2017
Best of The Year
Code Orange Forever
Creeper Eternity in your Arms
No album this year has had a community talking about the potential of a band like Code Orange ’ s Forever . We ’ re talking Slipknot debut levels of excitement here that will be realised sooner rather than later . The proof is right there in this blackened pudding that hardcore can have the same artist prevalence as any prog , experimental or even jazz bands . This is beyond hype , this is the real thing that can ’ t be denied . A living testament to the significance to grassroot scenes and their potential to produce unqualified talent . Totally unpredictable and challenges anything and everything , bands of the future will look back on this record and say , ‘ That ’ s where it all began for us .’ Too important to ignore .
| Nominated by Hywel Davies .
Converge The Dusk In Us
While some bands struggle with a lack of motivation in their later years , Converge have found a way to adapt and , in some ways , get better . The Dusk In Us is angry and yet beautiful . Veering from songs about holding your newborn child for the first time to screams of anger , ripped out of Jacob Bannon ’ s throat as he rages at the state of the world . This is the sound of an already fantastic band maturing and entering the second half of their career as a more rounded and intelligent outfit . It ’ s not always the easiest listen , and it will challenge you , but if you like heavy and interesting music and you aren ’ t listening to Converge , you ’ re doing something wrong .
| Nominated by Stuart Iversen .
This has been in the car since the day it came out . Scrap that , its been in the car since the day I pried it out of my 3 year old daughters hands after she claimed it as hers . She asks for Suzanne every time we get in the car . That aside , Creeper managed to mix raw punk power with something beautiful ( Crickets is haunting ) verging on Queen-esque operatic rock .
| Nominated by Benji Walker .
Sumo Cyco Opus Mar
In true Cyco fashion , this was funded by fans and proves how far they have come in the past few years . On Opus Mar they reached over 249 % of their PledgeMusic goal . This is a great progression for the Canadians , plus features a guest spot by Benji Webbe ... which is nice .
| Nominated by Neale McGeever .
PVRIS all we know of heaven , all we need is hell
Since the launch of their first album a few years back I have been hooked and since this new album , i ’ ve become even more addicted . PVRIS Stand out of the crowd with their unique sound , a mix of rock , experimental pop and powerful yet soothing vocals . Each track has its own story which grows on to you . PVRIS music has also helped me with my mental health and explains many situations making me feel that more mellow .
| Nominated by Chris James Ryan .
11 | www . RAMzine . co . uk