2017 was a great year for all old school breathers like me. Every week there was at least one release coming out. At the end of 2016 it was already pretty clear 2017 would be an awesome year for death and extreme metal, so I was smart enough to keep a list during the year. I still struggle with numbering them, but I tried based on which releases surprised me most and which ones I listened to frequently. I’m glad so many great records came out, since that also means many of these bands will be touring Europe this year. It was a year of discussions, like if a band could still release a self-titled album after existing for more than 30 years or not, but also about Old School Death Metal (OSDM) bands using modern artwork etc. It seemed like only one thing didn’t need to be argued on, it was a very exciting year. I’d like to count down to my review of the number one record of the year.

6. Immolation – Atonement

New York Death Metal band Immolation has been active for 30 years now. They’ve always had their unique sound, but do they still today? The writing for Atonement has been very well done. Just like Cannibal Corpse, they did stick to their own formula, but it won’t bore. Every track has its own eye-catching elements. With their 10th full-length they prove everyone they’re still on top of their game. I’m also glad they brought their old logo back.

5. Broken Hope – Mutilated and Assimilated

Broken Hope is a band that has seen some line-up changes through the years. After a 10-year break they reunited back in 2012 and released the album, Omen of Disease. Mutilated and Assimilated is their second full-length since their comeback. Quality-wise this one is much better. It’s nothing really new, but that doesn’t really bother me. They play these chuncky riffs that will remind you of 90’s DM. Apparently Jeremy Wagner got his hands on 7 guitars of no one less than Jeff Hanneman! In the meanwhile Wagner also built his own recording studio, where they worked on this release. It seems like the little piece of Slayeeeeeer brought some magic with it. Mutilated and Assimilated is obviously one of their best works in years.

4. Spectral Voice – Eroded Corridors of Unbeing

Eroded Corridors of Unbeing is Spectral Voice‘s long awaited debut album. Some of you might see them as the little brother of Blood Incantation. They share members and play a lot of shows and festivals together. Before this album, they released some demos like Necrotic Doom and splits with the bands Blood Incantation and Phrenelith (number 7 on this list). Although I compared them as brothers, they’re definitely not doing the same thing. Spectral Voice‘s sound is way darker and doomier. They’re recognazible for their lenghty songs (5 tracks, 44 minutes) and style in its whole. Going from the artwork to their performance, it all fits together so well. If you haven’t heard about this release, you must have been living under a rock last year. It almost looked like there grew a hype around the record, but then again very well deserved.

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