Since the 1980s, Cleveland has always been a fertile breeding ground for great heavy metal music. Ohio-based Andrew Della Caga continues this tradition in true style. Over the past years, the multi-instrumentalist has been active in more than half a dozen bands, among them Brimstone Coven and Icarus Witch. His main priority, however, is his own project Ironflame, for which he writes the music, lyrics, handles all the instruments and sings.
Originally formed in 2016, Ironflame have released five full-length records to great critical acclaim and outstanding fan reactions. 2017’s »Lightning Strikes The Crown« was followed by »Tales Of Splendor And Sorrow« (2018), »Blood Red Victory« (2020), their High Roller debut »Where Madness Dwells« (2022) and its follow-up »Kingdom Torn Asunder«.
Ironflame’s brand-new studio album bears the name of »Worlds To Conquer«. Multi-instrumentalist Andrew Della Caga explains: “Like all Ironflame albums, »Worlds To Conquer« was recorded at my modest home studio in Ohio. The music was recorded in 2023, the lyrics in 2024 and the solos in 2025. As usual, I performed all the music and vocals myself. My live guitarists, Quinn and Jesse, composed and recorded their own guitar solos. I also handled the mixing and mastering process myself this time.”
For the new »Worlds To Conquer«, it’s best to give the title track a listen in order to get an impression of what to expect musically: “For obvious reasons, ´Worlds To Conquer´ is the song that best summarizes the album. I was unsure of what the album title would be until recently. Then I found the artwork that would end up being the cover art, and the choice was clear.”
Apart from the title track, “Shadow Slave” with its Dio vibe is another outstanding composition, of which the multi-instrumentalist says: “I would say that it’s the most traditional sounding Ironflame song on the album. Its tempo is very driving, which most of Dio’s catalog seems to share. I totally see the comparison there. I try not to place rules and regulations on our music. I just write what I hear and what I feel.”
1. Night Closes In
2. Legion of Fire
3. Dynasties Fall
4. Where Cauldrons Burn
5. Shadow Slave
6. Crimson Shores
7. Valhalla is Calling
8. Worlds to Conquer
9. Death's Immortal Flame (CD only Bonus Track)