Ambush are back, I really love this band and there is no surprises here on their third album. Ambush have always been masters of harmony, both from the guitar and the vocals. This is once again very well represented here on ‘Infidel’. ‘Yperite’ is a stunning example of this. ‘Leave Them to Die’ picks up the metallic overload and ‘Hellbiter’ screams into the metal god’s arsenal. Ambush talk themselves into the lyrics of ‘A Silent Killer’ and again, this is pleasing and very easy to pick up and sing along too. Fire and ice maybe present on the stunning album cover, but there is no balance of power when ‘Iron Helm of War’ comes at you. This is a special, genuine metal track. There is also a further element of control, many younger bands scream and go for the high register all the time, Ambush are much more reserved and thus exhume a far more quality and power from their arrangements. I have found, similar to their earlier releases, Ambush and in particular, ‘Infidel’ to be a very easy listen. That may form a challenge to some who like more theatrics and more ripping blistering guitar work, my point here is that the bands quality of restraint and harmony works very much in their favour, in my opinion anyway.
‘Infidel’ may wear its influences of Early 80’s Priest and Accept, but I do feel they have their own stake on the sound. The harmonies for one, the simple sense of unity in the arrangements, this third release is slick and very professional. People will always have an opinion, if you grew up listening to their influences at the time, then you will get this band more. However, it is a solid release, nothing to moan about, Ambush are masters of their craft, I hope they raise their profile with this release and they have a decent following and a style to crave.
(8.5/10 Paul Maddison)
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