Europetheband Press & Media

Europe confirm new album produced by Kevin Shirley

2011-07-12T02:13:00.000-07:00

EUROPE, Sweden's biggest rock band, confirm their next studio album, slated for April 2012 release, will be produced by the world's hottest record producer, Kevin Shirley.

No stranger to the crème de la crème of iconic rock records, Shirley’s produced albums for Iron Maiden, Joe Bonamassa, Black Country Communion, Black Stone Cherry and Journey.

"We still feel we have one hell of a rock record to make" says Europe's singer Joey Tempest. "Kevin’s the man for the job. We love his work with Bonamassa, Black Country Communion, and Black Stone Cherry. He's the real deal. We're ready to do some serious damage."

Download the exclusive photo of Europe with Kevin Shirley recently taken in Stockholm - www.noblepr.co.uk/Press_Releases/europe/album.htm

Last week Europe met up with Shirley in Stockholm to discuss the direction of the next album. Based on reactions from the fans and media, Europe's 2009 album ‘Last Look at Eden’ proved to be the band's most important record since ‘The Final Countdown’.

“I’ve been a big fan of Europe's work for many years," says Shirley. “The band is influential and highly underrated. I can't wait to make the upcoming album their most explosive to date."

After summer 2011, Europe will finish the promotion of Last Look at Eden tour, and will start to focus their energy on the next album produced by Shirley.

“We've toured for one and a half years" adds Tempest. "It’s time to write and record some new songs and get back on the road again in 2012."

The new material suggests a more straight forward rock approach evident in ‘Doghouse’ - a new song Europe performed on their recent UK tour. The song is also featured on Europe’s upcoming ‘Europe: Live at Shepherd’s Bush’ DVD, released August 2011 on earMUSIC CDs and DVDs.

earMUSIC is also about to release a limited deluxe book with pictures be Denis O'Regan. "Live Look At Eden" features exclusive live audio and the stunning performance at last year iTunes Festival in London. Recording for Europe's new album begins in Stockholm on October 3rd, for an April 2012 release.

// SWEDISH ROCKERS "EUROPE" TO FILM FORTHCOMING UK TOUR //

2011-02-10T02:00:00.000-08:00

It has just been announced that Swedish hard rockers "EUROPE" are set to film the entirety of their London o2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire concert on Saturday February 19th. The concert will be released on DVD and Blu-ray in October 2011, and will also include a bonus live CD.

The London concert is part of Europe’s “Balls ’N’ Banners” UK tour which kicks off at the Glasgow o2 ABC on Thursday February 17th. The forthcoming DVD release will also include behind-the-scenes footage, including rehearsals and backstage banter filmed during the rest of the dates on the rest of the UK tour. Europe will perform music from their current album ‘Last Look At Eden’, plus classic tracks from their albums ‘Wings of Tomorrow’, ‘The Final Countdown’, ‘Out of This World’, ‘Prisoners in Paradise’, ‘Start From The Dark’ and ‘Secret Society.’

"We're taking some new directions with our songs, and we're exploring different styles,” says Europe’s lead singer Joey Tempest about the songs from the Eden album. "There is a definite classic rock vibe on some of the tracks... a tip of the hat to groovin', funkin' 70s rock songs, but ones we have bought into the here and now.”

Europe’s “Balls ‘N’ Banners” UK tour dates in full: Glasgow o2 ABC (Feb 17), Birmingham o2 Academy (Feb 18), London o2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire (Feb 19), Oxford o2 Academy (Feb 21), Bournemouth o2 Academy (Feb 22), Bristol o2 Academy (Feb 23), Manchester Academy 2 (Feb 25), Leeds o2 Academy (Feb 26) and Newcastle o2 Academy (Feb 27). Ticket Hotline: 0844 477 2000, 0161 832 1111 (Manchester). Book Online: www.ticketweb.co.uk, www.ticketline.co.uk.

Read the official UK press release here - www.noblepr.co.uk/Press_Releases/europe/tour.htm

// JOEY TEMPEST TALKS TO 02 ABOUT THE BALLS & BANNERS UK TOUR! //

2011-01-25T07:17:00.000-08:00

The Europe camp are seriously turning up the heat in anticipation of February's "BALLS N BANNERS" UK TOUR!

Last Thursday (Jan 20th) Joey Tempest took the trip into central London for a full day of promotional interviews, including this great video web chat for the 02 Academy venues.

Other stops along Thursday's trail included Planet Rock Radio, Talk Sport Radio, Total Rock Radio, Rock Radio Manchester, Rock Radio Scotland, BBC Radio Leeds, BBC Radio Bristol, BBC Radio Newcastle, BBC Radio Northampton and Metro FM in North East.

The Balls N Banners UK tour kicks off on Thursday February 17th at the Glasgow 02 Academy, then continues to the Birmingham 02 Academy on Feb 18th, the London 02 Shepherds Bush Empire on Feb 19th, the Oxford 02 Academy on Feb 21st, Bournemouth 02 Academy on Feb 22nd, Bristol 02 Academy on Feb 23rd, Manchester Academy on Feb 25th, Leeds 02 Academy on Feb 26th and finally the Leeds 02 Academy on Feb 27th.

Get your tickets now from 0844 477 2000 and http://www.ticketweb.co.uk/

// LISTEN BACK TO JOEY'S PLANET ROCK RADIO SHOW ONLINE NOW! //

2010-12-16T04:57:00.000-08:00

If you missed Joey Tempest's Planet Rock Radio show this Sunday then don't worry, thanks to PlanetRock.com you can listen again for a full week after each show goes out on the air.

Simply head over to http://planetrock.com/ondemand/ and select the "Joey Tempest" tab, then sit back, relax and listen back to the hour-long show in it's entirety.

To hear some of the greatest rock and roll songs around, courtesy of Mr Tempest, tune into Planet Rock Radio every Sunday between 6 and 7pm, or listen back using the new "On Demand" function.

Don't forget, Europe will be on tour in the UK in February, including dates in Glasgow (17th), Birmingham (18th), London Shepherds Bush (19th), Oxford (21st), Bournemouth (22nd), Bristol (23rd), Manchester (25th), Leeds (26th) and Newcastle (27th).

// PLANET ROCK ANNOUNCES RADIO SERIES FOR EUROPE'S JOEY TEMPEST //

2010-10-14T06:15:00.000-07:00

Joey Tempest, best known as the lead singer of Sweden’s biggest selling hard rock band Europe, will host his own radio show on Planet Rock. The new hour-long series will transmit on Planet Rock on Sunday evenings from 6pm-7pm from November 7th.

For more info about Joey's radio show: http://bit.ly/a2FA9p.

“Rock music has been a major part of my life,” says Joey Tempest. “Whether I am recording, touring or just listening to it. This time I’m heading into a different kind of studio and get to play the music that I love and that has influenced me over the years.”

For the official Joey Tempest / Planet Rock page: www.planetrock.com/joeytempest.

Planet Rock broadcasts on digital radio, Sky 0110, Virgin Media 924, Freesat 730, online http://www.planetrock.com/ and on iPhone.

Europe made their name with the epic ‘The Final Countdown’ in 1986 and have now sold over 20 million albums worldwide.

Europe’s Balls N Banners UK tour, with special guest ‘Voodoo Johnson’.

Dates as follows: Glasgow 02 ABC (Feb 17), Birmingham 02 Academy (Feb 18), London 02 Shepherds Bush Empire (Feb 19), Oxford 02 Academy (Feb 21), Bournemouth 02 Academy (Feb 22), Bristol 02 Academy (Feb 23), Manchester Academy 2 (Feb 25), Leeds 02 Academy (Feb 26), and Newcastle 02 Academy (Feb 27).

02 Academy Tickets: 0844 477 2000, www.ticketweb.co.uk/

Manchester Tickets: 0161 832 1111, www.ticketline.co.uk/

For further information - http://bit.ly/dAN4W1

Photo Credit: (c) Fredrik Etoall

// CHAMBERS OF ROCK SALUTES EUROPE'S EDEN //

2010-09-12T11:31:00.001-07:00

American blog Chambers of Rock today posted a rave review of Europe's Last Look At Eden album. Here's an except from the glowing 4.5 star review -

On this album it’s kind of like they really took their time on this to get everything down EXACTLY how they wanted it. It just sounds and feels so right and yes, there is absolutely no doubting that their influences shine through a lot here.

The album starts with a dark orchestrated piece Prelude before merging into the edgy and still dark, extremely Zeppelin like title track Last Look at Eden which simply just blows me away.

As dark and heavy a sound as the band has found, they can still master the big melodic choruses. Joey Tempest’s voice is still distinctive, with perhaps a more edgy touch and John Norum is simply playing out of his skin with some classy leads breaks.

Gonna Get Ready at times could be the modern day Cherokee with its almost Indian tribal type feel, that rocks like a good ‘un! Then in the mid section the band completely backs off, leaving Tempest to sing softly with some light acoustic guitar and then it builds right back up again to rock your socks off. Excellent stuff!

Steady rocker Catch That Plane keeps the same theme, as the previous two and with Mic Michaeli’s Hammond organ sound and some almost Blackmore at times guitar playing during the verses, gives the song a little of a Purple type effect. While Norum hits his solo spot, he’s got that Lizzy sound that Brian Robertson always favoured, that is so often true of his work these days. It’s a great multi tempo track, up and down and slick.

Read the full review here - http://tinyurl.com/35sf6mv

// RAGNAROK RADIO REVIEWS EUROPE'S EDEN ALBUM //

2010-09-12T11:17:00.000-07:00

Scottish heavy metal website "Ragnarok Radio" recently posted a 5-star review of Europe's lastest studio album Last Look At Eden. The review goes something like this -

"What really stuck out for me right after first listen of this album was that like most Europe records it has no filler. It’s just full of creative and hard rocking songs; you’ve got everything from stadium anthems to Power Ballads. It’s one of those albums that could be played in its entirety for a live set and everybody would be into it and partying all night. Let’s hope for some of these songs on the tour in February, eh. Hint Hint."

"This has to be one of my favorite Classic Rock albums ever. It will take a lot, and I mean a lot to beat ‘Last Look at Eden’. From Joey Tempest on vocals to Ian Haugland on drums you have some of the best musicians in the business here. Bring on the Balls 'N' Banners UK tour in February."

Read the full review - www.ragnarokradio.co.uk/2010/09/europe-last-look-at-eden.html

// JOEY TEMPEST TALKS TO METAL EXPRESS RADIO //

2010-09-03T11:05:00.000-07:00

Mick Burgess of Metal Express Radio recently caught up with Joey Tempest to conduct an interview about Europe's recent festival shows and forthcoming Balls 'N' Banners' UK tour.

Here's an excerpt from the interview -

Start From The Dark and Secret Society were quite hard work to make. We really wanted to learn our craft properly. Last Look At Eden was more relaxed. We thought....we don't want to have to prove ourselves again, let's just enjoy the ride. That's how exiting rock albums are made.
Do you think you've hit the perfect formula where you've captured the strong hooks of your commercial `80`s material with a classic yet modern Hard Rock edge?

It's just the sound and the writing that came out of the band this particular period. We never try to look for a formula.

I mentioned the critical acclaim that you've received for this album, I see that you've been nominated for album of the year by the UK`s Classic Rock magazine. How does it feel to be nominated for such an award?

It's the coolest thing that's happened to us in a long time. I called everyone up and just screamed down the phone!!!

You have some tough competition from the likes of Kiss, Cheap Trick, Slash, Lynyrd Skynyrd and Scorpions. If you couldn't vote for yourself, who do you think would be a strong contender to take the award?

My bet is on 'Maiden'. They're an institution now. Good on 'em.

The ceremony is on 10th November and will be hosted by Alice Cooper and will feature live performances from Cheap Trick and Alterbridge. It sounds like it'll be quite a do. Will you be there?

What a great event that is going to be. I was there last year when all those great guitarists were present. That was amazing! However....our lives are so crazy at the moment and we will be touring South America that period. If there is the slightest possibility of us jetting back...we will!

Since you last toured the UK earlier this year you've been back a couple more times. Firstly to play at Sonisphere at Knebworth and also at the I-Tunes festival in London. At Sonisphere there was such a huge range of bands from Rammstein to Maiden to Alice in Chains through to Anthrax and Slayer. How do you prepare to play in front of such a diverse crowd?

It's was such a high walking on stage during the intro of Last Look At Eden meeting this huge crowd. That's what it's all about. We listened to some recordings of it in the tour bus the other day. It worked!

Check out the full interview here -
www.metalexpressradio.com/menu.php?main=interviews&id=877

// JOHN NORUM "PLAY YARD BLUES" SPECIAL ON BLAST RADIO //

2010-08-31T08:34:00.000-07:00

The UK's "BLAST RADIO" recently broadcast an exclusive John Norum album special across the station, focusing on and around Norum's new solo album "PLAY YARD BLUES", which was released in July by Mascot Records.

The radio special was aired on Saturday August 28th and you can listen again over at John's official website here.

As well as playing several tracks from "Play Yard Blues," DJ Jono also talks about EUROPE's history and plays "Gonna Get Ready" from the band's recent album 'Last Look At Eden'.

The Blast radio special follows last month's 'Balls N Banners' UK Tour annoucement, which sees the band making a welcome return to the UK in February 2011.

You can tune into Blast Radio live online here - www.blastradio.co.uk

// JOHN LEVEN INTERVIEW ON METALHEADZ //

2010-08-31T03:30:00.000-07:00

Europe bassist John Leven was recently interviewed by Calon FM's Metalheadz.com at the Sonisphere Festival in Knebworth, England.

Watch the interview on YouTube -

www.youtube.com/watch?v=yEMOMExi298

// EUROPE'S 'LAST LOOK AT EDEN' NOMINATED FOR ALBUM OF THE YEAR AT THIS YEAR'S CLASSIC ROCK 'ROLL OF HONOUR' AWARDS //

2010-08-13T04:17:00.000-07:00

The UK's Classic Rock Magazine today revealed the nominations for their annual awards bash – The Classic Rock 'Roll Of Honour' Awards which takes place on Wednesday 10 November at London’s Roundhouse, hosted by Alice Cooper.

For the first time in the awards’ history the show will also feature live performances from Cheap Trick and Alter Bridge.

Six of the categories on the night, including Album of the Year, for which Europe's Last Look At Eden has been included in the list of initial nominations, will be decided by the public vote (see the categories to vote for by visiting the following link - http://awards2010.classicrockmagazine.com/index.php).

There will be a number of special achievement awards on the night, with the winners to be revealed over the coming months.

Rock music fans are being asked to cast their votes for Best Album of the Year from the following list of initial nominations -

Album Of The Year:

Europe - Last Look At Eden
Cheap Trick – The Latest
Bigelf – Cheat The Gallows
Slash – Slash
Kiss – Sonic Boom
Wolfmother – Cosmic Egg
Iron Maiden – The Final Frontier
Pearl Jam – Backspacer
Alice In Chains – Black Gives Way To Blue
Lynyrd Skynyrd – God & Guns
Gaslight Anthem – American Slang
The Scorpions – Sting In The Tail
Ratt - Infestation
Foreigner – Can’t Slow Down
Black Crowes – Before The Frost…
Steve Hackett – Out Of The Tunnel’s Mouth

Cast your vote for Europe's Last Look At Eden here -
http://awards2010.classicrockmagazine.com/index.php

// ROCK REALMS CELEBRATES EUROPE'S BALLS 'N' BANNERS TOUR //

2010-08-07T01:42:00.000-07:00

Rock Realms has just announced Europe's Balls 'N' Banners UK tour that kicks off on Thursday 17th February at the Glasgow O2 ABC.

Here's what the RR had to say -

Following their triumphant performance at the iTunes Festival at the London Roundhouse, Swedish rockers EUROPE are pleased to announce a nationwide February 2011 UK tour under the heading of the “Balls 'N' Banners" UK tour. Tickets for the UK dates are now on sale.

Full dates for Europe's Balls 'N' Banners 2011 UK Tour include:

Glasgow 02 ABC (Feb 17)
Birmingham 02 Academy (Feb 18)
London 02 Shepherds Bush Empire (Feb 19)
Oxford 02 Academy (Feb 21)
Bournemouth 02 Academy (Feb 22)
Bristol 02 Academy (Feb 23)
Manchester Academy 2 (Feb 25)
Leeds 02 Academy (Feb 26)
Newcastle 02 Academy (Feb 27)

Tickets, priced at £17.50, with the exception of London (£18), and can be ordered from 0844 477 2000 / http://www.ticketweb.co.uk/. Tickets for the Manchester Academy 2 concert can be ordered by calling the following ticket hotline - 0161 832 1111, http://www.ticketline.co.uk/.

The tour follows last year’s critically acclaimed studio album “Last Look At Eden”, which Classic Rock Magazine rated one of the best hard rock albums of 2009.

“Europe is one of the few bands around still making consistently thrilling rock records,” says Classic Rock. Metal Hammer Magazine praised Europe for their energetic live shows – “Europe’s show pulls together all ages and tastes for a feel-good finale that smells like total victory.”

Europe vocalist Joey Tempest believes that it is the strength of the band’s last album that is responsible for their current success.

“You can’t make this stuff up,” says Tempest. “Our latest CD ‘Last Look At Eden’ has really turned things around for us. We're going to bring something very special when we return to the UK in February 2011, we're having the time of our lives right now and the audience will experience a Europe-camp that's ON FIRE!”

Read the full news story here: http://tinyurl.com/3yyr9r6
Photo Credit: (c) Denis O'Regan

// SAFE CONCERTS REVIEWS EUROPE AT SONISPHERE //

2010-08-07T00:35:00.000-07:00

Safe Concerts posted a wonderful review of Europe's Sonisphere performance on July 30th. The popular UK rock concert website also posted a terrific photo gallery of the band performing Last Look At Eden, The Beast, Rock The Night and The Final Countdown.

