"Damnation", the sophomore release of the US Metal band DOWNFIRE, presents a pretty rare combination of Heavy Metal. Even if I don't like to associate modern US Metal with the term Heavy Metal, DOWNFIRE's release slightly changed my way of thinking of this rather young sub-genre. The main reason is that this mix ensures that the ages of Metal, both new and old, will get their fair share in the band's material. What was interesting is that this sort of fair share didn't mean that they did half of the tracklist new or vice versa, it was a pretty much a well done infusion.

Most of the music derives from a raw and simple form of a BLACK SABBATH / DIO kind of figure while being added by modern elements. Thus, the resemblance to modern acts such as SEVENDUST, especially their later material, paints a rather accurate picture. On the other hand, on the basis of chunky heavy riffs, there are great solo fillers and pure melodic harmonies that provided this mix an exciting advantage over other modern Metal acts. However, the material itself, even with its cool edge, is not the new best thing in Metal right now and sometimes a bit dry and tired. Nevertheless, it has a great potential to become something great. There are great moments throughout this album as the political natured "Damnation", inner conflict of "Inner Demon" and "The Way". In addition, the atmospheric instrumental "Never Ending" is an impressive way to finish off a heavy release. Generally, I think that DOWNFIRE has a lot more to offer than what was shown here. They a great sense to Heavy Metal music and a high rated talent to create find choruses and exceptional melodies.

As for my last notes on "Damnation", I have to say something on the band's production. First of all, they had a great sound over this one. However, the second attribute, which is the mixing and mastering, wasn't completed in my view. Again and again I stumble on those types of productions where the sound is wonderful and everything seems to tick, yet, the same phase problem arises and as I always say, in a way ruins the experience of listening. DOWNFIRE has something good going for them and their musical direction is going through the right way in Metal. Nevertheless, they'd better watch the mixing & mastering process as it is crucial.