Brutal's Highest Scoring Albums of 2018
Now that the holidays are over and I've had time to breathe for more than a few days time without having to worry about what's coming next, I have finally sat down and condensed the highest scoring albums from 2018.
This is not necessarily our "Top of 2018 albums" as there are several writers on the site and a ton of albums we did not get the chance to review throughout the year. With several writers come several different opinions, every person will have a different opinion as to which album was the best of them all. Perhaps we will save our top lists for another article.
The albums are in no particular order aside from what they scored (#21 to #12 were all rated an 8.5 out of 10, while #11 to #2 were all rated a 9 out of 10, and #1 was rated a 9.5 out of 10). So, sit back, get prepared to listen to some of the best tunes of 2018 in this recap of Brutal's past year.
21. Techniques Berlin - Breathing / Remixes and Covers plus Bonus Tracks
"My overall feeling dwells with my love for the album Breathing, which remains today as a contender for album of the year, comeback of the year, or whatever awards there are for top releases of the year. I was content with that alone. The remixes tell a wonderful story of the history both Andreas and Dave have shared over the decades. They both have contributed so much to Canadian electronic scene that sometimes goes underneath the radar given the endless seminal acts that originated within the musically rich Canadian scene. They tell a story about the history of some highly regarded Canadian acts and some lesser known ones as well." -Luke Jacobs
20. Mlada Fronta - No Trespassing
"While 'No Trespassing' may not be a revolutionary album within the synthwave and dark synth scene, Mlada Fronta is able to outclass many acts within the scene with his production skills. Solid sounds and clean synthetic sounds ooze out like blood from a slit throat, and I do believe this is exactly what Mlada Fronta was aiming for with this album. The homages are found within, the retro aesthetic is pleasant but not overbearing, and it’s pulled altogether with a fantastic nod to the unique history of horror films and synthesizers." -Steven Gullotta
19. White Tiger - KVLT
"Of all White Tiger's releases, this one undoubtedly stands out, uniting an array of musical influences, different voices, and shamelessly experimenting with electronic music sub-genres, under the same doom umbrella of an album which is 'KVLT'. I am excited to see what new collaborations and colors White Tiger will bring up in his next record." -Alia Von Mirra
18. Deader - The Deadening
"While I don't think Deader will be breaking mainstream audiences anytime soon, I do believe that this is an act that deserves a lot more attention than they are currently getting. Their sound design is unique and I can't say I have quite heard anyone else on the market like them, even with new EBM/industrial groups sprouting out of the Earth like there's no tomorrow. Do yourself a favor and grab this album." -Steven Gullotta
17. Red Mecca - I See Darkness In You
"While there is a little to complain about here and there in the album that mainly comes from the second and third track, 'I See Darkness In You' is as complete an album from Red Mecca as you'll ever get. The production is crisp and clear and follows previous examples set by Red Mecca. This album continues to show why they have such a dedicated fanbase and continue to evolve. With the departure of Madeleine I can only hope Red Mecca finds a vocalist that can equal her, but that's a waiting game that will have to be played out." -Steven Gullotta
16. Elay Arson - Spirit | Death
"Elay Arson has released another masterful album of epic and inspirational metal aspects and a full on electronic wild ride through fantastic stories. The guest appearances were meaningful and added to the album without ever draining from the overall intent. That, as well as an awesome physical product, and 'SPIRIT | DEATH' manages to be one of the finest releases of this current year." -Steven Gullotta
15. Night Terrors - Now, Here
"With the noise people are making about Chrome Corpse (and rightfully so), no one should be sleeping on Night Terrors either. It's easy to see why the two are both on Vertex Brain, who have knocked it out of the park with their signings thus far." -Joseph Yerka
14. Microchip Terror - Illegal Experiments
"Microchip Terror delivers another bestial invasion of sinister synth work and electronic executions. The collaborations with Protector 101, Vulta, Neoslave and Gridscape are top of the line and fit perfectly with the rest of the album. Microchip Terror is on top of his game. It will take a goliath effort to top this one but i'm confident the Doctor will get the job done when the time comes. I have a feeling a physical version is in the works on COG Recordings. There are a few copies of the debut cassette left as of today. Support the madness and perhaps your support will spare you in the end." -Luke Jacobs