Here's what Safe Concerts had to say about Europe's performance -

"Next up on The Saturn Stage were those vintage rockers Europe, creating quite the set and showing that experience actually makes for a pretty good performance - we even got a version of No Woman No Cry."

"These guys proved once again that they are more than just the dudes who did The Final Countdown and are actually a force to be reckoned with, a few sound issues aside, Europe cracked it and the crowd lapped it up. The place erupted when Final Countdown was played live, it was just one of those moments that you really should have been there for!"

Read the original posting on Safe Concerts: http://tinyurl.com/37hocxb
Check out the Europe Photo Gallery: http://tinyurl.com/33ef3dn
Photo Credit: (c) Dean Fardell

// IAN HAUGLAND AND JOEY TEMPEST DO THE ITUNES FESTIVAL INTERVIEW //

2010-08-06T12:09:00.000-07:00

Ian Haugland and Joey Tempest were recently interviewed when they performed an exhilerating set at this year's iTunes Festival at the London Roundhouse on July 25th.

// EUROPE GETS DOWN ON THE GIBSON TOUR BUS AT SONISPHERE //

2010-08-06T08:03:00.000-07:00

The Gibson Guitar Tour Bus rolled into Sonisphere for the UK’s newest metal festival, now in its second year, over the weekend July 30th to August 1st. The 2010 Sonisphere Festival took place on the grounds of Knebworth House, a beautiful stately home which, over the years, has hosted legendary concerts by Led Zeppelin, The Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd, Queen and Oasis.

Over the three days, up to 180,000 hardcore metal fans rocked to some of the fiercest and most mind-blowing bands on the planet, including Iron Maiden, Rammstein, Alice Cooper, Europe, Placebo, Papa Roach, Fear Factory, Anthrax, Mötley Crüe, Gallows, Bring Me the Horizon, Pendulum, Alice in Chains, Skindred, The Cult, Slayer, Iggy & The Stooges, Skunk Anansie, Corey Taylor, Soulfly, Slaves To Gravity, Good Charlotte, Little Fish and Lacuna Coil.

The 2010 Sonisphere Festival was made up of ten one-day festivals across Europe, with an eleventh festival in England spanning three days. The festival tour has had a core group of bands that played each of the European dates with numerous extra bands added to each date individually.

The Gibson Tour Bus was parked exclusively in the media and artist area for the bands to conduct their interviews and to perform an exclusive acoustic track for Gibson.com. Artists such as Joey Tempest and John Norum of Europe, Slipknot’s Corey Taylor, Karnivool, Bring Me the Horizon, Papa Roach, Audrey Horne, Sylosis, The Casino Brawl, Fei Comodo, General Fiasco, Blitz Kids, Failsafe, Slaves To Gravity and Little Fish all took time out to visit Gibson Tour Bus.

Click here to access the full report from Gibson.com:
www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/ArtistsAndEvents/Stories/Sonisphere-Coverage-802/

// EUROPE'S LONDON ROUNDHOUSE GIG NOW AVAILABLE ON ITUNES //

2010-08-06T00:24:00.000-07:00

On Sunday July 25th Europe performed a triumphant doubleheader concert with Foreigner as part of the iTunes Festival at the prestigious Roundhouse in London.

Five songs from Europe's set are now available to buy from iTunes. The live tracks that can be downloaded from iTunes include Last Look At Eden, New Love In Town, No Stone Unturned, Rock The Night and The Beast.

Further info: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/itunes-festival-london-2010/id384927667

// EUROPE PERFORM SUPERSTITIOUS ON THE GIBSON TOUR BUS AT SONISPHERE //

2010-08-05T00:55:00.000-07:00

A few hours before Europe performed their set at this year's Sonisphere Festival at Knebworth, Joey Tempest and John Norum dropped by Gibson Guitar's lavish tour bus to do interviews with the local metal and classic rock press.

While on the bus, the kind folks at Gibson asked Joey and John to perform an acoustic version of one of the band's classics. Joey and John chose Superstitious from 1988's Out Of This World album.

Check out the brilliant performance at Gibson's YouTube channel.

// JOHN LEVEN TALKS TO SONIC SHOCKS ABOUT SONISPHERE //

2010-08-05T00:25:00.000-07:00

Europe's bass guitarist John Levén was recently interviewed by Sonic Shocks when the band played Sonisphere at Knebworth in the UK on Friday July 30th.

Here's an excerpt from the interview -

On an overcast, sticky but gloomy Friday Sonic Shocks rock up at Sonisphere, Dictaphones, laptops and pens at the ready. Yes it’s interview time and today we are ushered onto a rather swanky Gibson Guitar tour bus (one of only five in the world) where we sit on the plush leather sofas inside. Who should be joining us today? None other than John Levén, bass player for Europe.

Sonic Shocks: Hey! How are you?

John: Ok, we just flew in from doing a press conference last night in Sweden!

Sonic Shocks: How was the Swedish festival?

John: Pretty good! We played in the city’s town square to lots of people and we are heading to Finland tomorrow.

Sonic Shocks: So that’s three festivals in three days?

John: Actually it’s four, we played one the day before!

Sonic Shocks: So you’re playing festivals in different countries, what are the differences?

John: It’s really difficult to say, we were in Poland last week and we had to shake hands with the Mayor. Festival-wise it’s not really that much different. I mean, festivals over here seem to have a more professional and organised. I mean in other places, the hotel Lobby is full of people waiting for you...

Sonic Shocks: So you have the upcoming Balls 'N' Bannners UK tour in February of next year....

John: Yeah we are coming back to the UK, it’s going to be great! We were here elast winter and the reception was really good, can’t wait to come back again!

Read the full interview - http://tinyurl.com/354smrh
Photo Credit: (c) Denis O'Regan

// IAN HAGULAND TALKS SONISPHERE TO 96.3 ROCK RADIO //

2010-07-31T09:24:00.001-07:00

96.3 Rock Radio caught up with Europe drummer Ian Haugland at the Sonisphere Festival in Knebworth on Friday July 29th and discussed Ian's recollections of always wanting to play the prestigious rock festival.

The interview went something like this -

Europe drummer Ian Haugland is glad to finally make it to Knebworth Park. He planned to make the trip from Sweden in 1979 to see Led Zeppelin's legendary twin shows here – but his parents wouldn't let him go.

Haugland is delighted to have brought the band's brand of heavy rock to the Saturn stage on Sonisphere's first night, and is even more delighted that the UK perception of them as a "teeny-bop" act is fading.

He tells Rock Radio DJ Tom Russell: "That perception is changing. every time we play The Final Countdown it's like pressing a happy-button. There's not many bands who have a song like that. You've got Smoke on the Water, Bohemian Rhapsody, Stairway to Heaven.

"It's such an important song and we're fortunate to have recorded it. I think it's honourable to have made such a mark on people's lives."

Facing their perception issues head-on, Europe headlined the seriously metal Bloodstock festival in Derbyshire last year, appearing alongside Carcass, Arch Enemy, Cradle of Filth, Blind Guardian and Satyricon.

Haugland explains: "Some voices were raised when we did that, but we won the battle and got a lot of credibility.

"I met one of those death metal guys backstage, in the black leather and the white makeup. He looked like a killer. He came up to me and said, 'Are you guys going to play Carrie?'

Listen to the interview on Rock Radio: http://tinyurl.com/39g5f6k
Photo Credit: (c) Fredrik Etoall

// JOHN NORUM AND JOEY TEMPEST INTERVIEWED BY NME TV AT SONISPHERE //

2010-07-31T09:07:00.000-07:00

NME TV caught up with John Norum and Joey Tempest on the Gibson Guitar tour bus at this year's Sonisphere Festival in Knebworth, Stevenage in the UK on Friday July 25th.

Check out the interview trailer here - www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fnpz0gM6Wx4

// EUROPE'S IAN HAUGLAND TALKS ABOUT SONISPHERE AND BEYOND // //

2010-07-28T04:20:00.000-07:00

Entertainment Focus recently caught up for a chat with Europe's drummer Ian Haugland when the band played to a packed house at the London Roundhouse as part of the iTunes Festival.

Here's an exceprt from the interview -

What can we expect from your show tonight and at Sonisphere ?

Well we mix things up a lot from show to show. We’ll be playing a mix of old and new stuff.

You guys have played a lot of festivals. Which has been the best festival and one you’ve enjoyed the most ?

It's hard to say. I think all different countries have a certain kind of charm. Its always something special to play in England because all the bands we grew up listening to were British Hard rock bands from the 70s - Deep Purple, Black Sabbath, Thin Lizzy and UFO, those bands. So it’s always great to play in Britain. This is like the cradle of rock. The UK. This is where all the influential bands for us came from. It’s like an extra honour to play in England.

Do you find fans here are more vocal and they sing out the songs to you a lot more ?

If you were to go for the noisiest audience, I would say Italy or maybe Spain cause they are totally crazy (the audience). In South America we played last year in Santiago. The crowd were so loud that I couldn’t actually hear myself playing.

Really ?

Yeah. I don’t know I can’t really say that I like this or that country better. It seems like Europe is a global universal band. So it’s great just being able to do it.

Have you had any funny Spinal Tap moments on Tour ?

I remember on the last tour. Mic (Michaeli - kyeboards) forgot his passport. We were in Spain playing in Madrid and we were going to play in Zurich. And on the way from the hotel to the airport, Mic discovered that he left his passport in his touring gear in the truck.

He couldn’t get a hold of his passport, and so he couldn’t get on the plane. We got on the plane but Mic had to stay in Madrid to try and get another passport and it took some time for him. He tried to get hold of a hotel because he didn’t have anywhere to sleep and when he tried to check in he wasn’t allowed to do it because he didn’t have a passport so he ended up sleeping with the druggies out in the park. (laughs).

Read the full interview here - http://tinyurl.com/32lefp2
Photo Credit: (c) Denis O'Regan

// EUROPE ANNOUNCE BALLS 'N' BANNERS UK TOUR //

2010-07-26T01:54:00.000-07:00

Following last night's triumphant performance at the iTunes Festival at the London Roundhouse, Swedish rockers EUROPE are pleased to announce a nationwide February 2011 UK tour under the heading of the “Balls 'N' Banners" UK tour.

Tickets for all UK dates go on sale at 9am on Friday July 30th, the same day that the band will play the Sonisphere Festival at Knebworth, England.

Full dates for Europe's Balls 'N' Banners 2011 UK Tour include Glasgow 02 ABC (Feb 17), Birmingham 02 Academy (Feb 18), London 02 Shepherds Bush Empire (Feb 19), Oxford 02 Academy (Feb 21), Bournemouth 02 Academy (Feb 22), Bristol 02 Academy (Feb 23), Manchester Academy 2 (Feb 25), Leeds 02 Academy (Feb 26) and Newcastle 02 Academy (Feb 27).

Tickets, priced at £17.50, with the exception of London (£18), and can be ordered from 0844 477 2000 / www.ticketweb.co.uk. Tickets for the Manchester Academy 2 concert can be ordered by calling the following ticket hotline: 0161 832 1111, www.ticketline.co.uk.

Read the official press announcment: www.noblepr.co.uk/Press_Releases/europe/tour.htm

The tour follows last year’s critically acclaimed studio album “Last Look At Eden”, which Classic Rock Magazine rated one of the best hard rock albums of 2009.

“Europe is one of the few bands around still making consistently thrilling rock records,” says Classic Rock. Metal Hammer Magazine praised Europe for their outstanding live shows – “Europe’s show pulls together all ages and tastes for a feel-good finale that smells like total victory.”

Europe vocalist Joey Tempest believes that it is the strength of the band’s last album that is responsible for their current success. “You can’t make this stuff up,” says Tempest. “Our latest CD ‘Last Look At Eden’ has really turned things around for us."

"We're going to bring something very special when we return to the UK in February 2011, we're having the time of our lives right now and the audience will experience a Europe-camp that's ON FIRE!”

Visit the official website – www.europetheband.com.
Sign up to Europe on Facebook - www.facebook.com/pages/Europe/7795004209.

// JOEY TEMPEST TALKS UK FESTIVALS WITH UBER ROCK //

2010-07-19T04:29:00.000-07:00

UBER ROCK scribe Tazz Stander recently hooked up with Europe vocalist Joey Tempest to talk about the band's hectic touring schedule, UK festivals, Rock and Roll Cliches, and how 2010 is becoming the best year in the band's career!

Says Joey Tempest on the success of Europe's live shows "Well, what can I say? After the last gig we did, we were on stage just before Slash, we had a toast in the dressing room and were all saying that maybe this is the best time for the band right now."

Continues Joey "A lot of it is thanks to the album, the fans seem to discover it and will not let it go... I don't know if it's just a good period but with this album, things came together."

Europe will play 2 massive UK concerts this month, firstly at the iTunes Festival at the Camden Roundhouse on Sunday July 25th, then they will bring the rock to Sonispere on Friday July 30th.

You can read the full UBER ROCK interview here - http://www.uberrock.co.uk/interviews/58-july-interviews/1118-joey-tempest-europe-interview-exclusive.html

// JOHN NORUM TALKS TO UBER ROCK //

2010-07-17T10:56:00.000-07:00

UK based metal website "Uber Rock" recently conducted an interview with John Norum to talk about his new solo album Play Yard Blues. Here's an excerpt from the interview -

Your seventh studio album, 'Play Yard Blues', was released on the 5th of July. How did you come up with the name for it?

"Well, the studio where I recorded it is called Play Yard Studios and so I thought I would just call the album Play Yard something and then with having my son on the front cover - I was thinking of him in a play yard - actually, I don't even know if there is a word like Play Yard but in America they have one but they might not call it the same in the UK."

I was quite interested in the title because of the way it had been spelt, almost like a double meaning. Play Yard as in playground or it could denote that you were playing Yard Blues and it made me wonder if you were starting up a whole new genre of blues.

(Laughing) "I was thinking about that too. It's really word play because as you said, it's usually playground. It could be quite interesting coming up with my own words. It was really from the name of the studio but it is also about my son and I. We're in the playground or yard and we got the blues because we had the tragedy in the family a few of years ago, so the album is dedicated to my late wife. I wanted our son to be on the cover as well as a tribute from both of us."

Read the interview in full - www.uberrock.co.uk/interviews/58-july-interviews/1085-john-norum-europe-interview-exclusive.html

Photo Credit: (c) Paul Bergen

// WIN TICKETS TO SEE EUROPE AT THE ITUNES FESTIVAL IN LONDON ON JULY 25TH / /

2010-07-15T09:59:00.000-07:00

Now's your chance to enter the official Europe Media Blog competition to win a pair of tickets to see Europe perform a rare UK concert on Sunday July 25th at the iTunes Festival at the London Roundhouse.

Hurry now as winners will be drawn and notified on Monday July 19th!!!

Europe will perform a doubleheader concert with Foreigner. Joey Tempest and the boys will take to the stage at 8pm for a one hour performance not to be missed. Europe will perform songs from their new critically acclaimed studio album 'Last Look At Eden' plus a selection of many of their rock classics.

We've got 40 pairs of tickets to give away and to win a pair all you have to do is answer the following quesetion -

What is the name of the second single from Europe's 'Last Look At Eden' album?

a) Gonna Get Ready
b) Mojito Girl
c) New Love In Town
d) No Stone Unturned

Email your email address, first and last name, phone number, and partner's name to info@noblepr.co.uk.

This promotion is exclusive to the Official Europe Media Blog and is a gift to the band's dedicated fans. This is your special night, and we want you to come down and party.

iTunes will notify each of the winners personally via email. The email will contain a pair of E-Tickets and all the information for the event.

// LOVE IT LOUD TALKS TO EUROPE ABOUT ITUNES FESTIVAL AND SONISHPHERE //

2010-07-13T14:15:00.000-07:00

Love It Loud caught up with Joey Tempest while he was in Sweden this week. LOL spoke with Joey about Europe's highly anticipated gig at the iTunes Festival at the London Roundhouse on Sunday July 25th

Joey also talked about Europe's upcoming gig at Sonisphere on Friday July 30th, where the band will play the same stage as Alice Cooper and Gary Numan.

Here's an except from the interview -

2008’s ‘Almost Unplugged’ included covers of Led Zeppelin and Pink Floyd. Were these groups that had a profound influence on Europe during the early years?

“We listen to a lot of stuff and every band member has their own favorites. As a band unit some of the artists that we listened to in the very beginning were Zeppelin, Purple and Montrose to name a few. When we started recording our own material, we were into bands like MSG, G-Force, Gamma and Gary Moore’s solo stuff. I suppose UFO and Thin Lizzy were always there as strong influences as well.”

Why did you decide to produce ‘Secret Society’ yourself and how did this affect your approach to recording the album?

“We were very stubborn…..and I suppose a bit ‘nerdy’. We wanted to learn everything about the process of recording and mixing. We had great people around us to guide us. That album was a lot of hard work. We were locked in a studio 24/7 for about three months. We had to go through that process in order to move on. ‘Last Look At Eden’ would never have happened the way it did without the experience of making ‘Secret Society’. We could let go during the recording of LLAE and just follow our muse. We had Tobias Lindell producing ‘Eden’. He was in charge of the sound, and he was a great asset.”

Read the full interview here -
http://love-it-loud.com/interviews/joey-tempest-europe/
Photo Credit: (c) Edward Fielding

// JOEY TEMPEST SAYS "WE'RE LIKE KIDS IN A CANDY STORE!" //

2010-07-11T10:20:00.000-07:00

Christian Sellers of rock music website Love It Loud has just published a news story about Europe's place in the pantheon of rock, and their forthcoming Sunday July 25th concert with Foreigner at the iTunes Festival at the London Roundhouse.

Says Sellers - "They have been together for over thirty years, have released eight albums and have undergone numerous line-up changes yet to most Swedish group Europe will be forever remembered for their hair metal anthem The Final Countdown."

