10 Most Underrated Nu Metal Albums

The post-hardcore cult favourites turned out their most polarising effort in 2002 with 'Truthless Heroes', a moody, complicated concept album about fortune and fame. Signed to Atlantic Records by way of Tooth & Nail Records, the group found themselves in a frustrating creative zone at the time.

Frontman Andrew Schwab came to scream, determined to infuse the group's third LP with the same punky, vicious tone their first two had enjoyed. The studio, however, wanted something a little more commercially friendly, demanding Schwab sing properly whilst also moving the group's instrumentals into nu metal territory.

Nu metal was very much on the decline by '02 but still held some influence, with many expecting it return to popularity soon enough. For Project 86, that meant turning their most lyrically ambitious effort yet into a new urban headbanger.

Following in the footsteps of POD, Project 86 blended Christian rock and themes with their otherwise heavy, edgy sound. In a gutsy display, the group even threw in some anti-war lyrics and ideas in the midst of the Bush administration's early years, a decision some have argued alienated their more conservative listeners.

Incorporating cleaner vocals and more melodic instrumentals ultimately bolstered the group's sound and versatility both here and in the efforts that followed.