Artist: Hammerfall 
Title: Avenge The Fallen
Label: Nuclear Blast Records 
Cat #: NB7209-2
Release Year: 2024
Duration: Album
Format: CD
Packaging Type: Jewel Case

Hammerfall were the vanguard of the power metal resurgence in 1997, essentially saving the genre from a slow fade. Their Glory to the Brave debut reminded older folks why they once loved Helloween and Gamma Ray so dearly even as it snagged new metal fans with its infectious exuberance, strong foundation in classic heavy metal, and unnatural supply of hooks. The band capitalized on their unexpected success with the highly enjoyable follow-up Legacy of Kings and then kept going for the next 20-plus years with uneven results and diminishing returns. I left camp by the time 2002s Crimson Thunder came along, but I’ve always had a soft spot for the Hammer Crew and over the years I checked out the albums that got a modicum of good press. Since 2014, they’ve settled into a late-career comfort zone and released a string of good if not exceptional platters of 80s-style power metal with all the Hammerfall hallmarks present for better or worse. Now comes 12th album Avenge the Fallen and it’s more of the same, but perhaps, just perhaps, there’s a little more oomph and pizazz this time.

Recommended if you like: Arch Enemy, Amon Amarth, Trivium, Hypocrisy, Opeth, Soilwork

Track Listing:

1.Avenge The Fallen    
2.The End Justifies    
3.Freedom    
4.Hail To The King    
5.Hero To All    
6.Hope Springs Eternal    
7.Burn It Down    
8.Capture The Dream    
9.Rise Of Evil    
10.Time Immemorial