13. Electric Dragon - Communion
"Electric Dragon is an act whose only limitations can be placed by your own imagination. Whether or not this is a soundtrack for the end of the world, an unscripted horror film, or the firstly mentioned medieval knights running for their lives from evil is uncertain to me, but the possibilities are endless. Keep that all in mind as well as the wonderful dark synthwave sounds that keeps the album full of fun and I came away highly impressed. This is undoubtedly Electric Dragon's best work to date and I can't wait to hear what he does next." -Steven Gullotta
12. Neon Insect - Glitches
"If he was not able to catch my attention before, Neon Insect certainly has the love of my ears and aural senses all over him now. 'Glitches' is a fantastic and powerful romp through electro-industrial, IDM, ambient, and cinematic sounds. It's harsh, it's calming, it's panicked, it's destructive, but most of all it is easily one of the better listening experiences I've had this month." -Steven Gullotta
11. Protector 101 - Paramnesia
"These days I'm more selective on what I buy in the retro-wave/dark synth/synth-wave genres. Protector 101 is an artist that helped shaped the dark synth scene and remains relevant with his diversity and professional approach. He simply gets 'it'. This is why P101 will never be lumped into the cliche and trope filled cesspool of cookie cutter acts that seem to pop up every day." -Luke Jacobs
10. Ethereal Delusions - Reformation
"'Reformation' is one of a kind tapestry of your favourite sounds brought to life once again in the most unexpected fusions and melodies. Although you can look at it as a synthwave hybrid, which doesn’t stay in the same genre for too long migrating to the next track with the next surprising set of influences, I highly recommend listening to this album as a concept, and the next thing you know – you can shape the story of it in your head. This album greatly impressed me, and if you like to be surprised by what you hear – you should check out Ethereal Delusion’s work on Bandcamp." -Alia Von Mirra
09. Tobias Bernstrup - Technophobic
"Overall Tobias Bernstrup satisfies on all levels. The music is top notch, the vocals are melodic and pleasant, the mastering by Doruk Ozturkcan of She Past Away is pristine and the album is an absolute pleasure to play! Well done all around! This is a must have and i'm sure it will be a hot item." -Luke Jacobs
08. Cellar Graves - Omen
"A single occurrence of a darkened synth slowly pulses its way over lines from the 2001 thriller film "Frailty" as a slow ambiance builds up. Signs of religious fanaticism and cawing crows play on as we are slowly led into what could be considered an original thematic crawl for the next greatest retro-horror film or television series. A trickle of guitars slowly lets out the final ends of the song as we are delivered into the fantastic dancing sensation that would be the next song on the album 'Witching Hour'. This, my friends, is how you properly deliver a menacing piece appropriate not only for the upcoming Halloween season, but also for year-round playlist binges." -Steven Gullotta
07. Miss FD - Transcendence
Though Miss FD had fans wait for such a long time for her album to come out, the results are stunning. While I was coming in expecting a full on industrial rock release I was fed something that was sweeter than I could have ever imagined. The neo-classical elements were present on her past albums but not to the perfection it has been shown on this one. Her voice is still as deep and powerful as it has always been, and the rougher songs strike correctly in accordance to Miss FD's feelings. This is no doubt the epitome of her work and - painful as it is to say - outshines her other albums by a large degree, If you've never listened to this woman sing and perform before, now's the time to do so." -Steven Gullotta
06. Vandal Moon - Wild Insane
This is not necessarily our "Top of 2018 albums" as there are several writers on the site and a ton of albums we did not get the chance to review throughout the year. With several writers come several different opinions, every person will have a different opinion as to which album was the best of them all. Perhaps we will save our top lists for another article.
The albums are in no particular order aside from what they scored (#21 to #12 were all rated an 8.5 out of 10, while #11 to #2 were all rated a 9 out of 10, and #1 was rated a 9.5 out of 10). So, sit back, get prepared to listen to some of the best tunes of 2018 in this recap of Brutal's past year.
