Stand in the Fire

After ditching Napalm Records in favour of going independent, Striker released their hands-down best album. Stand in the Fire is everything you want in a Striker record, and more. Containing a near flawless mix of heavy metal, speed metal, power metal, and a hint of 80's glam, the Edmonton metalheads master their craft.

Striker kicks off this album with a drum roll and a 80's inspired riff with the opening track, "Phoenix Lights". While it's not the best song on the album, "Phoenix Lights" does a great job at opening the record in a similar fashion to its predecessor, "Underground" (from 2014's City of Gold), with fun verses and a catchy chorus. Speaking of pure fun, fans of the upbeat opening track would definitely enjoy "Too Late", "United", and "Better Times". Striker has always done a good job mixing fun metal tracks with serious cuts, where songs like "Out for Blood", "Outlaw", and "Locked In" contrast the aforementioned tracks.

Now let's take a deeper dive into the music itself. The immediate standout in the instrumentals is the guitar work, performed by Tim Brown and session guitarist Trent Halliwell. The duo perform notable riffs and solos that colour the album from front to finish. The shredding in "Stand in the Fire", "Escape from Shred City", and "Outlaw" is superb. Guest musician Brandon Ellis completely tears up the previously mentioned "Escape from Shred City", making it one of the most exciting and energy-filled instrumentals I've ever heard. I shouldn't forget to mention the saxophone solo on "Out for Blood", which is an unexpected but effective addition. The drums and bass are played well, but aren't going to be the showcase of a power metal record when shredding is the focal point. The bass could be more audible in some songs.

The other highlight of this record is the vocal prowess of Dan Cleary, who refused to half-ass any song on this record. Cleary's vocals flavour the verses and choruses of every song. Some of the softer songs on Stand in the Fire allow him to completely take over the listener's ears. This is evident in "Too Late" and "One Life".

Every track has a reason to be your favourite. Whether it's the catchy party tunes ("Too Late", "United", "Better Times"), blistering metal assaults ("Stand in the Fire", "Escape from Shred City", "Outlaw"), a mix of both ("Phoenix Lights", "Out For Blood", "The Iron Never Lies", "Locked In"), or a decent acoustic experiment ("One Life"), this album will scratch your metal itch. So on your next Saturday night out with the boys, give this beauty a spin and chug a beer for Striker!

Fioridz's favourites: "Too Late", "Outlaw", "United"

Heavy metal and power metal are both genres that I've only dabbled in very briefly, but on listening to this album I was left to wonder exactly why that was. Striker are definitely a band that I need to listen to more regularly, and perhaps I ought to explore this genre a little further as well.

Who doesn't love listening to blazing guitars? Without a doubt this is the best part of Striker; every track is full of magnificent leads, full of both melody and energy, and the technicality is something to be awed at as well. The solos that appear on every track are also worth a mention, as they always round off the climax of the song in impeccable fashion. The best thing about the solos is that it never devolves to unnecessary technical wankery just to show off what they can do, there's always emotion displayed in what the guitarists do. The rhythm section makes for an intense accompaniment to the leads, with some thrashy riffing that ensures the energy levels never drop very far from their starting position. While the focus is no doubt on the leads, it's hard not to notice the heavy thundering in the background that gives Striker the backbone that they need.

I'm not overly fond of traditional heavy metal vocals. Most of the time they're inoffensive, but to me they sound very standardised and often unoriginal. The same can be said of Striker's singer Dan Cleary, who isn't bad per se but doesn't really add that much to the music that wasn't already there. He's got a strong voice that pushes its way to the front, but honestly it gets in the way and overshadows everything a little bit. The constant warbling coupled with the different layers of backing vocals make him sound a little ridiculous, and not in a way that's wholly positive. Is that a fault on the band's part or just something I dislike about the genre? Probably a little bit of both.

The one other thing that detracts from this album is that the songs all follow a very similar pattern that's clearly tried and tested. It's all quite safe, and although it works very well at the start of the album, by the end things start to drag a bit. There aren't any songs that are particular standouts as far as filler is concerned, but the strongest tracks are the two at the very start of Stand in the Fire. There's no real variation until the very last track, 'One Life', and I can't help but think that they would have been better served sticking it somewhere in the middle to break things up just a little.

Overall I would say that this album is a strong listen and it's sure to energise the listener, but it's not quite as fantastic as the opener 'Phoenix Lights' will have you believe. It grows tired towards the end and I'm not entirely sold on the vocals, but besides that I would suggest anyone who likes their music intense, melodic and fun gives Stand in the Fire a chance.

