7. Avenged Sevenfold - Waking the Fallen (2003)
Notable Tracks: Unholy Confessions, Chapter 4, Eternal Rest, I Won't See You Tonight Pt. 1 & 2 Avenged Sevenfold catapulted to the top of the hard rock/heavy metal billboards after the release of this, their second album. This album may very well be one of the best sophomore efforts by any rock band in the past two decades. Their first release, Sounding the Seventh Trumpet is diametrically opposite in terms of its sound. And because of this shift in sound, Sevenfold was welcomed by new fans coming in droves. What sets this album apart from their previous record is clearer lyrics, the revisiting/reinvigorating of antiquated guitar riffs, and, of course, the incredible, and I mean incredible drumming of the late Jimmy Sullivan (known better by his sobriquet "The Rev"). Very few drummers could even approach Sullivan's technical skills along with his proclivity to hit that *ting ting* sound so unexpectedly and rhythmically. If you've never listened to Avenged, or if you're a relatively new fan, I suggest paying this album a visit, it is truly one of their best compositions.