8. Overkill - White Devil Armory

It amazes me how some of the older thrash acts still can put out a solid album every single time. Overkill returned in 2014 with another brilliant piece of metal entitled White Devil Armory.  Consistency is the name of the game here, and here we have a collection of songs that not only rock hard, but stand alongside anything the band has ever done. Lead off single and vid, Bitter Pill shows the bands groovy side, and tunes like Pig, and the uber thrash of Wheres There's Smoke show Overkill have lots left in the tank.  Blitz still delivers the goods vocally, and Verni's bass sounds fantastic. Great production overall, White Devil Armory throws the gauntlet down to the Big 4.  Let's see them come up with an album like this next. Great stuff.

7.  Midnight - No Mercy For Mayhem

Probably this years biggest surprise for me, in that I stumbled across this album while snooping on youtube one night. From Cleveland, Midnight is kind of a one man project who has obviously listened to a lot of early Venom, Bathory, Motorhead and Celtic Frost.  Throw in some punk elements, old school production and blackened grooviness, and you'll hear where Midnight is coming from.  The mid paced stuff like Prowling Leather and Woman Of Flame really set these guys apart. I've been researching the band to find out they've been releasing music since 2003. Looks like more stuff to check out! Another band that borrows heavily from the past, but adds an energy and vibe that all hard rockers can get into.  Check out Degradation.

6. Grave Digger - Return Of The Reaper

Return of the Reaper, indeed.  German veterans came back in 2014 with another great record, that like Overkill, show how the big boys do it.  Full on classic metal that has elements of their early albums and their latest albums.  Plus, no bagpipes or Scottish history this time around ;)
Probably my favorite guitar tone this year (courtesy of Axel Ritt) it just rips.  Chris Boltendahl's vocals may be an aquired taste for some, but they are really what set Grave Digger apart.  Can't name a fave track (they are all good), although War God and the closing ballad Nothing Left To Believe stand out.  Personally after all these years, I'd love to see GD on a North American tour with Priest or Maiden, they'd gain a bunch more fans on this side of the pond.

More to come, as I wrap up my list.  Remember, if you like any of these bands, support them by purchasing their music and checking out their shows. Until next time...