As 2024 wraps up, it’s time to spotlight the metal albums that truly shook things up this year. From groundbreaking newcomers to long-awaited comebacks, this list dives into the records that defined the genre—pushing boundaries, delivering massive riffs, and keeping metal’s spirit alive and brutal. Here are the year’s must-hear albums that every metal fan needs in their rotation.
Bring Me the Horizon: POST HUMAN: NeX GEn
Bring Me The Horizon’s Post Human: NeX GEn is a daring blend of genres, from metalcore to hyperpop, showcasing the band's ability to continuously evolve. Tracks like “Kool-Aid” and “LosT” deliver stadium-ready choruses, while songs like “n/A” explore deeper, introspective themes. Collaborations with artists like AURORA and Lil Uzi Vert bring unique textures to the album, especially on the explosive “AmEN!” The album closes with the ambitious “DIg It,” which ties together the diverse styles found throughout. NeX GEn is both a nostalgic nod to their post-hardcore roots and a bold leap into new territory.
By Kamil H, Marketing Manager
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Linkin Park: From Zero
LINKIN PARK—Mike Shinoda, Brad Delson, Phoenix, Joe Hahn, alongside new members Emily Armstrong and Colin Brittain, share their first brand new music in 7 years. The album 'From Zero' was launched with a huge global performance live stream and features the Top 5 UK single 'The Emptiness Machine'. Without expectations, Shinoda, Delson, Farrell, and Hahn quietly began meeting up again in recent years. Rather than “trying to restart the band,” their instinct was to simply spend more time together, and reconnect with the creativity and camaraderie that has been at the core of their friendship since college. During this time, they invited various friends and cohorts to join them in the studio; among the guests, they found a special kinship with Armstrong and Brittain. A natural chemistry drew these musicians back into its gravitational pull as they logged more and more hours in the studio. It was the sound of lifelong musicians rediscovering the uncontainable energy of a new beginning once again.
By Chris H, Senior Music Buyer
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Ghost: Rite Here Rite Now (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)
Ghost’s latest live album, Rite Here Rite Now, captures the energy and theatrics of their Kia Forum performances. High-energy tracks like “Rats” and fan favourite “Mary On A Cross” showcase their mix of rock and metal. The album also offers emotional depth with the studio track “The Future Is A Foreign Land,” hinting at the band's evolving narrative. It's a thrilling experience for longtime fans and newcomers alike.
By Kamil H, Marketing Manager
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Judas Priest: Invincible Shield
Judas Priest's Invincible Shield, their 19th studio album, features powerful tracks like “Panic Attack,” “Trial by Fire,” and “The Serpent and the Crown,” proving the metal legends still reign supreme 50 years on. With explosive energy and Rob Halford's iconic voice, they remain timeless.
By Jamie D, Music Buyer
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Nightwish: Yesterwynde
Nightwish’s Yesterwynde, their tenth album, continues to set the standard for symphonic metal. Featuring spot-on production, soaring symphonics, heavy guitars, and Floor Jansen’s flawless vocals, it’s a grandiose, melodic, and powerful testament to their 30-year legacy
By Jamie D, Music Buyer
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Marilyn Manson: One Assassination Under God - Chapter 1
The shock rocker is back with his staple industrial rock'n'roll balls to the wall sound. This is one for the old school Manson fans.
By Kamil H, Marketing Manager
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Falling in Reverse: Popular Monster
Popular Monster is a strong display of Ronnie Radke’s versatility. Combining elements of metalcore, rap, and rock, the album delivers sharp social commentary, especially in tracks like “All My Life” featuring Jelly Roll. The album's mix of styles keeps it engaging, while Radke's lyrics reflect personal struggles and societal tensions, making it a memorable addition to the band's discography.
By Kamil H, Marketing Manager
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Knocked Loose: You Won't Go Before You're Supposed To
There is simply no stopping Kentucky hardcore mob Knocked Loose, as their third LP sees them pushing their aggression to new extremes. “Suffocate”, featuring Poppy, is easily one of the most crushing songs of the year.
By Jamie D, Music Buyer
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