Swedish rockers Europe are back with their 10th studio album, “War of Kings,” via Hell & Back Recordings. Yes, this is the same group that gave us the 80’s hits “The Final Countdown” and “Carrie” but if that’s the only Europe music you’re familiar with you are in for a very big surprise. Long gone are the melodic rock stylings of those past hits. “War of Kings” is an album of hardhitting, guitar driven bluesy 70s based rock and roll.
The record opens with the anthemic title track before kicking off into the hard driving “Hole In My Pocket.” The riffs are thundering and the guitars are absolutely epic. It’s clear from the start that guitarist John Norum is absolutely on fire. The vocals of frontman Joey Tempest have definitely stood the test of time as he sounds better than ever most notably on the bluesy ballad “Angels (With Broken Hearts).” Don’t miss the passionate guitar work on “Praise You” and the almost progressive feel of the instrumental bonus track “Vasastan.” Producer Dave Cobb and engineer John Netti have done an incredible job as well, giving Europe a modernized Zeppelin type vibe.
“War of Kings” is a guitar lover’s dream and really showcases the talent of the underrated Norum who is a truly great blues guitarist. It’s also one of the best albums Europe has ever done. If you’re looking for a heavy rock album with a strong classic rock influence, “War of Kings” is a definite must have for your collection. However, if you were hoping for “The Final Countdown 2015 version” you will be sorely disappointed.
