Airforce has actually been around since 1986, meaning the band is approaching its 40th anniversary. However, despite their long history, they didn’t release anything during their first thirty years. The band is closely tied to Iron Maiden and has gained some recognition because of that connection—primarily through drummer Doug Sampson, who played with Iron Maiden for a short period in the late ’70s. During his time there, he contributed to the legendary The Soundhouse Tapes. Additionally, guitarist Chop Pitman has a close relationship with Iron Maiden, having been friends with Steve Harris since their youth.
This connection is crucial to understanding what Airforce is all about since their entire fanbase is built around Iron Maiden’s audience. It’s just a shame that Airforce never managed to release anything when they were young and promising. That being said, the band only really found its stride in 2019 when they brought in Portuguese singer Flávio Lino. Perhaps unsurprisingly, Lino is also the vocalist for an Iron Maiden tribute band called Iron Beast. An exceptionally talented singer, he even participated in The Voice in Portugal, performing Judas Priest’s Painkiller. That should give you an idea of his vocal range and style.
Even so, Airforce has not managed to write truly standout songs that could elevate them to the level of the band they are so often associated with—far from it. Nothing wrong with that–few are as good as Iron Maiden. However, Airforce have still delivered a solid and respectable album. It may feel a bit behind the times, but so be it.
It’s hard not to mention that the album closes with a cover of Iron Maiden’s Strange World. This one is a bit difficult for me, though the band deserves credit for making their own version of it. However, this take on the song lacks the wonderfully dreamy atmosphere of the original. That being said, Lino’s vocal performance is undeniably excellent.
Release on February 21st, 2025 on RPM ROAR.
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