HammerFall
Avenge the Fallen – Nuclear Blast Records
Who knew taking the attitude ‘fine! I’ll do it myself then!’ is also applicable to operatic hard rock? Take over please band founder Oscar Dronjak. ‘When I started HammerFall more than 30 years ago it was because no one played the music that I was a huge fan of. If no one did it, it was up to me to do it.’ And in those three decades, HammerFall have stayed true to their quest. This record is exciting. HammerFall take us through a lyrical fairytale landscape. A mythical musical heavy metal adventure for adults, which could only be improved by mentioning unicorns here and there. Although that’s true of most things to be fair. ‘Avenge the Fallen’ is glorious escapism that is instantly accessible. The whole thing moves at a Maiden-esque pace. If you particularly enjoyed Avatar in their ‘Avatar Country’ phase (guilty!) you’re gonna love this album. ‘Avenge the Fallen’ is powerful and punchy, so take the trip to HammerFall’s world for ten tracks – because with the experience these boys boast, you’re gonna be in safe hands.
Review by Jo Wright