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The year is 1981... Wait, no, it's 2007 alright. Germany's Black Hawk formed nearly three decades ago, but this is only their second full length, with their first ever release dating back to 1989 (included on this album as bonus tracks) and their first full length only released in 2005. The good news are the guys are still doing this like in the good old days, and it's a delight to the ears of a traditional heavy metal worshiper such as myself. Basically, this is no frills heavy metal reminiscent of late 70s NWOBHM bands - think Saxon's style with a bit of a Maiden-ish sound, and also borrowing from 80s Accept in attitude and catchiness. The only thing that sounds remotely modern here is the production.

Fear not, Dragonride isn't the Power Metal D&D drivel one would expect based on the title alone, but rather more of a "fist in the air", foot-tapping, party metal headbanging fest. This is one of the most catchy and fun albums I've heard in a long time. From the first note until the very end, the music just grabs you and never lets go, making you overdose on memorable vocals melodies and air-guitar inducing solos and galloping riffs.

Frills-free, fun, catchy as hell and just charming in its simplicity. Sometimes an album such as Dragonride is just what the doctor ordered. Now excuse me while I go get that prescription refilled.