Here are the latest four metal albums I've listened to...
Strapping Young Lad -
The New Black
Genre: Progressive Metal, Thrash Metal
Released: 2006
Rating: 4/5
Similar to their self-titled album, this is strong the entire way through yet doesn't really contain any spectacular songs. Overall, this album is a bit more restrained and more tuneful than usual for this band, which some may prefer.
Cryptopsy -
None So Vile
Genre: Technical Death Metal, Brutal Death Metal
Released: 1996
Rating: 4.5/5
Considered one of the definitive Death Metal albums, this did not disappoint me. Even though the vocals don't really add much to the experience (for me at least), everything else about these songs are just so impressive. This album manages to be extremely brutal, yet technically interesting the entire time. And while some may argue the songs here are too similar, the album is short enough to not overstay its welcome.
Queensrÿche -
Operation: Mindcrime
Genre: Progressive Metal, Heavy Metal
Released: 1988
Rating: 4.5/5
If Iron Maiden added a narrative to one of their 80s albums, this would be the result. Certainly not a bad thing by any means, as that's basically what Queensrÿche does here to create one of the most influential Progressive Metal albums of all time. Most of the core songs are just well executed NWOBHM songs, while some nice interludes and an interesting narrative are sprinkled throughout.
Beherit -
Drawing Down The Moon
Genre: Black Metal, Dark Ambient
Released: 1993
Rating: 3.5/5
If you're into quirky and obscure Black Metal, this album is for you. Beherit mix Black Metal, Doom Metal, and Dark Ambient to create a pretty unique album here. There are a couple tracks in the second half that are skip-able, but other than that, you'll find some very groovy and atmospheric songs. Definitely an interesting album, even if it's not executed perfectly the entire way through.