Dragonforce: Maximum Overload Review: Fun and Versatile

Love them or hate them, the affectionately named “video game metallers” Dragonforce have returned to 2014 with a new record dubbed “Maximum Overload.”

Maximum Overload contains nine new tracks and a slamming cover of Johnny Cash’s classic “Ring of Fire.” Standout tracks form the album include Castlevania inspired “Symphony of the Night,” the Judas Priest laden “Defenders” and the machine gunning “Extraction.”

The album has a very Hammerfall/Blind Guardian feel to it with a hint of techno. If this is your first time listening to Dragonforce, you are going to be on a musical roller coaster. Some moments like the fancy fretwork of the opener “The Game” and “No More” will absolutely blow you away while others like “City of Gold” and “Three Hammers” will create some groans from the cheesiness. Dragonforce seem to be having a lot of fun and that creates layers to the sound.

Every member of the bands talents have been utilized well. Marc Hudson does a great job on the vocals once again with precise delivery. Frederic Leclerq’s bass chemistry works well with session drummer Dave Mackintosh. Dueling guitarists Herman Li and Sam Totman return with their speed and spells on the guitars while keyboardist Vadim Pruzhanov continues to be the glue sonically holding all the madness together.

Trivium’s Matt Heafy does a decent job lending his voice on “The Game,” “No More” and “Defenders.”

Dragonforce is not a band for everyone, but they can be a lot of fun and have a versatile sound. Maximum Overload does well when the speed is cranked to 11, but lags a little on occasion due to the overall silliness. This is an album the elitist in the Bathory shirt will loathe, but if you’re the type of person that just wants to have a good time, this one’s for you.