21. Techniques Berlin - Breathing / Remixes and Covers plus Bonus Tracks
"My overall feeling dwells with my love for the album Breathing, which remains today as a contender for album of the year, comeback of the year, or whatever awards there are for top releases of the year. I was content with that alone. The remixes tell a wonderful story of the history both Andreas and Dave have shared over the decades. They both have contributed so much to Canadian electronic scene that sometimes goes underneath the radar given the endless seminal acts that originated within the musically rich Canadian scene. They tell a story about the history of some highly regarded Canadian acts and some lesser known ones as well." -Luke Jacobs
20. Mlada Fronta - No Trespassing
"While 'No Trespassing' may not be a revolutionary album within the synthwave and dark synth scene, Mlada Fronta is able to outclass many acts within the scene with his production skills. Solid sounds and clean synthetic sounds ooze out like blood from a slit throat, and I do believe this is exactly what Mlada Fronta was aiming for with this album. The homages are found within, the retro aesthetic is pleasant but not overbearing, and it’s pulled altogether with a fantastic nod to the unique history of horror films and synthesizers." -Steven Gullotta
19. White Tiger - KVLT
"Of all White Tiger's releases, this one undoubtedly stands out, uniting an array of musical influences, different voices, and shamelessly experimenting with electronic music sub-genres, under the same doom umbrella of an album which is 'KVLT'. I am excited to see what new collaborations and colors White Tiger will bring up in his next record." -Alia Von Mirra
18. Deader - The Deadening
"While I don't think Deader will be breaking mainstream audiences anytime soon, I do believe that this is an act that deserves a lot more attention than they are currently getting. Their sound design is unique and I can't say I have quite heard anyone else on the market like them, even with new EBM/industrial groups sprouting out of the Earth like there's no tomorrow. Do yourself a favor and grab this album." -Steven Gullotta
17. Red Mecca - I See Darkness In You
"While there is a little to complain about here and there in the album that mainly comes from the second and third track, 'I See Darkness In You' is as complete an album from Red Mecca as you'll ever get. The production is crisp and clear and follows previous examples set by Red Mecca. This album continues to show why they have such a dedicated fanbase and continue to evolve. With the departure of Madeleine I can only hope Red Mecca finds a vocalist that can equal her, but that's a waiting game that will have to be played out." -Steven Gullotta
16. Elay Arson - Spirit | Death
"Elay Arson has released another masterful album of epic and inspirational metal aspects and a full on electronic wild ride through fantastic stories. The guest appearances were meaningful and added to the album without ever draining from the overall intent. That, as well as an awesome physical product, and 'SPIRIT | DEATH' manages to be one of the finest releases of this current year." -Steven Gullotta
15. Night Terrors - Now, Here
"With the noise people are making about Chrome Corpse (and rightfully so), no one should be sleeping on Night Terrors either. It's easy to see why the two are both on Vertex Brain, who have knocked it out of the park with their signings thus far." -Joseph Yerka
14. Microchip Terror - Illegal Experiments
"Microchip Terror delivers another bestial invasion of sinister synth work and electronic executions. The collaborations with Protector 101, Vulta, Neoslave and Gridscape are top of the line and fit perfectly with the rest of the album. Microchip Terror is on top of his game. It will take a goliath effort to top this one but i'm confident the Doctor will get the job done when the time comes. I have a feeling a physical version is in the works on COG Recordings. There are a few copies of the debut cassette left as of today. Support the madness and perhaps your support will spare you in the end." -Luke Jacobs
13. Electric Dragon - Communion
"Electric Dragon is an act whose only limitations can be placed by your own imagination. Whether or not this is a soundtrack for the end of the world, an unscripted horror film, or the firstly mentioned medieval knights running for their lives from evil is uncertain to me, but the possibilities are endless. Keep that all in mind as well as the wonderful dark synthwave sounds that keeps the album full of fun and I came away highly impressed. This is undoubtedly Electric Dragon's best work to date and I can't wait to hear what he does next." -Steven Gullotta
12. Neon Insect - Glitches
"If he was not able to catch my attention before, Neon Insect certainly has the love of my ears and aural senses all over him now. 'Glitches' is a fantastic and powerful romp through electro-industrial, IDM, ambient, and cinematic sounds. It's harsh, it's calming, it's panicked, it's destructive, but most of all it is easily one of the better listening experiences I've had this month." -Steven Gullotta
11. Protector 101 - Paramnesia
"These days I'm more selective on what I buy in the retro-wave/dark synth/synth-wave genres. Protector 101 is an artist that helped shaped the dark synth scene and remains relevant with his diversity and professional approach. He simply gets 'it'. This is why P101 will never be lumped into the cliche and trope filled cesspool of cookie cutter acts that seem to pop up every day." -Luke Jacobs
