The gallop, the scream, the riff—it’s all there before a single word is even sung. Raven’s latest, “Can’t Take Away The Fire,” isn’t just a throwback; it’s proof that the band still delivers heavy metal at its purest and most electrifying.
Tracks like “Black and Blue” and “Power Hungry” may seem effortless in their execution, but that’s a testament to Raven’s mastery rather than any lack of complexity. They aren’t some relic of a bygone era, either—this album stands tall alongside the best of modern heavy metal.
Celebrating 50 years together, the (original) Gallagher brothers, John and Mark, sound as fresh as ever, and drummer Mike Heller’s thunderous performance—especially on the crushing “Lie to Believe In”—cements the trio’s raw energy. That same vitality courses through “The Wreckage,” a slow-burning, menacing beast of a track that proves Raven can do more than just speed and aggression; they can lurk in the shadows and strike with devastating impact.
The album closes with a trio of live recordings that span the decades. “The Power,” a more recent cut, kicks things off before dipping into the ’90s with “Architect of Fear.” But it’s the 40-year-old live rendition of “Don’t Need Your Money,” recorded in Amsterdam, that truly resonates—capturing the punk-infused fury that made Raven essential listening in the first place.
With “Can’t Take Away The Fire,” Raven proves that time hasn’t dulled their edge. This is heavy metal, alive and kicking, with no signs of slowing down.
Rating 8/10
