Sweden…infinite expanses…
Wait a moment, that’s space.
Sweden is the country where in every corner there’s a band making music that sounds exactly like what we now refer to as the “Swedish school.” There’s Rock’n’Roll a la Hellacopters and the like, which has become somewhat overplayed but is still good. Moreover, almost every niche related to rock is filled. One niche that I haven’t been served in a long time is that of creative 70s rock and hard rock. But now there’s new food for lovers of this genre.
THE SEWERGROOVES have released a new album. It took two years for this baby to arrive, and now it’s here, titled “Trouble Station.” The cover of the CD is very old school, and by the time the first notes blast from the speakers, you know that time has been turned back.
THE SEWERGROOVES offer their own mixture of 70s rock, hard rock, garage, and soul. The sound comes straight from the time when hard rock was just becoming big and was leaving garages and filthy basements. Lots of guitar, lots of bass, a slightly rattling drum set, and a singer who navigates the ship safely through all shallows. Especially the songs that are played with a bit more pressure on the gas pedal are thrilling. For example, “Free to Fly Part I” and “Touch of Sympathy.” But the groovy, garage-like “Keep Moving” is also very impressive.
The fact that the band has had a massive output of 7” records in its 15-year history and releases a new album every two years shows how creative and active they are. Here, music is lived. Here, live performances are cherished, and a sound is celebrated that knows how to please. “Trouble Station” is so different from all the glossy rock’n’rollers from Sweden, but that’s exactly what makes the band interesting, and their unique style certainly convinces more than copying any trend.
Thus, the conclusion can only be: A fine record for fans of slightly different music.
Currently, THE SEWERGROOVES are on tour, don’t miss it!
