To convey your message, you need a vessel and let's just say that each of the nominees in the Best Vocalist category have been blessed some truly powerful pipes that have helped them connect with their audiences and thrive over the past year.

Axl Rose may have had the most interesting year, not only fronting a Guns N' Roses lineup that featured the return of Slash and Duff McKagan, but also stepping in for Brian Johnson when the AC/DC singer was forced to step down due to hearing issues. This category also includes perennial vocal favorite Myles Kennedy, this time fronting Alter Bridge, and outstanding vocal work from the likes of Disturbed's David Draiman, Deftones' Chino Moreno and Korn's Jonathan Davis.

On the harder side, Gojira's Joe Duplantier plunged into more emotional territory, Devin Townsend kept us on our toes with his latest musical turn, Mikael Akerfeldt delivered his typical stellar work with Opeth, while Killswitch Engage's Jesse Leach and Dillinger Escape Plan's Greg Puciato belted with the energy and reckless abandon that has made them both favorites over the years.

But who was the best vocalist of the year? That's your call. Take a look at the nominees in the poll below and feel free to vote once per hour as often as you'd like through the deadline of Tuesday, Jan. 10, at 10AM ET.