BONFIRE
Higher Ground
Frontiers Music Srl
German rock veterans BONFIRE released their long-awaited new studio album, Higher Ground, on January 24, 2025, via Frontiers Music Srl. Originally formed as CACUMEN in 1972, the band has maintained a steady output of albums over the decades. Higher Ground marks their first studio release since 2020's Fistful of Fire. While the lineup has evolved significantly over the years, one constant remains-founding guitarist Hans Ziller's signature sound, which continues to define BONFIRE's unmistakable style.
I came to the BONFIRE party a little late, not discovering them until late 1995. While I know very little about their early days as CACUMEN, albums like Fireworks and Point Blank quickly became two albums that hold a special place in my heart. If you've read any of my previous reviews, you'll know that music is an essential part of my life-though I can hardly play an instrument or carry a tune (even in the shower), I can easily tie an artist or song to the most pivotal moments in my life. For me, BONFIRE is one of those moments.
To understand why, we have to go back to 1995 when I was first introduced to BONFIRE by the man who would become the love of my life. Ahh, isn't young love great? He shares my passion for music, and when he lent me his prized import copies of Fireworks and Point Blank, it was clearly a pretty big deal. Needless to say, they quickly became two of favorites and still are today.
Fast forward to the summer of 1996-I boarded a plane to spend the season working at a remote fish cannery in Alaska. There were tears, ugly tears. It was heartbreaking to be apart, but in the end, the distance only brought us closer. A few weeks in, I received a care package with a mixed tape (yes, I'm mixed tape old). The very first song? "Look of Love". Could there be a more perfect song? Nope! And there never will be! From that moment on, BONFIRE became more than just a band-they became a permanent part of our love story.
When the opportunity to review a BONFIRE album came my way, I couldn't pass it up. Higher Ground is a well-crafted, expertly produced album with plenty to offer. It opens with "Nostradamus", a powerful instrumental piece that seamlessly transitions into "I Will Rise". Right away, the unmistakable BONFIRE sound is there-Hans Ziller's lead guitar work orchestrates everything to perfection, creating a sense of familiarity and warmth. That feeling held strong-until the vocals kicked in. For me, the voice of BONFIRE will always be Claus Lessmann. That's not to say Dyan Mair doesn't do a great job-he does-but it took a few listens before I could fully appreciate the nuances he brings to the album. "I Will Rise" is an excellent way to kick things off, driven by aggressive drum beats by Fabio Alessandrini and blazing guitar riffs by Ziller, Frank Pane, and Ronnie Parkes. It sets the stage for what proves to be a BONFIRE album that feels both different and deeply traditional at the same time.
Of the 11 tracks on Higher Ground, one that really stood out to me was "I Died Tonight". The keyboard intro instantly transported me back to the '80s-a place where I feel right at home. This track has all the makings of a classic hairband anthem, but without the over-the-top glam. Here, Mair's vocals truly take center stage, showcasing his ability to carry the weight of the song. And of course, what would an epic '80s-style track be without a soaring guitar solo? Hans Ziller delivers exactly that, adding the perfect touch of nostalgia and technical brilliance. "I Died Tonight" turned out to be one of the album's most unexpected earworms-one that lingers long after the last note fades. I'll be humming it in the shower for days (completely out of tune of course).
Surprisingly, there is only one ballad on Higher Ground. Perfectly placed at the heart of the album, "When Love Comes Down" has all the makings of a classic power ballad. A delicate acoustic guitar sets the stage, paired with heartfelt lyrics and a powerful chorus. But don't confuse this with a sappy, acoustic ballad. It's loaded with raw emotion and a raging electric guitar solo. It's the kind of song that feels instantly recognizable and emotionally resonant, making it one of the album's most universally appealing tracks.
One track that truly caught me by surprise was "Come Hell or High Water". It carries a noticeably edgier vibe compared to the rest of the album. The guitar work has an almost grungy feel, while the use of a Talk Box adds a haunting touch, giving the song a distinct character that sets it apart from BONFIRE's more traditional sound. Mair's vocal range takes center stage here, effortlessly shifting from a rich midrange to a glass-shattering upper register. His performance injects an intense, dynamic energy into the track, making it one of the album's standout moments. It's a refreshing twist-proof that BONFIRE isn't afraid to explore new sonic territory while staying true to the essence of their sound.
Overall, Higher Ground is a solid release from BONFIRE. After a few listens, it delivered everything I hoped for and even exceeded my expectations. While it didn't hit me with the same feels as Fireworks and Point Blank, it's unfair for me to expect it to; and I'm honestly glad it didn't. Those albums hold something this one can never replicate: memories. Higher Ground stands on its own as a fresh and exciting offering that will hopefully resonate with both long-time fans and newcomers. It's definitely worth your time, and I highly encourage you to give it a listen.
3.5 Out Of 5.0
