PRIMAL FEAR – Metal Commando

Primal Fear Takes us by Storm

When it comes to Power Metal there are a lot of great bands, then there are the giants of the genre like Helloween and this weeks band Primal Fear with their awesome release Metal Commando. The new album from Ralf Scheepers and company is nothing short of amazing with their anthemic melodies and fantastic songwriting. The stunning guitar work from Tom Naumann, Alex Beyrodt and Magnus Karlsson gives us everything we could hope for as they lay down a solid wall of metal riffs and sweet solos. Founding member Matt Sinner lays down a super tight bass with new drummer Michael Ehré playing to perfection.

Alive and Kicking

The album kicks off in high gear with the opener “I Am Alive” which is an instant favorite, followed by “Along Came the Devil” which has an excellent call and answer between the vocals and chunky guitars. The hooks are great here, captivating us with harmony guitars and a sing along chorus, leaving us wanting more. “Halo” follows with rapid double bass drums and more sweet harmony guitars that are a perfect blend of big melody and shredding solos. Song after song on this record show the band’s talent in composition and performance, making us want to play the album over and over again.

Favorite Tracks

Often there is a shorter list here of the tracks I think need extra mention, but in this case I love all of the songs and can’t really find any that should be elevated over the others. It’s a rare thing to have such a great group of songs that they all shine equally, and Metal Commando is sure to bring a smile to any Power Metal fans.

Final Notes

Primal Fear have put together a great release that has somehow outdone their last album, which in and of itself is a true feat for any veteran band. The production is top notch from start to finish. The musicianship is nothing short of incredible. If you somehow have missed out on hearing them before, don’t make the same mistake with Metal Commando, as it could be their best work to date. In other words, you really need to buy this album. Primal Fear has delivered easily one of the best releases this year, and is a sure contender for my top 11 list for 2020.

Lineup

Ralf Scheepers – Vocals
Tom Naumann – Guitar
Alex Beyrodt – Guitar
Magnus Karlsson – Guitar
Michael Ehré – Drums
Mat Sinner – Bass

Metal Commando – Tracklist

1. I Am Alive
2. Along Came The Devil
3. Halo
4. Hear Me Calling
5. The Lost & The Forgotten
6. My Name Is Fear
7. I Will Be Gone
8. Raise Your Fists
9. Howl Of The Banshee
10. Afterlife
11. Infinity