Machine Head - Burn My Eyes is quite good for a pretty average attempt, especially in considering the tub-thumping goodness of Vio-Lence.
Vaticide - Cursed (demo) isn't bad, despite the somewhat lack-luster musicianship
At the Gates - Slaughter of the Soul is pretty wicked, despite clear inferiority to the first two albums
Dark Tranquillity - Projector, probably the best of the average albums. It's a little cliche, doesn't quite meet the standards of other DT albums, but is awesome in every other respect.
etc.etc.