50. Aephanemer - "Utopie"

Another bunch of intrepid Frenchmen playing fast and loose with the rules that govern heavy music. This is symphonic melodic death metal (yes, it is a thing). It is both complex and challenging but it sounds absolutely divine. It is a sophisticated album full of precision-engineered guitar work and dynamic shifts in tone. They bring into play Slavic folk influences which gives it a granular and organic feel. A twisty turny album that is both innovative and versatile. Rather special indeed.