"The band will once again return to the UK on July 25th alongside Foreigner for the iTunes Festival in London and frontman Joey Tempest was on hand for a few words.

"We’ve done three albums now in the new millennium," says Tempest, "so we’ve built something up here in the UK and I’ve lived in London for many, many years. We grew up back in the Stockholm suburbs listening to British rock and now we can tour Europe and be invited to festivals – we’re like kids in a candy store.”

Click here for the full news story: http://tinyurl.com/34k9a9b

Photo Credit: (c) Ami Barwell: http://www.musicphotographer.co.uk/

// CLICK MUSIC INTERVIEWS JOEY TEMPEST ABOUT ITUNES FESTIVAL AND SONISPHERE //

2010-07-10T07:36:00.000-07:00

Click Music's Chris Cope recently caught up with Joey Tempest in London for a quick phone interview about Europe's forthcoming appearances at the iTunes Festival on July 25th and Sonisphere on July 30th.

Joey discusses the future of music downloading, Europe's reputation as being Scandanvia's biggest hard rock band, the band's impressions of playing festivals, and how Europe has managed to carve out a long-lasting career in the music business by attracting a new legion of fans.

Read the interview in full - www.clickmusic.com/interviews/article/europe-still-having-fun
Photo Credit: (c) Tina Korhonen

// PLANET ROCK INTERVIEWS JOEY TEMPEST ABOUT SONISPHERE //

2010-07-10T06:54:00.000-07:00

Last week Joey Tempest dropped by Planet Rock Radio in London to do an interview with Nicky Horne.

Nickey asked Joey about Europe's Last Look At Eden album, forthcoming plans, as well as the band's forthcoming appearancs at the iTunes Festival at the London Roundhouse on Sunday July 25th and Sonisphere on Friday July 30th.

Click here to listen to Joey's interview the Planet Rock website:
www.planetrock.co.uk/Article.asp?id=1864557&spid=35830

// EUROPE TO PLAY iTUNES FESTIVAL IN LONDON //;

2010-06-18T04:40:00.001-07:00

Europe have been confirmed to play at this year's iTunes Festival at the London Roundhouse on July 25th, alongside a special double-header concert with Foreigner.

"We'll be well up for playing at the famous Roundhouse in Camden," says Europe's lead singer Joey Tempest. "Recording the event live makes it even more exciting."

More than 60 acts will perform throughout July's 31 nights, including Ozzy Osbourne, Faithless, Scouting For Girls, Scissor Sisters, Frank Turner, Goldfrapp, Kate Nash, Tony Bennett, Pixie Lott and Tony Bennett.

Over 2 million people have applied for free tickets, with only 60,000 up for grabs. For further information about how you can apply for tickets, please go to http://www.itunesfestival.co.uk/.

Get Ready To Rock gives thumbs up to John Norum's new solo album Play Yard Blues

2010-05-24T12:21:00.000-07:00

Get Ready To Rock has published an ace review of John Norum's new solo album Play Yard Blues. The album is released by Mascot Records in the UK on Monday July 5th with distribution by ADA Global.

Says Dave Randall of GRTR, "Europe guitarist John Norum follows the long line of guitar heroes paying their dues to the blues. But don't be hoodwinked by the title 'Play Yard Blues'. This is a few hundred kilometres away from 'old man's music' and is really a bluesier reprise of familiar terrain."

"As with many of his contemporaries, John Norum has probably moved on a bit from the fast and furious melodic shredding he was renowned for in the 1990s, first with Dokken and then in a fairly low key solo career. The truth is, he does that style better than most. On the current Europe album, though, it sounds like a prowling Tom Cat of a guitar player has been neutered. If the glorious heavy down-tuned riffs aren't too present in the latest band album, we naturally hope to hear them in any solo offering."

"With the aid of excellent sidemen and a crisp production (at the famed Polar Studio in Sweden) it is a marvellous opportunity for Norum to explore his bluesier side, much as Gary Moore did in the 1990s. The only thing with Moore, he got the blues bug and never looked back."

"Norum takes as much inspiration from blues into rock heroes like Frank Marino (with a cover of 'Ditch Queen') and Leslie West (a version of Travellin' In The Dark') but thankfully it is a rockier and funkier blues and not old man's music. Yet."

"The opener 'Let It Shine' is as good as anything on the previous 'Optimus' (only bassist Tomas Torberg remains from that line-up), whilst 'Red Light Green High' has an undercurrent of menace with Norum's trademark wah weaving in and out."

"Norum has a trick of pulling out a less familiar Thin Lizzy track and he's done it previously. Here 'It's Only Money' features Norum's own vaguely Lynott-esque vocals and is a tribute to another hero Brian Robertson, whom he played with in Norway at the turn of the millennium (unfortunately any session tapes don't appear to have surfaced). "

"..... This is easily Norum's most consistent solo album. Informed guitarists will love this album but a wider reappraisal is long overdue. It will certainly be helped by Norum's higher profile now as a result of Europe's rejuvenation. This new release should at least encourage a wider investigation of a sometimes patchy but quite worthy back catalogue, and a guitarist who is truly the equal of those he cites as major influences."

Read GRTR's full review - http://tinyurl.com/37p52l9

Official UK press release - http://tinyurl.com/2vgtg8a

// EUROPE STORMS TAIWAN //

2010-04-06T12:28:00.000-07:00

Europe just returned from an outstanding tour of the Far East including Japan and Taiwan.

Check out the coverage from the band's visit to Taiwan.

TV coverage as follows -

亞太整點新聞
http://www.im.tv/Vlog/personal/1960304/6526008

中天
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mzOhqdzNOYw

三立完全娛樂
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ePiGDtwWrA

TVBS新聞
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7RZ1m_p2uqg

Online coverage as follows -

聯合報-4/4歐洲合唱團高雄開唱愛上台灣夜市
http://udn.com/NEWS/ENTERTAINMENT/ENT6/5516350.shtml

聯合報-4/1唱醉中年搖滾迷歐洲合唱團：超屌的
http://udn.com/NEWS/ENTERTAINMENT/ENT6/5510722.shtml

中時-4/1歐洲合唱團High唱喊超屌
http://tw.news.yahoo.com/article/url/d/a/100401/4/233rp.html

自由時報-4/3 Europe來了今晚巨蛋見
http://www.libertytimes.com.tw/2010/new/apr/3/today-south23.htm

中央社-4/2歐洲合唱團放話要夷平高雄巨蛋
www.cna.com.tw/ShowNews/Detail.aspx?pNewsID=201004020207&pType0=aMOV&pTypeSel=0

自由時報-4/1歐洲合唱團飆高音活跳跳
http://www.libertytimes.com.tw/2010/new/apr/1/today-show5.htm

// EUROPE TO PLAY SONISPHERE ON JULY 30TH //

2010-04-06T12:17:00.000-07:00

EUROPE has just been confirmed as special guest at the SONISPHERE Festival on Saturday July 30th. The three-day event, located at Knebworth, Hertfordshire in the UK, will run from July 30th-August 1st. The festival includes Iron Maiden, Rammstein, Motley Crue, Alice Cooper, Iggy and the Stooges, Slayer, plus many more bands.

A year shy of their memorable headline set at last year’s Bloodstock festival, Sweden’s biggest hard rock band EUROPE will join the SONISPHERE cast, hot on the heel’s of their critically acclaimed studio album “Last Look At Eden” which features the singles New Love In Town and the title track.

“After a successful gig at Bloodstock Festival in 2009," says lead singer Joey Tempest. "We’re absolutely thrilled to be able to play Sonisphere UK 2010. Everyone in the band Europe grew up listening to British rock and to be able to play such a great festival as Sonisphere is really something else. "UK....is the cradle of rock" We're just going to have crank it up to "12" and play our Scandinavian buttocks off. Can't wait!"

If the rave reviews earned from their headline set at the BOA event are anything to go by, their set promises to be one of the festival highlights, as the band perform songs from their new album including The Beast, No Stone Unturned and Gonna Get Ready, as well as classics including Rock The Night, Superstitious, Scream of Anger, and of course, The Final Countdown.

For ticket information please visit - http://uk.sonispherefestivals.com/

Photo Credit: (c) Denis O'Regan

// EUROPE PROMO HITS TAIWAN & JAPAN //

2010-03-19T14:15:00.000-07:00

As the countdown is on to Europe's forthcoming tour of Japan and Taiwan comes closer, Angelo Noziglia kindly sent us an eye-catching selection of Last Look At Eden Taiwanese and Japanese promotional flyers, and a metro/subway ad from Taipei, Taiwan.

Angelo contacted the official blog to say, "I see alot of flag banners on the streets/main roads since yesterday. It's the last 2 weeks of promotion now!"

The Japanese and Taiwanese tour dates as follows:

25 MAR. 10 // TOKYO, JAPAN
26 MAR. 10 // TOKYO, JAPAN
28 MAR. 10 // OSAKA, JAPAN
29 MAR. 10 // NAGOYA, JAPAN
31 MAR. 10 // TAIPEI, TAIWAN
01 APR. 10 // TAIPEI, TAIWAN
03 APR. 10 // KAOHSIUNG, TAIWAN
04 APR. 10 // TAICHUNG, TAIWAN

// METAL EXPRESS HAILS EUROPE'S NEWCASTLE GIG //

2010-03-11T01:11:00.001-08:00

Mick Burgess of Metal Express Radio has just posted his review of Europe's Newcastle O2 Academy concert (February 27th).

"Throughout the show, Europe found the perfect mix of new from the Deep Purple tinged Gonna Get Ready, to the classics like Superstition, Sign of the Times and Let The Good Times Rock even throwing in the odd vintage rarity for good measure with Scream of Anger from 1984`s Wings of Tomorrow album."

"Lead singer Joey Tempest exuded cool and charisma throughout, commanding the stage and crowd with ease and his microphone acrobatics was enough to make David Coverdale green with envy. This would have meant nothing if he couldn’t deliver vocally. There was no fear on that score as Tempest delivered a powerful, melodic performance throughout leaving many a contemporary standing in his shadow."

"Europe aren’t all just about Joey Tempest. In John Norum, Europe have a bona fide guitar hero in their ranks. With the melodic tones and dextrous flourishes of Michael Schenker, Norum excels throughout and particularly on the instrumental prior to Seventh Sign."

"Rhythm section John Levin and Ian Haughland along with keyboardist Mic Michaeli are no slouches either with the likes of Glenn Hughes taking them lock, stock and barrel as his backing band during a hiatus in Europe activity."

"Europe have been accused of being a little fluffy round the edges over the years and certainly in Carrie and New Love In Town they do have some fine ballads in their repertoire but this is a living, breathing Rock`n`Roll band and any doubters would be instantly silenced by the driving Rock of The Beast or the pumping riff of Seventh Sign and the grinding riff of the down tuned Start From the Dark."

"Many of their peers have been content to settle for the 80`s nostalgia circuit, playing cruise ships or holiday camps but not Europe. Each of their three albums, since the classic line up returned to recording action with Start From The Dark in 2003, has shown a band relevant, evolving, and unafraid to take risks and that gives Europe a drive and energy that was so clear during their stunning performance."

Read the review in full: http://tinyurl.com/ykmsktb
Photo Credit: (c) Denis O'Regan

// EUROPE SNAPPER DENIS O'REGAN INTERVIEWED //

2010-03-08T01:44:00.000-08:00

Rock photographer Denis O’Regan recently photographed Europe when they played concerts at the London O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire and Birmingham O2 Empire.

We caught up with Denis earlier this week for an interview about his working relationship with Europe over the years, and why he enjoys photographing the band so much. During the interview Denis also says he would like to publish a book of his photographs of Europe.

Q: How did you first meet Europe, what are your fond memories?

Denis: The band and I met through a mutual Swedish friend, Marianne. After the 1988 tour Joey and I used to spend time together when he lived in London's Docklands. Both of us now live in West London.

Q: You have photographed Europe on several occasions, can you describe each time you photographed them and the memories it brought back?

Denis: I toured the US with Europe in 1988, and the Far East in 1990, plus various shows around Europe. The US tour was great fun - as a band they are very funny with that quirky English/Swedish Monty Python sense of humour. The US tour was a bus tour, so we spent a lot of time together. The Far East was an amazing experience for all of us seeing another side of life, especially in the poorest areas of Jakarta where we agreed that they were the happiest people we had ever seen.

Q: What were your impressions of shooting their most recent gig at the London Shepherd’s Bush Empire?

Denis: I really enjoyed Shepherds Bush, for the energy of the band and their fans. I had photographed them the previous night in Birmingham, so I knew what to expect. Joey is more energetic than ever, and he interacted with the audience, which was great to see. Many of fans at the front had flown in from around the world.

Q: The band still look in great shape, Joey tends to be great material for photographers – do you find this exciting to work with as well

Denis: The band still looks great, and Joey is fantastic to photograph - he's exciting and that motivates me. The whole band knows how to put on a real performance, and I'm glad to see that Ian is as mad and funny as ever.

Q: What kind of camera and equipment do you use? Can you talk about digital verses colour negatives – the pros and cons of digital photography over old SLR cameras?

Denis: I use Nikon D3S cameras, and work totally digitally. I first used digital cameras at the 1999 MTV Awards and whan I photographed Paul McCartney at The Cavern in the same year. My computers are all Apple Macs, eg Mac Pro, i7 iMac, MacBook Pro; software is Photoshop and Apple's Aperture.

Q: Do you prefer shooting live or studio portraits or both

Denis: I prefer shooting live and offstage, ie documentary. I prefer to shoot what's really happening rather than to stage it - it's more of a challenge. That's also why I enjoy touring. I get to document everything: backstage, offstage, live, travel.

Q: What other bands have you recently shot and who are your favorites?

Denis: I'm photographing newer bands such as Mumford & Sons, and of course The Prodigy are amazing to photograph - one of my favourites. I recently toured with KISS, and will do so again this year. They are what they are - very photogenic live. I also cover festivals on an official basis for Coachella in California and Download in the UK.

Q: Do you specialize in other things aside from rock music photography, advertising perhaps?

Denis: I shoot Rock photography only. There's a lot of art that I like - a friend has just begun to manage Damien Hirst, so I'll probably get to see a good deal more.

Q: Which other photographers do you like? Are you also into fine art?

Denis: There are no photographers that especially stand out in my mind, although my favourite ever photograph is a shot of children's reactions to a Punch and Judy show in Paris, taken by Albert Eisenstadt.

Q: How did you first get introduced to photography? Did you study it in college or university?

Denis: 10. I was introduced to photography by rock music itself. David Bowie as Ziggy Stardust, and Jimmy Page's violin bow solo in Dazed & Confused inspired me to take up photography. I've had no training in photography or computers and Photoshop. I'm totally self taught, through experience and trial and error.

Q: Have you seen rock photography change over the years? There used to be some great rock phographers like Annie Liebowitz, Penny Smith and Mick Rock. What happened?

Denis: The cost of entry has plummeted and technology has taken over, so anyone with a digital camera and Photoshop considers themselves to be a photographer. I probably sound like a grumpy old man, but you have a sounder knowledge of photography if you've used a manual film camera and developed your own images. Then you know what a digital camera and Photoshop are really doing in emulating those processes. The first shows that I shot were on a manual focus camera with no light meter or flash. I guessed most exposures - and still can.

Q: What are your future plans and projects?

Denis: I'm publishing high end limited edition books with Duran Duran and KISS, and publishing a major book of my Punk images. I'm also planning exhibitions with Queen, David Bowie, Duran Duran and KISS. I've just launched my new web site, where I sell limited edition prints. I'd also like to publish a Europe book.

Q: Do you have any books of your work published?

Denis: I produced a number of books whilst on tour including Bowie's Serious Moonlight, Queen's A Magic Tour, and Duran Duran's Sing Blue Silver, plus others such as 'Images of Punk'. Coming soon: Duran Duran Careless Memories, and a major KISS book.

Q: Have you heard the new Europe album Last Look At Eden. What do you think about the album and what is your favorite song?

Denis: I have heard Last Look At Eden (great title), and I definitely think it's a return to form - it's also heavier! The title track and Prelude work very well together. Apart from that, my favourites tracks are The Beast and No Stone Unturned.

Q: What is your website address?

Denis: My site is http://www.denis.co.uk/

Photo Credit: Europe live at the Birmingham O2 Academy (Sept 19) and London O2 Shepherd's Bush Empire (Sept 20): (c) Denis O'Regan

// I LOVE MANCHESTER LOVES EUROPE //

2010-03-03T03:53:00.000-08:00

Photo-journalist Gemma Louise Harris took some amazing photos when Europe performed to a sold-out Manchester Academy 2 on Friday February 26th. What's more, she's posted a hot review of the concert on the I Love Manchester website.

Says Gemma Louise -

"As Europe took to the stage, I couldn’t believe my eyes... Now without sounding like a real girl, the boys looked ahem, pretty damn good. Joey Tempest (minus the extravagant 80s poodle hair) was on top form, with a gorgeous haircut and a cracking smile."

"The band certainly took the Academy by storm, taking no prisoners along their way. Their set featured a multitude of songs, ranging from Let the Good Times Rock, New Love in Town and Rock the Night to name a few. It’s also worth highlighting that the band have progressed from their 80s roots, to a sound which was noticeably, fresher, richer and a little heavier."

"I was very lucky to shoot both bands, so was pretty damn close to all the action, during which Tempest decided to reach out and grab a fan’s hand, almost pulling them over the barrier, careful not to fall off the stage himself. He was also playing up for the camera, which could only be described as gig photographer’s wet dream."

"I was suitably impressed with the boys. They played their socks off and rounded off the evening with The Final Countdown, which was the icing on the cake and made my evening. It just goes to show that the 80s produced something very special when it gave birth to Europe."

