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ENFORCER
Nostalgia

Nuclear Blast (2023)
Rating: 7/10

For their sixth full-length studio outing Sweden’s Enforcer continues with another batch of mildly entertaining 80s throwbacks. Bands of this ilk were two a penny when they were coughed out on independent labels and yet they were more convincing. That’s not to say I don’t admire Enforcer for their energy and halcyon day worshipping; after all, this is an album brim full of zippy numbers. However, through all the might, sweat and leathery aplomb there remains something underwhelming about such a release.

I can’t really put my finger on why Nostalgia feels tepid because there are plenty of driving riffs to contend with. It’s also not as if the guys are churning out metal through the motions as they are obviously a talented bunch. But I rarely return to Enforcer albums after the initial blasts, although I can see why the metal crowd digs them.

Although each track is short, this album feels jam packed to the point that 12 cuts feels like a clutter. I’m appreciative however of the subtleties which are blended here, although I can’t help but listen to the title track with a cheesy grin. Even so, this is a solid album that is crisp and airy and peppered with bright melodies and infectious choruses such as on ‘Keep The Flame Alive’, while those seeking hardier chimes will no doubt savour the purposeful strides of ‘Demon’ and the rollicking ‘Metal Supremacia’.

Throughout this outing I hear the usual trad’ metal influence alongside a dash of Scorpions even, but as a band that has spearheaded the metal revival for some time now I don’t see this steely machine halting anytime soon. So then, let’s just appreciate Enforcer for what they are; a solid, stable and reliable metal act employing tried and trusted formulas which result in 40 or so minutes of fun. But for authentic nostalgia, just slap on the originals.

Neil Arnold

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