Overcoming the one-hit wonder syndrome was never going to be a problem for such talented musicians. Another stellar release that proves they are definitely not mad.
It’s easy to dismiss a band as merely a “one-hit wonder”. Of course, everybody who is anybody has heard “The Final Countdown.” Many of them are probably tired of listening to that particular track.
Even among many of the band’s connoisseurs, their comeback albums are scarcely known. That is a real shame because since returning in 2003 with Start from the Dark, they have cemented their place in hard rock history. Surpassing their most recognized song with a stream of excellent albums.
Obviously, this didn’t occur overnight.
Obviously, this didn’t occur overnight.In his solo career, guitar wunderkind John Norum developed and modernized the sound. When Europe returned, their sound was inherently more contemporary. The most obvious difference was the more balanced sound. The guitars, bass, drums, and keyboards are integral parts of the compositions. Joey Tempest’s masterful vocal delivery is ever-present. Orchestral arrangements are now integral to the songs. This adds an extra layer of power and poignancy.
Starting with the album cover, designed by Storm Studios, it’s an acquired taste, to be sure. Evidently, it has those Hipgnosis vibes, and it is certainly crazy. Still, some AI vibes are creeping up. The first video/single from the album is for the track “One on One.” It features favourite Swedish bad guy Peter Stormare. The second single, “The Cult of Ignorance,” features a potpourri of Swedish celebrities. From former number one tennis player Stefan Edberg to the singer from In Flames, Anders Fridén. This explains the celebratory feel of the songs featured on this album. That is not to say that the songs are slack-happy. Unfortunately, many euro-metal bands are affected by this condition. The album is lighter in tone than previous efforts like War of Kings and Walk the Earth. But that doesn’t mean they aren’t serious about their message or delivery.
Tom Dalgety’s production is unobtrusive but still very much varied. It really pushes the band and the arrangements into some uncharted territory. Legendary Mike Fraser behind the mixing board keeps everything tight and balanced. The solos and riffs are all extremely tasteful and piercing. Ian Haugland’s drumming is as precise as it is vigorous. John Levén is unassuming, but he is important in maintaining the overall vibe of the songs. He has several moments in the forefront throughout the album, though. Mic Michaeli has become one of the best keyboard players and arrangers in hard rock. Kind of like a Kevin Moore or Rick Wright of hard rock. Joey Tempest is still Joey Tempest. The vocalizations are energetic and lively. Never going through those eighties excesses and histrionics, proving they’re older but also wiser.
Heavy riffs, virtuoso solos, hummable choruses, great drumming, bass, and keyboard playing, and excellent vocals with a serious message. They pull this off effortlessly without becoming preachy or contrived. All the ingredients are here to prove Europe is anything but a one-hit wonder.
Come This Madness is set for release on September 25th.
PHOTO BY: Andy Ford
EUROPE
