Firewind - Stand United (2024)

Firewind is the musical baby of Gus G, one of the best guitarists out there on a global level. He never had it easy with member changes, especially for the position of the singer. Yet their fifth (!) vocalist turned out to be the professional frontman he was searching for. We are talking of course about the great Herbie Langhans (Avantasia, Lightbringer of Sweden, ex. Sinbreed among others). Supporting them, we have the bassist Petros Christo with a presence in the band that counts more than 20 years and Jo Nunez (Dragonland, Lords of Black, ex. Kamelot) who is a total beast behind the drum kit.

Firewind, who after the departure of Bob Katsionis (keyboards) are now a quartet, evolved their sound leaning more into classic Metal with much more direct songwriting. This deviation from the Power/Epic style of Immortals started with the previous album called also Firewind. Enjoying stability and after considerable touring periods, the band is back with their latest album Stand United, that picks up the torch exactly where its predecessor left it.

Starting with the obvious, the whole band is on fire! We didn’t expect anything less than top-notch guitars and Gus did not deliver anything less. Riffing is sharp when it needs to be, steady as a rock when it doesn’t and solos are seminar material. Also I want to congratulate Herbie not just for giving Firewind the kiss of life, but because his voice is terrific. He fits the present incarnation of the band and can also perform songs from every period during shows without sweat.

Transitioning to the songwriting, I stand somewhat torn and I will explain. When the previous Firewind was released it was something new, you didn’t know what to expect and was a breath of fresh air. It also had some songs that stood out from the rest like Welcome to the Empire and Orbitual Sunrise. Stand United is exactly what you expect to hear – period! If you have listened to any of the singles already released, you have heard almost everything. There are of course the wrecking balls Come Undone and the title track. There is the destined to become classic Destiny is Calling. Despite being great though, I would expect more if someone told me that those would end up as the album’s highlights.

There is not a single bad song mind you. But it is my belief that the band plays it too safe. This is highlighted even more from the fact that one of the best songs is the cover of Talking in your Sleep. In typical Firewind fashion, it is handsomely transformed to the band’s style and if you liked what they did in Maniac, you will love this one too. My issue lies in looking forward to this one, more than I am waiting for let’s say Land of Chaos or Days of Grace.

You got the gist. If you don’t mind that, then you will absolutely fall in love with Stand United and its 45 minutes of straight up Heavy Metal. If you end up agreeing with me you will still tap the replay button many times. After the honeymoon is over though, you may choose to revisit specific tracks instead of the whole record. Ultimately i am more than glad to see Firewind returning with the same line up and despite my expectations, they delivered something very good which is all that matters.