Firewind are back with their tenth full-length studio offering, “Stay United”, in a career spanning more than 25 years. With the same line-up as on their previous eponymous album, the chemistry is stronger than ever, especially between guitarist Gus G. and vocalist Herbie Langhans (Avantasia, ex-Sinbreed, The Lightbringer of Sweden), as they co-wrote most of the tracks here. Long-time bassist Petros Christo is still around, as is drummer Jo Nunez (Lords of Black, Dragonland, ex-Kamelot), who has been with the band for almost a decade.
The band’s heavy/power metal music is full of great melodies, sharp riffs, amazing solos, and a solid rhythm section. It’s true that Gus has come up with some really strong guitar riffs, and of course, his leads are exceptional as always. The production is tight, dynamic, and punchy. The album was mixed, produced, and mastered by the famous producer Dennis Ward (Place Vendome, Pink Cream 69, Unisonic).
The album features nine original songs as well as a cover of The Romantics’ 80s classic “Talking in Your Sleep”, which has a more hard rock edge. The album starts strong with the melodic metal song “Salvation Day”, and it continues with the self-titled “Stay United”, the metal hit “Destiny is Calling”, the classic metal “The Power Lies Within”, the metal anthem “Come Undone”, the powerful “Fallen Angel”, the melodic hard & heavy “Chains” (with Dokken influences), and the closing semi-ballad “Days of Grace”. The lyrical content is quite essential, as the band delves into themes of unity, perseverance, and self-empowerment, offering listeners an uplifting and motivating message.
“Stand United” is a superb melodic heavy/power metal album that will please the band’s longtime fans as well as new ones. Firewind seems to be back in full force, and they are not messing around. After all, virtuoso guitarist Gus G is still in top form and knows how to take his band to new heights. With “Stand United”, Firewind proves that they are still one of the most vital and exciting power metal bands of our time.
