2008

Despite dazzling musical proficiency, San Francisco’s DEATH ANGEL resided on the peripheral edge of 80s thrash for many fans, their deft combination of classical, funk, and technical metal a bit exotic some palates. Regardless, “Killing Season” is exactly what a metal band should sound like in 2008. The nimble guitars of Cavestany and Aguilar simply obliterate the competition at every turn, from the jazzy vamps of “Carnival Justice” to the ominous acoustic melody of “Dethroned”. The titanic riffing of “Buried Alive” slips in a sly pause before shifting into merciless hyperdrive, demonstrating an agility attributable to years of experience. It’s all huge drums, vivacious guitars, and sophisticated headbanging delights from start to finish, culminating in the riff-tastic epic closer “Resurrection Machine.“

Picks of the litter, 2008: