Firedance

The NWOBHM scene back in the days was quite a mess. You had literally hundreds, if not thousands of bands coming and going, most leaving not a mere trace of their temporary existence.

Then again for such a vast array of bands and records there are more than a few worth giving your time. Firedance is the only full length Shiva came up with.

The stereotypical New Wave of British Heavy Metal band played simplistic, catchy and up-beat brand of metal that one you could sing along to, down a few (or more than a few) pints and bang your night away while riding a motorcycle.

Compared to their contemporaries Shiva shows more late 70s hard rock influences, with acts like Purple and Blue Öyster Cult not too far away. They show a touch of 70s progressive rock, although not overtly and sometimes, like on Wild Machine, it sounds like Ozzy is on the mike. On its own a great track, it evokes slight visions of what Count Raven at times would do much much later.

Firedance is more hard rocking and less metallic than some other NWOBHM albums such as Di'Anno-Maiden, Angel Witch or Denim and Leather. Shiva were by standards of their musicianship and songwriting very much on par, they are truly pleasant to listen to.

Production aspects of the album are also good for the ear. I personally don't like the glossy plastic that the 80s brought with it to metal music, thus the dry mix of Firedance is fantastic.

On overall, if you hold more than random interest for NWOBHM, Firedance is a good record to check out. It won't hold anything revolutionary. There are easier and slower moments where the band derails a bit, the album screeches alarmingly half-way, but the band maintains their grip all the way through. If you like Diamond Head or Quartz brand of NWOBHM, I would recommend Firedance.