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10. Epoch of Chirality

– Nucleosynthesis

I’m a sucker for sci-fi themes, and so you’ll see that a few times on this list. This epic cover from Epoch of Chirality is a perfect example of how cover art can both reflect the content of the album, while also serving as something that immediately grabs attention. This is such a gorgeous cover.

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9. Chevelle – Niratias

I meant to review this Chevelle album, but never got around to it. Anyways, this is the best cover art the band has ever had, and it made me feel like they were trying to start a new era in their sound. The album itself is much more ambitious than their past works, so the cover is fitting.

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8. Dynatron – Origins

Dark and mysterious, the haunting shadows and glaring red accents on Dynatron’s new cover attracted me instantly. It is seriously effective.

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7. Charlotte Wessels –

Tales from Six Feet Under

I love the whimsy and slight comic book vibe of this art from Charlotte Wessels’ first solo outing. It communicates that this is a different side than we are used to, coming from Delain and the epic fantasy you expect to see there. This is more understated, but also maybe more interesting.

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6. Michał Łapaj – Are You There

I’ve long been a fan of Anthony’s artwork, and I was thrilled to see Michał Łapaj use it for his recent solo album. This cover captures all of the silent, desperate emotions on the record: the void, so to speak. I should buy a shirt of this one.

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5. Interloper – Search Party

I’ll admit that I really didn’t like this album from Interloper. Not really my thing. But they sure know how to catch my attention with this gorgeous, illustrious cover art.

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4. Evergrey – Escape of the Phoenix

As soon as I saw this cover for the latest Evergrey album, I knew it was going to be a special work. The visceral fantasy on display here is breath-taking. I had to buy a shirt immediately.

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3. ISON – Aurora

ISON consistently makes cover art that represents the music well, and I think this is their best yet. The combination of the vastness of space with the inner light of consciousness is profound, yes, but also beautiful. Fantastic work of art here.

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2. Swallow the Sun – Moonflowers

The tender nature of the lyrics on Swallow the Sun’s new album required some art to match. Juha chose to handle it himself, and this simple yet highly effective painting is the result. Between the contrast of the red and black lies the fragility of the white flowers, causing this work to bleed emotions directly into my heart.

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1. Lake of Tears – Ominous

I’ve been obsessed with this cover from Lake of Tears the entire year. It feels adventurous, horrific, fantastical, dark, and foreboding, all at the same time. I think it is brilliant, and it is definitely my favorite in 2021.

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