5 Underrated Metal Bands You Need to Listen To in 2024
As the heavy metal genre continues to progress, numerous skilled bands often go unnoticed, shadowed by their more prominent peers. Here are several underrated heavy metal bands worth exploring in 2024. These groups offer innovative sounds, creative approaches, and a fervor for the genre that merits acknowledgment.
1. Ryujin (Japanese Samurai Metal)
Ryujin is a rising melodic death / power metal band recognized for their compelling fusion of classic metal and contemporary elements. Originating from Japan, their sound features complex melodies, aggressive riffs, and vibrant rhythms, showcasing both the deep-rooted traditions of Japanese culture and modern metal influences. The band's engaging lyrics, frequently drawn from mythology and personal narratives, seek to provide an immersive experience for their audience. Their dynamic live shows and dedication to musical excellence have earned them a loyal fan base, establishing them as a significant contender in the heavy metal landscape.
2. The Ghost Inside
The Ghost Inside is a melodic hardcore band hailing from Los Angeles, California, recognized for their powerful sound and profoundly personal lyrics. Established in 2006, they cultivated a loyal fanbase through their vibrant performances and compelling themes of resilience and determination. Their music features a fusion of heavy guitar riffs and melodic hooks, resulting in a dynamic sound that appeals to enthusiasts of both hardcore and metalcore genres. Following a life-changing bus accident in 2015 that nearly curtailed their career, The Ghost Inside made a remarkable comeback with their self-titled album in 2020, reinforcing their position as a symbol of hope within the heavy music community.
3. Inquisition
Inquisition is a distinctive black metal duo originating from the United States, recognized for their atmospheric soundscapes and complex musical arrangements. Established in 1988 by guitarist and vocalist Dagon alongside drummer Incubus, the band fuses traditional black metal elements with a cosmic and occult theme. Their music is characterized by mesmerizing riffs, powerful drumming, and Dagon's unique vocal style, resulting in an immersive auditory experience that frequently delves into themes of mythology, darkness, and the esoteric. With critically acclaimed albums such as Ominous Doctrines of the Perpetual Mystical Macrocosm and Bloodshed Across the Empyrean Altar Beyond the Celestial Zenith, Inquisition has established a prominent presence within the metal community, enchanting listeners with their originality and profound artistry.
4. Drown in Sulphur
Drown in Sulphur is an Italian deathcore ensemble distinguished by their unyielding sound and somber thematic content. Founded in 2014, they mix aggressive riffs and heavy breakdowns with complex melodies, resulting in a formidable auditory experience. Their compositions frequently explore themes of anguish, brutality, and the human experience, as reflected in their poignant lyrics and vigorous instrumentation. With dynamic live shows and a dedication to expanding the limits of the genre, Drown in Sulphur is swiftly garnering acclaim within the metal community, positioning themselves as a prominent entity in the European deathcore landscape.
5. Amaranth
Amaranthe is a heavy metal band from Sweden founded in 2008, recognized for their unique mix of melodic metal, pop influences, and electronic elements. The band boasts an exceptional lineup that includes three vocalists—clean male vocals, female vocals, and harsh growls—resulting in a rich and dynamic auditory experience. Their music features engaging melodies paired with powerful instrumentation, delving into themes such as love, unity, and resilience. With albums such as Maximalism and Manifest, Amaranthe has cultivated a loyal fanbase and made a notable impact in the contemporary metal landscape, earning acclaim for their vibrant performances and innovative contributions to the genre.
These underrated heavy metal bands are making remarkable contributions to the genre and deserve greater attention. Through their inventive sounds and amazing performances, they are expanding the limits of heavy metal.