Alien were formed in Gothenburg Sweden and have been part of the hard rock scene since 1986,Alien are known for their melodic hooks, powerful guitar riffs, and the unmistakable voice of Jim Jidhed. Alien’s self-titled debut album, released in 1988, introduced their melodic hard rock style to the world establishing Alien as one of the standout bands of the late 80s hard rock scene. Since then, the band has released several albums, the most recent one, ”Into the future” in 2020,This year marks a comeback with a brand new album coming out. With their new album ”When Yesterday Comes Around” the band takes you back to a glorious time, but with a modern sound. Alien will also play at Sweden Rock Festival on the 4th of June and will also embark on an South American tour in the fall.

Alien are a band that I have never actually checked out I have to confess despite been a massive AOR/Melodic Rock fan. I came across their first single “Love Is War” which grabbed my attention with its catchy chorus ,melody and the great guitar solo, which reminded me of their Swedish counterparts Europe. The opening track “In The End We Fall” opens this album with energy and momentum, majestically melodic with a chugging riff and great guitar solo, modern sounding melodic rock. ”Aiming High” which has a rockier edge has that classic sound and feel. ”Strangeway” has a prominent bass ,keys and drums high in the mix with some subtle guitar riffs with a subtle solo to match cool vocals and harmonies, classic sounding AOR. ”We Are Living” again is more of the same nostalgic feeling AOR very much the same formula as the previous track. ”I Belong To The Rain” is another great melodic number which sees Alien turn it up a gear a faster number but still staying melodic Tony Borg delivers some guitar wizardry in the solo. Then the tempo is slowed down with the power ballad of the album “I Remember” mainly piano driven in the verses but breaking in the choruses vocally Jim Jidhed delivers a great performance. The quality AOR/Melodic Rock with “Signs” and “Falling Into My Arms” which again give me Europe vibes, plus Journey and TNT. ”Hearts On Fire” is more bluesy with the chorus harmonies making the track pop at the right moment.

”When Yesterday Comes Around” the album title track has a bluesy feel too, vocally very strong ,emotional and powerful, with the bluesy guitar runs and keyboard runs a cool touch. “When Yesterday Comes” was an album I really enjoyed, 13 tracks which showed why Alien have been around for nearly 40 years making superb AOR/Melodic Rock, veterans in their craft. Jim Jidhed's voice ,along with Tony Borg's great guitar work and Toby Tarrach's drum rhythm their vast experience shines through. A very strong release from the AOR/Melodic Rock royalty. Worth a purchase or listen this album will not disappoint. Available 21^st March via Pride & Joy Music.