PRISONERS OF PARADISE
Released: September 23, 1991
Genre: Glam Metal/ Hard Rock
Duration: 54:57
Label: Epic
Producer(s): Beau Hill
Singles: “Prisoners in Paradise”, “I’ll Cry For You”, “Halfway to Heaven”
OVERVIEW
Swedish rock band Europe has always been one of the most essential and beautiful rock acts that came out of the continent. Naturally, they turned into an absolute sensation in pretty much all European countries, including my own – Bulgaria, and quickly went off to conquer the States, Japan, etc. The ‘80s were good to them as the band kept on releasing smashing hit records, such as “Wings of Tomorrow”, “The Final Countdown” and “Out of This World”. But for me, the album that came in next – “Prisoners of Paradise” has to be their finest effort. I am absolutely crazy about this melodic hard rock treasure and to me the album is definitely one of the best rock albums of the 90s.
“Prisoners of Paradise” is definitely not as hard as the previous two albums, but that’s exactly why it’s so good. The band matured, improved their songwriting skills and found their good place, as can be heard on the record. I have to make it clear – the songs on the record are radio-friendly, safe, pleasant and perfect to sing along with. But that shouldn’t drive you away because they are everything BUT your regular weak radio-friendly pop rock tracks. I’m not even sure I can deliver it through worlds, but each and every song has so much energy, potential and such a special aura. I always talk about “the aura” of an album or a track because you can absolutely feel it when something has a soul, rather than just be an empty shell. It makes me sad that this album is so under-appreciated and couldn’t reach higher peaks.
Each and every track could’ve become a major 90s rock hit. Where do I even begin? The absolute treasure of the record has to be “I’ll Cry for You” – beautiful bittersweet lyrics and an absolute melodic joy! This track also happens to be one of my favorite Europe tracks in general. The catchy “All or Nothing” is a solid opening for the record with its ecstatic riffs and hard vocals. The title track – “Prisoners of Paradise” is another killer rock tune, featuring piano accompaniments that make it so heavenly pleasant. “Girl from Lebanon” is the hidden jewel of the album – powerful, emotional and intense – the perfect ending of the record. “Halfway to Heaven”, “Talk to Me”, “Little Bit of Lovin’” – all favorites, shining with such strong light!
What else can I say? “Prisoners in Paradise” rocks hard and though so many people keep on forgetting about it, I’m here to remind you about it! I would recommend this record to anyone who loves classic rock and is ready to enjoy an hour, full of excellent rockers by exceptional musicians.
Tracklist:
“All for Nothing”
“Halfway to Heaven”
“I’ll Cry for You”
“Little Bit of Lovin’”
“Talk to Me”
“Seventh Sign”
“Prisoners in Paradise”
“Bad Blood”
“Homeland”
“Got Your Mind in the Gutter”
“Till My Heart Beats Down Your Door”
“Girl from Lebanon”
I’ll Cry For You
Prisoners In Paradise
Halfway To Heaven
All Or Nothing
MY ROCK MIXTAPES 