Sweden Rock Festival

[Guest Satanisk_Slakt]

You might remember this and this thread.

A new one for this year. I will update you through the year of the bands which are coming. I know you all can't wait to hear more about it (sarcasm).

I will do that anyways.

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So! They've released a few of the bands that are coming. So far there are nothing stunning. I'm very interested in UNISONIC (D) however. It will be interesting to see what Kiske can provide. So far it's just them and Sabaton that I will go and see.

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Here are the bands that will play at SRF in the order they are presented:

BACHMAN & TURNER (CAN)

Traditional, though intensely heavy rock with a deadly groove - the recipe for the success of Canada's first internationally renowned hard rock act Bachman-Turner Overdrive, creators of such albums as "Not Fragile" (1974) and hits like "You Ain't Seen Nothin' Yet", "Takin' Care of Business", "Let It Ride" and "Roll on Down the Highway". The band's classic front-duo consisted of guitarist and chief song-writer Randy Bachman and bassist Fred Turner, a.k.a. "the man with the Harley-Davidson voice". These two were permanently separated after Bachman's departure from BTO in 1991, but nearly two decades later, the duo Bachman-Turner have reunited and is currently working on their first common album since 1984! And their festival debut will take place on SRF. Where else?

RICK SPRINGFIELD (AUS/US)

Melodic rocker Rick Springfield got his first hit as a solo artist in his native land Australia as early as 1971, but after moving to Hollywood the following year fiasco followed fiasco for several years before he finally got his break in 1981. But that break was a double one: as a musician with mega-hit "Jessie's Girl", and as an actor in soap opera "General Hospital". More US-hits followed, including "I've Done Everything for You", "Don't Talk to Strangers" and "Human Touch", but in 1985 Springfield took a time-out to be with his family after which Europe more or less lost track of him. However, to his fellow Americans (he is an Australian-American citizen since 2006) he is still a well-known character, and melodic rockers of all nationalities hold him in such high esteem that he should actually be considered a quite reputable addition to SRF 2010.

SABATON (S)

Sabaton is without a doubt one of the most talked-about Swedish metal bands of today - in their home country they may even have superseded the mighty Hammerfall as the most popular defenders of traditional, 80s metal-values. Ever since the band's explosive Swedish breakthrough with "Primo Victoria" in 2005, their popularity has kept increasing with succeeding albums "Attero Dominatus" (2006) and especially "The Art of War" (2008). The latter even led to Sabaton being invited to perform in Turkish TV, thanks to the song "The Cliffs of Gallipoli". There's no doubt that the band is one of the fastest growing stars in the Swedish hard rock heavens, and their return to SRF has been eagerly anticipated - to put it mildly.

D-A-D (DK)

After ten studio albums D-A-D is one of Denmark's biggest rock bands of all time, with a very characteristic sound influenced by both country and punk. The quartet peaked commercially in the late 80s-early 90s with the albums "No Fuel Left for the Pilgrims" (1989) and "Riskin' It All" (1991), containing classics like "Sleeping My Day Away", "Bad Craziness" and "Laugh 'n a ½". But that does not mean that D-A-D should be labelled as has-beens, since many claim that their most recent outputs "Scare Yourself" (2005) and "Monster Philosophy" (2008) represent a second golden age. Not least in Sweden, where brothers Jesper and Jacob Binzer (vocals/guitar and guitar, respectively), Stig Pedersen (bass) and Laust Sonne (drums) have been established as a great cult band for many years.

SAGA (CAN)

Few artists have combined the progressive with the hit-oriented as successfully as Canadian quintet Saga. The group debuted in 1978 and peaked commercially in the early 80s with such albums as "Worlds Apart" (1981) and "Heads or Tales" (1983), particularly in Germany and Puerto Rico (!). "Full Circle" (1999) heralded something reminiscent of a second golden age for the band, since both this and consecutive albums are held in high esteem by old and new Saga-fans alike. The departure of singer Michael Sadler in 2007 was a potentially devastating blow to the band's career, but happily the audience has reacted positively to new front-man Rob Moratti as well as "The Human Condition", the first Sadler-less Saga-album in history - the band's twentieth studio product to date!

ANVIL (CAN)

Better late than never! Lauded documentary "The Story of Anvil" has given a tremendous career-boost to one of the most underrated bands in heavy metal history. Anvil formed in Toronto in 1978, and their most acclaimed albums, "Metal on Metal" and "Forged in Fire", arrived in 1982 and 1983 respectively. The band had a huge influence not least on the growing thrash metal-movement spearheaded by Metallica and Slayer, but the big break eluded Anvil themselves. Still the band, centered around vocalist/guitarist Steve "Lips" Kudlow and drummer Robb Reiner, refused to give up or compromise, and now they are finally rewarded for their obstinacy. Pending the release of Anvil's fourteenth studio album "Juggernaut of Justice" public expectations are higher than ever, and SRF-attendees are guaranteed a breathtaking display of superlatively brutal, traditional heavy metal.

UNISONIC (D)

How heavy metal-fans have waited, and pined! Now classic Helloween-vocalist Michael Kiske finally returns to the realm of metal, in a new project with prolific producer and Pink Cream 69-bass player Dennis Ward. The two have previously released two albums with the AOR-inspired Place Vendome, but this is the first time Kiske joins a heavy metal-band - and even marks his actual return to the live-stage - since his departure from Helloween in 1993. Unisonic also consists of Ward's partner in crime from Pink Cream 69 and Place Vendome, Kosta Zafiriou, on drums, plus guitar-king Mandy Meyer (Asia, Krokus, Gotthard etc.), and their debut album will be released before the festival.

MOTHER'S FINEST (US)

Mother's Finest from Atlanta are most famous for the funk/disco classic "Baby Love" off "Another Mother Further" (1977), but are also one of the earliest and best examples that colour makes no difference for how hard you can rock! In the 80s, the band supplanted their radio-friendly approach for uncompromising, raw and funky hard rock, and mainstream listeners lost sight of them for good. Among hard rock connoisseurs, however, albums like "Iron Age" (1981) and "Black Radio Won't Play This Record" (1992) are heralded masterpieces, and Mother's Finest have also proven themselves as an extraordinary live act supporting the likes of Ted Nugent, Black Sabbath, REO Speedwagon and Aerosmith. Bassist Jerry "Wyzard" Seay and vocal duo Glenn Murdock and Joyce "Baby Jean" Kennedy constitute the band's core trio, and the latter's voice must be heard to be believed! In short, this is the band you didn't know you needed - but trust us, you do!

