John Norum was the first guitar player of 'Europe' and cofounder of the group 'W.C' who was to become Force and later on 'Europe'. Played in the band from 1979 to 1987. Officially decided to quit because he didn't have quite the same musical taste as the rest of the members at that time. Others say that he couldn't stand the pressure each time he was going to perform.

'Worlds Away' is his 4th studio release. OK, I know what you are going to say... this is rock and not heavy metal. You are wrong this time. John Norum is back into Metal again! This feels like a follower to 'Face The Truth' even if it lacks of a 'radio-friendly' rock tune.This is an album to come back with, most definitely. The guitar playing is more beautiful than ever - when John wants it to be beautiful - the raw edge is still there. Keely's voice is so perfect in the slower tunes - together with John's guitar; it's what I call 'harmony'. The album begins with the track 'Manic Distortion' and John's guitar adds a heavy sound to it. The main song on this album that at first grabbed me after hearing the full album was 'Where The Grass Is Green ' and - surprise - it's one of the album's mid-tempo, ballad tracks. Kelly's vocals on this one is just glorious. My next highlight from the CD is the track 'Worlds Away', excellent backing vocals, rhythm riffs , solos and an aggressive attitude. This is made to be played LOUD! All the songs are equally beautiful and truly this album was a nice surprise for me. 'Worlds Away' reminds me of the all time classic 'The Final Countdown' but I have to say , it's more aggressive , melodic , full of feelings and voiced in the most pure figure. It's what I call...just Heavy Metal !

Do you like European, raw guitar, oriented Metal? Do you think Yngwie is too much fiddling and technique? Do you like a sensitive guitarist who actually loves his guitar? If some of you answered 'yes', I think you should get it. If you were a bit disappointed in 'Another Destination' - don't hold it against 'Worlds Away' !