From its modest roots as a basement mail-order operation to its status as one of the premier independent metal labels, Relapse Records has carved a niche as purveyor of distortion-heavy talent. In addition to a few ALARM favorites from Pig Destroyer, Liberteer, and Primate, this year saw noteworthy releases from Dying Fetus, Baroness, Horseback, Locrian, Serpentine Path, and many others.
Best Albums: Relentless metal, risk-taking pop, and bluesy psych rock
Revocation: s/t
Rabbit Rabbit: Rabbit Rabbit Radio, Vol. 1
Demon Queen: Exorcise Tape
Old Baby: Love Hangover