What makes The Black Procession by Machine Head notable?

The Black Procession is notable for its critical acclaim, featuring prominently in various 'best of' lists for metal albums of 2011. It showcased the band's ability to fuse thrash and groove metal while addressing personal themes, contributing to their reputation as influential figures in the genre. The album also received attention for its music video for 'Beautiful Mourning', which explored deep emotional themes. Released in January 2011, The Black Procession marked a significant moment for Machine Head as they were transitioning from their earlier sound to a more mature and polished style. This album followed the critical success of The Blackening, which had solidified their place in the modern metal scene. The band was navigating changes in their lineup and creative direction, aiming to further develop their musical identity.

How many songs are on The Black Procession?

The Black Procession has 3 tracks, running approximately 17 minutes.

The Black Procession

Machine Head · 2011

17 min · 3 tracks · thrash metal

A powerful blend of aggressive riffs and lyrical introspection, merging thrash metal intensity with melodic grooves.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Beautiful Mourning — This track opens the album with a haunting melody that contrasts sharply with its aggressive verses, setting the tone for the entire record's exploration of grief and loss.
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Bite the Bullet — With its driving rhythm and powerful lyrics, this song exemplifies Machine Head's ability to merge heavy instrumentation with thought-provoking messages about resilience.
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Halo — At nearly nine minutes long, this epic track showcases the band's progressive side, evolving through dynamic shifts in tempo and emotion that highlight their musical complexity.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The EP showcases strong songwriting and production, blending thrash and groove elements effectively.

What we noticed

The first track features a slow build-up with layered guitar harmonies before launching into aggressive riffs.
Each song incorporates shifts between fast-paced thrash sections and slower, more melodic grooves.
Lyrically, the EP explores personal themes, with verses often contrasting introspective lines against heavy choruses.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. 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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Deep Cut — Solid EP that showcases the band's evolving sound but isn't a major entry point.
Career context: Released in January 2011, The Black Procession marked a significant moment for Machine Head as they were transitioning from their earlier sound to a more mature and polished style. This album followed the critical success of The Blackening, which had solidified their place in the modern metal scene. The band was navigating changes in their lineup and creative direction, aiming to further develop their musical identity.
Stylistic neighbors: Lamb of God· Pantera· Killswitch Engage