Heavy Fire

The follow-up to 2015's , the aptly named delivers another barrage of might, melody, and dual-lead riffage that invokes the heydays of classic rock without falling victim to nostalgia. The third time around for expats , , and , and the second ride for former and member sees the veteran decibel-makers firing on all cylinders. Produced by Grammy winner ( ), who allows the band's raw power to do all of the heavy lifting, the ten-track set comes out of the gate swinging with its pugilistic title track, a bluesy, shape-shifting kick in the noggin that plays to all of the bandmembers' strengths. Slinky guitarmonies and playful chord changes evoke vintage on standouts like "Dancing with the Wrong Girl" and "Testify or Say Goodbye," both of which are as radio-ready as they are inventive, and the wistful "Cold War Love" proves that are just as capable of infusing midtempo balladry with muscle as they are straight-up barnburners like "When the Night Comes In" and "Letting Go of Me." As vital as the instrumental performances are, the biggest charge is delivered by 's seasoned croon and confidant phrasing, with the gospel-tinged, backing vocals of providing their own particular set of sparks. What began as an extension of post- -era has become something far more nuanced, and with three solid studio albums now in their rear-view mirror, it would seem that have successfully managed to embrace the past without losing themselves in it. ~ James Christopher Monger