Iron Fire have once again produced a fine power metal record that is different enough from their last to warrant a spin, but I’m a touch disappointed overall. The opening is extremely strong and on first listen I instantly contacted the Dane that introduced me to the band to express my delight, but the album is front-loaded and repeated listens revealed that my enthusiasm derived largely from my intoxicated state at the time (it helps to be a few pints in when talking to Danish people). While Among the Dead is a thrashingly interesting change for the band with a great title track and generally solid songs, it is never fantastic, so is unlikely to change their Steel Druhm-imposed third-tier status. Definitely give this a go if you’re into no-frills power, but don’t expect it to change your world
