The year 2024 has proven to be a remarkable time for music, particularly within the heavy metal genre. Iconic bands like Linkin Park, Slayer, and The Sword have made impressive comebacks. In a bittersweet twist, Rage Against the Machine announced their disbandment once more, while the legendary Ozzy Osbourne finally received a long-overdue induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Given Ozzy’s pivotal role in defining heavy metal, this recognition feels incredibly well-deserved.
Amidst a tumultuous geopolitical landscape, the heavy metal scene offers a comforting refuge filled with electrifying guitar riffs that provide a shield against the chaos. Thanks to its rich diversity, metal encompasses a variety of genres, ensuring that there is something for everyone. Below, we explore ten incredible releases from 2024 that epitomize the genre’s vitality.
10 Bruce Dickinson – “Resurrection Men”
The Mandrake Project (BMG)
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As Iron Maiden’s renowned lead vocalist, Bruce Dickinson has significantly influenced heavy metal since debuting on the groundbreaking album, The Number of the Beast, in 1982. After a hiatus in the mid-’90s, he returned in 1999, continuously contributing to Maiden while also exploring his solo career. His latest release, The Mandrake Project, showcases his enduring prowess.
In “Resurrection Men,”Dickinson resonates with quintessential ’80s metal flair, declaring, “I am the wizard of your heart,”setting the tone for a classic Maiden vibe. This track serves as a testament to Dickinson’s youthful vocal energy and demonstrates that true metal remains ageless.
9 DOROTHY – “MUD”
I COME ALIVE (Roc Nation Records)
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Fronted by vocalist Dorothy Martin, DOROTHY has always embraced a sound that balances raw energy with artistic creativity. Their latest single, “MUD,”blends country and metal influences reminiscent of Pantera, showcasing Martin’s remarkable vocal range—from sultry whispers to raging shrieks.
As the lead track in a series of upcoming singles anticipated for a 2025 album, “MUD”truly exemplifies what makes DOROTHY an innovative force in blues-metal music. With its dynamic rhythms, the song draws listeners into a unique experience that expertly fuses line-dancing and moshing vibes.
8 Linkin Park – “The Emptiness Machine”
From Zero (Warner Records/Machine Shop)
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Linkin Park’s much-anticipated return this year has garnered diverse reactions, ranging from praise to skepticism. The band has introduced Emily Armstrong as their new vocalist, succeeding Chester Bennington and bringing her unique energy to the forefront. Their comeback album, From Zero, reached #2 on the Billboard 200 chart, marking a successful re-entry into the music scene.
The lead single, “The Emptiness Machine,”debuted during an exhilarating live-streamed event. This track merges high-octane intensity with deep respect for Bennington’s legacy, establishing a bold new chapter for Linkin Park.
7 Serj Tankian – “A.F. Day”
Foundations (Self-released)
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System of a Down’s Serj Tankian remains prolific, having released numerous solo projects since the band’s last studio album in 2005. His latest EP, Foundations, showcases a dynamic array of musical expressions, with “A.F. Day”standing out as its hallmark track.
This song, originally conceptualized within the early framework of System of a Down, critiques modern life’s monotony while embodying Tankian’s signature frenzied style. With progressive production techniques and thought-provoking lyrics, the song encapsulates a timeless struggle.
6 Gnome – “Old Soul”
Vestiges Of Verumex Visidrome (Polderrecords)
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Belgium’s stoner-rock trio Gnome invites listeners into their eclectic soundscape with their third record, Vestiges of Verumex Visidrome. While this album may not eclipse the successes of its predecessor, it still embraces the band’s distinctive sludgy essence.
The lead single, “Old Soul,”stands out with its infectious rhythms and heavy riffs reminiscent of Black Sabbath, complemented by a quirky approach to lyrics. Gnome’s playful visuals in their music video enhance the whimsical nature of their music.
5 Gojira featuring Marina Viotti – “Mea Culpa (Ah! Ça Ira!)”
Mea Culpa (Ah! That’ll Be Fine!) (International Olympic Committee)
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French metallers Gojira continue to surprise fans with their innovative soundscapes. Known for their genre-blending style, they ventured into new territory with “Mea Culpa,”a revolutionary opera piece that debuted at the Olympic opening ceremony in July 2024.
Featuring mezzo-soprano Marina Viotti, Gojira’s rendition of the revolutionary anthem “Ça ira”is a nuanced take on historical themes. The track’s heavy riffs paired with opera create an unexpected juxtaposition, illustrating the band’s artistic evolution.
4 Hanabie. – “Metamorphosis!”
Bucchigiri Tokyo (Epic Records Japan)
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Emerging from Japan’s vibrant scene, Hanabie. has combined their love for metalcore with elements of traditional Japanese culture. Their latest EP, Bucchigiri Tokyo, exemplifies their evolution and intensity, particularly with the track “Metamorphose!”
This explosive song draws inspiration from beloved anime and marries energizing riffs with pulsating electronic elements for a unique auditory experience, catering to fans who crave a harder edge in their music.
3 Jinjer – “Someone’s Daughter”
Green Serpent
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