Album Review : Phornax "Hellforge"
Brazil is well known as a land of Heavy Metal, and countless bands have already proved that the country has no shortage of talent, attitude and killer riffs. So when PHORNAX landed in my inbox with their new album HELLFORGE, I was genuinely curious. It had been a while since I had listened to Brazilian Metal, and I wanted to hear what a Brazilian Heavy Metal album would sound like in 2026.
Well, PHORNAX waste absolutely no time showing us.
The album opens with “Forged in Metal,” and the tribal chants immediately bring Sepultura to mind. At first, I thought: okay, here we go, predictable Brazilian Metal territory. But then the song throws a surprise at you with a sudden guitar solo appearing almost out of nowhere, while the riffs keep pounding underneath. It is not necessarily my favorite moment on the album, but it definitely tells you one thing: these guys are not afraid to take a few unexpected turns.
Then comes “Hell’s Paradise” — and yes, great wordplay on the title. It starts with a pure METAL riff that immediately announces what is coming. Then another riff kicks in and, before you know it, there is already a devastating solo. These guys are unpredictable, and I like that.
Around the 40-second mark, vocalist Cristiano Poschi finally enters. His voice is powerful, fresh and interesting, carrying the songs with plenty of authority. The chorus is catchy, there is a nice break in the middle, and then everything kicks back in before another excellent guitar solo. Oulala! These guys know exactly what they are doing.
I even stopped the album for a moment and checked out the live version of “Hell’s Paradise” on YouTube. It is performed brilliantly. Poschi's appearance might remind you of Udo Dirkschneider, but vocally he delivers something much more powerful — and let's be clear, this is Metal, not Hard Rock. The bearded guitarist also proves that PHORNAX can deliver those solos live.
“Between Fear and Hope” follows, and this is clearly one of the album's central tracks. It was released with a video and a lyric video, and musically it goes straight for the throat. No compromise. There is also a perfectly executed guitar workout in the middle of the track, proving once again that the six-string department is serious business.
With “Seeds of Strife,” things become slightly calmer and more melodic. The tribal rhythm during the verse gives the song an extra dimension, while the chorus is loaded with melody and backing vocals. At times, Poschi's voice even reminds me of Candlemass legend Messiah Marcolin — just with a less high-pitched approach. At this point, I was definitely ready for more.
“A Matter of Time” keeps the momentum going with speed, power and melody. The live version features guests Alessandro Marques and Thiago Bianchi, and their performances show just how respected PHORNAX are within their Brazilian Metal scene. The studio version also features additional vocal colors and, of course, more impressive guitar work.
Then comes “Ghosts from the Past,” an absolute Heavy Metal anthem with an unforgettable chorus, followed by “Final Beat,” which continues the band's winning formula: heavy riffs, powerful vocals, catchy refrains and devastating solos.
And don't expect a ballad with “Dare of Destruction.” Neither did I. But PHORNAX clearly aren't interested in compromises — and honestly, good for them.
The album closes with “Silent War” and “Blood for Blood,” bringing the journey to an appropriately heavy conclusion.
HELLFORGE is the sound of a band returning from adversity with something to prove. Traditional Heavy Metal, Power Metal, melody, groove and plenty of guitar firepower — all delivered with a strong Brazilian identity.
And for anyone waiting for a ballad?
Sorry. Not here. Just Heavy Metal.
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