BIGELF (US)

Bigelf from Los Angeles has enjoyed massive cult status in Scandinavia since the release of their full-length debut "Money Machine" in 2000. The band's heavy, psychedelic and progressive hard-rock is dominated by front-man Damon Fox' grandiose keyboard-work and influenced by Beatles and Pink Floyd as well as Black Sabbath and Atomic Rooster. Though their second album and major-label debut "Hex" (2003) sadly didn't produce the global breakthrough Bigelf had hoped for, their loyal fan-base remained by their side and Bigelf's return with "Cheat the Gallows" in 2008 was met with the same well-deserved praise as their previous releases. And after supporting Dream Theater in both Europe and the US, Bigelf is arguably hotter than ever when they return to SRF after nine years.

JORN (N)

Norwegian Jørn Lande is one of today's most renowned hard rock vocalist in the traditional, blues-inspired vein associated with David Coverdale, Paul Rodgers, Joe Lynn Turner et al. His resume includes noticeable stints in Vagabond, Ark, Beyond Twilight and especially Masterplan, but he is arguably most famous for his own project Jorn, which so far has released five self-composed studio albums since 2000 - the latest being "Spirit Black" (2009) - all packed with classic hard rock in the spirit of Whitesnake, Rainbow and Thin Lizzy. Since Lande is also a charismatic front-man it is hardly surprising that Jorn have gathered a loyal, consistently growing fan-base, not least in Sweden.

ALDO NOVA (CAN) Cancelled

Canadian AOR-hero Aldo Nova is best known internationally for the hit single "Fantasy", that propelled his debut "Aldo Nova" (1982) to double platinum status in the US. "Monkey on Your Back" off "Subject" (1983) was a decent hit as well, but Aldo Nova retired as a solo artist after his third album "Twitch" (1985) sold alot less than the previous two except in - Sweden! He has since gained greater recognition as a professional composer, creating massive hits for artists like Céline Dion and Clay Aiken. Over the years, he has also released a few more solo albums, for instance the superb, guitar-oriented "Blood on the Bricks" (1991) where he wrote most of the songs together with Jon Bon Jovi. Apart from being a fantastic song writer he is also known for being a marvelous guitar player. His new album "Too Much Sex", due for release in early 2010, finally brings him to Sweden and Sweden Rock Festival!

W.A.S.P. (US)

Blackie Lawless & Co is one of those bands that Sweden, and not least the SRF-crowd, never seems to get enough of. When W.A.S.P:s eponymous debut arrived in 1984 Sweden was one of the regions where the band's glam-laden heavy metal caused the biggest sensation, and where their spectacular horror show rattled the parental generation the most. Since then, W.A.S.P. have kept releasing albums that remain popular to this day, but obviously that earliest period is still very special to the band's fans. Now here's a reason for them to cheer - W.A.S.P's setlist at SRF 2010 will consist EXCLUSIVELY of songs from the two first albums "W.A.S.P." and "The Last Command" (1985)! Nothing but golden oldies like "I Wanna Be Somebody", "Wild Child", "Blind in Texas" and "LOVE Machine" throughout the entire show - how's that for a great gift to every devoted W.A.S.P.-fan out there?

RAVEN (UK)

Raven from Newcastle is one of the most legendary and long-lived bands from the New Wave of British Heavy Metal. Centered around brothers John (vocals, bass) and Mark Gallagher (guitar) they delivered well-crafted and, for its time, delightfully brutal music on their first three, classic albums "Rock Until You Drop" (1981), "Wiped-Out" (1982) and "All for One" (1983). And excepting a more melodic, US-courting period in the mid-80s, Raven have continued to deliver bona fide heavy metal, disregarding musical tends - to the delight of their fans. An accident in 2001, severely injuring Mark Gallagher's legs, forced the band to take an extended, but in 2009 they returned with the new album "Walk Through Fire". And in 2010, it gives us great pleasure to welcome one of the great names of British metal to their SRF-debut!

RATT (US)

They brought down the house at SRF 2008 - now Ratt, one of the biggest glam metal-bands in history, return to Sweden and the festival. In the 80s, the band were the main competitors of Mötley Crüe, creating a multitude of classic tracks like "Round and Round", "Lay It Down", "You're in Love" and "Wanted Man". Then came an extended period during which Ratt came and went with ever-changing line-ups, none of which came close to the stature of the original band. Order was restored in 2007, when the band resumed touring with three of the five classic members, including vocalist Stephen Pearcy. And in April 2009 Ratt signed a new record deal with Roadrunner, where their highly anticipated comeback album "Infestation" will be released Spring 2010. No doubt about it anymore, the band is back and they're hungry again!

Y & T (US)

San Francisco's Y&T caused a sensation within the metallic underground when they released "Earthshaker" in 1981. The album, and its successors "Black Tiger" (1982), "Mean Streak" (1983) and "In Rock We Trust" (1984) are all timeless classics with an equally melodic and aggressive heavy metal-sound and songs from the top drawer and then some. Sadly Y&T never played in Sweden during this golden age, so the expectations were immense when they finally arrived at SRF in 2003. The performance was a resounding success, which repeated itself on the band's return the following year. And now guitarist/vocalist Dave Meniketti, bassist Phil Kennemore and guitarist John Nymann, accompanied by (relatively) new drummer Mike Vanderhule, will return to the scene of this double triumph - at about the same time as Y&T's first new album in 13 years (!) sees the light of day.

MAGNUM (UK)

British pomp-rockers Magnum enjoy a massive cult status in Sweden, where the band earned their all-time biggest chart-success when the "Wings of Heaven" album made it to #2 in 1988. Many a Swede wept bitterly when Magnum, debuting with "Kingdom of Madness" in 1978 and also responsible for such monumental records as "Chase the Dragon" (1982) and "On a Storyteller's Night" (1985), decided to call it a day in 1995. Not surprisingly, the band's return to Sweden at SRF 2002 was a triumphant success, later cemented with more seminal records, including "Princess Alice and the Broken Arrow" (2007) and "Into the Valley of the Moonking" (2009). Guitarist/songwriter Tony Clarkin remains at the helm, with competent assistance from keyboard-wiz Mark Stanway, bassist Al Barrow, drummer Harry James (of Thunder repute) and - lest we forget - ever-soulful vocalist Bob Catley.

