Michael Pementel's Top 5 Albums Of 2017 (Thus Far)
Igorrr – Savage Sinusoid
Savage Sinusoid is one of the most remarkable records I've heard in years. The bizarre and masterful technicality lures the listener into a whole other realm of music and creativity. The wild instrumentation reaches another level of art that captivates and breaks borders. This is a breath of fresh air not just in the sense of music, but for all of art.
Goatwhore – Vengeful Ascension
I've always enjoyed each record Goatwhore has released, and Vengeful Ascension is easily my favorite album they've ever done. Taking the concepts of Paradise Lost and spinning it into an extreme metal tale makes for philosophically exciting work. The album is chaotically fast and atmospheric, making for an overall brutal epic.
Tombs – The Grand Annihilation
Tombs are (in my opinion), one of the more unique bands in today's world. Their combination of philosophical lyricism, mixed with ethereal blackened atmosphere is mesmerizing. The music has a strong spiritual presence that comes with a dark hypnotic tone. There is a great mix of sludgy heavy hitters, along with droning auras of magic.
Dying Fetus – Wrong One To Fuck With
Heaviest record of the year. Period.
Carach Angren – Dance and Laugh Amongst the Rotten
I'm a huge horror buff, and in Dance and Laugh Amongst the Rotten, Carach Angren take their music (and horror) to exciting new places. Masterfully blending metal with orchestral elements, the band weaves together a spine chilling tale of obsession and ghosts. The record plays out like a well done horror novel or film, keeping you at the edge of your seat, thrilled for what comes next.
