Top 10 Best Metal Albums of 2017

Gods of Violence - Kreator

Not quite Phantom Antichrist, but still above most of their recent work (besides Violent Revolution).

This masterpiece is slightly above Cradle of Filth's Cryptoriana, which isn't even listed, to my surprise.

Emperor of Sand - Mastodon

Easily tops Gods of Violence. Jaguar God and Word to the Wise are among the best songs Mastodon has ever put out in their whole career.

The Grinding Wheel - Overkill

Should be in the top three.

Urn - Ne Obliviscaris

This was an exceptional surprise. Didn't expect to enjoy this album as much as I did. Current contender for AOTY for me.

My #1 of 2017 (extreme progressive metal from Australia).
If interested, you can check out the list: Best Songs on Ne Obliviscaris' Urn

Conformicide - Havok

Good music, but awful lyrics.

In the Passing Light of Day - Pain of Salvation

Aathma - Persefone

This is my pick for best metal album of 2017. Top-notch progressive metal album right here. Everyone should listen to it.

E - Enslaved

A very good album, possibly their most progressive yet. They pay tribute to Pink Floyd during the album's closing moments.
My main criticism is that it's too short. Only six songs. None of them are bad, though, and all are different. If you don't like newer Enslaved, then you probably won't like this, but if you're a fan of their newer stuff, then I think you'll enjoy it. If you're a prog fan and have more of an open mind to black metal, then I think you'll enjoy it.