DANZIG (US)

Glenn Danzig has reached massive commercial success not just once, but thrice: he formed horrorpunk pioneers Misfits, who've been a standing influence on scores of punk and hard rock bands ever since their formation in 1977. In 1983 it was time to develop things with Samhain, a band that fused Misfits punk rage, dark heavy metal, plus brooding goth and new wave-vibes. In Samhain Danzig would form a musical partnership with bass player Eerie Von and guitarist John Christ - both of whom followed Glenn when the band Danzig was formed in 1987. The line-up was completed by drummer Chuck Biscuits and the rest, as they say, is history. With eight full length albums and tons of hits - "Mother", "Twist of Cain", "Devil's Plaything", "Dirty Black Summer", "How the Gods Kill" among others - in their catalogue Danzig will finally be making their debut at Sweden Rock Festival.

NAZARETH (UK)

In the mid-70s, Scottish Nazareth was once of the biggest names in hard rock. They ingeniously mixed rugged, rocky tunes like "Razamanaz", "Hair of the Dog" and "Woke Up This Morning" with poppier covers like Joni Mitchells "This Flight Tonight" and the Everly Brothers "Love Hurts". The latter one gained its greatest momentum in Nazareth's version, as one of the greatest rock ballads of all time. The band has been a major influence on the likes of Hanoi Rocks and Guns n' Roses - in fact, Dan McCafferty is Axl Rose's role-model as a singer - and remains a very popular live-act, as they have proved numerous times at SRF. In 2008, they released the impressive "The Newz", their first studio album since the passing of drummer Darrell Sweet in 2009. Today, Nazareth consists of original members McCafferty and Pete Agnew (bass), the latter's son Lee Agnew on drums, plus long-time guitarist Jimmy Murrison.

WATAIN (S)

Swedish Watain is one of the most influential and successful black metal-bands of today, and when they make their Sweden Rock Festival debut it will be a memorable occasion in more ways than one. As if it wasn't enough that their fourth album has a preliminary release date set for the days just before the festival, making this a golden opportunity to debut some coveted new material, the band has also promised a special tribute to the most revered and important black metal-act of all time: Bathory. Bathory-founder and only real member Quorthon passed away on June 7th 2004, and to honour the memory of his creations Watain will deliver a set consisting of 45 minutes of their own black metal magic, and 45 minutes of their own choice of Bathory classics. Raise the dead!

STEEL PANTHER (US)

In America, hair metal was long considered extinct - then came Steel Panther and showed just how wrong this was! Said Los Angeles-quartet have been around for roughly a decade, under different monickers - they released their debut "Hole Patrol" both in 2003 as Metal Shop, and in 2005 as Metal Skool. As Steel Panther, they debuted in 2009 with "Feel the Steel", and this album has made the public take serious notice. For the acclaimed music, reminiscent of glam/hair metal heroes like Poison, Slaughter et al, but even more for the ironic (?) lyrics. Titles like "Asian Hooker", "Stripper Girl" and "I Want Pussy" indicate, correctly, that the lyrics of Steel Panther would make a gangsta-rapper blush!

ALESTORM (UK)

Scotsmen Alestorm have swiftly become one of the most talked-about new metal bands of our time. They debuted in 2008 with "Captain Morgan's Revenge", an album of the folk metal persuasion and with a pirate image that would have gained an appreciative nod from the legendary Running Wild (RIP). Album number two, "Black Sails at Midnight", arrived promptly the following spring, and it hasn't taken Alestorm very long to find an audience, by touring heavily but also because their music is quite impressive, musically and from its entertainment value. For those who have longed for a band combining tough heavy metal-riffs with Celtic rhythms, and with a singer (Christopher Bowes) who sings about pirates with a bona fide Scottish accent, their patience has now been rewarded.

STRATOVARIUS

One of the most influential bands of what is now referred to as power metal, Finnish Stratovarius, debuted in 1989 and got their domestic break with their fourth album "Fourth Dimension" (1995). The following releases "Episode" (1996), "Visions" (1997), "Destiny" (1998) and "Infinite" (2000) established the band as international heavy metal stars, but the following years brought an uneven production and internal strife leading to the band briefly disbanding in 2008. Shortly afterwards, former guitarist and main-man Timo Tolkki sgned over the rights to the name Stratovarius to his former colleagues, and May 2009 saw the release of the band's first album with new guitarist Matias Kupiainen, "Polaris". The new Stratovarius, completed by singer Timo Kotipelto, keyboardist Jens Johansson, drummer Jörg Michael and bassist Lauri Porra, now make their first appearance at SRF - something to look forward to for power metal-fans.

BEHEMOTH (PL)

Polish Behemoth is a band that lives up to its name. The bands hybrid of death and black metal truly sounds like a beast, especially on stage: the quartet's touring schedule is constantly filled to the brim, so it is a well-oiled machinery that comes to set our stage on fire. The band last visited us in 2005, and has since released the critically acclaimed albums "The Apostasy" (2007) and "Evangelion" (2009). Behemoth recently won a massive nine (!) categories in the British magazine Terrorizer's yearly readers' poll - including the category of best live band of 2009. According to the interview with frontman Nergal in Sweden Rock Magazine #68, there's a logical explanation to the band's constant hunger for being on stage: - We're addicted to the touring and the adrenaline. We can't help it. We feed off the energy of the audience. Prepare to be mauled.

OPETH (S)

With a groundbreaking hybrid of death metal and progressive rock with a 70s flavour, Opeth from Stockholm rank among the most influential and exciting metal bands of our time - and not only the Swedish ones. The band debuted with "Orchid" in 1995, but it wasn't until their fifth album "Blackwater Park" (2001) was released that they got their true break. Since then they have released another four studio albums, each more successful than its predecessor - with the latest one, "Watershed" (2008), even the American audience started to take serious notice of Opeth. In their home-country, and among progressive listeners in general, Mikael Åkerfeldt & Co are without a doubt one of the hottest bands around at the moment, and it's more than just a guess that their appearance at SRF will draw a very, very large crowd.

SUICIDAL TENDENCIES (US)

They have been named one of the instigators of crossover thrash, and they are definitely one of the genre's most classic bands. Suicidal Tendencies was formed in Venice, California in 1981 and released their eponymous debut two years later. The band gradually developed their very own variety of thrash, firmly rooted in savage hardcore and punk and crowned by the provocative and rap-like lyrics of main man Mike Muir. At their commercial peak - with current Metallica bassist Robert Trujillo in the line-up - they released certified gold albums as "Lights Camera Revolution" (1990) and "The Art of Rebellion" (1992), and 2010 will hopefully also see the arrival of the first new album in many years from one of metal's most furious acts. They will definitely make their highly anticipated debut at SRF.

