Best Groove Metal Albums of 2023

Dance Devil Dance by Avatar is an album that captures the band’s signature enthusiasm and flair for experimentation, notably in tracks like “Valley of Disease” with its unique retro video game sounds. However, despite these innovative moments, the album overall lacks the lasting brilliance and cohesion found in their live performances. While the album features catchy elements that initially engage the listener, its appeal tends to wane over repeated playbacks. In essence, while enjoyable and reflective of Avatar’s creative spirit, Dance Devil Dance struggles to maintain a compelling grip beyond the initial few listens, making it a fun yet transient experience in their discography, but in the end this albums deserves to be in the best groove metal albums of 2023 ranking.

Released on July 28th, 2023, just a few months before we talked about them in another post, Infidel by Lokust marks a notable debut in the tech-death and groove metal scene, skillfully blending elements of groove, thrash, and metalcore into an aggressive yet technically impressive sound. While the album boasts monstrous power and aggression, particularly in tracks like “The Sin of Doubt” and “Jinn,” its metalcore features, though competent, don’t quite engage as strongly as its death/thrash/groove segments. It’s in these moments that Infidel truly excels, showcasing Lokust’s ability to balance raw energy with intricate musicianship. The variety in vocals, ranging from deep growls to clean singing, adds a dynamic richness, making the album a compelling listen for those who appreciate the heavier, rhythmically driven side of metal.

URNE’s second album, A Feast On Sorrow, stands out as a remarkable and complex blend of prog metal, sludge, groove, and post-metal, earning its place as one of the year’s finest groove metal albums (in the end, it is the most accurate genre for them). The album captivates with its visceral energy and a diverse range of tracks that defy easy categorization. Speedy tempos, engaging solos, and a solid groove define songs like “The Flood Came Rushing In” and “Becoming The Ocean,” complemented by heavy riffs and harsh vocals. Its appeal is further enhanced by the balance between concise tracks and sprawling epics, such as “A Stumble of Words.” A Feast On Sorrow skillfully weaves together various elements, at times echoing complex features, while at other moments it revels in a simpler, more brutal sound.

Kill It With Fire by Methane is a riveting album that delivers a potent mix of irreverence, rebellion, and power from start to finish. The band brilliantly blends thrash and groove metal, with the groove elements particularly shining through in the breakdowns. Infectious riffs and memorable lyrics, like the “Don’t call me liar!” line from the self titled track, make this album an engaging and dynamic listen. Methane’s skillful fusion of these metal subgenres creates a sound that is both aggressive and rhythmically captivating, ensuring that Kill It With Fire appeals to fans of both styles and stands out as a fresh, energetic addition to the metal genre.

State of Emergency by Prong stands out as one of the best albums of 2023, encapsulating a sense of timelessness and unyielding energy. The album is hyper-catchy and infectious, brimming with a rebellious spirit that makes it an ideal soundtrack for high-energy environments like the gym. Prong demonstrates that time has not diminished their musical prowess or the captivating aura of their sound, as this album feels as fresh and relevant as ever.

Interestingly, State of Emergency evokes a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of the WWE’s golden era, though it’s hard to pinpoint exactly why. It could be the album’s raw energy and the aggressive, punchy sound that align with the intensity of those wrestling matches. The standout tracks, “Who Told Me” and “Working Man,” are highlights in an already stellar album, but every song contributes to its overall excellence. There isn’t a single track that feels out of place or underwhelming; each one adds to the album’s cohesive and dynamic nature.

Overall, State of Emergency by Prong is a robust, engaging listen, perfect for those seeking an album that combines relentless energy with memorable, catchy tunes. Its appeal lies not just in individual songs but in the collective experience of the album, making it a standout addition to the 2023 music landscape and a testament to Prong’s enduring talent in the metal genre.