I’m revelling in the unfolding drama that is Metalsucks’ 21 best metal albums of the 21st century so far. It is a brave thing that they do. Already proving controversial, this list, compiled from the votes from a load of metal community notables, is nothing if not fantastic entertainment. I don’t buy the metal elitist derision that’s going on around inclusions such as Deftones White Pony and System of a Down’s Toxicity. These albums were critically acclaimed, very influencial and above all, extremely popular. And herein lies the heart of the problem. Music snobs (like myself) world over have inate sense of intimacy with our music; we spend countless hours singing the virtues of our favourite underachieving musical saviours, only to forsake them the moment the rest of the world sits up and listens. I’m as guilty of this as the rest of you, but in the fulness of time the good will out. I’m pleased about the inclusion of these albums in the list – they are quality albums that have stood the test of time – and let’s not forget, a large selection of real people contributed to this list; people actually like these albums. If left to neigh sayers, it’d be a list of recent, flash in the pan wannabe’s, or long term underacheivers. Does not the inclusion of Opeth’s Ghost Reveries and Gojira’s From Mars to Sirus legitimise the list somewhat? Probably not unless the top 5 happens to include Sunn O)))) or Cynic.

Update 28th June 2009:

Now gentlemen, you’re just not playing the game. I was being open minded – placatory even. Then you had to pull this out of the bag. I mean really, you could have doctored the results or something and saved embarrassing yourselves. OK, it’s not the worst album in the world, and title track is excellent, but #6? Really? What next? Linkin Park? Saint Anger? Common gents, give me back some hope…

Update 08th July 2009:

Well, what can I say. The list went from bad, to worse, to excellent to not too bad. Opeth’s Blackwater Park appearing at #3 seems the most positive thing this list has to offer. KSE at #4 is just plain dull and Lamb of God As the Palaces Burn at #2 seem so awkwardly placed between Opeth and the stately #1 Mastodon’s Leviathan – surely an impressive album, but the best of the decade? Only the fullness of time will tell. This list seems very of its time. Try this again in 2 years and I think the list will look VERY different.