confidently explore their newfound cyber metalcore identity. I found it a bit less interesting than Alien but still definitely enjoyable and ahead of the curve.
4.) Grayscale Season - Do You Like Violence :
Super creative and conceptual mix of metalcore, thall and melodic trap/poppy r&b. I would've loved to rank this higher but some of the clean vocal performances and at times embarrassing lyrics do this album a huge disservice. Nevertheless, this project has great artistic vision and potential.
5.) The Devil Wears Prada - Color Decay :
I preferred the experimentation of The Act but Color Decay is undeniably emotionally taxing and TDWP continue to be one of the most unique and beloved voices in metalcore over a decade and a half later.
6.) Tallah - The Generation of Danger :
I didn't know whether to include this one in the metalcore or hardcore list, but what matters is that Tallah are bringing back all the good things about nu-metal and making it as exciting, heavy and technical as its ever been.
7.) Vexes - Imagine What We Could Destroy (If Only Given Time) :
Ah Vexes, Vexes, Vexes...How I would have loved to rank you higher.
The sound, performances and production are all amazing on this Deftones influenced metalcore album, but sadly the decision to make this a double album compacted into one two hour long experience hamstrung the album's appeal and success which is such a shame. If you have the time and patience for it, do give this monolith a shot, it more than deserves it.
8.) Bleed From Within - Shrine :
As far as I'm concerned, Bleed From Within currently carry on the torch dropped by the once mighty Parkway Drive before they gave in to arena radio rock, and for that alone I am thankful for these Scottish gentlemen.
9.) Malevolence - Malicious Intent :
It feels weird including Malevolence in a metalcore list but although their hardcore roots are still audible, Malicious Intent is predominantly a metalcore record mixed with groove metal, hardcore and sludgy melodic doom. Seeing them rise up to the metal mainstream but keeping their ethics and integrity intact has been great to keep an eye on.
10.) Underoath - Voyeurist :
Yet another case where I preferred the band's previous record but this is still objectively a great modern metalcore record and Underoath have managed to maintain their status as a household metalcore act intact after all these years; plus I absolutely love Spencer Chamberlain's unmistakable vocal style, such a consistent and inspiring vocalist.
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