What does The Best of 2005–2013 sound like?

A potent fusion of heavy metal and metalcore, marked by theatrical storytelling and melodic depth. Rooted in heavy metal and progressive metal. Start with "Bat Country".

Is The Best of 2005–2013 a good place to start with Avenged Sevenfold?

Yes, The Best of 2005–2013 is recommended as a starting point for new Avenged Sevenfold listeners. A potent fusion of heavy metal and metalcore, marked by theatrical storytelling and melodic depth. Released in late 2016, this compilation captures Avenged Sevenfold's evolution from their breakout album 'City of Evil' (2005) through to 'Hail to the King' (2013). At this point, the band had solidified their place in the metal scene, following lineup changes and the passing of drummer Jimmy 'The Rev' Sullivan, which deeply influenced their sound and lyrical themes.

Who is The Best of 2005–2013 for?

The Best of 2005–2013 works well if you're into dynamic collection of highlights, wave-like pacing for engagement and cathartic sing-along anthems.

How many songs are on The Best of 2005–2013?

The Best of 2005–2013 has 18 tracks, running approximately 95 minutes.

Released 10 years ago

The Best of 2005–2013

Avenged Sevenfold · 2016

95 min · 18 tracks · heavy metal

A potent fusion of heavy metal and metalcore, marked by theatrical storytelling and melodic depth.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Bat Country Start here — The track serves as a defining anthem of Avenged Sevenfold's style, combining complex guitar work with vivid storytelling inspired by Hunter S. Thompson's 'Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas'. Its high-energy tempo exemplifies their signature sound.
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Afterlife — Blending orchestral elements with heavy riffs, this song delves into themes of loss and the afterlife, showcasing the band's lyrical depth and musical range. Its melodic hooks made it a fan favorite.
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So Far Away — Written as a tribute to deceased drummer The Rev, this ballad encapsulates heartfelt emotion with its poignant lyrics and haunting melodies, marking a reflective moment in the band's discography.
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Hail to the King — 'Hail to the King' stands out for its anthemic quality and classic rock influences, symbolizing the band’s artistic maturation while resonating with a wide audience. Its heavy riffs have made it a staple at live performances.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

57 /100

Foothills

Higher than 6% of albums we've rated

This compilation captures key moments in Avenged Sevenfold's career but lacks the cohesive flow of a studio album.

What we noticed

Several tracks include orchestral elements and layered harmonies, adding depth to the heavy instrumentation.
The sequencing places high-energy songs at the beginning, gradually transitioning to more reflective pieces toward the end.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 4/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

dynamic collection of highlights
wave-like pacing for engagement
cathartic sing-along anthems
emotionally charged vocal delivery
for energetic gatherings

Maybe skip if you

prefer short, standalone tracks
seek calm, gentle soundscapes

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Fan Favorite — Compiles key tracks beloved by fans, showcasing their evolution and commercial success.
Themes: Hunter S. Thompson’s Las Vegas· Jimmy Sullivan memorial· afterlife and mortality
Career context: Released in late 2016, this compilation captures Avenged Sevenfold's evolution from their breakout album 'City of Evil' (2005) through to 'Hail to the King' (2013). At this point, the band had solidified their place in the metal scene, following lineup changes and the passing of drummer Jimmy 'The Rev' Sullivan, which deeply influenced their sound and lyrical themes.
Stylistic neighbors: Bullet for My Valentine· Trivium· Parkway Drive