AIRFORCE – Strike Hard (2020)
AIRFORCE stem originally from the NWOBHM era back in the 80s with the band’s style best described as Old-School Metal full of hooks, riffs and melodies. The band was originally formed in 1986 by Tony Hatton (bass), Chop Pitman (guitars) and legendary drummer Doug Sampson (ex- Iron Maiden).
The AIRFORCE line-up now includes the extremely talented vocalist Flavio Lino who recently joined the band on a permanent basis, and together they recorded “Strike Hard”, which features guest appearances from Paul Di’ Anno (ex- Iron Maiden vocalist) and former AIRFORCE vocalist Ivan Giannini (now of Vision Divine).
“Strike Hard” is pure 1981 classic metal / hard rock, same vibe, same sound, and quite terrific written songs for fans delight.
“Fight” kicks things into gear with an Eighties style riffage. Vocalist Flavio Lino’s vocal color an phrasing is going to seem very familiar to Iron Maiden fans. This strong and powerful stuff capturing the essence of that great era (1980-82).
The riffs get darker and meatier on “Die For You.” Doug Sampson lays down the marching beat while Lino lays his heart on the line. There’s some fiery licks driving “Finest Hour,” and if the meaning of ‘riff’ somehow escaped you, then listen to this killer tune.
Speaking of early Iron Maiden influences – in fact, the entire NWOBHM ers – former vocalist Paul Di’Anno makes a guest appearance on “Don’t Look in Her Eyes.” He’s still in good voice and the instrumental breakdown recalls his early years, minus one extra guitar.
Airforce shows they can slow it down like the best of them but still remain tenacious on “Wargames.”
“Band of Brothers” is lyrically uplifting for those brought together in times of war, but the tone is still rather dark. “The War Inside” takes the battle from the field into the mind of a damaged solider.
If Airforce is trying to sound like early Iron Maiden on ”Strike Hard”, then mission accomplished. Die-hard Maiden fans may be quick to dismiss Airforce as imitators, but imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. ”Strike Hard” is a very, very solid ’80s style classic metal album, and I love that mid-range production style so typical from the NWOBHM glory days.
Highly Recommended
01 – Fight
02 – Die For You
03 – Son Of The Damned
04 – The Reaper
05 – Finest Hour
06 – Don’t Look In Her Eyes
07 – I Feel Your Pain
08 – War Games
09 – Band Of Brothers
10 – The War Inside
Flávio Lino (vocals, ex-Deadlyforce)
Chop Pitman (guitar)
Tony Hatton (bass)
Doug Sampson (drums, ex-Iron Maiden)
Paul Di’ Anno (guest vocals)
Ivan Giannini (backing vocals)
Pre Order:
www.amazon.com/Strike-Hard-Airforce/dp/B08CWG457R