SLAYER (US)

The hardest of the hard in the 80s, historically one of the most important bands in extreme metal. From the beginning, Slayer stood out as the spearheads of Bay Area thrash - along with Metallica, obviously - and their debut "Show No Mercy" (1983) was their then record label Metal Blade's biggest seller at the time. Even more successful, not to mention influential, were albums like "Hell Awaits" (1985), "Reign in Blood" (1986) - often regarded as the pivotal thrash release - and "Seasons in the Abyss" (1990). Opinions are divided concerning the following era in Slayer history, with its experimental albums sans super drummer Dave Lombardo. The man returned to the band in 2002, after which Slayer have released two more albums and last year's "World Painted Blood" in particular has been heralded as a definite return to form. Now, in 2010, Lombardo, singer/bassist Tom Araya and guitarists Kerry King and Jeff Hanneman will finally appear at SRF - rejoice, all ye who have waited and pined! This will probably be their only show in Sweden this summer with a full setlist, since the band will be given an evening slot with at least 90 minutes of stage time.

FATES WARNING (US)

Fates Warning, along with Queensrÿche and Dream Theater, are the most important pioneers in the history of prog metal. The band was formed in Hartford, Connecticut in 1983 and has released ten studio albums since 1984. The most successful one is "Parallels" from 1991, recorded by the band's classic line-up: guitarists Jim Matheos and Frank Aresti, bassist Joe DiBiase, drummer Mark Zonder and vocalist Ray Alder. This line-up effectively disbanded in 1996, but will nonetheless be just the one performing at Fates Warning's SRF-debut in 2010. In other words, "Eye to Eye", "Point of View", "We Only Say Goodbye" and the other fan-faves will be performed by all their original creators - no fan of melodic, professional and exciting metal should miss this opportunity.

MASTODON (US) Cancelled

Mastodon from Atlanta is one of the prime acts within the so called New Wave of American Heavy Metal. Their progressive yet brutal music is influenced by Pantera as well as Neurosis and Thin Lizzy (!), extremely well-played and featuring sometimes psychedelic, sometimes downright intellectual lyrics. The band's full-length debut "Lifesblood" arrived in 2002, followed by their breakthrough album "Leviathan" (2004). Since then Mastodon have also released "Blood Mountain" (2006) and "Crack the Skye" (2009), establishing themselves as one of the hottest metal bands of our time. If you like your metal hard, progressive and delivered with intense aggression on stage, Troy Sanders (bass/vocals), Brent Hinds (guitar/vocals), Bill Kelliher (guitar) and Brann Dailor (drums) is the band for you!

U.D.O. (D)

Former Accept-vocalist Udo Dirkschneider is one of the most acknowledged characters in hard rock and never fails to bring down the house at SRF. No wonder - heavy metal doesn't get much better than the immortal Accept-classics everybody wants to hear and nobody gets tired of, along with the best pieces from U.D.O's own catalogue, twelve studio albums strong to date. The latest of which, "Dominator", has been lauded as one of the band's finest for many years, and here is something that maybe isn't mentioned often enough - that a U.D.O.-concert is not only a good place to rediscover old fave-tracks, but to discover new ones as well. U.D.O. will headline wednesday june 9th at the festival.

GARY MOORE (UK)

It's finally happening - Gary Moore is coming to SRF TO PLAY HARD ROCK! The guitar legend from Belfast has, obviously, been playing blues (and certain other things) for two decades now. But in Sweden, home of Gary's arguably most devoted fan-base, he is still primarily remembered and cherished for his hard-rock classics. He got his break in 1979, when "Parisienne Walkways" became a hit and he released the "Black Rose"-album as a member of Thin Lizzy. His solo career began "for real" with "Corridors of Power" (1982), and subsequent releases, in particular the Celtic-inspired "Wild Frontier" (1987), made Gary famous in many countries and idolized in Sweden. His subsequent blues records also sold very well in Sweden to begin with, but his personal and emotional hard-rock songs remain the greatest favorites among Swedish fans. "Empty Rooms", "Out in the Fields", "Over the Hills and Far Away" and "After the War", to name but a few. Now, after more than 20 years, classics as these, and the occasional Thin Lizzy-nugget, will once more echo across the plains.

GUNS N' ROSES (US)

One of the biggest rock bands of all time, Guns N' Roses, will bring their "Chinese Democracy World Tour" to Sölvesborg and Sweden Rock Festival in June. The worldwide tour promotes the band's latest album, Chinese Democracy, which debuted at #1 on the charts in thirteen countries including Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Finland, Hong Kong, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, Poland, Singapore, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, as well as the European Top 100 Albums survey. Chinese Democracy was released on Black Frog/Geffen Records in November 2008 and reached 3 times Platinum in Canada, Platinum in Czech Republic, Finland, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Norway, Poland, Romania, Switzerland, UK, Argentina, New Zealand and South Africa. The album is Gold in Austria, Belgium, Denmark, France, Greece, Hungary, Holland, Sweden, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, Brazil and Colombia. In the U.S., the album was certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) on February 3, 2009. Produced by Axl Rose and Caram Costanzo, Chinese Democracy includes 14 tracks. On this tour, singer/main man Axl Rose is accompanied by long-time keyboardist Dizzy Reed, the latter's fellow ivories tickler Chris Pitman, bassist Tommy Stinson, drummer Frank Ferrer and guitarists Richard Fortus, Ron "Bumblefoot" Thal and DJ Ashba - a musical dream-team and one of the most prestigious SRF-debuts this festival has ever had the pleasure of introducing! Guns N' Roses last played in Sweden in June 2006, when they sold out the Globe arena in Stockholm.

BILLY IDOL (UK)

If you think the 80s were devoid of raw, sexy and dangerous rock 'n' roll, you obviously missed out on Sir William Broad, a.k.a. Billy Idol. Billy got a minor break with 70s-punks Generation X, but it was his second solo-LP "Rebel Yell" (1983) that made him a million-selling star. Throughout the 80s, he remained one of the most popular artists of the era, gaining numerous huge hits: : "White Wedding", "Rebel Yell", "Eyes Without a Face", "To Be a Lover", "Sweet Sixteen" and "Cradle of Love", to name but a few. After the colossal flop of industrial experiment-album "Cyberpunk" (1993) Billy retired to relative obscurity for many years, save a few appearances such as playing himself in the movie "Wedding Singer" (1998) - to great public acclaim. In 2008 he finally returned to the big stages full-time, touring the world with Def Leppard. And now one of the most notorious, and beloved bad boys of rock is back for real - to finally debut at SRF. Only show in Sweden!

