RAVE IN FIRE - Square One (Review)

Written by: Blackie Skulless

Taking one look at the second full-length by Spain’s Rave In Fire, I had a gut feeling this would be yet another retro-glazed cyberpunk themed “throwback” heavy metal outfit that we get so many of today. Neon colors, typical titles, and an ‘80s aesthetic gives one of the most predictable vibes we’ve always seen. One could say I didn’t exactly have high hopes going into Square One blindly, having not heard the first record at that point. But as the saying goes, I shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, because I’ll be damned if this didn’t absolutely smoke!

True, on a stylistic front, things fit that description, but it rises above anything I’d call generic. Elaboration in songwriting as well as taking varied directions that never stray from the retro vibe they’re so clearly going for helps elevate Rave In Fire tremendously. In several spots, melodies with a warm touch reflect earlier glam metal sensibilities that flow so nicely into the harder sections. Layered leads that match the clean and powerful aura of the frontwoman’s equally clean vocals come off nice and sharp, with polished production helping them stand out rather than blend in with their peers. The fact that the songs themselves are so memorable is what truly takes this to greater heights.

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Longer tunes are the ones that flex the band’s songwriting abilities the best. “Still Standing” presents itself as a synth ditty, prioritizing melody over fury but holds some strong chops, and may be the best vocal performance. Similarly, the closing title track allows everyone to spread their wings, though I wouldn’t call it an epic so much as just an elaborate rock ‘n roll tune that rakes in beefy layers and a slight snarl in vocal delivery. Neat as all that is, I may prefer the straightforward and welcoming aura that’s given with the bright and welcoming melodies on “Crown Of Storms” and its ascending lead guitar licks. There’s also room for some speed-ragers in the form of “Untiring Eagles” and “Speed And Rave” to bring out a bit more grit. Again, as typical as the latter title may sound, its basslines and cooler verses give it all sorts of life.

​I won’t pretend that Square One is anything new or innovative, but damn does it ever showcase the band’s ability to craft compelling songs. There are traces of glam, speed and power metal as well as simple radio rock and pop flavors. Equal vibes of Journey, Vixen, Enforcer, Raven, and ‘80s Judas Priest are brought to one melting pot that does a predictable style in a way that’s still fascinating. Nothing comes off as awkward or forced, and those that like the warmer side of the heavy metal genre should seek this out.

Rave in Fire - Square One was released January 30th, 2026 via High Roller Records. Find it here!

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Rave in Fire can be found at Bandcamp, Facebook, and Instagram
Cover art by ​Tau Fernández