"It’s great to see that the band still command a significant following, and the new album shows they’ve still got something new to offer, over 30 years after their formation."

Read the review in full: http://love-manchester.com/gigs/review/49

Photo Credit: (c) Gemma Louise Harris

// MINTSOUTH REVIEWS EUROPE'S BOURNEMOUTH GIG //

2010-03-03T02:45:00.000-08:00

Talena Brayer has just posted a cool review of Europe's Bournemouth O2 Academy concert on Tuesday February 23rd. The review just went live on March 2nd on the mintSouth website in Southampton, England.

"An extended intro of Last Look At Eden blasts out over an unlit and empty stage, before the band appear and smash through the title track with their darker, rock image of chopped hair and plenty of leather, a far cry from the former, blond, spandex image."

"Keeping the familiar keyboard, their sound has matured with heavier riffs and plenty more guitar driven songs, with the odd bluesy moment. The audience of classic rockers are still more than familiar with all these new tracks though, enjoying the likes of No Stone Unturned, Gonna Get Ready and ballad New Love In Town, as well as a few from in between including Start From The Dark and Seventh Sign."

"Playing a mixture of old and new, Joey takes on an acoustic for the classic ballad Carrie. It’s a fantastic moment in the set and beautifully performed, with the perfect lighter swaying chorus that could easily be on any of their modern records. John Norum’s guitar is greatly responsible for the beefy riffs and the heavy rock sound to the new tracks, so before he winds into a solo, Tempest announces that tonight’s gig is actually the guitarist’s birthday."

"Joey Tempest still knows how to please a crowd and his vocals definitely haven’t lost their touch, if anything they’ve matured alongside the band’s music; so, unsurprisingly, Cherokee is still massively popular with the fans, although it appears they were hoping for 80’s favourite Ninja. Then Tempest’s teases with a hint of Rock The Night before pounding into it a few minutes later, sounding as good as it did 20 years ago and still keeping the crowd roaring."

"Saving THAT song for the encore, they drop in newbie The Beast first, a heavy track off Last Look At Eden, before the iconic keyboard hum rings out for one of the biggest sing-along’s in rock history as they explode into The Final Countdown. A song guaranteed to get every fist in the air and every one screaming ‘na na na nah, na na na na nah’ back at the band."

Read the review in full: http://tinyurl.com/yf5eu5n

// SHAKE N STIR REVIEWS EUROPE'S MANCHESTER GIG //

2010-03-02T01:02:00.000-08:00

By the time Europe arrived on stage, the venue (for the second time in two weeks) appeared to be over-capacity and jammed. But I also questioned whether the venue offered the right soundstage for the band, after many listens to the album and its large scale, arena sound. But as soon as the album’s doom-laden orchestral prelude arrived on a darkened stage, I put doubts aside and then enjoyed the explosive opening salvo of Last Look At Eden.

There were no first song nerves here; it was full-on and epic with a smiling Joey Tempest looking as though he really wanted to be there. Right now the band is on an extensive, tiring world tour, and the only sign was a good one: detailed and perfect delivery from the first note to the last.

Last Look At Eden is a fabulous song with watertight heavy rock credentials, and performed live is just as good as the album. By the time it was finished I still found myself wondering how much better it would have been in a venue twice the size, and just why the larger Academy or Manchester Apollo wasn’t used. Then I remembered what that great American troubadour Tim Rose told me some years ago: “Never undersell a venue, always sell-out.”

By song three, Superstitious, Tempest was working up a healthy sweat and was sounding great. It appeared to me that this band has a systematic approach to performance: ‘I’ll kill ‘em with vocals, connection and physicality, you guys concentrate on the tightest possible instrumentals.’ Gonna Get Ready proved another rule: Never put anything on record that you can’t perform live. It was just about perfect with the diving guitar riffs providing that floor-shaking, bass-heavy, blues-rock vibe.

The set travelled the years from the breakthrough album The Final Countdown through to the very latest. In fact I counted just five songs from the new album out of the seventeen played and four albums. The fans lapped it up big style, especially when the encore inevitably arrived with the pumping guitars and breakneck pace of The Beast and what must be the band’s regulation closer, The Final Countdown, complete with a 1,000 person chorus! Special moments for me? The opening Prelude plus Last Look At Eden, John Norum’s fabulous guitar on No Stone Unturned, New Love In Town, and the stunning encore.

Europe is one of the most complete band’s I’ve had the pleasure to watch, with great, melodic songs; a charismatic, communicative and skilled lead-man; and top level instrumentalists. I came away wanting to hear the whole thing again, but not in this venue. How about the Apollo next time lads, perhaps with another great quality support?

Great band, memorable show.

Set List:
Prelude, Last Look At Eden, Enemy, Superstitious, Gonna Get Ready, Scream Of Anger, Let The Good Times Rock, No Stone Unturned, Carrie, Sign Of The Times, Optimus, Seventh Sign, New Love In Town, Start From The Dark, Cherokee, Rock The Night, The Beast, The Final Countdown.

Read the review in full: http://tinyurl.com/y8jcbaw

Photo Credit: (c) Tony Porter, Shake N Stir

// EUROPE'S LAST LOOK AT EDEN FEATURED IN PROMO TEAZER FOR THE NEW VOLVO S60 //

2010-03-01T12:12:00.000-08:00

Europe's Last Look At Eden has been used as part of a promotional teazer video for the launch of Volvo's new car model The Volvo S60: http://tinyurl.com/yj2cfee

The flashy edited promo videos features driving sequences filmed on the streets of Los Angeles. The video previews the world premiere of the all-new Volvo S60's at the Geneva Motor Show on Tuesday March 2nd.

The Volvo S60 is equipped with Pedestrian Detection - a groundbreaking safety feature that can detect pedestrians in front of the car and brake automatically if the driver does not react in time.

"The all-new Volvo S60 is sculpted to move you," says Stephen Odell, President and CEO of Volvo Cars. "It looks and drives like no other Volvo before and the car's technology will help you to be safer and more confident behind the wheel."

Continues Odell, "Customers in this segment want emotional appeal, sporty design and dynamic driving properties. We're convinced the S60 will be one of the strongest contenders around."

Production of the sporty sedan model will start in early summer 2010 at the Volvo Cars plant in Ghent, Belgium.

Check out the first official pictures of the Volvo S60: http://tinyurl.com/yca7rx5

The Volvo S60 promo video, featuring Europe's Last Look At Eden, is also uploaded on Volvo's official website: http://tinyurl.com/yhkwxhm

// DORSET ONLINE REVIEWS BOURNEMOUTH GIG //

2010-02-28T12:15:00.000-08:00

Dan O'Gara of Dorset Rock Online just checked in with a stellar review of Europe's Bournemouth O2 Academy gig which they played on Tuesday February 23rd.

"Most bands have a song that put them in the public eye and they hate having to play it all the time. Lemmy from Motorhead hates the Ace Of Spades and Slash isn’t too keen on Sweet Child O Mine. Marillion refuse even to play Kayleigh (or any Fish era tunes) but these bands are an exception, as most know that it’s the fans that buy the records and it’s the fans that want to hear THAT song."

"I can’t imagine AC/DC not playing Whole Lotta Rosie or Metallica not playing Enter Sandman and so I would expect that a lot of folks went to the O2 to see Europe and hear the song that catapulted them to stardom, The Final Countdown."

"They certainly were not disappointed but Europe had a lot more to offer than one song, as after a slow start, the show gradually started to gain momentum. The atmosphere at lot of gigs can go up and down, maybe there’s a lull in middle or a weak finale, but Europe show what a hard working live band they are and deliver a faultless set with each tune being better and stronger than the last."

"I didn’t realise how many of their songs I actually knew and I thought that live, Europe are a totally different animal than they sound on record. Singer Joey Tempest interacts well with the audience and takes whole concert up a notch after each and every number."

"Tracks Carrie, Superstitious, Rock The Night, Last Look At Eden and The Beast batter the audience like a prizefighter in a title fight. All building up to the crescendo that is The Final Countdown. Now I don’t know if they like the song or not, but what we all found out was that they played it with utter conviction and sent us all home with a smile on our faces… and sure to have it rattling around in our heads non stop, over the next few days."

Read the review in full: http://tinyurl.com/ybfcp2b

Photo Credit: (c) Carey Brandon

// ROCKGIG FLIPS OUT OVER EUROPE'S OXFORD GIG //

2010-02-28T11:48:00.000-08:00

Mark Evans of Rockgig Reviews metal blog recently filed an intense review of Europe's Oxford O2 Academy gig on Monday Febrary 22nd. The is the second Europe gig review that Rockgig has published on the band's triumphant Last Look At Eden UK tour. The first was the Leeds O2 Academy gig reviewed by Nigel Hull (scroll down to read Hull's review).

Says Evans -

Unlike our Northern correspondent, Nigel Hull, I've been a Europe fan since 1984's Wings Of Tomorrow album and was lucky enough to see them on both The Final Countdown and Out Of This World tours. Sadly John Norum (guitar) had left by then, but since the 2004 reunion I've had the enormous pleasure to see the original band back together twice. After last year's stunning album Last Look At Eden and the Relentless Garage show in November, after three months it was interesting to see how the new songs sat comfortably into the set.

With a setlist like this how could they go wrong?

Last Look At Eden
Love Is Not The Enemy
Superstitious
Gonna Get Ready
Scream Of Anger
Let The Good Times Rock
No Stone Unturned
Oxford Town
Open Your Heart
Carrie
Optimus/Seventh Sign
New Love In Town
Start From The Dark
Cherokee
Rock The Night
Encores:
The Beast
The Final Countdown

From the opening seconds Joey Tempest (vox) treated the small club like it was a stadium playing to the gallery and his voice was in excellent shape. Jon Norum really is a guitar god. His solos are all so melodic and tell a story every time. To see him so close was a joy. The rhythm section of Jon Leven (bass), Ian Haugland (drums) and Mic Michaeli (keys) all are so solid giving the two main men the front of stage.

As you can see from the setlist we had a new song, Oxford Town, that was made up on the spot with Joey and Mic taking over as Jon's bass rig had gone down. We then got a stunning Open Your Heart again acoustic with Joey in top form. Then on to Carrie played half acoustic and then electric with a bit longer acoustic then usual as the rig was still down.

John Norum was goofing around pretending to fall asleep an top of his amp due to the 10 minute bass rig collapse. Like the consummate pros they are, it was all done so well and the acoustic set was fab. Top marks to the sound man for a crystal clear but loud mix and great light show, too.

The whole set was a highlight and the usual pandemonium broke out for The Final Countdown. Fab!

Read the review in full: http://tinyurl.com/yezte9o

// NEWCASTLE O2 ACADEMY GIG REVIEW //

2010-02-28T11:24:00.001-08:00

Simon Rushworth of the Newcastle-based metal rock blog Rush On Rock has just posted a wonderful review of Europe's Last Look At Eden concert at the Newcastle O2Academy on Saturday February 27th.

Says Rushworth -

"It’s difficult to remember Joey Tempest and his mates appearing so comfortable with their position as entertainers, with their magical back catalogue and, crucially, with each other. Of the classy quintet only John Norum still appears ill at ease in front of a baying crowd but this masterful musician is all about technical perfection. If delivering the dream solo requires deep concentration then so be it and it’s not as if his band mates are incapable of compensating for any lack of showmanship."

"Tempest namechecked Paul Rodgers and David Coverdale (and Ant and Dec) and in 2010 there is every reason to include the silky smooth Swede in any list celebrating the best in blues rock vocals. In the late 80s Europe’s frontman wasn’t afforded the opportunity to let his voice breathe but with greater artistic freedom and greater experience he is capable of crooning with the best of them. Even chart-busting standards Carrie and Cherokee sound so much more polished in the 21st century."

"Drifting into Whitesnake mode during Superstitious and slipping in a line or two of All Right Now to fuse Cherokee and Rock The Night offered further nods of respect to two of Tempest’s all-time heroes and most influential peers. This was a carefully crafted set designed to impress a mesmerised native crowd although Joey really needs to dip into his copy of ‘Larn Yersel Geordie’ after a cheesy attempt at conversing with the locals in their own tongue."

"Thankfully 2009’s incredibly accomplished Last Look At Eden was given ample opportunity to shine and New Love In Town may well be the best song Europe have written since the standout Superstitious. Bona fide spine tingling ballads are in short supply these days but this is lighter-waving gold dust. Twenty years ago it would have topped the charts – tonight it simply topped the night."

Read the review in full: http://tinyurl.com/ybp9jeu

Photo Credit: (c) Jason Sheldon

// WORCESTER NEWS RATES EUROPE'S BRISTOL GIG //

2010-02-27T07:59:00.000-08:00

Steve Johnston just posted a briliant review of Europe's gig at the Bristol O2 Academy on Wednesday February 24th.

Says Johnston - "Swedish rockers Europe were one of the most successful rock bands during the 80s, selling over 10 million albums worldwide. Taking a hiatus in 1992, they reunited temporarily for a one-off performance in Stockholm on New Year's Eve 1999 and announced an official reunion in 2003. Since then they have released three albums, Start from the Dark (2004), Secret Society (2006) and Last Look at Eden, released September 2009."

"Europe appear to have quite a following, and they don’t turn up just to hear The Final Countdown. Putting all thoughts of that era aside, Europe are a very different proposition to what you may assume. They are a strong modern rock band, fronted with the vigour, charisma and vocal dexterity of Joey Tempest and they have a true guitar hero in band co-founder John Norum."

"Opening with the grandiose Last Look at Eden, the title track from the latest album which could easily work as a Bond movie theme, Europe’s stage show and their presence is simple, there’s no pomp here. The set-list includes numerous newer tracks including Gonna Get Ready, No Stone Unturned and the power ballad New Love in Town. From the back catalogue comes Scream of Anger, Let the Good Times Rock, Superstitious, Always the Pretender and Start from the Dark."

"Whilst John Norum’s guitar work is mesmerising, particularly his instrumental piece Optimus, John Levén (bass) Mic Michaeli (keyboards) and Ian Haugland (drums) are all excellent musicians and performers."

"Presumably ladies are sent weak-kneed during the mass sing-along with Joey during Carrie, and throughout the rest of the show he commands the stage, flamboyantly and precisely twirling his trademark white microphone stand during numbers such as: Cherokee and Rock the Night."

"For the encore came the very heavy The Beast, and finally the inevitable tune that sent Bristol Academy bonkers: The Final Countdown. Concluding an excellent show and proving Europe are much more than the one song for which they will forever be associated."

Read the review in full: http://tinyurl.com/y8gq6um

Photo Credit: (c) Steve Johnston

// CLASSIC ROCK INTERVIEWS JOEY TEMPEST //

2010-02-26T12:54:00.001-08:00

Hot off the press this week comes a three page interview with Joey Tempest in the April 2010 edition of the UK's Classic Rock magazine.

Entitled 'Ever Met Hendrix', Joey talks about his encounters with Kurt Cobain, Axl Rose, Def Leppard, Lemmy, Billy Idol, Freddie Mercury, Phil Lynott, Jon Bon Jovi, and many more.

Says Joey about his encounter with Kurt Cobain - "I'm told that he wrote 'Who the fuck is Joey Tempest?' on a wall at Oakwood Apartments when we stayed in LA recording the Prisoners of Paradise album in late 1989. If it's true, it's kind of flattering, and very funny that he would take one second to even think of me."

Click here to subscribe to Classic Rock magazine: http://www.classicrockmagazine.com/

// EUROPE'S GLASGOW O2 ABC GIG PREVIEWED ON SCOTTISH TELEVISION'S SOMETHING FOR THE WEEKEND //

2010-02-26T12:29:00.001-08:00

Europe's Glasgow O2 ABC concert on Sunday February 28th is previewed tonight on Scottish Television's nightly news and entertainment programme Something For The Weekend.

Stuck for ideas this weekend? Then check out these upcoming events taking place across Scotland over the coming weekend.

Please click on the following link to preview the news piece about Europe and their only Scottish date this weekend - http://tinyurl.com/y8hxhyy

Glasgow O2 ABC - Sunday 28th February
300 Sauchiehall Street, Glasgow, G2 3JA

Box Office: 0844 477 2000 / www.o2abcglasgow.co.uk/

// BIRMINGHAM LIVE HAILS EUROPE //

2010-02-25T10:18:00.000-08:00

Birmingham Live has posted a cool review of Europe's recent Birmingham O2 Academy concert.

"It wasn’t long before the prelude from their latest album, Last Look At Eden bled into its title track to herald the introduction of Europe. From the get go, elfin vocalist Joey Tempest was a diminutive ball of energy, twirling the mic stand in a fashion straight out of the eighties that made a mockery of his advanced years."

"Moving along quickly into Superstitious, it became growingly apparent that that through a combination of a great live mix and an almost telepathic tightness achieved only by years of playing together, that Europe sounded fantastic tonight."

"Often pilloried via accusations of being one-hit-wonders (you know, with that “do-do-doo-dooo” song), and for their tenuous associations with glam rock, tonight proved that both points are wildly off-the-mark. Europe’s music is worlds away from the soulless preening cock-rockers of yesteryear, owing more to classic hard rock albeit a particularly hyper-melodic strain of it."

"The exhaustive setlist touched on all points throughout their career, from Scream of Anger and Wings of Tomorrow through to Start From The Dark and Gonna Get Ready, and not a single note sounded dated, although a few of the newer tracks suffered a little bit from lack-of-recognition-syndrome as opposed to the tried and tested Seventh Sign and Let the Good Times Rock, although all were played by the talented band with equal enthusiasm before Carrie

became a real centrepiece of the evening."

"With Tempest on acoustic guitar and keyboard wizard Mic Michaeli playing the opening section alone, it was left to the crowd to fill in the gaps, which they carried out with great voice. Tempest is still every inch the consummate frontman, giving thumbs-ups and winks to those he spots singing along, with those dazzling gnashers shining as bright as ever, no doubt sending a tingle of nostalgia to ladies of a certain era here tonight."

