Volumes Interview: Michael Barr on 'Mirror Touch', The Top Metal Albums of 2025

For 15 years, Volumes has stood as a pillar of progressive metalcore, weathering lineup shifts and industry trends to amass over 167 million U.S. streams. Following the success of 2021's Happier?, the band returns with Mirror Touch, an album named after the rare synesthetic ability to feel others' physical pain—a metaphor for the band's deep connection with their audience. Check out the exclusive Volumes interview below to hear Michael Barr discuss the "S.O.A.P." sessions, the lessons learned during his time away from the band, and his upcoming side project that is the total opposite of metal. As we approach the final days of the year, this episode offers a double dose of heavy metal authority. In addition to the exclusive sit-down with Michael Barr, Loaded Radio's Scott Penfold takes the reins to count down the Top 13 Metal Albums of 2025. It has been a massive year for the genre, and Scott breaks down the essential records that defined the last twelve months, providing the definitive year-end ranking for any serious headbanger. Whether you're looking for the top of the charts or the underground gems of 2025, this countdown is the ultimate look back before we head into the new year.