MVM’s resident Anvil fan, Damian (who just likes the fact they play the guitar solo live with an….urmmm….sex toy, runs the rule over their new album. Batteries not included.
Well, I’m sure Canadian band Anvil don’t need any introduction, but for those that don’t know, these guys are a three piece from Toronto comprising Steve “Lips” Kudlow on guitars and vocals, Robb Reiner on Drums and relative newcomer Chris Robertson on bass
Anvil is Anvil is the guy’s sixteenth studio release and their first for three years.
Opening track “Daggers and Rum” is a strange introduction. It’s a sort of Heavy Metal Pirate sea shanty, not really what I expected from these boys. But hey who cares? yo ho ho and a bottle of rum.
Next is “Up, Down, Sideways” which is more what I have come to associate with this band. A nice fast paced no nonsense head banger of a tune.
The following couple of songs cover some difficult issues with “Gun Control” addressing, well, the merits or not of owning lethal weapons and “Die for a Lie” dealing with religion and what it can make someone do. Thorny subjects but shared with some pretty nice slick riffs and beats.
“Runaway Train” reminded me of Moorhead’s Ace of Spades. Nuff said.
“Zombie Apocalypse” seems to be Anvil’s analogy on the state of the world with some churning bass, pounding drums and great guitar licks thrown in for good measure.
“It’s Your Move” is just an excuse for Steve the Lips to let rip his axe with Robb and Chris in full support.
“Ambushed”, “Fire on the Highway” and “Run Like Hell” follow and are classic Anvil and highlight what is so great about this band. Straight up no nonsense hard rock, just what the Doctor ordered. These songs will banish your blues.
“Forgive Don’t Forget” is an anthemic track which I’m sure will go down well in a live setting. I can imagine the crowd singing along and punching the air to this.
The final track or bonus track “Never Going to Stop” is a straight up hit `em hard piece of kick ass rock n roll. A splendid way to round off this latest offering from these Masters of Metal.
A mention must go out to Martin “Mattes” Pfeifer (U.D.O.) who produced this album.
Anvil have been the pioneers of Metal and this will only enhance their reputation in that regard.
Long may they lead the way.
Rating 8 /10
