Europe to Release New Album “The Cult Of Ignorance” and Announce Anniversary Tour
Europe has recently released ‘The Cult Of Ignorance’, the second single from their upcoming album Come This Madness. Frontman Joey Tempest described the track as a classic rock anthem that delves into contemporary social issues. This release comes as part of the lead-up to their album due to be launched on 25 September via Silver Lining Music. The band also announced plans for an extensive international tour to commemorate the 40th anniversary of their renowned album ‘The Final Countdown’.
Despite gaining global fame with their hit ‘The Final Countdown’ in 1986, Europe has continued to stay relevant through the years, creating new music that resonates with current themes instead of relying solely on past successes. The inspiration for ‘The Cult Of Ignorance’ stemmed from a phrase by author and biochemist Isaac Asimov, introduced to Tempest by keyboardist Mic Michaeli while touring in South America. Tempest elaborated on the song, noting that while it addresses pressing issues prevalent in today’s society, it maintains a somewhat lighthearted approach.
The accompanying music video for ‘The Cult Of Ignorance’, directed by Patric Ullaeus, features appearances by various notable personalities from different fields, further amplifying the track’s message. The video showcases a diverse range of Swedish cultural figures from music, sports, entertainment, and science, underscoring the band’s intention to create a piece that transcends boundaries. The band’s approach to the song and video reflects a desire to engage with broader global issues rather than focusing on specific regions or individuals.
‘The Cult Of Ignorance’ precedes their earlier single ‘One On One’, both offering fans a glimpse into the upcoming album Come This Madness, the band’s twelfth studio release since ‘Walk The Earth’ in 2017. Recorded at RMV Studio in Stockholm under the guidance of producer Tom Dalgety, the album features collaborations with notable artists like Ghost leader Tobias Forge and Opeth frontman Mikael Åkerfeldt.
Europe, formed in 1979, gained international recognition with ‘The Final Countdown’, propelling them to stardom in the 1980s. Since reuniting in 2003, the band has continued to evolve, producing new music that builds on their hard rock legacy. The release of Come This Madness aligns with their upcoming tour, celebrating the band’s enduring journey while introducing audiences to fresh material from the forthcoming album.
As Europe prepares to embark on The Final Countdown 40th Anniversary Tour, their ability to blend legacy with contemporary relevance is evident in their latest releases. ‘The Cult Of Ignorance’ serves as a powerful reminder of the band’s melodic strengths and their commitment to engaging with societal issues through their music. Europe’s unwavering dedication to their craft over almost five decades is a testament to their resilience and enduring impact on rock music.