Europe sound renewed and re-energised on Come This Madness

After a hiatus of nearly a decade since their last studio album, Swedish rock veterans Europe have made a compelling comeback with their 12th record, Come This Madness. This release marks a significant evolution from their trademark sound, trading the ethereal stylings of their 1986 global hit "The Final Countdown" for a more robust and spirited musical expression.

The renewed energy of Come This Madness is credited in part to a shift behind the mixing desk. The album benefits from the production expertise of Tom Dalgety, known for his work with bands like Pixies, Ghost, and Rammstein. Dalgety's influence has imbued the album with a punchy, vibrant quality, giving the songs a fresh polish reminiscent of classic rock's golden era but with a modern edge.

Complementing Dalgety's production, the mixing by Mike Fraser—whose resume includes AC/DC and The Cult—adds a glossy, high-impact finish to the record. This combination of production talents pushes Europe toward a sound that is harder and faster than previous efforts, aligning them with the energy of rock acts like Scorpions during their prime and the later stages of Whitesnake’s career.

One of the remarkable features of Come This Madness is the inclusion of guest backing vocalists Tobias Forge and Mikael Åkerfeldt, leaders of Ghost and Opeth respectively. Their participation underscores the album's appeal across different rock subgenres and highlights Europe’s continued relevance and respect within the rock community. Despite these notable contributions, lead vocalist Joey Tempest’s distinctive voice remains the centerpiece, maintaining its clarity and strength after decades in the industry.

Tracks such as "This Time Of Year" showcase Europe's capacity to blend rock with pop sensibilities, delivering songs that are both emotionally resonant and finely crafted. The track's atmospheric and introspective mood stands out as a highlight, demonstrating the band's growth and maturity.

Conversely, "The Angels Must Have Flown" delivers quintessential Europe bombast, featuring a commanding riff paired with intricate synthesizer lines, while Tempest’s vocals evoke comparisons to iconic rock singers of the past. This mix of powerful instrumentation and soaring vocals exemplifies the band's ability to balance melody with intensity.

The album also explores themes of frustration and defiance, particularly on "The Cult Of Ignorance," where the band channels raw energy and critical reflection on societal issues. This track, with its aggressive tone and spirited delivery, reflects Europe's willingness to engage with contemporary themes through their music.

The closing track, "Nothing Can Follow This," carries the record to an epic finale with an extended guitar solo by John Norum. The song’s dynamic arrangement and evocative instrumentation create a cinematic sense of movement and resolution, drawing comparisons to classic rock influences such as Deep Purple.

Overall, Come This Madness represents a revitalization for Europe, affirming their place in the rock landscape with a sound that honors their legacy while embracing new influences and energy. Their willingness to evolve and collaborate with artists from varied backgrounds signals an exciting chapter for a band that has long been a staple of Scandinavian rock.

While detailed touring plans or further promotional activities remain undisclosed, Europe’s latest album has already garnered attention for its spirited approach and polished execution. Fans and critics alike are witnessing a band that has retained its core identity while confidently stepping into a refreshed and invigorated creative phase.

This resurgence underscores Europe’s enduring impact and adaptability within the rock genre, offering both nostalgia and novelty to listeners. As they navigate this new era, Come This Madness stands as a testament to their continued artistic vitality and commitment to evolving their sound.