Over the last few weeks of 05 we will be posting our writers' picks for the best of 2005. 

Each day we posted a new Top 5 list from one of our writers. Now at the conclusion we are please to present the master list comprised of the top picks from all of our writer submissions. 

DeadSun's Top 5 of 05.

This was an extraordinarily difficult year to choose--- the competition was heavy--- though I'm sure some won't be all that surprised by my picks. 

5.  Hypocrisy – Virus: A triumphant return to form for one of Sweden's most coveted exports (no, I'm not referring to vodka). Truly, the addition of percussionist Reidar Horghagen and guitarist Andreas Holma has instilled the band with a renewed sense of stylistic sharpness and intensified vigor. The music seethes with smouldering force, and yet marches itself forward with maniacally energetic momentum. "Virus" is the perfect progression for a band with a celebrated history. Peter Tagtgren has deftly mined yet another jewel for metal's crown. 
samples / buy cd)

4.  Jesu (self-titled): Justin Broaderick has (once again) offered up a release which could be better described as an experience instead of a recording of songs. The music swells red, throbbing as guttural drones ebb and flow beneath fragile, airy melodies. A distinct inkling of pop sensibility is found occupying the space between the cracks of the massive, slowly grinding bedrock. No small task. My hat is off to Mr. Broaderick.
(samples / buy cd | review)

3. Porcupine Tree – Deadwing:  A masterfully constucted effort from Porcupine Tree. Both addictive and memorable, "Deadwing" is a feast for the musical imagination. It accomplishes the daunting task of conveying deep emotion, but does so adroitly and bluntly, without the syrupy mess and insincere angst so often found with this approach. Exquisite.
(samples / buy cd | review)

2.  Cephalic Carnage – Anomalie:  Must be heard to be believed. A staggering balancing act between raw, savage tonality, and blink of an eye precision. Extreme metal which truly raises the bar for technical death grind. For subsequent releases from their peers, this will be a tough act to follow.
(samples / buy cd)

1.  Napalm Death - The Code is Red... Long Live the Code: Mercilessly heavy. The great Patriarchs of Grind are at it again, further cementing their legitimate claim to that coveted title. Napalm Death have created a nuclear bane of musical asphyxiation that sounds like an avalanche of planets in freefall. Snaps the spinal cord where the neck meets the head. 
(samples / buy cd)

Honorable mentions: 

Strapping Young Lad - Alien 
Current 93 - Judas as Black Moth 
YOB - The Unreal Never Lived  (thanks to Mark H. for encouraging me to pick this up)