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Fireforce: March On

Heavy/Power Metal

3.75/5.0

7Hard Records
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by Craig Hartranft,  03.21.2011

They're billing themselves as 'true power metal,' and for Fireforce the description certainly applies. Their full-length debut on 7Hard Records, March On, is monumental slab of ferocious and pummeling, head banging and fist pumping, metal. Yet, don't expect anything overly inventive here: this crew is not reinventing the 'power metal' wheel. However, if you've been disappointed by some of the latest stuff from their elders, Manowar, then you need to check this out.

March On is measured by an intense, heavy, and galloping rhythm section, spirited, but not necessarily technical, guitar solos, and adequate metal shouts, growls and screams by Flype. Lyrical themes offer the standard fair including war and battles (Coastal Battery, Fly Arrow Fly), tributes to gods (Horus Bringer of Order), and anthems to heavy metal (Born to Play Metal, Metal Rages On). Though passion and energy are not the issue, what Fireforce lacks is great power mixed with equal melody; a Sabaton they are not.

Again, March On and Fireforce's power metal is derivative. But while it's highly predictable, it's also proficient and a superb modern example of the genre. In other words, Fireforce is damn good at what they do. Recommended for those who want to 'keep it true' all over the world.

Note: All Amazon advertising in this review first benefits the artist, then Craig Hartranft also receives a residual. Click, and thanks for your support.

While the power metal of Fireforce's March On is highly predictable, it's also proficient and a superb modern example of the genre. In other words, Fireforce is damn good at what they do.

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Here's a fun fact about Swiss legends, Gotthard: their last 16 releases, excepting their debut album, went to number one in their home country, making them one of Switzerland's most successful acts and ... [ Read More ]