AEROSMITH (US)

Aerosmith, one of the biggest and most influential bands in rock history, return to Solvesborg on June 10th for one of the most exciting shows of the summer. Aerosmith - Steven Tyler, Joe Perry, Brad Whitford, Tom Hamilton and Joey Kramer - return to Europe for the first time in three years in what promises to be a sensational show. The Sweden Rock festival is the first of several European Aerosmith dates, their first live dates this year, and it looks set to be one of the highlights of 2010. Steven Tyler said: "Swedish audiences are like no other. We're all very excited." Joe Perry added:" This is the first show of our European Tour. We can¹t wait to uncork our tour here in Sweden and I am sure the cork will hit the ceiling."

BLACKBERRY SMOKE (US)

Many wonder why there are no good new Southern Rock bands anymore. After having heard Atlanta's Blackberry Smoke, most people withdraw the question! This is the band who takes the genre back to its roughest, grittiest and grooviest roots, i.e. the best elements of bands like Lynyrd Skynyrd, Molly Hatchet, Marshall Tucker Band and the Georgia Satellites. Blackberry Smoke (Chris Robinson of the Black Crowes came up with the monicker) have been sharing stages with ZZ Top and Lynyrd Skynyrd, and this last fall they released their second album "Little Piece of Dixie" which has given their career a major boost. Where should a band of this caliber play, if not at SRF?

DEATH ANGEL (US)

These Bay Area thrashers were all teenagers when their legendary debut "The Ultra-Violence" was released in 1987. Following another couple of successful outings with "Frolic Through the Park" and "Act III", where the band expanded their musical horizons, they seemed destined for the big league when a serious bus accident effectively halted their career. A few years ago they made a surprise comeback, and since then they have been heralded as one of the best live acts of the genre. Apart from their appearance on the Sweden Rock Cruise on April 8th, the Sweden Rock Festival show will be their first in Sweden since the early 90's!

PENDRAGON (UK)

One of the proudest names of the predominantly British movement that emerged in the early 80s and is now known as neo-prog. Pendragon was formed in 1978 by guitarist/singer Nick Barrett, who still constitutes the band's core along with bassist Peter Gee. 1986, the year after Pendragon released their first LP "The Jewel", keyboardist Clive Nolan joined the ranks. With their 2001 effort "The World", the band abandoned the idea of commercialism to embrace their progressive roots. From there, Pendragon has grown into a formidable force at the progressive rock scene, their most recent album "Pure" (2008) also being one of their most acclaimed releases. If you are into bands like Marillion, IQ, Pallas and (the Clive Nolan-led!) Arena, you should definitely check out Pendragon.

CINDERELLA (US)

In the 80s, Philadelphia's Cinderella was one of the most lauded and successful bands in glam oriented metal. Their debut "Night Songs" arrived in 1986 to become an instant mega-success. Main characteristics included Tom Keifer's unmistakable vocals, highly impressive songs and unusually prominent blues influences. The latter became increasingly dominant on the succeding "Long Cold Winter" (1988) and "Heartbreak Station" (1990). After the raunchier "Still Climbing" (1994) Cinderella were forced to take an extended break, since their music no longer had any support from the music industry. Now the band finally make their serious comeback, with their classic line-up intact: Tom Keifer (vocals, guitar), Jeff LaBar (guitar), Eric Brittingham (bass) and Fred Coury (drums). So many of you have longed to see Cinderella at SRF - 2010 is the year when it happens. And it will be the band's only Scandinavian appearance this year, as you may have guessed.

POINT BLANK (US)

Groove-based Southern Rock with a hint of AOR for good measure, is what Point Blank provides. Guitarist and main man Rusty Burns was once a guitar technician for ZZ Top, and the latter's manager Bill Ham also discovered the potential of Point Blank. The band released six albums from 1976 to '82, "Nicole" (1981) becoming their biggest hit. Point Blank disbanded, largely due to legal wrangles, but returned to the scene in 2005. In 2009, they released their first studio album in seventeen years, "Fight On!". Now the band makes their second appearance at SRF - a welcome return for all friends of hard-hitting melodies and that genuine Southern atmosphere.

QUIREBOYS (UK)

20 years have passed since the Quireboys wrote pub rock history with their classic debut "A Bit of What You Fancy", featuring gems like "7 O' Clock", "Hey You" and "I Don't Love You Anymore". However, after the follow-up "Bitter Sweet & Twisted" the band called it a day, feeling out of fashion in the era of grunge. But gradually the Quireboys came to realize how many of their loyal fans that missed them, not least the Swedish ones. In 2001 the band released their comeback album "This is Rock'n'Roll", to date succeded by "Well Oiled" (2004), "Homewreckers & Hearttbreakers" (2008) and the acoustic "Halfpenny Dancer" (2009). In today's Sweden, the Quireboys is a band that is cherished by old fans and young sleaze- and pub rockers alike. And few live acts are capable of creating such a party atmosphere as Spike, Guy Griffin, Nigel Mogg and the lads.

WINGER (US)

Not only was Winger one of the biggest melodic hard-rock acts in the late 80s/early 90s, they were also bona fide world-class musicians. Front-man Kip Winger used to play bass for Alice Cooper, drummer Rod Morgenstein came from the Dixie Dregs featuring Steve Morse, and guitarist Reb Beach has since gained even greater repute with Dokken, Whitesnake and Night Ranger. The band split up in 1994 after three albums, all of which are undisputed classics and containing such hits as "Seventeen", "Miles Away" and "Down Incognito". On their comeback album "IV", released in 2006, Winger managed to transcend into more "serious" territories while still keep their old fans happy and more. Winger's greatest asset was always their musical talent, not how cute they were 20 years. Only show in Europe summer 2010!

F.K.Ü. (S)

Certain thrash lovers are sceptical towards FKÜ from Sweden. If a band takes a name that is the acronym of "Freddie Krueger's Ünderwear", dresses up as said "Nightmare on Elm Street"-antihero on stage, and writes lyrics exclusively as tributes to old horror movies and metal legends - is it even possible to take them seriously? Absolutely, since FKÜ are dead serious when it comes to songwriting. In fact, they're probably one of the best bands of their kind at the moment. They have made three albums, and the most recent one, last year's "Where Moshers Dwell", is definitely the band's biggest success so far. The music is solid old-school thrash, equally classy whether you find the lyrics amusing or not. The greatest moshpit alert of this year's SRF?

