6. Deftones - private music
30 years since their debut album and they're at the top of their game. The only band I saw at Ozzfest '99 that's gotten better since then.

Not on Bandcamp but here's where I got mine.

tinyurl.com/2ucwnr9h

7. Kayo Dot - Every Rock, Every Half-Truth Under Reason
I don't think Kayo Dot is going to win over any new fans with what's probably the most difficult and impenetrable album of the year, but hats off to Toby for continually reinventing what this band sounds like. America's answer to Ulver.

8. Messa - The Spin
Italian doom metal. Of all the bands currently working, I think they're the ones most clearly carrying on the vibe of classic Black Sabbath. Saw them live in Denmark a few years back and they all exude that kind of old school charisma.

messa.bandcamp.com/album/the-spin

9. Pool Kids - Easier Said Than Done
Proggy emo from Florida. I was obsessed with their s/t in 2022 and the follow-up here is equally solid.

poolkidsband.bandcamp.com/album/easier...

10. Boneflower - Reveries
Incredible post-hardcore from Madrid.

boneflower.bandcamp.com/album/reveri...

Made a pilgrimage to Nijmegen to see the classic line up of my favorite band ever The Gathering reunite.

Live at ONCE in 2019

She also killed it at Royale last week