In a comprehensive discussion with Ruben Mosqueda of We Go To 11, EUROPE drummer Ian Haugland provided an in-depth look at the Swedish hard rock titans’ highly anticipated new album, "Come This Madness," slated for release on September 25. The conversation spanned nearly two hours, delving into the nearly decade-long creative gestation of the record, the band’s strategic decision to forge a new musical identity beyond their iconic ’80s hits, and the evolving soundscapes that define EUROPE’s modern era. Haugland also reflected on past touring experiences, formative influences, and memorable on-stage moments, offering a rich tapestry of the band’s journey.
The Long Road to "Come This Madness": A Decade of Artistic Evolution
The nearly ten-year interval between EUROPE’s last studio album, "Walk The Earth" (2017), and the forthcoming "Come This Madness" is not a reflection of inactivity but rather a testament to a deliberate and meticulous creative process. Haugland explained that this extended period allowed the band ample time to nurture song ideas, revisit compositions, and refine their artistic vision. "The songwriting process has been upgraded a lot," Haugland stated. "The last album ‘Walk The Earth’ came out in 2017. So it’s been quite some time. But the good thing with that is that all the songs and all the ideas, we’ve had a lot of time to revisit the songs and re-evaluate them. And so I think what the album has, it’s the best of all these songs and ideas that we’ve been collecting through the years since ‘Walk The Earth’." This extended incubation period has resulted in an album that Haugland describes as an adventurous collection, blending the melodic sensibilities and strong hooks of their ’80s past with the heavier, more dynamic elements characteristic of their later work.
The decision to embark on this extended creative journey was rooted in a conscious strategy adopted by EUROPE after their reunion in 2004. Haugland elaborated on the band’s commitment to evolving musically rather than becoming a nostalgic act. "When we started all over again in 2004 with the ‘Start From The Dark’ album, we decided that we were not gonna become like a novelty act, just relying on the ’80s stuff and the big hits," he explained. "But in order to do this for real, we said that it needs to be driven by the force of music, creating new music and try different styles and different directions and just let the music take us on a journey, not to think too much about it ahead. Just let the music flow, and it becomes what it becomes." This philosophy has allowed EUROPE to maintain artistic relevance, with Haugland asserting that their music still possesses a discernible "signature EUROPE mark – melodic, heavy, but also dynamic, with balance and stuff."
Echoes of the Masters: Shaping EUROPE’s Heavier Sound
Haugland underscored the enduring influence of classic ’70s British hard rock on EUROPE’s sonic identity, particularly highlighting the indelible impact of bands like Deep Purple, Thin Lizzy, and Rainbow. These foundational influences, he explained, continue to inform the band’s more aggressive modern sound. "We definitely have the roots in especially the British ’70s hard rock, like [Deep] Purple and Thin Lizzy and Rainbow and those bands," Haugland noted. "So, that’s where we came from and the inspirations that we brought into our sort of mold of rock music. And, obviously, some newer influences got in there as well. But, yeah, basically that’s where we come from, the British ’70s hard rock era."
This deep-seated appreciation for heavy riffing and powerful rhythms is further exemplified by Haugland’s personal drumming inspirations, Cozy Powell and John Bonham. Their energetic and driving styles have undoubtedly contributed to the robust rhythmic foundation of EUROPE’s music. "A lot of people say that when we play live, they think that the songs from the ’80s, like ‘The Final Countdown’ and ‘Rock The Night’, blend beautifully with the newer songs that are a bit heavier," Haugland observed. "But for some reason, when we get on stage and we play the older songs together with the new songs, it becomes like a unified experience. So it’s really nice to be able to do it that way." This seamless integration of past and present material on stage is a testament to the band’s cohesive artistic evolution.
"Come This Madness": A Sonic Tapestry of Old and New
The new album, "Come This Madness," promises a compelling fusion of EUROPE’s celebrated melodicism with a revitalized, heavier edge. Haugland described the album as an "adventurous album, but it also has elements from the ’80s with very melodic guitar solos and strong hooks and melodies in basically every song, but still some heavier elements that we might have been used to with the later EUROPE albums. So it’s the old and the new." This duality is a deliberate reflection of the band’s continuous exploration of their musical roots and their commitment to pushing creative boundaries.
