Every metalhead has that one band they’ll defend to the grave — the one that should have conquered the world, but somehow slipped through the cracks. So, we’re asking the question Metal Hammer just reignited:
Who’s the most underrated metal band of all time?
Let’s dive into a few contenders that deserve way more love from the mainstream — and maybe even from some of us in the pit 👀
⚙️ 1. Overkill
Before Metallica, Slayer, or Anthrax were household names, Overkill were already laying down blistering thrash riffs in the mid-’80s. Yet somehow, they never quite reached the “Big Four” status. Their 2023 album Scorched proved they’ve still got the same fire as day one.
Why they’re underrated: Relentless output, no bad albums, and criminally underappreciated consistency.
🔥 2. King’s X
A blend of groove, prog, and pure emotion, King’s X were always too soulful for thrash fans and too heavy for classic rock crowds. But musicians — from Jerry Cantrell to Devin Townsend — worship them.
Why they’re underrated: They basically invented grunge harmonies before grunge existed.
🕯 3. My Dying Bride
While Paradise Lost and Anathema eventually found wider audiences, My Dying Bride stayed true to their doom-laden melancholy. Gothic riffs, poetic despair, and atmosphere that can crush your soul — they’re metal’s eternal mourners.
Why they’re underrated: Their influence runs deep, but their recognition doesn’t.
💀 4. Death Angel
They survived a bus crash, outlasted the thrash era, and came back swinging with modern classics like The Evil Divide. Despite being technically flawless and fiercely energetic, they’ve never quite had the spotlight they deserve.
Why they’re underrated: Consistently killer albums, never half-measures.
⚡ 5. Prong
Industrial groove metal pioneers that shaped the sound of everyone from Nine Inch Nails to Pantera’s heavier moments. Snap Your Fingers, Snap Your Neck is one of the most neck-breaking riffs ever written.
Why they’re underrated: They built a sound that others became famous for.
🪓 Honourable Mentions
- Trouble – Doom metal before doom was cool.
- Nevermore – Jeff Loomis deserves sainthood for those riffs.
- Carcass – From grindcore to melodic death metal innovators.
- Cathedral – Psychedelic doom weirdness that aged beautifully.
- Sylosis – One of the UK’s finest modern metal exports.
🤔 So… Who Gets Your Vote?
Is it a cult classic band that never got their due? A local act that should be headlining festivals? Drop your pick in the comments or on our socials — let’s give these unsung legends their moment in the sun. 🌞
#TheRiffReport | #MetalHammer | #UnderratedMetalBands
