As we hit the halfway point, I figure I would point out some of the highlights of the year thus far. Before I do, I must stress that all of these albums are worth buying (I have purchased them all, as well as merch from most). Don't take advantage of these bands, if you enjoy them I urge you to buy the album.

Within The Ruins - Creatures
I discovered this band the moment they released their debut album, Creatures, and was instantly hooked. If Protest The Hero had a love affair with August Burns Red, Within The Ruins would be the outcome. Excellent musicianship and excellent use of guitars, WTR will satisfy your tech metal needs for months to come. Check it out.


ALBUM: WITHIN THE RUINS - CREATURE


IWRESTLEDABEARONCE - Its All Happening
I know, I know. I've promoted this band obnoxiously since the beginning, but its for a good reason. It's All Happening is full of everything. Almost literally. They took everything that was great about their EP and multiplied it by 500. IWABO is definitly an aquired taste, but if you can get into it, you will love it. Great grindcore band, you can check out the full review here.

ALBUM: IWRESTLEDABEARONCE - ITS ALL HAPPENING


The Eyes of A Traitor - A Clear Perception
This album is top notch. It will grab you by your throat and not let go. Vocalist, Jack Delaney, has extreme control over his voice, producing some outstanding growls. Double guitar harmonies, guitar solos, expert drums, that album really does have it all. If you are a fan of any sort of metal, I strongly suggest you pick up this album. After a few listens you will be hooked. I haven't put this album down all year.

ALBUM: THE EYES OF A TRAITOR - A CLEAR PERCEPTION

The Devil Wears Prada - With Roots Above & Branches Below
To be honest I was expecting to be very disappointed with this album. I'm not really sure why but I thought they were going to get more generic and boring. Turns out I was very wrong. With this new album The Devil Wears Prada is able to reach to a whole new group of fans without alienating their original fan base. It outdoes Plagues in my eyes (...ears?) Check it out, especially if you're not a fan.

ALBUM: THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA - WITH ROOTS ABOVE & BRANCHES BELOW


Dance Gavin Dance - Happiness
Although it hasn't yet released, a bunch of us have had our hands on Dance Gavin Dance's newest album Happiness. It is overall better than their "Death star" album a few months back. With Happiness, Kurt is really able to shake off any mark that Jonny may have left prior to him joining Emarosa. After this album, I think people will really see them for who they are, not just "that old band Jonny was in". Fantastic album, please pick it up!

ALBUM: DANCE GAVIN DANCE - HAPPINESS

The 2008 album of the year, in my opinion, was Protest The Hero's album Fortress. I knew from day one that I would choose PTH over whatever else came out that year. Underoath's Lost In The Sound of Separation was second, but Fortress had secured the top spot by a long shot. Unlike in 2008 I don't see a clear cut winner yet.

Honorable Mentions:
Chimaria - Infection
The Chariot - Wars and Rumors of Wars