I'm glad you remembered this one--you had most of my picks on your list (Tool, Spiral Architect, Ulver, Enslaved, Mayhem) and it seemed strange to omit the most important of all...probably my number 1 of the decade in any genre. I think black metal is gathering strength these days, although I agree that the 90's were better for most metal genres.

It's definitely an important album. I don't know about BM's gathering of strength, though; I thought it was 3 or so years ago, but most of the new stuff is beginning to recycle older ideas. For my money, metal has hit a nadir. Here's hoping for some upward movement in the very near future.

BTW, I'd love to see your list, should you get around to compiling one.

HG