Hammerfall - Threshold (Nuclear Blast)

Another fine release from the epic Swedes, but that is all this is: fine. Otherwords I would use to describe it are: decent, good, enjoyable, pleasant and dandy. The crux of the matter with this release is that it fails to showcase the band in all their powermetal glory. Untypically lacking in the ripping enthusiasm of their first four albums, it seems they’ve checkmated themselves with songwriting that sits on the ‘threshold’ of achieving it’s desired punch. That said, the songwriting and arrangements all work - a testament to their fantastic musicianship, yet this album just doesn’t generate the energy their earlier work has. Still worth headbanging to though.