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Pounder is a new band (formed in 2016) that is entering the traditional heavy metal fray with their first EP, Faster than Fire. The riffing is NWOBHM-inspired with some quick runs up and down the fret board but generally heavier and quicker than most of the bands from the original movement. "Faster than Fire" has an almost thrash-like intensity whereas "The Last Stand" and "Come Alive" possess a more methodical and melodic approach to the riffs and chorus. "Come Alive" even starts with a little epic guitar work that wouldn't be out of place on a Manilla Road album. The songwriting isn't game-changing, but the songs are enjoyable and the mix gives the drums a lot of space which is a little odd as according to Metal Archives there isn't a permanent drummer in the band. I was surprised to learn that Exhumed's Matt Harvey was the voice behind Pounder, but he seems to love old Iron Maiden and Saxon as much as I do and, if Faster than Fire is any indication, he's got some great music that wasn't going to find an outlet with his main band. Now he does and we're all going to benefit.