3/5

Fireland’s self-titled disc was a surprise; this band is comprised of seasoned European musicians which includes Riff Master General members; singer Andrew Baxter and guitarist Steve Moore. Fireland’s sound isn’t far removed from some of the early 80’s British metal A.K.A. The New Wave Of British Heavy Metal, but with current production values, the songs are rock solid with bigger hooks and melodies. Fireland’s strong points without a doubt are the double guitar attack of Steve Moore and his counterpart Jaime Johnston, Moore’s riffs are memorable. Andrew Baxter’s vocal doesn’t quite fit the heavy, gritty, aggressive sound of Fireland. Baxter’s vocal sounds very similar to former Velvet Revolver and Stone Temple Pilots singer Scott Weiland, there is very little range happening there. I sure would have loved to have heard vocal power in the tradition of Rob Halford or Ronnie James Dio, some of the songs could have benefit from it greatly…