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.
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