Metalville has officially announced the international release date for SWEET’s latest live album, "Live 25," scheduled for October 23, 2026. This release arrives on the heels of the critically acclaimed studio album "Full Circle" (2024), which marked a significant resurgence for the iconic rock band. "Full Circle" was lauded by both critics and fans worldwide as the band’s strongest offering since "Level Headed" in 1978, the final album to feature the four original members. The success of "Full Circle" also propelled it into the German Top 20 album charts, a feat not achieved since the 1978 classic, underscoring the band’s enduring appeal and renewed creative energy.
A Legacy Rekindled: From "Full Circle" to "Live 25"
Under the leadership of founding member Andy Scott, SWEET has channeled the momentum generated by "Full Circle" into a powerful live recording. "Live 25" promises to be a comprehensive sonic document, capturing the band’s electrifying stage presence. The album features not only the new material from "Full Circle" but also a robust selection of their timeless classic hits, alongside a few heavier rock tracks that have historically made fewer appearances on the band’s setlists. This curated selection reflects the band’s dynamic evolution and their commitment to delivering a high-octane performance that resonates with both long-time admirers and newer fans.
The current lineup of SWEET has been hailed as a perfectly synchronized unit, capable of transporting audiences on an emotional journey. The synergy between the musicians is palpable, creating a live sound that is both powerful and deeply resonant. This live album serves as a testament to their dedication to the art of performance, a core tenet of the SWEET identity since their inception.
Andy Scott Reflects on the Significance of "Live 25"
Andy Scott, the guiding force behind the contemporary iteration of SWEET, expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming release. "‘Live 25’ is more than just a live recording; it’s a celebration of what SWEET do best," Scott stated. "From the 1970s, performing live has always been at the heart of who we are, and that fire still burns bright. So crank up the volume, sing your heart out, and experience the energy of a SWEET live concert." Scott’s words emphasize the band’s unwavering passion for live performance, a sentiment that has fueled their career for decades and continues to define their artistic output.
The Tracklist: A Journey Through SWEET’s Storied Career
"Live 25" is set to feature a compelling tracklist that encapsulates the band’s extensive catalog and their current live prowess:
- Full Circle (Intro)
- Action
- Hellraiser
- Circus
- The Six Teens
- Don’t Bring Me Water
- Lost Angels
- Windy City
- Set Me Free
- Teenage Rampage
- Wig Wam Bam – Little Willy Medley
- Love Is Like Oxygen
- Fox On The Run
- Blockbuster
- Ballroom Blitz
- Sweet Jane (Outro)
This selection highlights the seamless integration of their newer material with the anthemic hits that have become ingrained in rock music history. The inclusion of the "Wig Wam Bam – Little Willy Medley" and the extended "Sweet Jane" outro suggests a dynamic and engaging live show, designed to keep the audience captivated from start to finish.
The Recording Lineup: A Harmonious Ensemble
The "Live 25" album features the following talented musicians:
- Paul Manzi – lead vocals
- Lee Small – bass guitar / vocals
- Tom Cory – guitars / keys / vocals
- Adam Booth – drums / percussion
- Andy Scott – guitars / vocals
This lineup represents the current iteration of SWEET, a unit that has consistently delivered powerful performances and has been instrumental in the band’s recent critical and commercial success. Their collective musicality and stage chemistry are key components of the "Live 25" experience.
A Deep Dive into SWEET’s Historical Trajectory and Present Day
Formed in the United Kingdom in 1968, the original lineup of SWEET comprised Brian Connolly on lead vocals, Steve Priest on bass and backing vocals, Mick Tucker on drums, and Frank Torpey on guitar. Torpey was later succeeded by Mick Stewart, and eventually, Andy Scott took over guitar duties, solidifying a lineup that would achieve global fame. The band’s early years were marked by a string of hit singles and albums that defined the glam rock era of the 1970s.
The history of SWEET is also marked by its complex lineage and the separate trajectories of its surviving members. Steve Priest relocated to Los Angeles and, in January 2008, launched a new incarnation of SWEET in the U.S. Prior to his passing, Priest held the rights to use the SWEET name in the U.S. and Canada, while Andy Scott continued to tour a version of the group in the U.K. The two had been estranged for decades but resumed contact in the 2010s, a testament to the enduring bonds formed within the original band.
Following the passing of Brian Connolly in 1997 and Mick Tucker in 2002, Steve Priest continued to champion the SWEET legacy. His American lineup was recognized for possessing the talent, feel, and high energy characteristic of classic SWEET. Priest’s iteration of the band performed hundreds of concerts across North and South America, Europe, and beyond for over a decade until his own passing in 2020. Following Priest’s death, a decision was made for his version of THE SWEET to continue, honoring his wishes. This U.S.-based lineup currently features frontman Ariel Kamin, guitarist Jimmy Burkard, keyboardist Dave Schulz, bassist Stevie Stewart, and drummer Richie Onori.
It is important to distinguish between the two active entities. Andy Scott’s SWEET, which is releasing "Live 25," operates primarily in the UK and Europe, while the U.S. version of THE SWEET, led by Priest’s former bandmates, continues to perform and release new music. The U.S. SWEET has released several singles in recent years, including "Little Miracle" in 2024, "Insane" in 2025, and "Sweet Dream" in February 2026, the latter featuring Steve Priest’s original bass and vocal contributions from the group’s archives.
Broader Implications and The Enduring Power of Rock Anthems
The release of "Live 25" by Andy Scott’s SWEET signifies more than just a new album; it represents the enduring relevance of a band that has navigated the ever-changing landscape of the music industry for over five decades. The success of "Full Circle" and the anticipation surrounding "Live 25" demonstrate a continued appetite for the band’s signature blend of catchy melodies, powerful rock instrumentation, and charismatic stage presence.
The fact that SWEET, a band formed in the late 1960s, can still command attention and achieve chart success in the mid-2020s speaks volumes about the timeless quality of their music. Their ability to connect with multiple generations of fans, from those who grew up with their 70s hits to newer audiences discovering their work, is a testament to the universal appeal of their rock anthems. The inclusion of newer tracks alongside beloved classics on "Live 25" further solidifies their position as a band that respects its history while actively embracing its future.
Furthermore, Andy Scott’s upcoming "The Final Blitz Tour" of Australia in October and November 2026 adds another layer to the narrative of SWEET’s ongoing legacy. While the term "final tour" might suggest a conclusion, it also signifies a deliberate and celebratory farewell to a particular chapter or a series of extensive tours, allowing the band to engage with their fanbase in a meaningful way before potentially shifting their focus.
The existence of two distinct entities carrying the SWEET name, while potentially confusing to some, also highlights the multifaceted nature of legacy and the different paths artists can take. Both Andy Scott’s and Steve Priest’s versions of the band have, in their own ways, strived to uphold the spirit and sound of SWEET, catering to different fanbases and continuing to share the music live. The continued output from both sides ensures that the SWEET name, and the music it represents, remains a vibrant part of the rock music conversation.
As "Live 25" prepares to hit shelves, it stands as a potent reminder of SWEET’s lasting impact on rock music. It is an album that not only celebrates their past glories but also showcases the vitality and passion of their present. The energy captured on this live recording is expected to resonate deeply with fans, offering a powerful testament to the enduring spirit of a band that has consistently delivered electrifying performances and unforgettable music.
