We rank the best heavy metal albums of the 21st century

Heavy metal has consistently been one of the most popular genres of music since its inception in the late 1960s. Over the past two decades, heavy metal has undergone significant changes, with the introduction of new sub-genres and innovative new sounds. In this article, we will rank the best heavy metal albums of the 21st century.

What is Heavy Metal Music?

Before we delve into the best heavy metal albums of the 21st century, it is crucial to understand what heavy metal music is. Heavy metal is a genre of rock music that originated in the late 1960s and early 1970s. It is characterized by its strong, amplified sounds and aggressive lyrics. Heavy metal music has evolved over the years to encompass various sub-genres such as black metal, death metal, power metal, glam metal, thrash metal, and many others. Each sub-genre has its unique style and characteristics, making heavy metal a diverse and ever-evolving genre.

Ranking the Best Heavy Metal Albums of the 21st Century

1. Slipknot - "Vol. 3: (The Subliminal Verses)" (2004) Slipknot's third album, "Vol. 3: (The Subliminal Verses)," is one of the most iconic heavy metal albums of the 21st century. The album marked a significant stylistic departure from the band's previous albums. It showcased a more melodic side of Slipknot, which was a welcome change for fans who had grown accustomed to the band's intense aggression. 2. Mastodon - "Crack the Skye" (2009) Mastodon's fourth album, "Crack the Skye," is a concept album that tells the story of a paraplegic boy who astral projects to Siberia. The album features elements of progressive rock and psychedelic rock, showcasing the band's versatility and musical prowess. 3. Lamb of God - "Ashes of The Wake" (2004) Lamb of God's third album, "Ashes of The Wake," is a politically charged album that tackles issues such as the Iraq war and corporate greed. The album features a blend of groove and thrash metal, making it one of the most iconic heavy metal albums of the 21st century. 4. Avenged Sevenfold - "City of Evil" (2005) "City of Evil" is Avenged Sevenfold's third studio album and marked the band's transition from metalcore to heavy metal. The album features a blend of classic heavy metal, hard rock, and punk rock, showcasing the band's versatility. 5. Ghost - "Opus Eponymous" (2010) Ghost's debut album, "Opus Eponymous," is a throwback to classic heavy metal. The album features haunting vocals and melodic guitar riffs, making it one of the most distinctive heavy metal albums of the 21st century. 6. Gojira - "From Mars to Sirius" (2005) Gojira's third studio album, "From Mars to Sirius," is a concept album that explores themes of spirituality and environmentalism. The album features a blend of death metal and progressive metal, making it one of the most unique heavy metal albums of the 21st century. 7. System of a Down - "Mezmerize" (2005) "Mezmerize" is System of a Down's fourth studio album and marked the band's return after a two-year hiatus. The album features a blend of alternative metal, punk rock, and progressive metal, showcasing the band's versatility and innovation. 8. Metallica - "Death Magnetic" (2008) "Death Magnetic" is Metallica's ninth studio album and marked the band's return to their thrash metal roots. The album features fast and aggressive guitar riffs, and powerful vocals, making it one of the most celebrated heavy metal albums of the 21st century.

Honorable Mentions

- Iron Maiden - "The Book of Souls" (2015) - Tool - "10,000 Days" (2006) - Opeth - "Blackwater Park" (2001) - Slayer - "Repentless" (2015) - Mastodon - "Leviathan" (2004)

Conclusion

The 21st century has seen heavy metal music undergo significant changes, with the introduction of new sub-genres and innovative new sounds. The albums featured on this list showcase the diversity and versatility of heavy metal music in the 21st century. While this list is by no means exhaustive, it provides an excellent introduction to some of the best heavy metal albums of the 21st century.