80s-90s rock is honestly the only thing that I consider music. After 40 years and it still manages to thrill us!
Europe’s “Live at Sweden Rock – 30th Anniversary Show” captures the band’s dynamic live performance at the Sweden Rock Festival on June 7, 2013. This concert was a significant event for the band, marking three decades since their formation and featuring a comprehensive setlist that spanned their entire career. Released on October 16, 2013, the concert was made available on CD, DVD, and Blu-ray, showcasing over two hours of music with 28 tracks, making it the longest live concert in the band’s history.
The concert opened with “Riches to Rags” and included a variety of songs from different eras of the band’s discography. Notable tracks performed included “Firebox,” “Superstitious,” “Carrie,” and the iconic “The Final Countdown,” which closed the show. The set also featured covers of classic rock songs, with guest appearances by Scott Gorham of Thin Lizzy for “Jailbreak” and Michael Schenker of UFO for “Lights Out.” These collaborations added an extra layer of excitement and nostalgia for the audience.
Europe’s lineup for this performance consisted of Joey Tempest on lead vocals, John Norum on guitar, John Levén on bass, Mic Michaeli on keyboards, and Ian Haugland on drums. The band’s synergy and stage presence were palpable, and they delivered a high-energy show that highlighted their musical evolution from their early days in the 1980s to their more recent work. The production quality of the concert was top-notch, with excellent lighting, sound, and stage effects enhancing the overall experience.
The release of the 30th Anniversary Show was met with positive reviews. Critics praised the band for their heavier, more mature sound, which contrasted with their poppier hits from the ’80s. This performance demonstrated that Europe was not just a band of nostalgic hits but a powerful live act with a diverse and substantial catalog. The concert also included behind-the-scenes footage and interviews, providing fans with deeper insights into the band’s journey and the making of the show.
Joey Tempest, Europe’s lead vocalist, has been a central figure in the band’s success. Born Rolf Magnus Joakim Larsson on August 19, 1963, in Stockholm, Sweden, Tempest formed Europe with guitarist John Norum in 1979. Tempest’s distinctive voice and charismatic stage presence have been key to the band’s enduring appeal. Over the years, Tempest has also pursued solo projects but remains committed to Europe, contributing to their continued relevance in the rock music scene.
John Norum, the band’s lead guitarist, is known for his powerful guitar riffs and solos. Born on February 23, 1964, in Vardø, Norway, Norum has been with Europe since its inception, apart from a brief departure in the late ’80s. His contributions have been pivotal to shaping the band’s sound, blending melodic hard rock with a heavier edge.
The Sweden Rock performance underscored Europe’s ability to connect with their audience, delivering both nostalgia and fresh energy. Their evolution from the glam metal of the ’80s to a more robust hard rock sound has allowed them to maintain a dedicated fan base while also attracting new listeners. The 30th Anniversary Show stands as a testament to the band’s resilience and enduring appeal in the rock music world.
