With the Mayan calendar portending the end of civilization on December 22, one would assume that that world’s metal elite would supply the ensuing end times with an appropriately apocalyptic soundtrack. Thankfully, bands both seasoned (Converge, Neurosis, Overkill) and freshly baked (Mares of Thrace, Horseback, Burning Love) rose to the occasion, offering up a veritable Last Supper of carnage/Yule Log of eternal suffering that catered to the genre’s myriad styles, while maintaining its subversive essence. Besides, nothing says Christmas quite like cueing up Goatwhore’s “Death to the Architects of Heaven” or Eagle Twin’s “Snake Hymn” at your company holiday party. They may not end up saving the world, but rest assured, these 20 standout acts will make damn sure you drink your Ovaltine while awaiting its annihilation.