Following their 2019 debut album, American Heavy Metal traditionalists POUNDER are back with their second full-length record. Out via Shadow Kingdom Records on January 29th.
Blaring into existence, the mighty crashing of cymbals and glorious power chords unleash Heavy Metal thunder alongside some soulfully soaring lead work, building to a speeding inferno of melodic and tight riffing. Immediately the NWOBHM is brought to life as we gallop into battle with the sonic artillery that sounds even better than on their previous album. Anthemic choruses erupt for plenty of sing-along moments amidst the furious tempest of killer musicianship. Beautifully written and emotive passages are utilised alongside the fearsome Metal mastery to conjure a storm of pure steel. Pounder are back and better than ever.
More blistering guitars and bombastic drums soldier onwards alongside the harmonious and powerful vocals that strike in unison like a hammer upon an anvil. This is clearly the fruit of pure passion for the classic Heavy Metal sound and it delivers it with such an enjoyably proficient prowess that “Breaking The World” is impossible not to adore. Chunky bass work accompanies the guitars to fill out the low-end with rumbling grooves aplenty. There is no resisting the headbanger friendly impact of the music as we see a range of potent musicianship and vocal abilities unfurl into a masterful effort that will transport you to the promised land of Metal as the greats such as Judas Priest, Iron Maiden, Satan and Angel Witch did before them. That said, this is not some cheesy 80s worship but a respectable piece of work in its own right too.
With bands such as Haunt, Savage Master, Blood Star, Screamer and Lady Beast to name a few nailing this old school attack, these maniacs deserve to join the legions of Heavy Metal traditionalists who refuse to let the old ways die. Pulling off such an adored style can be a huge risk and undertaking but thankfully we can hear Pounder have honed their craft and deserve the glory of fastening classic Heavy Metal in the 21st century. Though only 35 minutes in length, this record has all the riffs, shredding, drumming and wailing we could hope for without any filler material. Every moment is action packed and necessary to the greater picture of the album. This is a veritable banger from start to finish.
A total ripper of thundering glory that harkens back to the classic Heavy Metal of the 80s with a rejuvenated and powerful sound. Blast Pounder loud, bang your heads and become part of this Metal journey into oblivion. -8.5/10
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