In an era of what seems to be never ending reunions and rehashing of past glory (as well as sometimes old wounds) comes the latest rebirth of yet another former 80's Metal juggernaut… EUROPE , but be forewarned, this ain't no FINAL COUNTDOWN. Surprisingly enough, their new album “START FROM THE DARK” is a hard-edged metal masterpiece which rivals their debut self-titled release in 1983 and WINGS OF TOMORROW from 1984.

The band composed of drummer Ian Haugland, bassist John Leven, keyboardist Mic Michaeli, searing guitarist John Norum and fronted by the vocal talents of Joey tempest have compiled a 12 track CD which will simply blow you away. After just listening to the first 3 tracks (“Got To Have Faith”, “Start From The Dark” and “Flames”) it doesn't take you long to realize this is definitely a JOHN NORUM influenced release. His raunchy and powerful guitar is evident throughout the album and even through the more melodic songs like “Hero” and “Settle For Love,” his unique guitar styling steals the show. Not to take away from the vocal prowess of JOEY TEMPEST who doesn't miss a beat and sounds just as good now as he did 20 years ago.

Time has not taken it's toll on this band. START FROM THE DARK is a lot heavier and in your face as oppose to their more popular mid to late 80's releases THE FINAL COUNTDOWN & OUT OF THIS WORLD but still with a more modern hook. As a matter of fact, the once heavy keyboards which were almost a trademark of the band in the late 80's are now virtually non-existent and would leave most fans of those two albums wondering “what happened ?” There are no “poppy” anthems on this baby, just straight forward rock & roll the way it should be. There's not a throw away track on the CD and it's very easy to see that producer Kevin Elson put a lot into making every track a quality composition.

Lyrically, musically and substantially , you can't go wrong with START FROM THE DARK. This is hands down EUROPE 's finest release to date. Sure, it may have taken 2 decades but I for one am glad to know there is still hope out there in a world where the radio is overrun with “American Idols”, studio enhanced performers and rhyming low-life's who have the nerve to call themselves “musicians.” Welcome back guys and hope to see you in the States real soon.

Band

Joey Tempest : Vocals

John Norum : Guitar

Ian Haugland : Drums

John Leven : Bass

Mic Michaeli : Keyboards

Track list