H.E.A.T 'Welcome to the Future' album review: Swedish rockers party like it's 1985 on album number eight

Swedish power rockers H.E.A.T. have dropped their new album, “Welcome to the Future.” The title might seem a bit off for a band that’s all about 80s melodic rock, even the album cover looks old-school. But hey, they’re not ready to step further than the 90s yet - and I’m totally with them. In these crazy times, a little nostalgia can be good for you.

Throughout their career, H.E.A.T. has been paying tribute to the epic big riffs and grandstanding that made rock music so awesome in the 80s. Their eight album is just like their previous ones, but bolder and better.

The early part of the album has some of the best tracks. Buckle up for the opening banger, “Disaster.” The single “Bad Time For Love” is pure 80s rock with a catchy chorus and some epic vocals from Kenny Leckremo. It’ll be stuck in your head after the first listen. “Running to You” would have been a huge hit if it had come out in the mid-80s. It’s filled with crashing percussion and an obligatory ‘whoa-oh’ refrain. It’s so unashamedly cheesy 80s rock that it transcends any cliches and just transforms you to Planet H.E.A.T.

“Children of the Storm” is another standout, but it’s hidden away towards the end of the record. Fans of 80s movies could totally picture any of these tracks as the end credits. - Have you got that tingle of nostalgia yet?

It’s pretty obvious that there’s a comforting familiarity to most of the album; like slipping into a well-worn leather jacket you found in the attic. The songs may stick to the formula for radio rock, but this isn’t half-baked or lazy. Unlike other bands who try and emulate the hair metal era,  H.E.A.T. delivers every time because the songwriting is solid: It’s always committed and never feels like they’re going through the motions just to be retro. This feels real, because it is: and that’s what makes it so good.

Kenny Leckremo’s vocals are a highlight throughout the album too: powerful, soaring, and evocative. On “In Disguise,” he stretches his voice, which keeps the track fresh and ever-changing. Keyboard and synths are all over the tracks too. “The End” would appeal to fans of Europe, Dokken, and Avantasia.

This album has some really cool moments that mix symphonic and power metal, which keeps it fresh and relevant for today’s music scene. But as a huge 80s hair metal fan, I have to say that it’s an authentic album that totally blends into both genres. It feels like it could be from either one.

There are some really catchy rock anthems and AOR-style tracks on the album. Since the band is so into the 80s, it’s a shame they didn’t slow things down with a mid-album ballad that had some of those classic 80s tropes. But hey, you can’t have everything!