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ENFORCER: LIVE BY FIRE II

 ENFORCER: LIVE BY FIRE II

   Coronavirus, the global pandemic and all round calamity of the age, has halted pretty much every freedom and recreation that we mere mortals love and savor. For bands and artists, their livelihoods and very means of survival have been condemned to lockdowns and deemed too dangerous to entertain. For the past year and indeed for the foreseeable future, live concerts are a distant dream and a wishful fantasy. Ironically, the phenomena of the lockdown live albums has actually brought to light some truly excellent live material that otherwise may never have seen the light of day and been available for fans to enjoy. The latest live chapter from Swedish Heavy Metal juggernauts Enforcer, Live By Fire II, is one such release. 
   An incredible performance that captures the electric live energy and exuberance of an immensely talented and skilled band, Live By Fire II is both a perfect summary of Enforcer and an idyllic showcasing of expertly crafted and captured Heavy Metal majesty. Recorded in Mexico City in 2019 as part of the touring cycle in support of their latest full length studio release Zenith, Live By Fire II captures Enforcer on top form and their music at it's best. Fans of the band will appreciate the watertight performance and sublime setlist, while those unfamiliar with this talented quartet will undoubtedly be blown away by this formidable chronicle of Heavy Metal excellence. This is a 17 song long full throttle lesson in Heavy Metal.
   The newer Zenith material stands up well alongside older tracks from Enforcer's very sturdy catalogue. Although they may not be quite as heavy and fast as some of the older numbers, tracks like the opening rager "Die For The Devil", the rocking "Searching For You" and the intensely ambient "Zenith Of The Black Sun", more than compensate with collosal, irresistibly catchy and infection choruses, sing along vocals and gallons of groove. 
   With Thrashing fury and absolutely killer riffs, "Bells Of Hades/ Death Rides This Night", "Live For The Night" and "Scream Of The Savage" rip and tear with all the intensity and raw ripping energy of the early Speed and Thrash Metal heyday. Elsewhere our ears are battered by the divine Heavy Metal sounds of "Mesmerized By Fire", "Take Me Out Of This Nightmare" and "Katana". If ambiance and atmospherics is what you want, then the chilling and mesmerising "Undying Evil" and "From Beyond" will satisfy any Metalheads craving for spine-tingling Heavy Metal.
   Overall, Live By Fire II is a top notch live recording, well produced and presented, it is a masterclass of modern yet hyper and hungry Heavy Metal. The musicianship and vocal performance is flawless and masterfully delivered, doing these fine songs well deserved justice. Until concerts can resume once more, this album will definitely satisfy the cravings of Enforcer and Heavy Metal fans alike.

You can watch the video review here: 

   THANK YOU FOR READING! FEEL FREE TO COMMENT OR ASK ANY QUESTIONS! DON'T FORGET TO SHARE AND SUBSCRIBE!

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