Bonfire are one of the more beloved bands of the melodic rock genre that originate from Germany. Their mix of melodic rock and AOR ballads with an, at times harder edge, has always been delivered with the warm and raspy vocals of Claus Lessmann.
While the band has origins as far back as 1972, the mid-80s found the band at their creative and commercial best.
EZ Livin’ is guitarist Hans Ziller’s side project that yielded the well regarded debut back in 1991 and Firestrom, the considerably less regarded comeback from 2014.
With issues arising between Lessmann and Ziller, and the latter’s desire to tour more, Bonfire seemingly merged with the EZ Livin lineup – featuring frontman David Reece, which has now delivered the new album Glorious.
The naysayers were armed and ready, and after the recent EZ Livin album, I was not expecting much.
But I’m pleasantly surprised by the energy and quality of his new album.
Bonfire die-hards might complain about the change up in sound and direction – this is a far heavier incarnation and the material is pure hard rock and not surprisingly, more in line with the EZ Livin’ sound.
David Reece brings his booming voice to some pretty strong material. Naturally his distinct style brings comparisons to Bangalore Choir and his own Reece releases.
The album opens with a big statement – three memorable hard rockers of various tones – 21 Guns Salute is hard hitting; Nothing At All is fast and furious with a good hook and Can’t Break Away is a moodier rocker.
Then the album delivers the needed melodic rock/AOR touch with a big melodic anthem in Remember and powerhouse ballad Fallin Out Of Love.
Supernatural Disguise rocks hard with a big chorus; Shooting Star is layers thick in harmonies; Put Out The Flames is also very likable from the get go.
The band risk fan ire by re-recording two Bonfire classics – Sweet Obsession and American Nights. Both are done with an extra layer of keyboards not found on the rest of the album. Sweet Obsession doesn’t quite sound right, but American Nights is better.
Closing the album is a lengthy cover of With A Little Help From My Friends. Not a song I’m particular enamored with, but you can’t deny the passion in this version and with David’s vocals.
Production is excellent, the songs are consistent and offer plenty of hooks to come back to and the energy within the band is easily enough to get fans excited.
It may not be the classic Bonfire we used to know, but it is a very strong hard rock release no matter what the moniker.