10. Ethereal Delusions - Reformation
"'Reformation' is one of a kind tapestry of your favourite sounds brought to life once again in the most unexpected fusions and melodies. Although you can look at it as a synthwave hybrid, which doesn’t stay in the same genre for too long migrating to the next track with the next surprising set of influences, I highly recommend listening to this album as a concept, and the next thing you know – you can shape the story of it in your head. This album greatly impressed me, and if you like to be surprised by what you hear – you should check out Ethereal Delusion’s work on Bandcamp." -Alia Von Mirra
09. Tobias Bernstrup - Technophobic
"Overall Tobias Bernstrup satisfies on all levels. The music is top notch, the vocals are melodic and pleasant, the mastering by Doruk Ozturkcan of She Past Away is pristine and the album is an absolute pleasure to play! Well done all around! This is a must have and i'm sure it will be a hot item." -Luke Jacobs
08. Cellar Graves - Omen
"A single occurrence of a darkened synth slowly pulses its way over lines from the 2001 thriller film "Frailty" as a slow ambiance builds up. Signs of religious fanaticism and cawing crows play on as we are slowly led into what could be considered an original thematic crawl for the next greatest retro-horror film or television series. A trickle of guitars slowly lets out the final ends of the song as we are delivered into the fantastic dancing sensation that would be the next song on the album 'Witching Hour'. This, my friends, is how you properly deliver a menacing piece appropriate not only for the upcoming Halloween season, but also for year-round playlist binges." -Steven Gullotta
07. Miss FD - Transcendence
Though Miss FD had fans wait for such a long time for her album to come out, the results are stunning. While I was coming in expecting a full on industrial rock release I was fed something that was sweeter than I could have ever imagined. The neo-classical elements were present on her past albums but not to the perfection it has been shown on this one. Her voice is still as deep and powerful as it has always been, and the rougher songs strike correctly in accordance to Miss FD's feelings. This is no doubt the epitome of her work and - painful as it is to say - outshines her other albums by a large degree, If you've never listened to this woman sing and perform before, now's the time to do so." -Steven Gullotta
06. Vandal Moon - Wild Insane
"Obviously Vandal Moon took the time to make this the best album to date. There will be a vinyl version out sometime soon, but until then, load this album into your music players and find the things that make you feel good when listening to a well-crafted work of art. Gorging on the darker tones and the neon undercurrents impaled with the post punk dark wave roots takes me to a place of fulfillment and satisfaction. The past and present found a convergence point and the results yield a remarkable piece of art. Of course all of this is how 'Wild Insane' made me feel, perhaps your experience will be different? Not checking this out would be a goddamned shame!" -Luke Jacobs
"I have had nothing but positive things to say about 'That Beast' and will continue forth in praising this album to everyone I meet. E.S.A. has developed again into a monstrous barbarian of electronic chaos and 'That Beast' took its sonic form to heart." -Steven Gullotta
"V▲LH▲LL has once again proven that their blend of occult themes, mythology, and otherworldly magic is absolutely breathtaking and hypnotic. 'Grimoire' is yet another fascinating piece added into their discography. Not a single minute was wasted listening to this album and this Swedish duo still remains one of my favorite active producers and musicians within the scene. The album is available as a digital download, but also comes in a CD or Vinyl edition if you fancy yourself a collector. Get on it." -Steven Gullotta
"Amelia Arsenic personifies her fierce look and hypnotizing gaze in 'Queen of Risk'. It is a musical for her artistic persona and bites as much as it pleases and Sean Payne made "Queen of Risk" all the more wondrous. Plenty of other folks helped add in programming, guitars, recording, engineering, and so much more, but all of that is to much to speak of. Basically all this talent pooled into one five-track EP and it is smashing." -Steven Gullotta
"Fanale is the epitome of an industrial workhorse, putting out release after release, with a smattering of EPs, albums and singles that were delivered to us in 2017. Leading off this year with American Carrion, I can't wait to see what else is left in his sack of gimmicks that he'll inevitably pour over us like some sort of malevolent, bald Santa Claus delivering dark, distorted Christmas gifts." -Joseph Yerka
"If you don’t follow every Ministry album, you’re going to like this album. If you do follow every Ministry album, you’re going to like this album. You’re going to like this Ministry album." -William Nesbitt
Jan 07 2019
Steven Gullotta
info@brutalresonance.comI've been writing for Brutal Resonance since November of 2012 and now serve as the editor-in-chief. I love the dark electronic underground and usually have too much to listen to at once but I love it. I am also an editor at Aggressive Deprivation, a digital/physical magazine since March of 2016. I support the scene as much as I can from my humble laptop.
Share this review
Facebook
Twitter
Google+
Shares
Panic Lift - Skeleton Key is available at POPONAUT from 14,95€