STEELWING (S)

Steelwing is Sweden's newest stars in the new wave of traditional heavy metal, also featuring compatriot bands like Enforcer, Portrait, In Solitude and Helvetets Port. The band got signed by Nuclear Blast after winning a contest against more than 1200 bands from around the globe. Now their debut "Lord of the Wasteland" will arrive on April 30th. Some of you, primarily Swedes, may remember these talented true metal fighters as Scavenger or Hellevator, but now when they finally introduce themselves at the international metal scene it is under the Steelwing monicker.

DUNDERTÅGET (S)

Robert Dahlqvist played guitar with the Hellacopters but also wanted a side project where he also handled lead vocals. The year was 2004, and the new band was named Thunder Express after a song by MC5. Under this name, the band released two albums filled with raw and rootsy rock music, influenced by the likes of the Rolling Stones, the Faces, Fleetwood Mac and of course the Hellacopters. However, their big national break came when they "translated" their name to Dundertåget (literally "Rumble Train") and switched to Swedish lyrics. The first Dundertåget album "Skaffa ny frisyr" ("Get a New Haircut") was one of the most talked-about records in Sweden in 2009. This April, the band will release their sophomore album. "Dom feta åren är förbi" ("The Fat Years are Gone"). And in June, one of Sweden's hottest bands at the moment makes their SRF debut.

MICHAEL MONROE (FIN)

Finnish singer Michael Monroe (né Matti Fagerholm) is best known from Hanoi Rocks, one of the most influential bands in modern glam history. Their five records from 1981-84 have influenced bands like Poison and Guns N' Roses. But Mike has also released several solo albums, including the classic "Not Fakin' It" (1989), and led acts like Jerusalem Slim and Demolition 23. In 2002-09 Mike once more fronted Hanoi Rocks, releasing three more fine rock albums. Now the singer is once more on his own, excepting of course his illustrious back-up musicians. Namely guitarist Ginger (The Wildhearts), bassist Sami Yaffa (Hanoi Rocks, New York Dolls, Joan Jett) and drummer Jimmy Clark (Deborah Harry, Joan Jett). Top-notch musicians and three decades of stellar rock'n'roll to boast - Michael Monroe is one of the genuine rock'n'roll articles at this year's SRF.

Grave Digger (D)

Grave Digger from Germany have made major contributions to heavy metal history not once, but twice. Once following their debut "Heavy Metal Breakdown" (1984), which put them at the frontline of the exploding German metal scene. And once more spearheading heavy metal's triumphant return in the 90s, with such albums as the famous "Middle Ages Trilogy" - "Tunes of War" (1996), "Knights of the Cross" (1998) and "Excalibur" (1999). Grave Digger have continued creating fan-fave records in the 21st Century, like "The Grave Digger" (2001) and last year's "Ballad of a Hangman" (a new album is on its way). Now one of the world's leading "true metal"-bands make their highly anticipated comeback at SRF, as always with indefatigable singer Chris Boltendahl at the helm.

SATOR (S)

Sator was discovered by the Swedish public in 1988, thanks to their bizarre version of "Oh Mama" by female pop-duo Lili & Sussie. Their album debut "Slammer" arrived the same year, and "Stock Rocker Nuts" in 1990. These albums contained ballsy and punk-influenced rock'n'roll and established Sator as a cult act in Sweden. The third record "Headquake" (1992) was actually a bona fide hard rock release. It was a great success that has since become a classic, but Sator still chose not to continue in that direction. Instead they returned to their roots, but the album releases became more scarce and the band itself all but invisible. In 2009, Sator was at the crossroads: quit, or give it all once more and show the youth of today where bands like Backyard Babies and the Hellacopters have their roots. They chose the latter, and will now return to SRF in 2010.

CHICKEN SHACK (UK)

When the British blues movement exploded in the 60s, gradually moving into heavier territory, Chicken Shack was one of the most appreciated bands. The original, classic line-up - Stan Webb (guitar, vocals), Andy Sylvester (bass), Christine Perfect (keyboards, vocals) and Dave Bidwell (drums) - released two popular albums: "Forty Fingers Freshly Packed and Ready to Serve" (1968) and "OK Ken" (1969). Then, in the wake of their greatest hit, Etta James cover "I'd Rather Go Blind", Christine left the band and later turned up in Fleetwood Mac. Some turbulent years later, Chicken Shack folded in 1974. Band leader Stan Webb, highly ranked as a guitarist, still revives his "baby" from time to time, in order to serve massive doses of traditional, blues-based rock to a live audience. Next stop: SRF.

NASCENCY (S)

This year's winners of the Project Independent Europe contest are Nascency from Varberg at the Swedish West Coast. This constellation plays death metal and was formed in 2006. Their style is defined by fast, deliberately original riffs. Still their most conspicuous characteristic is their two singers, enabling them to alternate between roaring growls and more pristine vocals. Nascency are currently recording new songs, that can soon be enjoyed at myspace.com/nascencyband.

STONE SOUR (US)

On the release of the eponymous debut from Des Moines' Stone Sour in 2002, many mistook the band for a new side-project by Slipknot-members Corey Taylor (vocals) and Jim Root (guitar). As it were, the duo had been in Stone Sour even before Slipknot, and when the latter took a break the two released an album by their "other" band. The sound was more melodic than Slipknot's - it has been referred to as post-grunge - and many were surprised by how well Taylor mastered "normal" singing. Stone Sour released their second album "Come What(ever) May" in 2006, and started getting serious attention from audiences outside America as well. Currently, during another gap in Slipknot's schedule, Stone Sour is working on their third album for a possible August release. But we don't have to wait that long to see one of the currently most talked-about names of modern American metal at SRF.

DREAM EVIL (S)

One of Sweden's most beloved heavy/power metal-bands was formed by guitarist and Hammerfall producer Fredrik Nordström. The line-up was completed by Greek guitar virtuoso Gus G (Firewind and currently Ozzy Osbourne), singer Niklas Isfeldt, bassist Peter Stålfors and drum veteran Snowy Shaw (Mercyful Fate, King Diamond etc.) and debuted in 2002. Dream Evil's big native break came with album number three, "The Book of Heavy Metal" (2004). The title track was an immediate anthem with Swedish metalheads and is already an established classic. January 2010 saw the release of the band's fifth album "In the Night", where Dream Evil prove that despite a few line-up changes, they still adhere to melodic heavy metal with a healthy hint of humor.

