As the dust settled on 2023, it became evident that it had been a landmark year for heavy music. The genre, often relegated to the fringes of mainstream culture, surged into the spotlight, capturing the imagination of fans old and new. Bands that had spent years in the underground suddenly found themselves headlining major festivals, and metal albums were no longer just a niche interest—they were cultural phenomena. With such a massive wave of success, 2024 had a lot to live up to.
So, how has this year fared so far? Has the metal scene continued to thrive, or has it fallen back into the shadows? As we find ourselves in the middle of 2024, several albums have emerged as potential torchbearers, proving that the genre is not only alive and well but continuing to evolve in thrilling ways.
Here are some of the standout metal albums of 2024 that have captured the hearts and minds of fans:
High on Fire – Cometh the Storm

High on Fire returned with a vengeance this year, delivering an album that marries their signature sludge sound with psychedelic and Middle Eastern influences. “Cometh the Storm” is a journey into the depths, where heavy, distorted riffs meet intricate, atmospheric passages that transport listeners to a different realm. It’s a bold and ambitious record that stands as one of the year’s finest.
Full of Hell – Coagulated Bliss

Full of Hell has always been known for their chaotic and aggressive sound, and with “Coagulated Bliss,” they’ve pushed that intensity even further. This album is a sonic assault, blending grindcore, powerviolence, and noise in a way that feels both relentless and strangely melodic. It’s not an easy listen, but it’s a rewarding one for those who can handle its raw power.
Chelsea Wolfe – She Reaches Out to She Reaches Out to She

For those who prefer their metal on the more avant-garde side, Chelsea Wolfe’s latest offering is a must-listen. “She Reaches Out to She Reaches Out to She” is a haunting and ethereal album that blends doom, folk, and electronic elements into something wholly unique. Wolfe’s ability to convey deep emotion through her music has never been more potent, making this one of the most compelling releases of the year.
Ihsahn – Ihsahn

After a six-year break since “Ámr,” Ihsahn’s new self-titled album had big shoes to fill, and it seems he’s done just that. By blending his classic style with fresh orchestral and softer elements, he delivers a sophisticated touch.
Tracks like “Cervus Venator” and “Sonata Profana” open and close the album with cinematic grace, while “The Promethean Spark” and “Pilgrimage to Oblivion” showcase his knack for merging symphonic black metal with poignant clean vocals. The quirky twists of “Hubris and Blue Devils” add a unique edge, making this album both expansive and innovative.
Static-X – Project: Regeneration Vol. 2

Static-X has continued to honor the legacy of their late frontman, Wayne Static, with the release of “Project: Regeneration Vol. 2.” This album blends the band’s signature industrial metal sound with new, posthumous recordings of Wayne’s vocals, creating a powerful and emotional tribute. It’s an album that feels both nostalgic and forward-looking, cementing Static-X’s place in the metal pantheon.
As 2024 unfolds, it’s clear that metal’s momentum from last year hasn’t faltered. These albums, each unique in their approach, have continued to push the genre’s boundaries, offering something for every type of metal fan. From the sludgy depths of High on Fire to the epic heights of Powerwolf, this year has proven that metal is still a force to be reckoned with.
However, amidst all these incredible releases, I find myself returning to an album from the previous year that still resonates deeply with me—”Take Me Back to Eden” by Sleep Token. Although it technically belongs to 2023, no album released in 2024 has managed to capture my attention or stir my emotions in quite the same way.
“Take Me Back to Eden” is more than just an album; it’s an experience—a journey through haunting atmospheres, intricate melodies, and soul-stirring vocals. It blends genres seamlessly, creating a sound that is both familiar and utterly unique. For me, this album remains the pinnacle of what metal can achieve, and even as new releases come and go, nothing compares to the impact it has had on me.
But what about the rest of 2024? With a few more months still ahead of us, who knows what surprises are in store? The latter half of the year could bring some truly groundbreaking releases, and I can’t wait to see how artists will continue to push the envelope. One thing’s for sure—metal is in a fascinating place right now, and the best might still be yet to come.
(GPK)