This is the second album for Aussie metallers Elm Street, one year after the Heart Racer EP and the worldwide tour that followed and included two Greek dates in Athens and Larisa. The album cover is a drawing by the legendary Ken Kelly and kind of warms you up for an imminent frontal metal assault which takes place from the very beginning. The first thing one will notice is the great sound, loud and clear. This is 2016 and although the traditional 80s metal sound is more relevant than ever, the production should remain up to date and Elm Street seem to be well aware of that. Even since the very first album back in 2011. The band remains on the White Wizzard and Skullfist path meaning 80s revivalists but with a modern approach. Their sound though has more edge to it and vocals are on the thrash metal side. They manage to look all bands of the genre in the eye both in terms of compositions and musicianship. The band’s influences are obvious. From Metallica and Anthrax to Iron Maiden and Manowar but Knock em Down with a Metal Fist remains a well crafted album which owes the most to its creators and not to their influences. The work done on the guitar parts is outstanding. Solos and riffs in perfect harmony with the thunderous rhythm section. No need to say more, one of the best albums for 2016.