Read the review in full: http://tinyurl.com/yhwp23t

Photo Credit: (c) Ian Dunn

// PILEDRIVER REVIEWS EUROPE'S LONDON GIG //

2010-02-25T09:56:00.000-08:00

Satvir Bhamra has posted his review of Europe's London O2 Shepherd's Bush Empire concert on the Piledriver website.

"After being a fan of the Swedish rockers for nearly 25 years, I was really looking forward to seeing them play live for the 4th time. The set opened with the title track of their recently released album Last Look At Eden."

"From the first track, you could tell that the band’s sound has matured since the release of the guys first album back in 1983. Lead vocalist, Joey Tempest sounded amazing. Guitarist John Norum and drummer John Levén did a brilliant job too. They are great at what they do and this can be seen when they hit the stage."

"You can tell that the band put everything they have in live performances. They put alot of energy in to each track and this always produces a unique sound which cannot be replicated. Frontman, Joey Tempest also interacted alot with the crowd."

For the review in full: http://tinyurl.com/yg6mjnm

Photo Credit: (c) George Chin / IconicPix

// OXFORD MAIL CELEBRATES EURO STARS //

2010-02-24T12:43:00.001-08:00

Tim Hughes of the Oxford Mail recently published an insightful interview with Joey Tempest to coincide with Europe's recent Oxford O2 Academy concert on Monday February 22nd.

Here's an excerpt from the interview -

TRUE giants of rock, Europe will forever be associated with their rousing anthem The Final Countdown. But there’s more to Europe than that hair rock air guitar classic.

Sweden’s most successful rock act have been thrashing around, on and off since 1979when frontman Joey Tempest and guitarist John Norum first dipped their toes in the icy pool of Scandinavian glam-rock.

Since then they have released eight albums, selling 16 million copies, and toured the world. But it’s impossible to escape the shadow of that epic hit – which topped the charts in at least 25 countries.

“The Final Countdown is well known,” say Joey, with particularly un-rockstar-like understatement. “But real rock fans know that we’ve had eight albums and thousands of songs – and The Final Countdown is only one."

“It started life as just an album track but it took on a life of its own. We wrote it as an opening track for a show using borrowed keyboards. It wasn’t even going to be a single."

“We decided to go for a live video though, and released it – and people realised it was a gem. It’s magic; it communicates with people on a pure rock level."

“No one thought it would be a classic though.”

So what it is it about that song which caught the planet’s imagination? Joey thinks hard. “It flows well,” he says after a heavy pause. “I guess it’s unique. It’s like a movie soundtrack without the movie. It takes you with it."

“We were inspired by British metal bands like UFO, which is what we grew up listening to, and we use that galloping tempo. The space theme, meanwhile, came from David Bowie’s Space Oddity. I came up with the theme when I was 16, but didn’t put it into song until 1985, when I was 22."

“We are a guitar-orientated band but are a lot heavier than most people realise. Last year we played Bloodstock (in Staffordshire), which is an extreme metal festival. People wondered what we were doing there, but we played loud and powerfully – and they loved it.”

Although they sat out the bulk of the 90s, they reconvened in 2002 and have thrown themselves into it displaying a typically Nordic work ethic. “We decided to give it a break in 1992,” says Joey, who is preparing for his upcoming tour at home in London with wife Teesside lass Lisa Worthington-Larsson and son James Joakim.

“The media thought we had broken up, but we had just decided to work on other things. I did three solo albums as a singer-songwriter and did lots of shows, but I missed the band more and more. We met again on the Millennium Eve and played two songs outside in Stockholm – including The Final Countdown. It was very cold, but it felt good to be together again. We also saw these other 80s bands touring and wondered why we weren’t writing new songs.”

So they did. And, he explains, it felt like they’d never been away.

“We realised we had to get back together again and in 2004 recorded a comeback album. Our drummer (Håkan Jan ‘Ian’ Haugland) said it felt like coming back from a coffee break.”

Read the interview in full: http://tinyurl.com/y9o867m

Photo Credit: (c) Jason Sheldon

// MIDLAND ROCKS REVIEWS BIRMINGHAM GIG //

2010-02-22T10:55:00.000-08:00

Dave Evans of the Midlands Rocks music blog posted a hot review of Europe's Birmingham O2 Academy concert on Friday February 19th.

Europe have grown up musically, and the opening track Last Look At Eden demonstrates their new approach - the theatrical keyboards have always been an ever present part of their sound, but Norum's guitar is far more meatier than before, and Tempest's vocals are carried with an intent but still retaining a great deal of passion and melody.

Europe seem on a mission tonight to spell out the fact they are more than just that song! Love Is Not the Enemy from Secret Society is next up, continuing the up-tempo momentum - a fantastic mix of melodic vocals and heavy riffing, Tempest warming to the occasion and covering every inch of the stage, and the normally laid back bassist John Leven pushing himself to the lip. We are then taken back to 1988 with the epic Superstitious.

Mic Michaelis' keyboard swathes immediately acknowledged by the crowd, and Tempest doing his best David Coverdale impression by straddling the mike-stand, the song leads almost bizarrely into a cover of Rainbow's Since You've Been Gone yet somehow it works! This is what a rock show is all about! John Norum's solo is as beautiful as ever and this is classic Europe, working the stage and the crowd as only a band with their heritage can do.

Gonna Get Ready is another song from the latest album, and it again shows the band's leaner, rawer side. A real straight ahead rocker, and the middle-eight breakdown is an atmospheric treat leading to Norum's blues-tinged solo - then we are treated to Scream of Anger, unbelievably over 25 years old. Live tonight it sounds as fresh as ever and is delivered with an intensity that has to be seen to be believed, Norum's guitar playing is on fire and Ian Haugland is pounding the skins like a human pitbull. By now the O2 is seriously rocking to its foundations, the band are visibly more relaxed and seem to realise they don't need to win over this Birmingham audience.

Sensing the momentum they have built up they charge headlong into Let the Good Times Rock, Haugland attacking his kick bass drum as if to put his foot right through it, and Norum's melodic opening leading into the cheeky guitar vocal interplay. Leven's bass set firmly on funk mode, this leads into the sublime 'Leave No Stone Unturned', which sees why Michaeli is such an integral part to the band - his orchestral string-tinged keyboard adding an epic sound to what is a bluesy song. It's obvious that Norum's work with the great soulful Glenn Hughes has rubbed off on him and has enriched his playing - this is modern Europe, but without losing sight of their strengths.

Carrie takes us back again, and sees Tempest and Michaeli alone to play what is a lighters in the air ballad. Tempest's vocals are absolutely perfect and it's easy to think of him as just a vocalist and songwriter - but stripping down a song to the bare bones isn't always easy. Tempest knows how to work to the crowd, and especially the ladies, it is at this moment we wish we were all the singer in a rock band! The song finishes with a nice bit of crowd interaction and drummer Haugland leading the hands in the air waving, the band are now relaxed and we the audience having the perfect Friday night out.

Read the review in full: http://tinyurl.com/ye599b4

Photo Credit (c) Jason Sheldon

// ROCK REALMS SAYS EUROPE'S LONDON SHEPHERD BUSH EMPIRE IS THE BEST GIG THEY'VE EVER BEEN TO //

2010-02-22T06:02:00.000-08:00

Jon Wilde of UK metal music blog Rock Realms today posted a rave review of Europe's packed London O2 Shepherd's Bush Empire concert on Saturday February 20th.

Says Wilde - "Europe, a band I last saw at the Highbury Garage back in November, had a packed room to play to by the time they came out. This was a bigger venue than the Garage, and they were able to play a slightly longer set than last time - a good thing because our only complaint last time round was the omission of a few big songs."

"With a band like Europe - who have so many good songs behind them and a new album to plug - there are always going to be a few fan-favourites missing from the set. As it turned out, this time was a lot better."

"First to be played, just like the last show, was the title track from latest album Last Look At Eden. For some reason it didn't have the kick it did first time. Fortunately, from then on, the bar was raised several notches and they slayed every song they played."

"Joey Tempest sounded even better than before. John Norum was ripping it up too, and was actually quite animated for once. John Levén was as solid as a very solid rock. He doesn't move a lot, but he didn't miss a beat. Mic Michaeli reassured me he's the best rock keyboard player there is on the live stage. Last, but not least, Ian Haugland was a machine with infinite energy. Someone really should check to make sure he's human on the inside."

"Best moments? The semi-acoustic 'Carrie' was phenomenal. 'Superstitious' and 'Rock The Night' were both amazing. 'The Beast' from the new album was kick ass. Biggest surprise was the rocking cover of 'Fever', originally made popular by Peggy Lee in the 1950's. Didn't see that one coming! 'Cherokee' had to be my favourite moment overall though. I've been waiting a long time to hear that song live, and it was even better than I could have expected. 'The Final Countdown' closed the evening, and it was hard to hear Europe the crowd were singing so loud!"

"I must confess; the gig at the Highbury Garage was amazing...but this one was even better. Very rarely do I see a band for a second time and enjoy them more than the first. It happened with Chimaira...and that was the only time before this one. Europe have now managed that trick too."

"They were exceptional at The Shepherds Bush Empire. This was one of the finest gigs I've ever been to. I can't give a lot more praise than that."

Reat the review in full: http://tinyurl.com/y8fsy7p

Photo Credit (c): Daniel Heaton

// OXFORD STUDENT GETS ACADEMIC WITH EUROPE //

2010-02-22T05:13:00.000-08:00

The Oxford Student newspaper at the University of Oxford has just posted an interview with Joey Tempest. The interview coincides with Europe's concert at the Oxford O2 Academy tonight (Monday February 22nd).

Europe will probably never escape The Final Countdown. Which is a shame, as their new album, Last Look At Eden, is really rather good. It’s heavy and filled with engaging hooks, a shift which lead singer Joey Tempest attributes to a “back-to-basics” mindset that gave the album a more “spontaneous” feel. He describes it as being a more coherent effort than their last two albums, when the band were learning to play together again after the band went on hiatus in 1992.

The fresh perspective they’ve had since reuniting in 2003, along with a chance meeting or two backstage at music festivals with the likes of Chris Cornell and Robert Plant, has influenced an album that’s less Bon Jovi, more Audioslave. There’s even a bit of Guns’n’Roses - new track Run With The Angels has an outrageous stomp and vocal nattering that owes much to early Axl and co. Tempest even goes so far as to argue that “they saved rock in the early 90s with Appetite for Destruction.”

Lyrically, Tempest owes much to the heyday of 80s rock too. He’s more at ease telling stories about girls and booze than with more weighty matters. While he’s right-on in his views – the album title references Joey’s worry that a McCain victory might make “this our last look at Eden” – and pragmatic enough (“Obama has his work cut out for him at the moment”), the title-track’s lyrics don’t really pertain to such issues, barring a brief appeal to the “open minded”.

Still, they practice what they preach; Joey says Europe get offers to do promotional tours with certain companies but “we have to refuse them” as they’d be promoting “pretty dubious products”, a refreshing attitude in a world of Simon Cowells slurping Coke from troughs on American Idol.

Read the interview in full: http://tinyurl.com/ygy9n4v

Photo Credit: (c) Daniel Heaton

// BACONMUSIC REVIEWS EUROPE'S BIRMINGHAM GIG //

2010-02-21T10:30:00.000-08:00

James Allman of Staffordshire based music blog BaconMusic today posted a glowing review of Europe's Birmingham O2 Academy concert.

Says Allman - "Europe's concert opened with the bombastic Last Look at Eden, the first cut from the impressive new album of the same name."

"The ferocious Scream of Anger was a nod to the band’s earlier days, while the likes of Superstitious and Cherokee highlighted EUROPE at their 1980’s commercial peak, as did a warming acoustic rendition of the classic ballad Carrie."

"Since their post millennium reunion, EUROPE have released 3 very good albums, and songs like Start from the Dark and Love Is Not The Enemy also impressed, and it was surprising to look round and see the number of people singing along to every word."

"Frontman Joey Tempest has kept himself in great shape over the years, and his voice sounds as strong and clear today, as it did 25 years ago."

"John Norum remains one of the best guitarists in European rock, mesmerising with every solo, particularly his self-penned instrumental piece Optimus."

"As the inevitable masterpiece of The Final Countdown closed the show, EUROPE left the stage to a wall of deserved applause. They had put on an excellent show, and proved yet again that they are a band who are much more important than the one song for which they will forever be associated."

Read the review in full: http://tinyurl.com/y9f854b

Photo Credit: (c) Ian Harvey

// EUROPE INVADES BOURNEMOUTH ON FEBRURAY 23 //

2010-02-21T09:20:00.000-08:00

Sam Revell of the Daily Echo newspaper in Bournemouth recently caught up with Joey Tempeset for an interview to promote Europe's Last Look at Eden concert at the Bournemouth O2 Academy on Tuesday February 23rd.

Here's an extract from the interview published on the Daily Echo's website today -

“It was 1992, and we’d just played a gig in Portsmouth. We’d been going for 10 years by that point, and it just felt like we’d run our course,” explains Joey Tempest, lead singer of Swedish rock group Europe.

Now, nearly 20 years later, he and the band have clocked up over 1,000 gigs worldwide over a 30-year career, including an eight-year hiatus, but Portsmouth was the final straw that led to the break.

“We’d just grown bored, ten years is a long time,” remembers Joey.

“But we all knew it (the split) wouldn’t be for good.

“We always aimed to reform with a new enthusiasm further down the line.”

So here we are, with Europe back on tour and coming to rock the O2 Academy in Bournemouth on Tuesday (February 23).

Read the interview in full: http://tinyurl.com/ydyvd2o

Photo Credit: (c) Christie Goodwin

// EUROPE'S UK INVASION COMES TO NEWCASTLE //

2010-02-21T09:11:00.000-08:00

Rush on Rock's Simon Rushworth recently published an interview with Joey Tempest in the Newcastle Journal newspaper to promote Europe's forthcoming concert at the Newcastle O2 Academy on Saturday February 23rd. The following is an extract from Rushworth's blog entitled "Europe's UK Invasion."

In an era of pin-up rock stars riding the crest of the MTV wave, two men dominated teen magazines, chart shows and arena stages more than most. Joey Tempest and Jon Bon Jovi embraced big hair, big choruses and big pay cheques long before the majority of their peers latched on to the value of mixing pop metal with shoulder pads and keyboards with killer riffs.

For several years during the late 80s Tempest’s Europe fought hard for top billing alongside the US big guns Bon Jovi but commercially there was only one winner. This summer will see the latter play a 12-date residency at London’s o2 Arena while the former will be content securing festival slots as and when they become available.

Europe are, in their own credible and classy way, back. Three albums into an astonishingly vibrant rebirth, the Swedes are at the top of their game – and the top of the charts. Last year’s critically acclaimed Last Look At Eden went straight to number one in Sweden and won a new generation of fans too young to remember The Final Countdown and its myriad spin-offs.

“When the new album went to number one back home it was a great feeling,” said Tempest. “We’d hit number one with The Final Countdown (1986) and Out Of This World (1988) albums but to get back to that position 21 years later was a thrill."

“I haven’t lived in Sweden since the band was last at number one but it’s still a special feeling when you top the charts in your home country. Both of the previous ‘comeback’ albums went top 10 back home and we came very close with (2006’s) Secret Society when it charted at number two. But I suppose we’d accepted our days as a chart-topping band were over.”

Despite the private jet, 24/7 bodyguards, gallons of hairspray and layers of spandex, Tempest insists neither he nor his band mates are embarrassed about their position at the heart of hair metal’s 80s excess. “We were always able to laugh at ourselves and we never did anything too outrageous,” he added. “We accepted the image was part of the whole package but these days we are known more for our music than our make-up. I hope.”

It’s true. All three of Europe’s post-reformation records ooze confidence and quality and all three are rooted in Tempest’s love for British blues rock. A natural Anglophile, he lives in London and is married to a Teesside lass.

“When I was growing up I always looked to the British rock scene for inspiration and as a teenager I travelled to London from Sweden with my best friend to watch Thin Lizzy in Hammersmith,” he explained.

“Europe is one of the bands which is still carrying the torch for hard rock and we’ve always worn our influences on our sleeves. The bands we admire come from the UK – the likes of UFO, Lizzy, Purple and Zeppelin – and we love the heritage of rock music here.

“Of course my wife comes from a part of the world responsible for giving rock music two of its greatest ever performers. Paul Rogers and David Coverdale define the genre – Paul is the best and people love a David Coverdale tune.

“A record I played a lot in my younger days was Whitesnake’s Slide It In. David was writing with Mel Galley and it was vintage stuff. Tracks like Love Ain’t No Stranger just blew me away and I think it stayed with me for many years.”

Those who still dismiss Europe as cheesy pop – and die-hard rock fans are among some of the band’s harshest critics – really do miss the point. Building on the success of 1988’s standout track Superstitious, often cited as Tempest’s crowning glory, the Scandinavians have honed an emotive blues rock sound all of their own with Last Look At Eden the triumphant culmination of three decades of hard graft and determination.

Read the full blog entry here: http://tinyurl.com/yb7tenw

Photo Credt: (c) Edward Fielding

// NEW BLOODSTOCK 2009 PHOTO HIGHLIGHTS TRAILER FEATURING EUROPE //

2010-02-20T09:12:00.000-08:00

Rock music photographer Christie Goodwin has put together a cool promotional trailer that showcases her best images from 2009's Bloodstock Metal Festival in Derbeyshire, UK.

The trailer celebrates the forthcoming 20th Anniversary of Bloodstock in August 2010.

Europe were the headliners of Bloodstock 2009 and several cool photos of Joey Tempest and John Norum are included in this phenomenal trailer. Sit back and enjoy the metal images.

