Hell Fire is a thrash metal and NWOBHM-inspired band from the USA, formed in 2010, who self-released their debut album Metal Masses in 2016. Their follow-up, Free Again (2017), showcases a perfect blend of early '80s NWOBHM influences and high-energy thrash. The album kicks off with the title track "Free Again," marked by swaggering riffs and a galloping rhythm, making it a headbanger's dream. The song's early '80s metal roots shine through, setting the pace for the album.
The intensity carries over into "City Ablaze," a raucous track that surges with blistering speed and razor-sharp guitars. It's a full-throttle assault that explodes out of the speakers, pushing the boundaries of traditional heavy metal. "Live Forever" maintains the album’s high-octane momentum, charging forward with a catchy, sing-along chorus that is impossible to resist. With its unrelenting pace and adrenaline-pumping energy, the first three tracks hit with a force that doesn’t let up.
"Wheels Of Fate" takes a different direction, paying homage to Formula One driver Niki Lauda and his near-fatal accident at the Nurburgring in 1976. Incorporating commentary from legendary racing commentator Murray Walker, along with clips from interviews with Lauda and rival James Hunt, the track offers a vivid narrative wrapped in thunderous metal. It’s a blazing tribute with a galloping rhythm and blistering guitar work.
The ferocity continues with "Beyond Nightmares," a thrash-heavy track with relentless aggression, moving at breakneck speed like a bullet train. This song delves into the band's thrash metal roots, providing a sharp contrast to the NWOBHM vibes of earlier tracks. On "The Dealer," Hell Fire slows down slightly with melodic heavy rock tinged with bluesy undertones, offering a head-nodding groove that’s both infectious and dynamic.
"Destroyers" cranks up the tempo once more, pounding forward with the classic "foot on the monitor" attitude synonymous with NWOBHM. The track’s buzzing guitars and rapid-fire pace make it another standout, while the album concludes with the epic "End Of Days." This seven-minute-plus journey begins with a mellow atmosphere, building slowly into a massive crescendo of melodic heavy rock before erupting into Hell Fire’s signature fast-paced, thunderous sound. It's a powerful and fitting finale that echoes the long epics made famous by NWOBHM legends like Iron Maiden.
