Label: Metalapolis Records

Release Date: August 29, 2025

Genre: Power Metal / Traditional Heavy Metal

Line Up:

Dennis Ohler – Vocals
Matthias Bludau – Guitars
Timo Rauscher – Guitars
Peter Schäfer – Bass
Elias Bludau – Drums

Tracklist:

We Ride
Speak of War
Hungry Beast (2025 Version)
Preacher
A Portal to Escape
W.I.T.G.A.G.O.T.O.S. (2025 Version)
80’s Boys (Metal Is a Life)
Charge Ahead
Don’t Live in Fear
Dragons Never Surrender
Cider Victims (Bonus Track)

After a 15-year absence from recording, these German metal veterans (Hessian refers to their Germanic origins for anyone wondering) have delivered a scorching release that leaves you questioning what might have been achieved without the countless obstacles they faced during their hiatus. This musical style effortlessly bridges multiple genres, appealing equally to devotees of Iron Maiden, Accept, Saxon, Raven, and similar acts. By masterfully combining New Wave of British Heavy Metal with contemporary German metal trends, plus incorporating power metal elements (particularly evident in the percussion and vocals), Dragonsfire have made their comeback precisely when this musical approach is experiencing renewed popularity. After all, who doesn’t require some uplifting metal during these troubled times? If your playlist consists of detuned guitars, harsh vocals, and cacophony, how do you escape negativity? The answer is simple: spin the latest Dragonsfire record and crank the volume to maximum.

The album launches with ‘We Ride’, a track that would make Maiden envious. ‘Speak of War’ continues in authentic Judas Priest fashion, and it’s impossible not to grin, headbang, retrieve those spiked wristbands, and air-guitar through the remaining songs based on this stellar opening duo alone.

The pace, intensity, and power consistently maintain maximum levels throughout, creating numerous standout moments. ‘80’s Boys (Metal Is A Life)’ deserves particular recognition for referencing legendary albums, triggering nostalgia for better days, and acknowledging that this music remains vital today. Absolutely brilliant!

‘Charge Ahead’ maintains this momentum perfectly. The bonus cut ‘Cider Victims’ requires no elaboration since every metalhead has lived through this experience. The record concludes with ‘Dragons Never Surrender’, encapsulating the band’s philosophy: persistence despite hardship. Many other musicians could learn from this example!