Somewhere along the line, I’m not quite sure when or where, Bodycount evolved from being a novelty act into a bonafide Heavy Metal Band. They are no longer seen as an ego trip on Ice-T’s behalf and instead have gained credibility and kudos. There is now no question that they belong on festival bills and are an essential part of our world. Part of the reason is hard work. They have earnt their acceptance by staying the distance and sticking at it (this is their third album since returning to the fray in 2014). The other reason is that they respect the metal; this is not a gimmick or a band-wagon jump. There is a passion, drive and love here. Carnivore is short, sharp and in your face. The Lemmy tribute of ‘Ace of Spades’ manages to be poignant as opposed to mawkish and the rest of the stuff is full of power and conviction. As Metal as anything else on this list (of course apart from the non-metal stuff).