Stefan Berggren is probably one of Sweden’s best-known singers, musicians and songwriters, having been in bands such as Snakes In Paradise, M3, Company Of Snakes, Razorback and Berggren Kerslake Band amongst others and has even deputized in Uriah Heep. This was his first solo album, released in 2016, and of course he went back to old friends and colleagues, so we have the likes of Bernie Marsden (ex Whitesnake), Neil Murray (Black Sabbath, Whitesnake), Tomas Pomma Thorberg (Snakes In Paradise, Four Sticks, Plankton), Sebastian Sippola (Four Sticks, Plankton), Marcus Jidell (Avatarium, ex Evergrey), Joakim Svalberg (Opeth), Lars Karlsson (Diamond Dogs) and more.
Given his background this was always going to be a blues-based hard rock album, and he has allowed himself room to utilize different styles so he can show off his voice to its best extent. Although he does not have the breadth and depth of the true masters of the art such as Paul Rodgers and even David Coverdale, nor quite the right amount of gravitas, his voice is perfectly suited to the material he has chosen. He rocks when he wishes to, keeps it more rootsy at others, with the result being a very nicely balanced release which is not exactly earth shattering but is enjoyable all the same. I remember seeing him with Company of Snakes years ago, and he is a great live singer, and although he has played it somewhat safe with this release it is still worth hearing, especially when the groove gets going such as on “Coming Home”.
Rating: 6/10
Links:
https://stefanberggren.com/
https://www.prideandjoy.de/