SKYCLAD (UK)

Skyclad, 20 years old this year, is often called the first folk metal-act. Their blend of thrash metal and Celtic folk music made them one of the genuinely unique bands of the early 90s. Many were also impressed with the exceptionally witty lyrics by then singer Martin Walkyier (ex-Sabbat). After ten albums, including classics like "Jonah's Ark" (1993) and "Prince of the Poverty Line" (1994), Walkyier left the band in 2001. Skyclad then promoted guitarist Kevin Ridley frontman, and restored the fans' confidence with the impressive "A Semblance of Normality" (2004). Skyclad's most recent release is "In the All... Together" (2009), a marked step towards their early, earthbound roots. If you like folk metal but have not yet discovered Skyclad, don't miss their SRF debut - this is the band that inspired all of your idols.

MICHAEL SCHENKER GROUP (D)

It is now 30 years since German guitar-hero Michael Schenker released the eponymous debut of the Michael Schenker Group. This made him a third time creator of hard-rock history, after co-founding Scorpions and elevating Brits UFO to superstardom. Now Schenker is about to enter the stage to celebrate the 30th anniversary of "Armed and Ready", "Cry for the Nations" and the rest of the classics on MSG's debut. By his side we find two more band-members from that era: drummer Simon Phillips (Judas Priest, Mike Oldfield, Ian Gillan, Toto) and not least vocalist Gary Barden. Schenkers trusted associate Wayne Findlay delivers rhythm guitar and keyboards, while the bass comes courtesy of legend Neil Murray (Whitesnake, Gary Moore, Black Sabbath, Brian May). A formodable dream team for any fan of traditional melodic hard rock.

EPICA (NL)

Every cloud has a silver lining. When guitarist Mark Jansen was forced to leave After Forever, as a consequence the new band Epica emerged. The latter group debuted with "The Phantom Agony" in 2003, and quickly made a name for themselves on the rising scene dominated by Nightwish and Within Temptation. Epica's defining features included the vocals of Simone Simons and the philosophical, new age-tinted lyrics. Third album "The Divine Conspiracy" (2007) elevated their career even further. Last year's "Design Your Universe" followed, and there is no doubt that Epica is currently one of the hottest names in melodic metal.

MAYHEM (N)

The ultimate pioneers of the Norwegian black metal-scene released their, and the whole scene's first studio recording in 1987 - "Deathcrush". Mayhem, then centered around founder/guitarist Euronymous, became infamous for a live-show with such features as impaled pigs' heads, as well as singer Dead's suicide in 1991. The band's second, even more historical record "De Mysteriis Dom Sathanas" arrived posthumously in 1994 - after Euronymous was murdered by the man who played bass on the album, Count Grishnackh of Burzum. However, this was not the end of the arguably most influential deliverers of primitive, definitive musical blackness. Drummer Hallhammer, original bassist Necrobutcher and new guitarist Blasphemer resuscitated Mayhem, and in 2004 "De Mysteriis"-vocalist Attila Csihar returned to the fold as well. Following Mayhem's fifth studio record "Ordo Ad Chao" (2007) Blasphemer took his leave. These days, Hellhammer, Necrobutcher and Attila take the stage along with deadly guitar-duo Morfeus and Silmaeth, and with this line-up Mayhem will now make their long overdue SRF-debut. Rejoice, all true black metal-lovers!

CATHEDRAL (UK)

When doom metal was established as a separate sub-genre in the early 90s, Cathedral was one of its most influential and successful acts. Singer and founder Lee Dorrian used to be in Napalm Death, and Cathedral's debut "Forest of Equilibrium" (1991) was also kind of extreme - a pitch-black, sinister classic. The band's later works have been more groove-orientated and not equally slow, but still decidedly heavy. After their heralded eighth album "The Garden of Unearthly Delights" (2006), many believed Cathedral called it a day. However, now they're back with their progressive double album "The Guessing Game" and are also headed for this year's SRF.

PRAYING MANTIS (UK)

Their classic debut "Time Tells No Lies" (1981) established Praying Mantis as one of the prime melodic bands within the New Wave of British Heavy Metal. Sadly the band split up shortly afterwards due to various problems, including a conflict with Rainbow about who would get to release the single "I Surrender". Praying Mantis' Japanese fan-base in particular remained devoted, and the band reunited in 1990. The comeback-album "Predator in Disguise" was followed by more, equally excellent releases, most recently the lauded "Sanctuary" in 2009. The band's line-up has changed numerous times (former members include Iron Maiden-refugees Paul Di'Anno, Dennis Stratton and Clive Burr), but its nucleus has always been the Troy brothers, Chris and Tino on bass and guitar respectively. At Praying Mantis' SRF-debut the duo will be accompanied by guitarist Andy Burgess, drummer Benjy Reid and singer Mike Freeland.

AMON DÜÜL II (D)

Amon Düül II is one of the principal names in kraut-rock history. They formed in 1968 as something of a musical collective where players came with just a few members as the nucleus. Their music was psychedelic, improvisation-heavy, multi-faceted and mostly very dark - the band has been called "Germany's Yes", which gives a certain, albeit not complete insight to their sound. Their three first albums "Phallus Dei" (1969), "Yeti" (1970) and "Tanz der Lemminge" (1971) are possibly their most historical contributions to German rock. The music got less multidimensional and, according to the fans, a lot weaker from the mid-70s. However, in the 90s Amon Düül II got their act together once more and continue to defend their position as one of the prime exponents of psychedelic rock.

TREAT (S)

The mid-80s was the golden age of Swedish hair metal. Treat was, alongside Europe (of course) the biggest band of the genre. Their first four albums, released in 1985-89, all left lasting impressions in Swedish hard-rock history. Even In Flames made a cover of "World of Promises" off Treat's third, most classic album "Dreamhunter" (1987)! When Treat released their fifth, eponymous album in 1992, only guitarist Anders Wikström - nowadays a professional songwriter - remained from the original line-up. The band folded the following year. In 2005 Treat made a somewhat hesitant return to the limelight, but this time the comeback is for real, with a brand new album. "Coup de Grace" has already made Treat-devotees squeal with joy, and makes the band's return to SRF all the more welcome.

THE SCREAMIN' LORDS (US)

The Screamin' Lords from Los Angeles is the brainchild of bassist José Ferro. What the band plays is raw, blues-based and sexy hard-rock that has been compared to AC/DC, Judas Priest and Thin Lizzy, and their debut "Long Live Me" was met with rave reviews. Besides the music, the album has also received lots of attention for its guest stars, such as top-vocalists Kelly Keeling (Baton Rouge, MSG) and Robin McAuley (MSG, Survivor) and guitar-heroes Chris Poland (Megadeth, OHM) and George Lynch (Dokken, Lynch Mob, Souls of We).

