GAIN [Release date 28.10.22]
In the absence of a Europe album (last sighted 2017) we have at least a new album from the band’s guitarist.
Norum’s last solo outing in 2010 was called ‘Play Yard Blues’. But as I said in my review: “thankfully it is a rockier and funkier blues and not old man’s music.”
‘Gone To Stay’ puts the guitarist back in the heavy rock space – if still bluesy - and connects with earlier solo sorties. Early producer/engineer Wyn Davis does the mixing.
I’ve always thought that Norum became increasingly neutered in modern Europe, fitting more into a melodic hard rock concept and vying with four other talented guys. Left to his own devices, it’s actually a blessing and relief. We can focus on that fine guitar and a surprisingly good vocal.
Whilst having his own style, there are evident references throughout. The bluesy rock reminds of prime-time Pat Travers: gutsy, riffy and retro.
The opening tracks – and early promos – ‘Voices Of Silence’ and ‘Sail On’ – demonstrate the grinding heavy rock on offer, especially the latter track which encompasses the trademark wah and down tuning. ‘What Do You Want’ follows a similar riff-based formula which could be Cream on steroids.
Vocalist Åge Sten Nilsen(Wig Wam) appears for ‘One By One’ and on the orchestrated ‘Norma’. There’s a cover of Bowie’s ‘Lady Grinning Soul’, a bit of an obscure choice (for non-fans) of a song that originally appeared on ‘Aladdin Sane’.
Norum’s second solo album ‘Face The Truth’ was released in 1992 and here he reprises the title track. ‘Gone To Stay’ may open up the possibility of further investigation for many newcomers to the guitarist’s solo work. It’s a rewarding journey, starting with ‘Total Control’ in 1987.
True believers will though lap this up, it’s not particularly original but is always lifted by great guitar and a song-based mentality. The only instrumental track is actually available on the Japanese version.
And it fills the recording abyss left by his band, who recently announced yet another anniversary in 2023 (to celebrate their debut album) but no new album until 2024. It’s almost as bad as the wait for a General Election. ***1/2
Review by David Randall
Album review (Play Yard Blues, 2010)
Album review (reissues, 2020)
Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK
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Power Plays w/c 1 April 2024
NESTOR Victorious (Napalm)
CADET CARTER Strangers (SBAM Records)
ARENA What’s Your Damage (indie)
ONLAP Never Too Late (AFM Records)
BLACK SONIC PEARLS Black Butterfly (indie)
RENDEZVOUS POINT Don’t Look Up (Long Branch Records)
WILDSTREET Come Down (Golden Robot Records)
Featured Albums w/c 1 April 2024
09:00-12:00 CIRCLE OF FRIENDS Cherokee Moon (Escape Music)
12:00-13:00 MYRATH Karma (earMUSIC)
14:00-16:00 The Best of 2003-2023
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