Despite quite a few people thinking Europe's career has been all about 1986's 'The Final Countdown', many actually believe their most recent release, 2009's 'Last Look At Eden', was their best. Indeed, since returning from a decade long hiatus at the turn of the century, Europe have been pretty prolific turning out 4 studio albums, 2 live DVD's as well as touring extensively.
'Bag Of Bones', the Swedish band's ninth studio album, is produced by Kevin Shirley who's CV includes work alongside the likes of Iron Maiden, Aerosmith and Led Zeppelin. His production duties form part of what is an impressive classic rock record.
Bursting to life with 'Riches To Rags' Europe immediately show they mean business. It's the fastest track on the record as Shirley's work balancing each individual element is demonstrated from the off. It also contains the first of several blistering guitar solos from John Norum who's in top form throughout, as is the whole band. I'd go as far as to say this is the tightest I've ever heard them.
Lead single, 'Not Supposed To Sing The Blues', is the type of catchy, melodic rock which first pushed them into the mainstream. It's lyrics reference everything from Elvis and The Beatles to Led Zeppelin and AC/DC and singer Joey Tempest sounds as good as he ever has done, his trademark vocals flowing over the rhythm section of Ian Haugland's drums and John Leven's bass.
The quality keeps coming with title track 'Bag Of Bones' featuring a sparkling slide guitar cameo from blues legend Joe Bonamassa following an acoustic intro which builds steadily into a 100mph crescendo. 'Mercy You, Mercy Me', my personal highlight of the album, could possibly be marked as a future single. It's got all the hallmarks of becoming a live favourite with its searing guitar solo and big chorus. Other high points include the bluesy, drum heavy 'Doghouse' and the pounding 'Demon Head'.'
It's not a perfect album by any means, 'My Woman, My Friend' never quite seems to go anywhere, while album closer 'Bring It All Home' is a disappointing way to finish, drifting into a sort of default ballad most often seen on recent Bon Jovi albums. It's a shame because this is essentially a very good, no frills, rock record.
There's nothing ground-breaking or particularly revolutionary with 'Bag Of Bones', however, this is a strong step forward from a band who seem to have improved with age.
'Bag Of Bones' is released on Monday 30th April. You can catch Europe live on Friday at this year's Donington Download festival and on their own headline UK tour this Autumn. Click Here to Compare & Buy Europe Tickets.
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'Bag Of Bones', the Swedish band's ninth studio album, is produced by Kevin Shirley who's CV includes work alongside the likes of Iron Maiden, Aerosmith and Led Zeppelin. His production duties form part of what is an impressive classic rock record.
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