4) Anthrax, For All Kings (Megaforce)

This album is proof it was no fluke that 2011’s Worship Music was as killer as it was. Anthrax is in top form, and Jon Donais demonstrates that he’s more than worthy replacement of the band’s previous secret weapon, Rob Caggiano.

Track Pick: “Monster At The End”

3) Twelve Foot Ninja, Outlier (Volkanik Music)

It’s been a long wait for Twelve Foot Ninja’s follow-up to their beloved debut album Silent Machine, but the wait was worth it. Album #2 finds the Aussie band taking their genre fusion to new heights, going from nu metal riffs to salsa breakdowns seamlessly.

Track Pick: “Post Mortem”

2) Gojira, Magma (Roadrunner)

Gojira really are one of the most unique sounding bands in metal out there today. And with Magma, they still sound incredibly massive even at their more subtle, toned down moments. Seriously, I am still floored every time I hear “Stranded,” a truly game-changing song for everyone’s favorite metal band from France.

Track Pick: “Stranded”