View the YouTube trailer here: http://tinyurl.com/y8qzb2j

Photo Credit: (c) Christie Goodwin

// EUROPE'S BIRMINGHAM O2 ACADEMY GIG REVIEWED //

2010-02-20T03:59:00.000-08:00

Debbie Bennett of the Wolverhampton Express & Star newspaper just posted her glowing review of Europe's triumphant concert at last night's Birmingham O2 Academy concert.

Says Bennett - "They will forever more be associated with their 1986 hit The Final Countdown but Europe were keen to highlight in Birmingham last night how they have transformed themselves into a leaner, meaner rockin’ machine."

"Since reforming in 2003 after a 10-year break," continues Bennett, "the Swedish superstars have released three albums highlighting a heavier, rawer sound than they are generally remembered for and garnering some serious acclaim from critics and fans alike."

"They made their point by opening last night’s show with the title track from their most recent album, Last Look At Eden, lead singer Joey Tempest flicking his trademark long hair and taking command of the O2, a brilliant frontman, as guitarist John Norum provided the six-string fire power."

"The setlist was peppered with hits from throughout the band’s three-decade career, with later songs like Gonna Get Ready, Start From The Dark and the seriously heavy The Beast giving way to 80s flavoured classics including Cherokee and Rock The Night."

"The biggest crowd singalong of the night came with an acoustic rendition of Carrie, while Joey – who can still make the female half of the audience go weak at the knees – namechecked some of the Midlands’ biggest bands – Black Sabbath, Led Zeppelin and Judas Priest – before confessing that he grew his 80s mane of hair because he wanted to look like Robert Plant."

"One of the highlights of the show was the gorgeous ballad New Love in Town, but of course there was only one way to end the night, and as the famous keyboard intro to The Final Countdown rang out, the Birmingham crowd went suitably berserk."

For the full review and selection of live photos: http://tinyurl.com/yeapvkg

Photo Credit: (c) Ian Harvey

// ROCK GIG REVIEWS EUROPE'S LEEDS ACADEMY GIG //

2010-02-19T09:34:00.000-08:00

Nigel Hull, key music correspondent for the UK metal blog Rock Gig, today posted a review of Europe's Leed's O2 Academy concert that kicked off the band's highly anticipated UK tour on Thursday February 18th.

Says Hull -

I’ve always considered myself as a bit of a sceptic when it comes to Europe (both musically and politically) but my musical views have changes quite rapidly over the last 6 months or so with the arrival of Last Look at Eden.

I had no hesitation in naming it as one of my top CDs of 2009, but would the live show to my expectations?

Europe burst onto the stage to rousing applause with their opening song Last Look at Eden; this was the first of many from the new CD which included Gonna Get Ready, No Stone Unturned and excellent rendition of New Love in Town.

From the back catalogue we had songs like Scream of Anger, Let the Good Times Rock, Superstitious, Always the Pretender, Start from the Dark and of course we all sang along to Carrie.

Throughout Joey Tempest led the band with the swagger of an experienced front man. I’m not sure who would win a microphone stand twilling competition between him and David Coverdale.

I also have a new guitar hero in the shape of John Norum he was so melodic and his solos really added to all the songs.

For the review in full, click here: http://tinyurl.com/yf56zjl

Photo Credit: (c) Edward Fielding

// DORSET ROCK ONLINE INTERVIEWS JOEY TEMPEST //

2010-02-18T14:11:00.000-08:00

Dorset Rock Online's Dan Rention today interviewed Joey Tempest about Europe's forthcoming concert at the Bournemouth O2 Academy on Tuesday February 23rd.

With such a back catalogue, are there any songs on the setlist that the band especially gets a kick out of playing live?

JT. Some of the old ones really belong in the set. Its hard to stay away from live classics like Rock The Night and (The) Final Countdown. Scream of Anger also seem to fit. We also love playing Start From The Dark and Always The Pretenders.

Europe has rocked cities the world over. Are there any places you’re looking forward to playing again on this tour?

JT. We still haven’t played Australia. It was too crazy in the late 80s and early 90’s.

What do you do in the downtime when you’re on tour?

JT. Right now I love hanging out with my son Jamie.

What can people expect when they come to see Europe perform?

JT. It’s a good night out. Great new Rock ‘n’ Roll with some nostalgia kicks. We walk off the stage elevated and the audience leave with a grin.

For the full story and photos: http://www.dorsetrockonline.com/?p=2894

Photo Credit: (c) Christie Goodwin

// YORKSHIRE TONIGHT CATCHES UP WITH EUROPE //

2010-02-18T13:01:00.001-08:00

Before Europe kicked off the start of their long-awaited UK tour at the Leeds O2 Academy on Thursday Feburary 18th, Ian Maude of Yorkshire Tonight caught up with the band during sound check.

Watch Europe interviewed on Yorkshire Tonight: http://tinyurl.com/ye8cj3c

// BRISTOL EVENING POST TALKS TO EUROPE //

2010-02-18T12:29:00.000-08:00

The Bristol Evening Post's Steve Harnell caught up with Europe's Joey Tempest during the lead up to the band's highly anticipated Bristol O2 Academy concert on Wednesday February 24th.

The Final Countdown – three words that will send any thirtysomething back to the mid-Eighties and a world of bubble perms so large you could see them from space.

While Swedish rockers Europe will never completely escape their huge global number one from 1986, they’re now several years into the second phase of their career which has given them a whole new lease of life.

You might think that frontman Joey Tempest would be just the slightest bit touchy about talking once again about the band’s most famous song, but he’s broad-shouldered enough to take a bit of a ribbing about the decade that fashion forgot and sufficiently savvy to realise that The Final Countdown opened doors for them everywhere they went.

“We all still have a positive connection to that song and love playing it live,” he tells me. “It has a great connection with the audience. It was written as an album track and as an opening song to our show. In our world, it’s still a great rock album track. We didn’t have a clue though that it would be so massive and become a classic pop song.

“Our third album was a huge success primarily because of that song and allowed us to tour in the UK and the US.

“For us, that was always our dream from the beginning and it really helped us along.”

But Joey, did you really have to impose all of that Spandex and big hair on the world? Some of us are only just getting over it now...

“You know it’s funny, when you’re young you take inspiration from everywhere. I remember just wanting to look like Robert Plant. I didn’t quite get there but I had a lot of fun doing it. It was an interesting era but a bit overblown.

“Now there’s a bit of distance from it all you discover that there were some good melodies and some great bands as well.”

After riding out the commercial success of The Final Countdown, and despite no formal announcement being made, Europe effectively split in 1992 and stayed on permanent hiatus until officially reconvening in 2003.

They’re now three albums into Europe MkII and released Last Look At Eden back in September – a no-nonsense collection of Led Zeppelin-esque classic rock barnstormers. The band are all Anglophiles and openly profess their love for seminal British hard rock bands such as the aforementioned Zep, Thin Lizzy and Deep Purple. Does the band still refer back to their old favourites for inspiration?

“Yes, I think they’re still important when we record and write,” Joey explains.

“On this new record, we weren’t shy of using influences and just letting go and having a bit of fun with it. We still follow current bands though like Audioslave, Muse and Foo Fighters. Those last two are like the new really big arena hard rock bands.

Read the interview in full: http://tinyurl.com/ygy92y7

// THE JOURNAL COUNTS DOWN TO EUROPE'S NEWCASTLE O2 ACADEMDY SHOW //

2010-02-17T13:08:00.000-08:00

Check out this fascinating interivew with Joey Tempest published in the Newcastle Journal on Wednesday February 17th. The intereview celebrates Europe's highly anticipated Newcastle O2 Academy concert on Saturday February 27th.

To the masses they're the band behind anthemic 80s classic The Final Countdown. However, Europe remain one of the most influential bands on the planet, according to Simon Rushworth.

In an era of pin-up rock stars riding the crest of the MTV wave, two men dominated teen magazines, chart shows and arena stages more than most.

Joey Tempest and Jon Bon Jovi embraced big hair, big choruses and big pay cheques long before the majority of their peers latched on to the value of mixing pop metal with shoulder pads and keyboards with killer riffs.

For several years during the late 80s Tempest’s Europe fought hard for top billing alongside the US big guns Bon Jovi but commercially there was only one winner.

This summer will see the latter play a 12-date residency at London’s o2 Arena while the former will be content securing festival slots as and when they become available.

But Europe are, in their own credible and classy way, back.

Three albums into an astonishingly vibrant rebirth, the Swedes are at the top of their game – and the top of the charts.

Last year’s critically acclaimed Last Look at Eden went straight to number one in their home country and won a new generation of fans too young to remember The Final Countdown and its myriad spin-offs.

“When the new album went to number one back home it was a great feeling,” says Tempest.

“We’d hit number one with The Final Countdown (1986) and Out of This World (1988) albums but to get back to that position 21 years later was a thrill.

“I haven’t lived in Sweden since the band was last at number one but it’s still a special feeling when you top the charts in your home country.

“Both of the previous ‘comeback’ albums went top 10 back home and we came very close with Secret Society (2006) when it charted at number two. But I suppose we’d accepted our days as a chart-topping band were over.”

Despite the private jet, 24-7 bodyguards, gallons of hairspray and layers of spandex, Tempest insists neither he nor his band mates are embarrassed about their position at the heart of hair metal’s 80s excess.

“We were always able to laugh at ourselves and we never did anything too outrageous,” he adds. “We accepted the image was part of the whole package but these days we are known more for our music than our make-up. I hope.”

Click here to read the interview in full: http://tinyurl.com/ye4blrn

Photo Credit: (c) Tina Korhonen

// EUROPE TO TAKEOVER 96.3 ROCK RADIO //

2010-02-17T07:44:00.000-08:00

Sweden's biggest hard rock band "EUROPE" is set to take-over the 96.3 Rock Radio airwaves in Glasgow, Manchester and Newcastle with their very own show on Tuesday 23rd February.

Singer Joey Tempest and guitarist John Norum from the band, who are due to play the Newcastle O2 Academy on Saturday February 27th and Glasgow O2 ABC on Sunday 28th February, chat to Rock Jock Tom Russell and pick some of their favourite songs form bands like Journey, Black Stone Cherry, Thin Lizzy and Deep Purple.

96.3 Rock Radio Drivetime presenter, Tom Russell said, "I spoke to Joey Tempest at the recent Classic Rock Magazine Awards and he told me how much he had enjoyed recording the takeover show so much, that if he ever had to give up singing for a living, he'd be knocking on my door at 96.3 Rock Radio for a job as a DJ!"

The Europe interview will be broadcast online across the whole of the UK on Tuesday night at 10pm via 'Listen Live'.

Listen Live: http://www.rockradio.co.uk/scotland/station/listen-live/dl89f9gu/

Download the interview: http://www14.zippyshare.com/v/11982469/file.html

You can also listen to the interview on the following UK radio stations:

Rock Manchester - FM 106.1
Rock Scotland - FM 96.3 / DAB from Glasgow to Edinburgh
Rock North East - DAB Newcastle & surronding areas of North East England

// THE SHROPSHIRE STAR TALKS TO EUROPE'S MIC MICHAELI //

2010-02-15T08:48:00.000-08:00

Ian Harvey of the Shropshire Star newspaper waxes lyrical with Europe's keyboard player, Mic Michaeli. The interview was conducted before Europe kicks off their UK tour on Thursday February 18th at the Leeds O2 Academy, followed by a packed gig at the Birmingham O2 Academy on Friday February 19th.

Here's a snippet of the interview -

It’s an anthem that never fails to get a reaction. Some love it, some hate it, but 23 years after it rocked its way into the charts, Europe’s The Final Countdown is still instantly recognisable by its opening synthesiser riff, writes Ian Harvey.

The man who gets to play that famous introduction on stage every night is Europe keyboard player, Mic Michaeli.

“A lot of people think that we’re really bored with playing The Final Countdown,” says Mic, on the phone from Sweden.

“But we actually still think that it’s a blast doing it. And a lot of that is to do with the audience who usually go crazy. Just getting that feedback from the audience is really amazing.”

Full interview - www.shropshirestar.com/2009/10/01/europe-counting-down-again/
Photo Credit: Patric Ullaeus

// WOLVERHAMPTON EXPRESS & STAR ASKS JOEY TEMPEST 13 QUESTIONS //

2010-02-15T08:35:00.000-08:00

The Wolverhampton Express and Star website today published a lifestyle Q&A with Joey Tempest. A hard copy of the Q&A will be published on Friday 19th February, the same day EUROPE play the Birmingham O2 Academy with special guest Diamond Head.

During the Q&A Joey answers a few of the following questions -

It’s Friday afternoon. What’s on your mind?
Being a Swede living in the UK, I’m amazed what big news a few centimetres of snow makes . . .

Who normally has the pleasure of your company at the weekend?
My Wife Lisa and my son Jamie.

How do you prepare for a big night out?
A bit of music followed by a mojito before jumping in the taxi . . .

What’s your favorite party outfit?
Comfortable shoes . . . that’s it!

You’ve just arrived at the bar. What’s your first drink?
Another mojito. Used to be Long Island ice teas but I’ve had to cut down on those.

What is your favorite nightspot and why?
I’d like to see a concert first (right now I would like to see Them Crooked Vultures) then hit a night club

To read the interview in full please visit -
www.expressandstar.com/2010/02/15/a-quickfire-grilling-for-europe-man-joey-tempest/

Photo Credit: (c) Tina Korhonen

// JOEY TEMPEST ON BBC 6 MUSIC'S THE GEORGE LAMB SHOW //

2010-02-12T13:17:00.000-08:00

On Saturday February 13th, Joey Tempest of Europe appeared as a special guest on BBC 6 Music's The George Lamb Show between 9:15 to 9:35 am.

George and Joey talked all about Europe's forthcoming UK tour, which kicks off at the Leeds 02 Academy on Thursday 18th February, the band's new album Last Look At Eden, The Final Countdown, and George also gave the band's latest single "New Love In Town" a spin.

If you missed the interview then don't worry, you can hear it for the rest of the week on the BBC's iPlayer service, click here - http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b00qtl28/George_Lamb_13_02_2010/

Joey is on-air from 2 hours 17 until 2 hours 33.

The official George Lamb BBC 6 Music page is here - http://www.bbc.co.uk/6music/shows/georgelamb/index.shtml

// SCAN MAGAZINE WAX LYRICAL ABOUT EUROPE'S FORTHCOMING UK TOUR //

2010-02-12T12:29:00.000-08:00

Scan magazine, the leading magazine for Scandanavian ex-pats living and working in London, recently conducted an interview with Joey Tempest of Europe.

Says the Emelie Krugly -

"If you have never heard The Final Countdown, you have to visit planet Earth more often – and in particular Europe! The band’s Keyboard Intro is one of rock history’s most iconic creations ever. Scan Magazine talks to Europe’s singer Joey Tempest about the band’s wild heydays in the 80s, their successful new album Last Look at Eden and the forthcoming UK tour."

"Rolf Magnus Joakim Larsson better known as Joey Tempest was certainly a pioneer of ‘Hair metal’ in the 1980s. As a fan I still remember how I used to steal my brothers OKEJ magazines, (Sweden’s largest teenage pop magazine) every time Joey was on the cover. I would languish, pretending I was his girlfriend entangling my fingers in his long and wavy hair. It almost feels surreal now hearing his voice on the telephone."

"The Force that got them started."

"For the group it all started in the Stockholm suburb Upplands Väsby in 1979 when Joey and his friends, guitarist John Norum, bassist Peter Olsson and drummer Tony Reno performed under the name Force."

"In their teens the foursome had great confidence in the band and sent several demos to record companies only to be told that to be published they had to cut their hair and sing in Swedish. Their first breakthrough was winning the Swedish rock talent contest Rock-SM; having competed against 4,000 other bands they were presented with a record deal with Hot Records. During the contest, Force changed their name to Europe; why? The idea came from listening to a number of Deep Purple’s live albums and in particular Made in Europe, explains Joey. “It took the guys quite a while to get used to it, about 17 pints or so,” he recalls laughing."

Click here for the full interview: www.scanmagazine.co.uk/2010/02/europe-the-final-countdown-is-reset/

// MINTSOUTH INTERVIEWS JOEY TEMPEST ABOUT EUROPE'S FORTHCOMING GIG IN BOURNEMOUTH //

2010-02-12T12:19:00.000-08:00

Southampton-based music website, Mintsouth, recently caught up with Joey Tempest while Europe were on tour in Solvakia, to chat with Europe's charismatic lead singer about the band's forthcoming concert at the Bournemouth 02 Academy on Tuesday 23rd February.

Check out the full interview here: http://tinyurl.com/yzfgdac

Photo Credit (c) Christie Goodwin

// THE OXFORD MAIL INTERVIEWS JOEY TEMPEST //

2010-02-12T08:11:00.000-08:00

The Oxford Mail's music correspondant, Tim Hughes, recently interviewed EUROPE frontman Joey Tempest ahead of the bands February 22nd appearence at the Oxford O2 Academy.

During the interview, they discuss the band's career, their critically acclaimed new Last Look At Eden album, their imminent UK tour and their triumphant headline performance at last year's Bloodstock Festival.

"One thing's for sure, there's no sign of a 'Final Countdown' for Europe. They're here to stay," says Tim Hughes of the Oxford Mail.

You can read the full interview by clicking the feature below:

// IAN HAUGLAND TALKS "THE FINAL COUNTDOWN" IN RHYTHM MAGAZINE //

2010-02-10T04:17:00.000-08:00

EUROPE drummer Ian Haugland recently sat down with the UK's largest drum magazine "Rhythm" to talk about the band's classic song "The Final Countdown".

They talk about how the song was written, how it was recorded and how none of the band thought it was going to be a hit! Read the full article below:

// EUROPE UK TOUR MEET & GREET WINNER ANNOUNCED //

2010-02-10T03:49:00.000-08:00

Over the last few weeks, Europe's Press and Media Blog have been running a special competition for followers of the blog to win the chance to meet EUROPE on their upcoming UK tour.

