Third album from retro-minded Swedes and they haven’t altered a thus winning formula: high pitched vocals, speed metal tempos and a love of all things NWOBHM (particularly an eye towards IRON MAIDEN, including the now requisite instrumental, ‘Crystal Suite’ and ‘The Conjugation’, a nearly four minute jam tacked onto the 2:20 ‘Silent Hour’). What’s not to like? Add a couple of so-called “cute” guys and these youngsters have all the elements to appeal not only to old-timers reliving their musical youth, but a new generation, including increased interest from females. Just nine tracks, with the aforementioned pair of voiceless contributions and a Mike Oldfield inspired ‘Bells From Hades’ intro, which segues into ‘Death Rides This Night’, the first proper song. ENFORCER doesn’t just write riffs, but actually offer short solo blasts in the hyper-fast compositions (see; ‘Run For Your Life’ and/or first single ‘Mesmerized By Fire’). ‘Sacrificed’ ups the ante once again and the concluding ‘Satan’ is virtually a re-write of METALLICA’s ‘Hit The Lights’. The shortness (35:46 and just six legitimate songs) is a little disappointing, given that Diamonds came out in 2010, but gotta love what IS there! Highly enjoyable and recommended.