The influence of ’70s hard rock, including bands like Black Sabbath, is evident in the album’s robust riffing and rhythmic drive. Haugland’s own drumming, inspired by legends like Cozy Powell and John Bonham, provides a powerful backbone that complements the band’s heavier leanings. The result is a sound that feels both familiar and fresh, appealing to long-time fans while attracting new listeners with its contemporary relevance.
The Art of Songwriting: A Collaborative and Evolving Process
The songwriting for "Come This Madness" has been a dynamic and collaborative effort. Haugland highlighted the elevated quality of the songwriting, attributing it to the extended period of development. "The songwriting process has been upgraded a lot," he reiterated. The band meticulously revisited and refined ideas, ensuring that each track on "Come This Madness" represents the strongest iteration of their collective creativity. This meticulous approach to songwriting and arrangement has resulted in an album that Haugland believes showcases the band’s maturity and artistic depth.
The album’s production and mixing also involved a constellation of renowned talents. Recorded at RMV Studio in Stockholm, "Come This Madness" features special guest appearances from Tobias Forge (Ghost) and Mikael Åkerfeldt (Opeth). The album was produced by Tom Dalgety (Ghost, Rammstein, Pixies), who played a significant role in shaping the album’s sound from its inception. The final mixing was handled by Mike Fraser (AC/DC, Van Halen, Metallica), a legendary figure in rock music production, further underscoring the high caliber of the project.
Reflecting on the Past: Tour Cancellations and Future Prospects
The conversation also touched upon the unfortunate cancellation of EUROPE’s North American tour with Foreigner and Kansas during the pandemic. This event, while disappointing, highlights the logistical challenges and uncertainties that artists face in the global touring landscape. Haugland expressed his desire to return to the United States, acknowledging that it would require careful planning and strategic opportunities. The band’s extensive touring in Europe, Asia, and South America since their reunion demonstrates their commitment to engaging with their global fanbase, and a return to North America remains a significant aspiration.
Haugland also reminisced about his early recording experiences, including his work with former Thin Lizzy guitarist Brian Robertson. These formative collaborations undoubtedly contributed to his development as a musician and his understanding of the rock music landscape. His early influences, Cozy Powell and John Bonham, were foundational to his drumming style, and their impact continues to resonate in his playing.
A particularly amusing anecdote shared by Haugland involved a "wonderfully chaotic onstage incident" where Joey Tempest and Mic Michaeli accidentally switched their in-ear monitor packs. Such moments, while potentially disruptive, often become cherished memories and add to the unique character of live performances.
"Hold Your Head Up" and "The Final Countdown" Anniversary Tour: Bridging Eras
In September 2023, EUROPE released the standalone single "Hold Your Head Up," a punchy, uptempo rocker described by the band as having reminiscent elements of their early sound. Recorded with producer Klas Åhlund and mixed by Stefan Glaumann, the track served as a potent appetizer for the new material, demonstrating the band’s continued vitality and ability to craft compelling rock anthems.
Looking ahead, EUROPE is not only gearing up for the release of "Come This Madness" but is also embarking on an extensive tour to celebrate the 40th anniversary of their seminal album, "The Final Countdown." Kicking off in Glasgow on September 30, "The Final Countdown 40th Anniversary Tour" signifies a remarkable milestone, allowing the band to honor their iconic past while showcasing their present-day artistic prowess. This tour promises to be a powerful testament to EUROPE’s enduring legacy and their ability to connect with multiple generations of music fans. The album artwork for "Come This Madness," created by Storm Studios (Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, Muse), further solidifies the band’s commitment to a visually striking presentation of their music.
A Legacy Forged in Rock and Resilience
EUROPE’s journey since their reunion in 2004 has been one of consistent artistic growth and a steadfast refusal to rest on past laurels. "Come This Madness" represents the latest chapter in this ongoing narrative, a testament to their dedication to creating vital, contemporary rock music. The album, available in vinyl, CD, and digital formats, is poised to be a significant addition to their discography, showcasing a band that remains as relevant and powerful as ever. With a career spanning decades and a new album poised to captivate audiences, EUROPE continues to prove that their passion for music and their commitment to artistic evolution are as strong as the riffs that define them. The band’s ability to seamlessly integrate their classic sound with modern influences, coupled with their unwavering dedication to their craft, positions them as a formidable force in the rock music landscape for years to come.