Striker has never been a real favourite of mine, but they’ve always come across as highly capable and not least passionate about what they do. Previous effort, City Of Gold (2014), was likely their best album thus far, with its ‘80s inspired but decidedly runaway feel and a solid cover of all time classic ‘2 Minutes To Midnight’. It seems they’re making a habit of releasing a full length album every two years, as fresh of the press is the new album Stand In The Fire. No bullshit, no pretend epic 70 minute albums dragging on over their due. This, their fourth in line, is 45 minutes and right on the punch, with eleven songs filling it out. An homage, on their own - as usual - to the bands that made them what they are. When Stand In The Fire kicks off with ‘Phoenix Lights’, you get exactly what you expect. High octane, ‘80s styled riffage packaged in a modern speed metal production. The production, by the way is very professional sounding for an independent release, as they’re apparently not with Napalm Records any more. It’s all packing a punch, and has absolutely no fucks to give.

The guitars are obviously in focus on an album like this, Timothy Brown working a lot on his own, but mainly with Trent Halliwell (who appears on six tracks). Both carry parts that are just manic. Not least the solos are usually the highlights of their respective songs (mentionable is title track ‘Stand In The Fire’), in that they just stick out. Good riffs are also not hard to come by, as they make up most every song. ‘Outlaw’ is a fluent mix of blistering leads and Maiden-esque riffs, making a potent song - perhaps lacking a strong chorus, while ‘United’ take some cues from the likes of Priest, in trying to make a fast paced arena rocker. Then you have a track named ‘Escape From Shred City’, I mean what do you expect? Brandon Ellis (Arsis) guests on the instrumental shredder, which might not be up to par with the legends of shred, but still is a damn fine mid-album track. It perfectly shows what I’ve been saying; the importance of the guitars on this work. And they do not disappoint.

‘Too Late’, the longest track on here at just under five minutes, is a mid tempo track heavy on the feeling, brought in from the likes of Whitesnake. Vocalist Dan Cleary makes his best effort to show a vulnerable side, and while the track isn’t bad, it’s also not quite up to par with the highlights on the album. Actually, Cleary is worthy of a mention. He has a strong voice that works incredibly well especially in the fast verses, but he’s also lacking... something. In the chorus of the aforementioned ‘United’ (for example) he sounds, in lack of better words, lonely. Some layered vocals would certainly have helped create a bigger feel that I’m certain they were going for. Among that, there are a few tracks that feel a bit like filler, but mainly the songs are pretty strong - none standing out as weak per se - if somewhat similar in style and structure to each other and to what we’ve already heard on previous Striker albums. This is a good album no doubt about it, albeit not exceptional. Whoever liked City Of Gold will likely fall head over heels for this one, and if one is new to Striker, it’ll make a good first album to try.

Standout tracks: Phoenix Lights, Stand In The Fire

One of the best movements in modern metal is without a doubt the new wave of traditional heavy metal. Just like the NWOBHM, the NWOTHM has some bands that break the mold as something viciously talented and special, and there's the bands that just fade into the rest. When Canadian metallians Striker hit the scene with a promising debut, one could only hope that they were here to stay. After the great sophomore effort of Armed to the Teeth, and another (!) fantastic album named City of Gold, Striker were without a doubt one of the best bands of the NWOTHM. A short couple years after City of Gold came this album, Stand in the Fire.

Might I also say, holy fudge. Have these guys proven themselves or what?! City of Gold was enough, but now they've got this among their discography! Striker's sound has always been straightforward and ballsy heavy metal, with a bit of thrash here and there; on this album, the sound that they have cultivated has reached its peak. Basically everything that is so amazing about Striker is in full bloom on this new record. The music within is focused, energetic, creative, and very memorable. The band does a fantastic job of expanding their signature sound; throwback album this is not. This is the real deal.

The previous few albums had a few of those heavy metal cliches that you could expect from a more generic NWOTHM band, but all of that is gone here. This album, for damn near its entire running time, is fast, heavy, creative, and originally badass. Stand in the Fire sees a breakthrough from plain old traditional heavy metal, the riffs have a burning drive that would be at home in some thrash albums while there are some unique little atmospheric or melodic nuances that grace the music, adding even more to the dynamics of the album. How many times have you heard a saxophone executed nicely in a metal song? Not too many, but Striker manages to throw in some sexy sax along with the crushing riffage to make a surprisingly effective track ("Out for Blood"). Nuances and additions like this are strewn throughout the album, but never forced, making for a heavy metal album that raises the bar significantly.

