This year has brought music fans a bevy of fantastic new releases – from Metallica to Paul Simon, a variety of different genres have seen tremendous productions from classic artists and rookie musicians, alike. And while Testament’s Brotherhood of the Snake is just one example, the blistering 10-track record is my album of the year.
Nearly every member of the band has stated that the album was difficult to write, record, and produce whilst touring the globe, but the result is nothing short of musical devastation. It’s phenomenal. BotS gets its name and lyrical content from chief songwriter Eric Peterson’s conspiratorial explorations whilst Chuck Billy’s vocals show a confident range that blends genres throughout songs.
On quintuple vinyl (pictured below), the force and range of Gene Hoglan’s drumming skills are on full display – tracks like “The Pale King” and “Stronghold” solidify his position as one of the best drummers in the world, backed by Steve DiGiorgio’s dexterous and crunchy basslines. Peterson’s riffing is tremendous, but once again Alex Skolnick delivers a guitar performance worthy of worship.
Overall, the album’s 10 songs range from foreboding (Centuries of Suffering) to downright comical (Black Jack) and includes a tip-of-the-cap to the U.S. military with Neptune’s Spear. I couldn’t’ recommend this album more – even if you’re not a fan of heavy metal (this is some of the heaviest around), the musicianship, alone, is enough to greatly impress any listener.
Favorites:
-The Pale King
-Stronghold
-Seven Seals
-Centuries of Suffering
-Neptune’s Spear
What was your 2016 album of the year?
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