Alongside Scorpions and Accept, Bonfire is one of the longest running dynasties in German metal history. Their roots reach back to 1972 when they formed as Cacumen. After a few albums under this name, they evolved into Bonfire and began playing a more commercial friendly style. They achieved superstardom in their native country, as well as other parts of Europe, but never in the United States. Here, they’ve attained cult status at best among the melodic rock community. This small but dedicated few have followed Bonfire through the changing times and lineups. Through it all, guitarist Hans Ziller has stood tall as their sole original member and rightful torch bearer.
On Fistful of Fire, Bonfire flaunts their goods with a collection of high energy, anthemic hard rockers. Songs like “Gotta Get Away”, “Rock ‘n’ Roll Survivors”, and “Ride the Blade” are classic Bonfire with singalong choruses, extravagant guitar work, polished production, and towering vocals. As with the last couple Bonfire albums, singing duties are handled by Alexx Stahl. What Stahl may lack in classic frontman Claus Lessmann’s grit, he makes up for with an impressive range.
On their last two albums, Byte the Bullet (2017) and Temple of Lies (2018), Bonfire veered into Euro power metal territory. Perhaps the summer festival circuit had an influence on this change of direction. While Fistful signals a return to the signature Bonfire sound, it’s not without its powerful moments. “The Devil Made Me Do It”, “Fire and Ice”, and my favorite, “Gloryland”, are grandiose hymns bound to satisfy the annual Wacken attendee. It’s impressive how they shift styles so easily. I could see them sharing a stage with Helloween as much as I can Night Ranger. Now read that last sentence again and try to think of another band you could say the same for.
With such a superb sense of melody, you knew there were going to be AOR tinges somewhere. Look no further than the title track and “Warrior”. On an album of catchy choruses, “Warrior” might feature the catchiest of all. It also helps that the lyrics are as uplifting as the music. In these troubled times, we need a reminder to keep our heads up and fists held high. Leave it to Bonfire to remind us.
Fistful of Fire is everything you’d want out of a Bonfire album. It’s muscular, melodic, metallic, and does a marvelous job preserving their legacy while paving the way for their future. Don’t let their veteran status fool you. This is a band with plenty of fuel left in the tank. Long live these “Rock ‘n’ Roll Survivors”!
7 out of 10
Label: AFM Records
Genre: Melodic Heavy Metal
For fans of: Scorpions, Europe, Pretty Maids