The competition has now closed and we are happy to announce the winner as:

Terry Davies

We would like to take this opportunity to offer our congratulations to Terry and our commiserations to the others who entered. After a phenomenal response to the competition, we must ask that you now stop emailing answers to peter@noblepr.co.uk.

Remember, tickets are still available for all UK concerts by calling 08744 477 2000 (for the Manchester Academy 2 show, call 0161 832 1111). You can also book online via http://www.ticketweb.co.uk/ (For the Manchester Academy 2 - http://www.ticketline.co.uk/ / http://www.manchesteracademy.net/)

Full UK Tour details - www.noblepr.co.uk/Press_Releases/earmusic/europetour.htm

// EUROPE ANNOUNCE CONCERT WITH KISS //

2010-02-03T08:32:00.000-08:00

Today, Swedish rockers EUROPE announced a very special concert with fellow rock legends "KISS"! The concert will take place in Stockholm on June 12th 2010.

For further information, visit the "Tourdates" column running down the right-hand side of the media blog!

// DORSET ROCK ONLINE REPORTS ON EUROPE'S BOURNEMOUTH 02 ACADEMY GIG //

2010-02-02T02:54:00.001-08:00

Dan Renton at Dorset Rock Online's blog has just posted information about Europe's forthcoming Last Look At Eden concert at the Bournemouth O2 Academy on Tuesday February 23rd.

Says Renton - “Metal Hammer recently praised Europe for their outstanding Bloodstock performance – “Europe pulls together all ages and tastes for a feel-good finale that smells like total victory.”

“This time we’re taking a new direction with our songs, and we’re exploring different styles,” says (singer, Joey) Tempest. “There is a definite classic rock vibe on several tracks on this album – a tip of the hat to groovin’, funkin’ 70’s rock songs, with a modern twist.”

Click here for the full news story - http://www.dorsetrockonline.com/?p=2780

// SHAKENSTIR REPORT ON FORTHCOMING UK TOUR //

2010-01-19T00:16:00.000-08:00

Popular British music site "Shakenstir" have reported on EUROPE's forthcoming UK tour. The article features a brief overview of Europe's 2009, speaking of new album "Last Look At Eden", the band's triumphant appearance at the Bloodstock Festival and the sold-out Classic Rock Awards concert at the Islington Relentless Garage.

The tour, that starts at the Leeeds O2 Academy on February 18th and runs until Feb 28th, will include special guests 'Diamond Head'.

See the article below, which includes brand new band photos by Tina Korhonen:
http://www.shakenstir.co.uk/index.php/news/europe-february-09-uk-tour/news/14167/

// EUROPE INTERVIEWED BY LEEDS MUSIC SCENE //

2010-01-18T01:33:00.000-08:00

Joey Tempest was recently interviewed by Joseph Seager for Leeds Music Scene about the band's forthcoming concert at the Leeds O2 Academy on Thursday 18th February (the first date on the band's highly anticipated forthcoming UK tour).

Leeds Music Scene:

Hello Joey from the legends that are Europe! Are you pleased with your most recent album 'Last Look at Eden'?

Joey Tempest:

Yes. Very! And it seems to be connecting with a lot of people.

Leeds Music Scene:

After releasing the title track in single format and following that up with 'New Love In Town' in February, are you planning on releasing anything else from the album?

Joey Tempest:

New Love In Town is still being served to radio stations around europe but I believe we will release a third single in a couple of months or so.

Leeds Music Scene:

What's your favourite track from the album?

Joe Tempest:

It changes from week to week. Right now I'm really into the title track Last Look at Eden, Catch That Plane and No Stone Unturned.

For the full interview, click here - http://www.leedsmusicscene.net/article/12157/

Photo Credit: Patric Ullaeus

// EUROPE'S ALMOST UNPLUGGED CONCERT FEATURED ON SWEDEN'S SVT1 //

2010-01-16T15:10:00.000-08:00

An hour long edition of Europe's Almost Unplugged concert will be featured on Sweden's SVT1 on Sunday 17th January.

Originally recorded live at Nalen in Stockholm, Europe will be accompanied by a string quartet, and will play some of their greatest hits as well as some cover songs that have influenced them over the years. The show will be broadcast live over the Internet.

The SVT1 broadcast will begin at 22:15 CET.

Click here to visit the website - http://svt.se/

// JOEY TEMPEST TALKS TO THE YORKSHIRE EVENING POST / /

2010-01-14T04:26:00.002-08:00

The Yorkshire Evening Post newspaper caught up with Joey Tempest this week to talk about Europe's forthcoming concert at the Leeds O2 Academy on Thursday 18th February. The concert is the first date on Europe's forthcoming UK February 2010 tour.

Says the newspaper - "The 46-year-old frontman is gearing up for a busy few months of touring. Next week his five-piece band heads for the Netherlands then Belgium, France, Spain, Switzerland, Italy and Austria before returning to Britain in February."

"Their first English date will be in Leeds.It's all on the back of Last Look at Eden, Europe's ninth studio album in a 30-year career. It's a record that may surprise those who are only familiar with the band from their soft rock anthem The Final Countdown. "

"With its guitars cranked up to 11, Last Look at Eden seems more reminiscent of the bands Joey idolised in his youth such as Led Zeppelin and Thin Lizzy."Our influences shine through more on this record than any other," agrees Joey. "We've done three albums in five years, all of them are more guitar-based and heavier than perhaps the big albums which were produced more for American radio."

Click here for the full interview -
http://www.yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk/musicandgigs/Music-interview-Europe.5983091.jp

Photo credit: (c) Tina Korhonen

// LAST LOOK AT EDEN - BEST SYMPHONIC ROCK/METAL SONG: ROCK REALMS 2009 AWARD WINNER //

2010-01-08T04:54:00.000-08:00

Rock Realms today has voted Europe's 'Last Look At Eden' as their top Symphonic Rock/Metal Song: Winner of 2009.

Says, Rock Realm's editor, Jon Wilde - "We absolutely love the title track from this record. Who'd have thought, back in the 1980's, Europe would still be making music this good and this relevent 20+ years later? Add that to the fact they can still blow any other band out of the water live, and you get the impression they'll still be doing this in 2030!"

For the full list of 2009 Rock Realm Awards, click here - http://www.rockrealms.com/awards/2009awards/index.php

// EUROPE & PATRIC ULLAEUS NOMINATED AT THE SWEDISH METAL AWARDS //

2010-01-04T04:38:00.000-08:00

Europe's prestigious 'Last Look At Eden' album has picked up further acclaim in early 2010 by being nominated for "Best Hard Rock Album" at the Swedish Metal Awards.

In addition, Patric Ullaeus has been nominated for the "Best Music Video" award for his excellent "Last Look At Eden" Video.

The Swedish Metal Awards will take place on Friday 29th January 2010, read all about them here - http://www.swedishmetalawards.com/

// KEYBOARD PLAYER MAGAZINE - MIC MICHAELI COVER FEATURE //

2010-01-04T04:31:00.000-08:00

Europe's Mic Michaeli is featured on the front cover of January 2010's edition of "Keyboard Player" - the UK's number 1 Keyboard magazine.

Talking about the new album 'Last Look At Eden', Europe's career and the band's forthcoming UK Tour; here is an extract from the 5 page feature:

"What's Mic Michaeli's favourite track on Europe's new album Last Look At Eden? Well it's obvious really; "'No Stone Unturned', the only song with a keyboard solo in it!" the Swedish Keysman grins triumphantly.

So, as the keyboard player in a guitar oriented rock band, does he lobby for more solos? "I actually did this time, and i would have liked more. There is one (on Last Look At Eden), which is one more than on the last album! So that's good, we're getting there, maybe two on the next album....i hope!"

Not that Michaeli is compaining. He's always liked guitar bands, and having been in Europe for more than half his life, the 46 year old musician clearly enjoys his home.

"It's challenging, because you have to ways of doing interesting things for the sound of the band. On many of the songs, we have actually kept the keyboards playing the same part as the guitar. It's turned back in the mix, but it gives a special sound, and adds something extra to the riff."

To order the magazine and read the full interview, click here - http://www.keyboardplayer.com/

// JOEY TEMPEST MEETS FRANK SKINNER //

2009-12-22T09:37:00.001-08:00

On Saturday December 19th, Joey Tempest was interviewed live on Absolute Radio by legendary comedian Frank Skinner. The 30-minute interview aired from 9:10 - 9:40. Joey was quizzed by Frank about the forthcoming February 2010 UK tour, the new album 'Last Look At Eden', the new single "New Love In Town", and "The Final Countdown".

Europe's forthcoming single 'New Love In Town', released January 2010, was played in its entirety on Absolute Radio for the very first time.

Listen back to the interview on Frank Skinner's podcast via the following link - http://network.absoluteradio.co.uk/core/podcasts/rss.xml?title=frankskinner

// JOEY TEMPEST INTERVIEWED ON LIVE FROM STUDIO FIVE //

2009-12-21T07:22:00.000-08:00

On Thursday December 17th, Europe vocalist Joey Tempest was interviewed live on Channel 5 television's early evening chat show "Live From Studio Five".

The popular UK television show is hosted by former Arsenal footballer Ian Wright and also features Melinda Messenger and Kate Walsh. Described as an early evening news and entertainment show with a difference, Live From Studio Five is a mix of celebrity interviews, gossip and banter and the latest news.

Speaking about Europe's prestigious career, new album 'Last Look At Eden', and the forthcoming UK tour, check out the interview below:

For further info - http://www.five.tv/programmes/daytime/live-from-studio-five/55398

// JOEY TEMPEST ISSUES END-OF-YEAR UPDATE //

2009-12-18T10:43:00.001-08:00

Speaking exclusively to top rock and roll website "Brave Words & Bloody Knuckles", Europe singer Joey Tempest looks back on the year that was 2009...

"2009 has been the best year for Europe in a long time. The reviews and reactions around the world for our new CD 'Last Look At Eden' have been phenomenal. With a number one CD in our native country Sweden, life is good in the Europe camp right now and this is only the beginning"

For the full story, including a tour report from the band's recent German concerts and a sneak peak at the what Europe have planned for the future, click here - http://www.bravewords.com/news/128570

Photo Credit: (c) 2009 Tina Korhonen
http://www.tina-k.co.uk/
http://www.myspace.com/tina_korhonen

// EUROPE NOMINATED FOR A SWEDISH GRAMMY //

2009-12-10T10:48:00.000-08:00

Europe have been nominated as a finalist in this year's Swedish Grammis. Voting has already begun and will remain open until midnight Sunday December 13th.

Here's how you can make your vote count:

Click on the following link: http://vote.grammis.se/kategorier/arets-rock.aspx

Be sure to select "1" next to "Europe", and choose "2" and "3" next to any two artists in the list above Europe. Remember that this is a competion for glory, but we still want to compete with the underdogs to be sure to bring home the prize!

Fill in your name and email address in the fields that will appear, and click "ROSTA". Make sure it is a valid email address, as you will receive an email which will ask you to confirm your vote by clicking on the link supplied.

Lets rally together and help get Europe get the recognition they deserve for their efforts this year with their storming gold album Last Look at Eden.

Photo Credit: (c) Fredrik Etoall

// TINA KORHONEN SHOOTS EUROPE IN LONDON //

2009-12-09T12:28:00.001-08:00

London-based Finnish rock photographer, Tina Korhonen recently caught up with Europe when they played a sold-out concert at the London Relentless Garage on November 1st, as part of the Classic Rock Magazine Awards Week.

Before the sold out concert, Tina did a photo shoot with the band and also photographed the first three songs. Check out the band portrait Tina took of the band before the concert.

Photo Credit: (c) 2009 Tina Korhonen
http://www.tina-k.co.uk/
http://www.myspace.com/tina_korhonen

// JOEY TEMPEST BERLIN VIDEO INTERVIEW //

2009-12-09T12:18:00.000-08:00

During the recent Last Look At Eden tour of Germany in November, EUROPE played a concert in Berlin and hooked up with PitCam Productions and More-Metal.com.

Check out the interview with lead singer Joey Tempest, filmed on November 17, 2009.

// POWERPLAY HAILS EUROPE'S LONDON GARAGE GIG //

2009-12-02T02:58:00.000-08:00

Matt Ingham reviews Europe's sold out London Relentless Garage concert on November 1st in the new issue of the UK's PowerPlay magazine. It's a 9/10 live review.

Says Ingham, "On a crisp Sunday night with streets nearing a comatose state, the intimacy of London's Garage was the only place that showed any signs of a heart still beating. Tonight marked the celebrated retaliation of heavy metal explorers - Europe - their charming return evidenced with a brand new album tucked smartly under their arms."

"If Last Look At Eden is a potent slab of evocative hard rock abundant in hooks and crammed with juicy crunch, then tonight the crowd found Shangri-La. The band's latest opus is a fresh and logical exposition build on the arsenal of knowledge and still perceived through innovative eys, and 2009 saw them reach new studio heights."

Order the magazine from - http://www.powerplaymagazine.co.uk/

// EspyRock says the next Europe's album will be out in 2011 //

2009-12-01T02:14:00.000-08:00

EspyRock has just published a revealing interview with Europe's lead singer Joey Tempest.

Here's an excerpt from the interview -

To simply say that they’re back would be an injustice to the rambunctious rocker that is Last Look At Eden. Epic, heavy and groovy in equal measure, it still rocks just as hard 3 months and umpteen listens later. When the first riff of the title track kicks in, you can’t help but jump off your seat and pump your fists. This is a class apart because Europe have managed that rare feat in rock – write a song that is a melodic, stadium-rock anthem you can sing along to, but still has enough aggro to bang your head to. Everything about the song says I shouldn’t, as an extreme metal fan, like it – soaring vocals, relatively clean guitar tones, an uber-melodic chorus. I was expecting glam but what I got was closer to goth. And that’s brilliant.

“I came up with the music for it in London, in my studio but it really took a new shape and majestic feel when we started rehearsing it and then went to Prague to record with the Czech national symphony orchestra. So during recording, it became even more majestic but the main riff, verse and chorus I already had on the demo,” reveals Joey.

Not surprisingly, he calls Last Look At Eden one of their best albums ever. It represents a progression that began with Europe’s reunion in 2003 and the two albums since then – Start From The Dark and Secret Society. “We knew it would take years and years and more albums to establish ourselves again. Start From The Dark was a raw diamond and with Secret Society we tried to make a cutting edge modern rock album. On Last Look At Eden we started writing on the road, didn’t overthink it and just had fun in the studio. It’s a modern classic rock album. It’s got all our influences from when we grew up but it’s also got a modern sound.”

To read the full interview, click on the following link -

http://espyrock.com/2009/11/joey-tempest-the-next-europe-album-will-be-out-in-2011-3387/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=joey-tempest-the-next-europe-album-will-be-out-in-2011

Photo Credit: (c) Christie Goodwin

// SEA OF TRANQUILITY REVIEWS EDEN //

2009-11-18T12:49:00.000-08:00

Sea of Tranquility recently posted a review of Europe's new studio album Last Look At Eden.

Says the website - "With a forthcoming tour in January that will see the band roam across, funnily enough, Europe, followed by a nine date visit to the UK in February will Last Look At Eden benefit from the live setting in the same way? Well the simple answer to that is no and..........yes!"

"Melding the instant catchy melodic hooks that Europe initially became famous for with the brooding heavy riffs of the comeback albums has led to a perfect balance of subtlety and impact. Once more it's Norum's guitar that holds everything together, however there is more space for Mic Michaeli's keyboards to lift the mood and add deft touches of melody that were possibly lacking before."

"In fact Last Look At Eden really has found Europe in a rich vein of form which is illustrated right from the off with the title track smacking you in the face with a great memorable riff. Bassist John Leven and drummer Ian Haugland grab that riff and turn it into a hard hitting melodic masterpiece with a chorus line that refuses to leave you head, what a great way to start an album."

Full review - http://www.seaoftranquility.org/reviews.php?op=showcontent&id=8525

Photo Credit: (c) Christie Goodwin

// IAN HAUGLAND TALKS TO ROCK REALMS //

2009-11-17T03:44:00.000-08:00

Europe's drummer, Ian Haugland, was recently interviewed by the UK metal site Rock Realms.

Haugland speaks about the return of Europe, his early influences - Deep Purple, Led Zeppelin, Black Sabbath and Budgie, and much more.

Rock Realms: "How did you find the writing and recording process on the new album?"

Ian: "This album we did a lot more jamming on the different ideas, sending sound files between us on the web that allowed us to add our ideas to the songs at an early stage. The recording went very fast as well. I put down the drum tracks in 2 days. The rest of the time was beer time for me. I think Joey and Mic did an amazing job producing much of the album."

Rock Realms: "The new songs seem to go down really well live. Are you surprised that people have taken to them so quickly or did you always have a sneaky feeling they would?"

Ian: "It´s always hard to tell before how the new songs are gonna be received by the crowd. But this time we actually felt extra confident about the songs. They seem to have gone down great so far."

Read the full interivew here - http://www.rockrealms.com/interrogation/europe1.php

Photo Credit: (c) Fredrik Etoall

// ESPY ROCK FLIPS THE SWITCH WITH EDEN //

2009-11-13T11:47:00.000-08:00

Abhijeet Ahulwalia is a freelance journalist who commutes between London and Bombay. He claims that he's a huge metalhead but has eclectic taste, from reggae to punk. Abhijeet recently posted a review of Europe's new Last Look At Eden album on Espy Rock.

Says Abhijeet, "Being a metalhead, I wouldn’t call myself a fan of 80s rock. It’s not that I dislike it, but the genre is a bit too insipid for my liking. The only tune that comes to mind when I think of Swedish rockers Europe is their ubiquitous hit The Final Countdown. For the most part, I associate them with the musical excesses and fluff that characterised a lot of bands of that era. Boy, did I get a lesson when I heard their new CD Last Look At Eden."

