SYRENCE formed in Germany under a another name, EPIC FAIL, in 2008 before changing their name in 2011 to what it is currently. The Heavy Metal band has released an EP "5.0" (2016) as well as their album "Freedom In Fire," which was released earlier this year.

The opening track, "Freedom In Fire," reminded me immediately of songs by SAXON, JUDAS PRIEST, and even MANOWAR. It has a "classic" Heavy Metal sound to it that is undeniable. With its great guitar riffs, equally great solos and an excellent vocal performance by Johnny Vox, the song has a solid sound which manages to avoid sounding too dramatic or just plain corny.

However, "Living On The Run," the album's second track, failed to move me nearly as much. The chorus is sang to the point of monotony while musically parts of the song sound almost forced compared to the previous track. It falls flat because the sense of enthusiasm that the band displayed before simply isn't present within the song. Fortunately, it's the only song on the album which falls short of the SYRENCE'S standard.

One of my personal favorites is"Fozzy's Song" which sounds a great deal like some of IRON MAIDEN'S work. The vocals are compelling as is the music itself. I was not expecting to like the song even half as much as I did. However, it is truly great and would put a smile on practically's any metal-head's face. I also enjoyed "From Ashes To The Sky" a lot. It has a thrashy sound along with great rhythm. It's one of those songs that you find yourself singing along with as you become familiar with it. "Red Gold" starts out low-key then becomes epic. The vocal performance is excellent. Johnny Vox is one of the most versatile lead singers I've heard in a few years. He easily demonstrates his ability to sing in a number of different ways throughout the album.

"Wild Time" and "Kings Of Speed" are rockers which double as anthems. Both songs are very catchy and are great examples of how Heavy Metal can make you feel powerful and rebellious no matter how old you are. The album's final track, "Seven Oaks," is slower yet just as compelling as the other songs I mentioned. The performances by guitarists Oliver Schlosser and Julian Barkholz really shine on this track. In all honesty, the entire band deserves a nod because they are highly-skilled musicians who can play with the best of the veteran bands that are still active. They've also caused me to decide that modern Heavy Metal bands are worth giving more consideration to than I have been. Get this album if you love Heavy Metal that sounds just as good as it did when you were younger. It's worthy of any collection, even those that belong to the most casual fans who aren't entirely devoted to Metal.