Airforce have their origins in the good old New Wave of British Heavy Metal days in the mid-1980s when formed Iron Maiden drummer Doug Sampson was introduced to guitarist Chop Pitman by Steve Harris. Thus the NWOBHM connection is strong here.
Whilst Airforce didn’t go anywhere back then reformed about fifteen years ago and showed they are well on the pace releasing some fine stuff – not least their previous album Strike Hard.
Now we have the follow-up titled Acts of Madness. The founding trio of Sampson, Chop and Tony Hatton remain present as does vocalist Lino.
Chop flicks out the cutting riffs, big chords and well placed, economical yet effective lead breaks at will. Tony Hatton and Doug Sampson very effective providing a relentless rhythm section with Sampson’s drumming so very solid.
Lino’s vocals are impressive. He has a monster set of pipes smoothly delivering power and range. You’ll notice similarities to the likes of Rob Halford, Bruce Dickinson and say Biff Byford.
Musically we have ten originals and a cover of Iron Maiden’s Strange World which is fittingly dedicated to the memory of the late Paul Di’Anno.
Amongst the Shadows is a ripping opener. Relentless as it punches along and a tasty solo. Life Turns to Dust is no back number then we have The Fury during which Sampson’s drumming provides the driving force. Chunky stuff.
Cursed Moon has the slightly cheesy wolf howls though is a strong slow burner before The Sniper spits along nicely.
Lost Forever is the sole ballad style offering here with the brooding undertow before packing a punch towards the end.
Westworld is next up. Yul Brynner on the loose…..! Though seriously, it’s a cracker-jack. Huge riff with power aplenty from the band. Check it out:
Heroes has Lino’s soaring vocal front and centre and a glorious solo from Chop. Next up is the ripsnorting instrumental of Obliterated.
The fittingly dark and moody Hacksaw Ridge closes down the original songs in style then we have the cover of Strange World.
With Acts of Madness, like Strike Hard before it, Airforce deliver a fine album of consistently strong, punchy and concise heaviness sounding fresh whilst retaining their NWOBHM roots. A thoroughly enjoyable album from start to finish with no messing about.
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