While the sparks of creativity help to make this a unique listen, one goes to a heavy metal album for just that - heavy metal. Stand in the Fire offers some of the most focused, driving, and ballsy metal ever played in this decade and it never lets up. If it's good 'ol heavy freakin' metal you are looking for, Striker will definitely be right up your alley. This album is probably their most straightforward of the bunch as well, being consistently heavy but also really catchy; a trait that they've done an excellent job of developing. The chorus' are all wonderfully written, being very memorable and catchy but never being lame. The verses are always fast and driving while the cleaner interludes are always tasteful and never interrupting.

The musicianship on this album is insane. The talent was evident on their earlier stuff, but this is a whole new level. The riffs are heavy and creative, the drums powerful and effective, Dan's vocals are better than ever, and the solos are of a whole new level. The solos are just flat out jaw-dropping. Almost every song is equipped with a masterful lead break that will knock you on your ass in awe of the sheer brilliance. Right when we all thought the art of the guitar solo was dying, bands like Striker come along and show the metal world who is boss. Even the bass player is above average on this album, while he isn't loud, he is definitely present. Everybody comes together fantastically on this, and it may just be their best performance yet. The soloing on this album stands as my second favorite for the NWOTHM as it's just freaking fantastic. Clean and fast phrasing with smooth and just as fast articulations with the raw energy of the backing riffs make the solo sections the best parts of the album.

With a set of songs each equipped with raw riffs and ripping solos, a great rhythm section, a fantastic vocalist, and even above average lyrics; Striker has proven that they are arguably the greatest NWOTHM band. This is quite the title, and while it really comes down to opinion, Striker are hands down among the best. My favorite tracks on the album are "Escape From Shred City", "Outlaw", "United", "Phoenix Lights", and "Out for Blood". While these are my favorites, the entire album is on a rarely touched level; this is all splendid. Striker has done it again, and those curious about them can totally start here. Right when the vicious riffing of "Phoenix Lights" kicks off, you'll be along for a wild and badass ride. This isn't as heavy as City of Gold, but damn this is good. Definitely recommended to everybody.

Quite often, this is how it is when a band I’m really into comes out with a new release: I give it the usual first and expectant listen, put it away for a little while before hearing it a second time, then slowly but surely go back to it, sipping it like a fine wine in order to draw out and properly savor the experience. Well, I tried doing this with Striker’s fourth full-length release, Stand In The Fire, which came out a couple months ago, and I was doing just fine until this week. Then, all of a sudden, I snapped and lost control. So, having chugged the entire goblet, I’m now ready to share yet another awe-inspiring Striker indulgence with my fellow traditional heavy metal aficionados.

For starters, this release’s length is much closer to the standard LP format at 43 minutes, unlike their previous effort, City Of Gold, which ran well over an hour. No matter though, Stand in the Fire is extremely compact while displaying dizzying guitar skills and, as always, highly memorable choruses and creative bridge sections. In fact, there is more lead playing overall compared to previous outputs. Often, the rhythm guitar riffs underscoring the solos are lead-based licks themselves! Every single lead break is captivating, explosive and downright mind blowing. All 11 songs are easily among the best they’ve ever recorded. That’s saying something since their last couple of albums are top-notch in terms of songwriting and musical ability.

Opener “Phoenix Lights” starts off with a thunderous drum beat and an escalating guitar riff before launching itself into pure Striker mode with Dan Cleary’s powerful and engaging vocals and the band’s usual repertoire of outstanding riffs and highly expressive and expedient guitar solos. This track and “Outlaw” sound a lot like the material from their last two albums, while "Better Times" sounds more like something off their first full-length release, Eyes In The Night (2010). As for the rest of the songs, they show a lot of growth and maturity on behalf of these talented Albertans, which I will soon get into.

It’s interesting to note Tim Brown is the sole guitarist this time around as Chris Segger is not included in the line-up. They sure fooled me! Man, the guitar playing is so rich and verbose, it’s amazing how Brown covers all the angles by himself, layering wicked riff after riff over each other and displaying a wide variety of lead tricks and fret board versatility. The way he alters speeds and applies hammer-ons and pull-offs almost produces a heart-stopping effect. His solos on the title track and “The Iron Never Lies” have a certain rip to them reminiscent of Michael and Christopher Ammott’s work on Arch Enemy’s Burning Bridges, while the one on “United” launches itself with such unabated joyful fury, complete with Striker’s signature squeals, it literally brings tears to my eyes.