The short prelude is as ominous and atmospheric as anything I’ve heard on a heavy metal record, and when the first riff of the title track kicks in a minute later, you can’t help but jump off your seat and pump your fists. This is a class apart because Europe have managed that rare feat in rock – write a song that is a melodic, stadium-rock anthem you can sing along to, but still has enough aggro to bang your head to. Everything about the song says I shouldn’t, as an extreme metal fan, be liking it – soaring vocals, relatively clean guitar tones, an uber-melodic chorus. I was expecting glam but what I got was closer to goth. And that’s brilliant.

Gonna Get Ready has a rambunctious rocker of a riff if I ever heard one, and even the short and slightly unnecessary breakdown can’t slowdown the thunder. Ditto with Catch That Plane, which opens with a bluesy guitar riff, with a groove so thick you could knock someone’s head off. “Just relax, enjoy yourself for a while” sings Joey Tempest."

"Things slow down for the first time with New Love In Town, a by-the-numbers power-ballad that will get the lighters waving at the concert, but is good for not much else. That 3-and-a-half minute diversion out of the way, the record gets back to business, and The Beast is quite literally that – like guitarist John Norum is trying to make up for the time lost on the previous song. Here’s something you should do if you get this album: turn your speakers up, stand next to them, put this song on and feel your head get blown away in the thunderstorm that is the main riff. Is this really the same band that wrote borderline glam-rock in the 80s? This is hard rock through-and-through and it’s bloody brilliant."

"As a whole, this album rocks. Hard. I may not have been a fan before, but these songs have made me a believer. And isn’t that a mark of a great album?"

http://espyrock.com/2009/11/recommendation-europe-last-look-at-eden-2591/

Photo credit: (c) Christie Goodwin

// JOHN NORUM DROPS BY THE GIBSON GUITAR SHOWROOM IN LONDON //

2009-11-10T11:34:00.000-08:00

John Norum lead guitarist with Europe, Sweden’s biggest selling rock band recently dropped by the Gibson Guitar Showroom in Central London to promote the release of “Last Look At Eden” - their eighth studio album and to announce the bands February 2010 UK tour dates.

Europe are best known for their 1986 smash anthem The Final Countdown, but the Swedish rockers have returned with a heavier bluesy, hip-shaking metal sound which has put them firmly back on the rock scene.

Enter Gibson's online competiton to win an autographed copy of Europe's new album Last Look At Eden and a pair of tickets to see the band at any gig of your choice when they tour the UK in February 2010.

http://www.gibson.com/en-us/Lifestyle/ArtistsAndEvents/Stories/europe-guitarist-1110/

Photo Credit: (c) John Rahim

// BRING THE NOISE VIDEO INTERVIEW WITH IAN HAUGLAND AND JOEY TEMPEST //

2009-11-10T11:12:00.000-08:00

Sweden's hard rockers, Europe, were in London town to play a sold out gig at the Relentless Garage on November 1st. Bring the Noise sent their resident rock and metal music expert, Tom Raybould down to interview Ian Haugland and Joey Tempest.

A self-confessed fan of Europe's music, Raybould grew up listening to their music. The following revealing filmed interview was conducted before sound check on the day of the concert.

If there's anything you ever wanted to know about Europe, but were afraid to ask, watch the video and all will be revealed.

http://www.bringthenoiseuk.com/200911/interviews/europe-video-interview

// BRING THE NOISE CATCH THE VIBE AT EUROPE'S LONDON GARAGE CONCERT //

2009-11-10T10:56:00.000-08:00

Tom Raybould attended Europe's sold out Classic Rock Awards concert at the newly refurbished London Relentless Garage on Sunday November 1st. Tom's review has just been published on the London-based metal website Bring The Noise.

Says Raybould "Europe come out all guns blazing with Last Look At Eden, and Gonna Get Ready, the new material being eagerly received by the sold out Relentless Garage audience. The venue becomes a sea of arms clapping in unison to Superstitious. This isn’t their only involvement, later the song breaks down into a short section of No Woman No Cry, with a call and response between Tempest and the crowd."

"Europe hark back to their 2006 Secret Society album for Love Is Not The Enemy, and the title track Secret Society. The songs are separated by Sign Of The Times which is greeted with palpable excitement by the crowd."

"Tempest returns to the stage bearing a white Gibson Les Paul, and promises yet more new material. There is a hushed anticipation before the live debut of ‘No Stone Unturned’ is announced, the crowd bursts into cheers and applause. Throughout, the band play with the crowd, the song goes down very well with the extremely appreciative audience. The pace is slowed further with New Love In Town, which sounds absolutely huge tonight. This will provide a great slow singalong for audiences all across Europe on this tour. Throughout the performance Tempest makes play by handing his guitar pick into the crowd, there will only be two picks tonight and the front row is understandably eager to collect a rare souvenir."

"Scream Of Anger brings the pace back up again before Tempest introduces the band finishing on the “true guitar hero”. Norum proceeds to dazzle the crowd with his chops subtly backed by Leven, Michaeli and Haugland. The hypnotic Optimist builds to a big finish, and Joey emerges once more, bearing a guitar and Seventh Sign snaps the crowd from it’s torpor. At the end of ‘Let the Good Times Rock’ the flow is interrupted once again as drum/mics need changing, handled like a seasoned master by a relaxed Tempest."

"Start From the Dark sets up a low and heavy groove before the set draws to a close with the fantastic Rock the Night sending the crowd into a frenzy, and they’re in exceptional singing voice for it. After the big finish the band leave the stage, but the crowd is in no doubt that they’ll be back, chants for their return spread like fire across the floor."

"The audience is not waiting long for their hero’s return, but from the surprised expressions around the room not many people expected the cover of the UFO song, Only You Can Rock Me, to be on the setlist. The lights drop and an electronic drone fills the air. It’s The Final Countdown. There are looks of excitement and genuine astonishment throughout the room. The shows finale is big and bombastic and the crowd is sent into rapture."

http://www.bringthenoiseuk.com/200911/live/europe-relentless-garage-london

Photo Credit: (c) Christie Goodwin

// STAR 107 FM INTERVIEWS JOEY TEMPEST FOR CLASSIC ROCK AWARDS RADIO SPECIAL //

2009-11-09T01:40:00.000-08:00

Neil Jones at Star 107 FM in Cambridge, UK, caught up with Joey Tempest at the annual Classic Rock Magazine Awards in London on November 2nd. The interview with Joey was aired as part of Star 107's Classic Rock Awards Special on November 8th.

CLASSIC ROCK AWARDS SPECIAL -

Deep Purple - Smoke On Water

[BEST ALBUM]

AC/DC - Rock n Roll Train

[BAND OF THE YEAR]

[interview: Nicko McBrain + Janick Gers, Iron Maiden]

Iron Maiden - Run To The Hills

Queen - Killer Queen

[interview - Brian May]

[REISSUE OF THE YEAR]

[Interview: Tony Iommi, Black Sabbath]

Black Sabbath - Iron Man

[Interview - Anvil]

[FILM / DVD OF THE YEAR]

[interview as winners: Anvil]

Kiss - Modern Day Delilah

Def Leppard - Pour Some Sugar On Me

[interview - Joey Tempest, Europe]

Europe - U Devil U

[EVENT OF THE YEAR - DOWNLOAD)

[interview Andy Copping, Live Nation]

Bon Jovi - We Weren't Born To Follow

Bowling For Soup - A Really Cool Dance Song

[OUSTANDING CONTRIBUTION / TOMMY VANCE INSPIRATION AWARD / INNOVATION AWARD / METAL GURU AWARD]

[interview - Biff Byford, Saxon]

Saxon - And The Bands Played On

[SPIRIT OF PROG AWARD]

[interview Mike Portnot - Dream Theater]

[MARSHALL 11 AWARD]

ZZ Top - Gimme All Your Loving

[interview Billy Gibbons, ZZ Top]

CHILDLINE ROCKS AWARD]

[interview Steve Harley]

[CLASSIC SONGWRITER AWARD]

[interview Paul Rodgers]

Free - All Right Now

(interview Scott Ian & Pearl]

[CLASSIC ALBUM AWARD]

[interview Joe Perry, Aerosmith]

Aerosmith - Back In The Saddle

[interview Slash]

Guns n Roses - Welcome To The Jungle

[BREAKTHROUGH ARTIST AWARD]

[interview Joe Bonnamassa]

The Answer - Comfort Zone

[LIVING LEGEND AWARD]

[interview - Iggy Pop]

Iggy & The Stooges - Lust For Life

Foo Fighters - Everlong (acoustic)

Biffy Clyro - God & Satan

http://www.star107.co.uk/

// MUSIC-NEWS GROOVES TO EUROPE'S LONDON GARAGE GIG //

2009-11-09T01:25:00.000-08:00

Music-News.com's Marco Gandolfi has just posted his review of Europe's sold-out London Relentless Garage concert on Monday November 9th.

Says Marco - "Looking in good shape frontman Joey Tempest and the band wasted no time in getting down to business. Title track of their latest offering, Last Look At Eden, kicked off proceedings with third track Gonna Get Ready following and the expectant mass were soon squashed onto the pit barrier arms raised in joyful appreciation."

"Songs then came hard and fast from all spanning all stages of their career with Superstitious and Rock The Night personal favourites."

"Always the gentleman and with a smile almost as white as his on time nemesis Jon Bon Jovi Joey worked the crowd with the familiar ease of a rock professional. John Norum proved himself to be every bit the superlative classic rock guitarist as did the rest of the line-up."

http://www.music-news.com/ShowReview.asp?nReviewID=5209&nType=3

Photo Credit: (c) Christie Goodwin

// JUKEBOX METAL SALUTES EUROPE'S SOLD OUT LONDON RELENTLESS GARAGE CONCERT //

2009-11-08T03:20:00.000-08:00

Europe’s newest album, a third excellent entry in their new heavier sound, has already achieved Gold status in Sweden, and this show would inevitably see them debut some songs from it before the proper tour, with only the title track having been played live up to this point.

In that vein, an obvious but wholly effective opening would surely be the album intro Prelude as an intro tape and the album’s first two songs Last Look At Eden and Gonna Get Ready, two big riffs and two hard-rocking tracks. And so it would be, with those fans familiar with the disc greeting them enthusiastically. The ever popular Superstitious followed, its near-acapella opening and grooving riff pulling a huge roar from the capacity crowd and a newly included snippet of Bob Marley’s No Woman No Cry raising a few eyebrows.

Several usual suspects packed out most of the rest of the set, including Let The Good Times Rock and Sign of The Times from Out of This World, Scream of Anger, Start From The Dark and evergreen ’80s cliché (but undeniably fun) Rock The Night. Always The Pretenders and Love Is Not The Enemy were the only returning tracks from previous album Secret Society, and Seventh Sign from 1991’s Prisoners In Paradise was brought in from the wilderness, and a welcome inclusion it was at that for most of the older fans.

The trial of new songs from Last Look At Eden ended around the middle of the set and surprisingly didn’t include U Devil U which had partnered the album’s title track on an EP before the album’s release. Instead ballad and new single New Love In Town, and hard-rocking No Stone Unturned were premiered, with the latter coming across particularly well in the live environment.

Coming out for the encore, when Joey Tempest started talking about the influence of English rock music on the band in their youth the expected cover to follow would surely have been Since I’ve Been Lovin’ You (Led Zeppelin), which they played live on the last tour, but instead they launched into a rousing version of UFO’s Only You Can Rock Me, which went over the heads of some and was rapturously received by the rest.

The anthemic keyboard riff that’s still capable of sending chills down the spine heralded The Final Countdown which has lost none of its energy or appeal in the 23 years since its release (surviving the horrific millennium remix) and its set-closing power is undebateable. Europe are rocking harder then ever now, with three heavy albums under their belt, and the new sound suits them down to the ground, beefing up some of the older songs in the process. The full tour next year, with a big stage production promised by Tempest, should be one of the rock highlights of 2010.

http://www.jukeboxmetal.com/2009/europe-the-garage-2009/

Photo Credit: (c) Christie Goodwin

// JOEY TEMPEST APPEARS ON LIVE FROM STUDIO FIVE //

2009-11-07T08:34:00.000-08:00

Joey Tempest is confirmed as special guest on Channel 5 television's new early evening chat show Live From Studio Five on Thursday December 17th.

Joey will be interviewed about Europe's career in music, their new album Last Look At Eden, and their forthcoming nationwide UK tour that kicks off at the Leeds O2 Academy on Thursday February 18th 2010.

The popular UK television show is hosted by former Arsenal footballer Ian Wright and also features Melinda Messenger and Kate Walsh. Described as an early evening news and entertainment show with a difference, Live From Studio Five is a mix of celebrity interviews, gossip and banter and the latest news.

For further info - www.five.tv/programmes/daytime/live-from-studio-five

// BRAVE WORDS & BLOODY KNUCKLES REVIEWS EUROPE'S LONDON GARAGE GIG //

2009-11-06T09:25:00.000-08:00

Matt Ingham at Brave Words & Bloody Knuckles just posted this rave review of Europe's sold out London Relentless Garage concert on Sunday November 1st.

Says Ingham - "There was an air of patient deference swelling the bowls of London’s humble Garage tonight (November 1st), as a motley mix of leather clad old school rockers mingled with the greasy mopped youth - content in the knowledge that tonight all would bear witness to the much baited return of Swedish metal titans Europe."

Lauded for their latest opus Last Look At Eden, the modest venue seemed a perfect setting to road test the new material – a contemporary jewel in their crown, and still deft with retro agility and a crunch not felt since 1988’s Out Of This World.

A set largely dominated by the band’s eighties and nineties material was intersected by a light hearted No Woman, No Cry which brought with it a warm hearted sing along and continued the faithful togetherness shown by everyone in attendance. The music did most of the talking, as classics Superstitious and Good Times impacted with the more recent Love Is Not The Enemy and Start From The Dark. Songs from the new album sounded punchy and vital tonight, with choice cuts New Love In Town and No Stone Unturned standing shoulder to shoulder with the classics.

A face melting instrumental from guitarist John Norum signalled the start of the end, but not before succumbing, inevitably, to the biggest crowd pleasers of the night. Rock The Night earned a new sense of sincerity; completely overcoming the cheesy pomposity of its past and the Mick Jagger type swagger paraded by Joey was only matched by the delighted gurns stamped across the other musician’s faces.

Full review and photos - http://www.bravewords.com/news/125721

Photo Credit: (c) Christie Goodwin

// EUROPE KICK OFF CLASSIC ROCK'S WEEK OF GIGS //

2009-11-03T11:46:00.000-08:00

Classic Rock’s week of special awards shows began in fine style last night (November 1) when Europe played at the Relentless Garage in London’s Islington. Come inside for a hot-off-the-presses report…

It would be so easy for Europe to coast along for most of any gig, knowing – as we all do – that they’re gonna saddle up The Final Countdown as the finale, sending everyone out into the cold with massive smiles, and a feelgood factor going through into overdrive.

Is there anyone in the world who doesn’t know this song? Even those Green Day fans queuing outside for their heroes’ post-midnight secret gig must have heard this on countless occasions. And, sure enough, it is the farewell flourish from the Swedes.

But if anyone thinks that the rest of tonight is anything other that a soaraway triumph then they just were not at the Relentless Garage. Because those of us who were packed inside knew we were part of one helluva performance.

Part of it? Yep, because it was as much the connection between the five men on stage and those on the floor that drove the set as the music itself. This is the smallest venue Europe have ever played in Britain – and they were doing this in order to be part of the week-long series of landmark gigs complementing the Classic Rock Awards. But unlike many other big bands who play such events through gritted teeth, seizing the moment for self-absorbed opportunism and making very little effort, this lot really embrace the occasion.

With no place to hide, Europe have no option but to prove just how powerful they really are as a live entity. This is a thrusting, dynamic, pulsing hard rock set. It’s 90 minutes when Joey Tempest and co. have the chance to prove worthy of those who inspired them in the first place: UFO, Def Leppard, Rainbow, Deep Purple. And they don’t disappoint. No, let’s go further, much further… this is a truly towering night.

The foundation of the set comes from new album Last Look At Eden. But is anyone complaining? The whoops of delight at Last Look At Eden itself and Gonna Get Ready throw the switch suggests everyone’s up for the crack. Superstitious allows Tempest to throw in a brief snippet of Bob Marley’s No Woman No Cry, while Love Is Not The Enemy and Sign Of The Times are pure gold.

There’s only one ballad tonight – and that’s New Love In Town from the recent record. Tempest briefly teases everyone by suggesting this is a prelude to a laid-back, sit-down series of softer moments, something met by someone in the crowd shouting out: “We wanna rock!” Whether the band heard this or not, what follows is a galactic climax. Scream Of Anger blasts out, before guitarist John Norum leads the band through an almost jazz-rock interlude, before Seventh Sign, Let The Good Times Rock and Start From The Dark set up Rock The Night for the killer set closing strike.

But Europe are far from finished, Norum straps on a Flying V, Tempest announces that, “It’s about time we gave something back” to the country that gave them so much inspiration, and UFO’s Only You Can Rock Me is lovingly crashed out. And then…it’s time. Mic Michaeli’s unmistakably stately keyboard waft is the prelude to the whole place erupting as The Final Countdown pours on the magic.

It’s a sensational ending to what was a glorious night. Europe are still among the very best melodic hard rock bands around, and everyone here knows it. Now the bar’s been raised – as well as a few glasses – for the Classic Rock week of gigs. Follow this! – Malcolm Dome

http://www.classicrockmagazine.com/news/europe-kick-off-classic-rocks-week-of-gigs/

Photo Credit: (c) Christie Goodwin