BONFIRE // ‘HIGHER GROUND’ // ALBUM REVIEW

Bonfire have been around since 1972, they were known as Cacumen back then, changing their name to Bonfire in 1986. On this their eighteenth studio album, under the Bonfire moniker, do they turn up the heat and set the world alight?

The answer is a big fat yes for these German Rockers. Before I continue with the album review, I have to point out that they have amassed quite a few members in what appears to be an ever-changing line–up, 23 at the last count! That cannot have been good for continuity and consistency. But as soon as instrumental opener ‘Nostradamus’ stormed out of the speakers you know that you are in for a Melodic Metal dose of riffs. ‘I Will Rise’ blazes with fury the drums igniting the flames.

Apart from the power there is ample room for some ballads and catchy choruses. These give the album plenty of depth and give all the current members time to shine. There are plenty of sparks from the duelling guitars of Frank Pané and Hans Ziller who founded the band back in 1972. New vocalist Dyan equips him self well especially on the slower numbers where his voice is more restrained, check out ‘When Love Comes Down’. I doubt this will see Bonfire regain their 80’s profile but it is an album that will please the existing fan base and will surprise many who step into their fire. A good effort with plenty of energy at times they really burn. The quite sexist cover doesn’t set them apart and they certainly don’t take the ’Higher Ground’.

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Review: Paul Mace

“Higher Ground” Tracklist:

1.    Nostradamus
2.    I Will Rise
3.    Higher Ground
4.    I Died Tonight
5.    Lost All Control
6.    When Love Comes Down
7.    Fallin`
8.    Come Hell Or High Water
9.    Jealousy
10.    Spinnin’ In The Black
11.    Rock’n’Roll Survivor (2024 Version)

Line Up:
Hans Ziller – Guitar
Dyan Mair – Vocals
Frank Pané – Guitar
Ronnie Parkes – Bass
Fabio Alessandrini – Drums

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