William Wallace on bass really shines on this release, also commanding a particularly strong presence on the title track and “The Iron Never Lies”, where he throws in subtle and short bass licks verging on sounding funky, in a Steve Harris sort of way. This is also Adam Brown’s strongest performance on drums so far, supplying a wide range of fills and providing loads of energy and momentum, especially on “Locked In”, a track as tight as it sounds.

If you’ve read my other Striker reviews, you’ve probably figured out these guys are big on the whole metal anthem thing as Dan’s Cleary incredible vocal delivery, especially on the choruses, is absolutely astounding. Well, “United” is one of the best I've ever heard, as its chorus conveys a huge feeling of altruism and solidarity: “ United!...Unbroken!...Until The End!...”. Also, the whole “whoaoooa!” thing sounds great as it’s totally appropriate and genuine. Not for a second does it come across as lame or overdone metal crooning. The funny thing is, the song itself is one of their simpler compositions yet is so dynamic you’ll be singing along with it while pumping your fist in the air and nodding vigorously. I challenge anybody to listen to this track and do otherwise.

That said, the rest of the songs are much more intricate, proving how serious these guys are about their musicianship and devotion to the genre. This band is all about having a good time and sharing the joy old school metal brings but also clearly prove they mean business and can shred alongside the best of them. It really is amazing how they combine dexterity with laid-back cheerfulness as on “Too Late” (perhaps not the best track on the album but pound for pound the most beautiful), The Iron Never Lies”, and “Better Times” creating a wicked early 80s nostalgic effect that even regular rock fans will enjoy. One particularly interesting track that really caught my attention when I first heard it is “Out For Blood”. I mean, when was the last time you heard the saxophone in a metal song?! It fits in so well both times it makes itself heard; I only wish it was more prominent. I think this touch of experimentation was pure genius. Its inclusion really paid off. (If you are into bands who integrate the saxophone into their music, I highly recommend you check out Spidergawd, this totally out-there Norwegian act which sounds like an eclectic clash of doom metal and jazz).

Only once before have Striker attempted a quasi-ballad, with "Never Ending Nights" from Eyes In The Night, and though it was still a good song, lacked punch and was one of their rare weaker moments. Here, with the closing number, “One Life”, Striker manages to keep the bar raised high while taking a risk by trailing off the beaten path. In the end, they clearly prove themselves as authentic and innovative songwriters, unafraid to push their boundaries by offering their listeners a reflective and insightful glimpse into their healthy and pro-active metal philosophy. The acoustic passages are quite colorful and rock as hard as the standard distorted fare, while the surprisingly fresh guitar solo in the second half takes the song to a whole new level. There’s even some bizarre yet cool sounding Buckethead style noodling at 02:52 that lasts for 20 seconds before the solo really takes off, winding the album down in a last-ditch blaze of glory.

Another first on Stand in the Fire is the excellent lead filled instrumental “Escape from Shed City”. Usually, Dan Cleary’s vocals alone are enough to win you over and establish the band as a rock solid outfit, but here you get to really focus on how fantastic the rest of the members are. If you listen closely, you’ll notice how they all have free reign to really let loose, making this track a veritable treasure of epic exploration as well as a formidable test of their abilities.

Striker is now on a similar stellar run as Iron Maiden and Judas Priest were in their prime, releasing highly invigorating and uplifting release one after the other, this last coming on the heels of City Of Gold (2014) and Armed To The Teeth (2012). Talk about consistency! Although their 2009 EP and debut, Eyes in the Night, may not sound as well produced or as sharp as their later offerings, don’t kid yourselves. Even great and legendary bands had to start somewhere and Striker is no exception. Those first two releases showcase the band in its infancy; already their future looked bright back then. It would be like comparing Maidens’ self-titled debut to Powerslave. The two sound different: one cheaper and garage-days like, the other more polished and professional, but they are both undeniably great. It’s the same with these guys. In my opinion, Striker is at the forefront of The New Wave of Traditional Heavy Metal, along with Ambush, Cauldron and Enforcer. Other Canadian traditional heavy metal bands which share similar traits and worth checking out as well are Black Moor, Metalian, Midnight Malice, Sanktuary (not to be confused with Sanctuary) and Skull Fist, to name a few.

As a parting note, I just want to say I am now convinced 100% Striker’s tremendous appeal won’t ever wear off. So don’t hesitate. Jump into the flames, the fire's just fine...