My top 5 so far. I've listened to all of these numerous times each week and keep going back to them.
5. Hi! by Pristin.
K-Pop
It's a mini-album but every track on it is great. Modern k-pop at it's best with Wee Woo and Black Widow.
"Wee-Woo"
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4. The Venomous by Nightrage
Melodic Death Metal
Probably their best work to date. Lots of modern influences along with some really lovely old-school melodeath sounds.
"Bemoan"
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3. Bubble by Yanakoto Sotto Mute
J-pop/Alt-Idol
Very creative Alt-Idol jpop/rock. Has a very grunge-y sound to it on a lot of tracks. All four singers have very distinct voices and are pretty mesmerizing.
"Lily"
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2. Reclaimer by Shadow Of Intent
Symphonic Death Metal / Deathcore
This album came out of nowhere for me. I've never been a big fan of deathcore or anything related to it, but this album blew me away. It's quite possibly the most impressive album I've heard this year. The lyrical themes, the muscianship, the brutality, the varied vocals, it all flows together to create a very awesome album.
"The Prophet's Beckoning"
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1. The Eclipse by Serenity In Murder
Symphonic Melodic Death Metal
Forever one of my favorite bands. The intensity, melody, and flow to every song really stands out. I've been impressed by every song, every lyric, every note since day one and continue to have my expectations shattered when it comes to melodic death metal.
"The Revelation"
Excited to see what the 2nd half of the year brings. There's a new Arch Enemy on the horizon, as well as a slew of k-pop albums alongside some j-pop/alt-idol albums that should be hitting later this year.
