Frontiers Music s.r.l.
Release: 20 September 2024
Genre: Melodic Hard Rock
Links: http://www.eclipsemerch.com/
Line Up:
Erik Mårtensson – Vocals
Magnus Henriksson – Guitars
Philip Crusner – Drums
Victor Crusner – Bass
Tracklist:
1. Apocalypse Blues
2. The Spark
3. Falling To My Knees
4. All I Want
5. Still My Hero
6. Dive Into You
7. Until The War Is Over
8. Divide & Conquer
9. Pieces
10. To Say Goodbye
11. One In A Million
The Swedes from Eclipse have been at this for a long time now. It’s remarkable to think that their upcoming album, Megalomanium II, will be their 11th studio release. Time flies, doesn’t it? I still vividly recall when I first encountered their hard-hitting, ultra-melodic hard rock sound with Are You Ready to Rock back in 2008. Even then, I had a strong sense that this band was here to stay. Their consistency and dedication to their craft have been unwavering.
Eclipse, the heavy rock powerhouse from Stockholm, is renowned for their signature blend of massive hooks and stellar musicianship. Over the years, they have solidified their place as one of Sweden’s largest heavy rock bands, amassing over 100 million streams across various platforms. Following the release of Megalomanium last September, and more recently, the exclusive 7’’ vinyl Apocalypse Blues and the single Falling To My Knees, the band’s trajectory in crafting unforgettable anthems remains firmly intact.
Frontman Erik Mårtensson wears many hats as a talented guitarist, vocalist, and producer. He’s also involved in mastering numerous projects for Frontiers Records. Never one to rest on his laurels, Erik continues to write and create music with his Swedish bandmates in Eclipse.
As we dive into this new album, it’s clear that we’re in for another journey filled with melodic excellence. The opener, Apocalypse Blues, is a prime example of the top-tier, hook-laden tracks that Eclipse has consistently delivered over the years. It’s an ideal introduction to the album. The massive chorus in Falling To My Darkness is another standout, showcasing the band’s knack for crafting up-tempo melodic hard rock. Erik’s vocals shine on this track, and the guitar solo is nothing short of electrifying—a moment that commands attention.
If there’s a song on this album that will get Eclipse fans moving, it’s All I Want. The super catchy chorus, coupled with the well-placed drum parts midway, creates a cadence that’s incredibly engaging. It’s the kind of track that, in a just world, would dominate the airwaves—if only radio stations prioritized quality music. This is the kind of sound that belongs on rock stations everywhere.
On a more personal note, Still My Hero resonates deeply, as Erik has mentioned that he wrote and dedicated this song to his father, who passed away in 2014. The song’s intimate and heartfelt nature is heartfelt. I’m also drawn to the western-inspired whistling intro in Until The War is Over, which transitions seamlessly into the trailblazing groove of Divide and Conquer. This track delivers a potent dose of Scandinavian melodic hard rock, complete with a punishing groove and an exceptionally strong guitar riff. The only downside is that it ends far too soon—what a ride.
Eclipse has never produced a bad record, and this album is no exception. You know exactly what to expect: well-crafted lyrics, powerful riffs, commanding vocals, and an all-around solid rock album. I’m thrilled that these guys have had the opportunity to tour internationally in recent years. Their fan base is loyal and deserves every bit of new music Eclipse puts out. Erik’s vocals are consistently impressive—he reminds me a lot of Jeff Scott Soto, with his versatile range and ability to sing just about anything. For fellow melodic rock enthusiasts, remember the outstanding W.E.T. project featuring Erik, JSS, and Robert Såll? That collaboration produced some truly great music, and I can see its influence in Eclipse’s more recent work.
I have nothing negative to say about this album. Every track is high-caliber—melodic, powerful, groovy, and emotionally impactful. Eclipse continues to deliver impeccably produced records, and it would be a missed opportunity not to support them or catch them live. They are, without a doubt, one of the best rock bands of our time, and I stand by that statement with total conviction.
Written by: Shadow Editor
Ratings: 9/10
Editors Pick 
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