When you think of the band Europe, you probably remember their big hits from the '80s like "The Final Countdown," "Carrie" and "Cherokee." The band reunited a few years ago after a 13 year break and this is their second album since they got back together.
I popped this CD in expecting a nostalgia trip and waves of cheesy '80s sounding keyboards. I was wrong. The 2006 version of Europe is a straight ahead hard rock/metal band. Secret Society is very melodic and hooky with a lot of very radio friendly songs. The guitars are front and center these days and there are a lot of really catchy riffs and some decent solos.
Joey Tempest's voice still sounds good after all these years, although the style of the newer material is more subdued and he doesn't belt it out as often as he did back in the '80s. Just like most of their fans from back then Europe has matured, and so has their music. I was pleasantly surprised with this CD.