MUSTASCH (S)

Mustasch (obviously "moustache" in Swedish) make no bones about how digestable they are. They are all about meaty riffs and catchy choruses, in short nice, unpretentious and groove-based hard rock with party potential. The more repetitive, potsmoke-oozing stoner sound of debut EP "The true sound of the new West" (2001) was more of an honest mistake - albums like "Above all" (2002), "Ratsafari" (2003) and "Latest version of the truth" (2007) consist mainly of immediate slam-dunks like "Double nature" off the latter album, a massive Swedish hit. In 2008 two of the members found the band's success too time-consuming. Consequently, the fifth album "Mustasch" (2009) introduced a new line-up. Ralf Gyllenhammar (vocals/guitar) and Mats Johansson (bass) was now accompanied by guitarist David Johannesson (ex-Sparzanza) and drummer Danne McKenzie (ex-Jug McKenzie). All for the better, as it turned out - the new Mustasch line-up is a juggernaut both on record and live.

Edited May 28, 2010 by Satanisk_Slakt

[Scaramouche]

Hmm.. Maybe I'll come over if there are any bands I realy wanna see...

[Guest Satanisk_Slakt]

Of course there will be some good bands. It's a very broad metal/rock festival. If you like metal or rock there's always at least 3 bands you'll like every year. Even the shitty year of 2007, when we had Poison here, there were a few good bands. Like Avantasia for example.

[Lithium]

"I'm getting fucked by Rick Springfield"

[spunko12345]

I was in Prague this year in an awesome rock bar called Hells Bells and they were playing D.A.D - Laugh n a half. I'd never heard of them before as they didnt really get big in the UK but I absolutely loved it and got the DJ to play it over and over. Brilliant song - Laugh n a 1/2

[Scaramouche]

Yeh, sure there will be good bands But I've not too much money, so I've to see if I can go.. Have to prioritize the festivals with bands I want to see the most..! Where in Sweden is it?

[Guest Satanisk_Slakt]

It is outside of Karlshamn, which is a small-town in south-east Sweden. The area it is in is called Norje.

You can find a map here: http://www.swedenrock.com/index.cfm?pg=31&pr=1

You're talking about money. Remember that Sweden is about 20% cheaper on most things than Norway. You could probably come of cheaper if you got here.

[Scaramouche]

Okay, thanks! I'll have to wait and see until more bands are added!

[Guest Sweet Tooth]

haha anvil, they're going places! sounds like it'd be a good time, how much is it for this? Is it a day festival?

[Guest Satanisk_Slakt]

It's a four-day festival.

[Vogstar90_G'N'R]

hmmm how much are tix?

[P.A. Guns]

Like Avantasia for example.

Sabaton, Jorn, and Anvil are good.

[Gods Favourite]

Dude, seriously, you HAVE to go see D-A-D! It's the best Danish live act, EVER. Maybe Nephew is becoming a better live act, but I think D-A-D still holds the 1st place (funny how the two best live bands is called dad and nephew). I've seen them multiple times and they NEVER dissapoint! They've been active since 1982 and just keeps putting out great music.

Actually, my nick (Gods Favourite) is from one of their songs

Gods Favourite

Everyone here in Denmark loves D-A-D. Metal-heads, pop-boys, techno-trampers; everybody loves them!

Here are some live-clips with them from Roskilde Festival in 2005:

- Gives me the chills every time, just listen. Everybody sings along

- Again, everybody signs along.

- Love the drum solo, he does that at every show and each time the crowd yells "Kom så Laust, vi ved at du har det", I love it.

[bhutan]

Great festival! Currently the nordic countries have the best music (rock and metal) in Europe and some of the best festivals.

Dude, seriously, you HAVE to go see D-A-D! It's the best Danish live act, EVER. Maybe Nephew is becoming a better live act, but I think D-A-D still holds the 1st place (funny how the two best live bands is called dad and nephew). I've seen them multiple times and they NEVER dissapoint! They've been active since 1982 and just keeps putting out great music.

Actually, my nick (Gods Favourite) is from one of their songs

Gods Favourite

Everyone here in Denmark loves D-A-D. Metal-heads, pop-boys, techno-trampers; everybody loves them!

Here are some live-clips with them from Roskilde Festival in 2005:

- Gives me the chills every time, just listen. Everybody sings along

- Again, everybody signs along.

- Love the drum solo, he does that at every show and each time the crowd yells "Kom så Laust, vi ved at du har det", I love it.

[Guest Satanisk_Slakt]

DAD isn't my cup of tea. Nothing to hang in the tree.

ALDO NOVA (CAN)

Canadian AOR-hero Aldo Nova is best known internationally for the hit single "Fantasy", that propelled his debut "Aldo Nova" (1982) to double platinum status in the US. "Monkey on Your Back" off "Subject" (1983) was a decent hit as well, but Aldo Nova retired as a solo artist after his third album "Twitch" (1985) sold alot less than the previous two except in - Sweden! He has since gained greater recognition as a professional composer, creating massive hits for artists like Céline Dion and Clay Aiken. Over the years, he has also released a few more solo albums, for instance the superb, guitar-oriented "Blood on the Bricks" (1991) where he wrote most of the songs together with Jon Bon Jovi. Apart from being a fantastic song writer he is also known for being a marvelous guitar player. His new album "Too Much Sex", due for release in early 2010, finally brings him to Sweden and Sweden Rock Festival!

[Gods Favourite]

Go see their show, you won't be dissapointed

[Guest Satanisk_Slakt]

I don't doubt that. It's hard to get disappointed without any expectations.

[Guest Satanisk_Slakt]

YES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! One of my favourite-livebands ever, WASP is coming to Sweden Rock. And They will only play songs from their two first albums.

W.A.S.P. (US)

Blackie Lawless & Co is one of those bands that Sweden, and not least the SRF-crowd, never seems to get enough of. When W.A.S.P:s eponymous debut arrived in 1984 Sweden was one of the regions where the band's glam-laden heavy metal caused the biggest sensation, and where their spectacular horror show rattled the parental generation the most. Since then, W.A.S.P. have kept releasing albums that remain popular to this day, but obviously that earliest period is still very special to the band's fans. Now here's a reason for them to cheer - W.A.S.P's setlist at SRF 2010 will consist EXCLUSIVELY of songs from the two first albums "W.A.S.P." and "The Last Command" (1985)! Nothing but golden oldies like "I Wanna Be Somebody", "Wild Child", "Blind in Texas" and "LOVE Machine" throughout the entire show - how's that for a great gift to every devoted W.A.S.P.-fan out there?

Another band will be confirmed tomorrow.

[Teroz]

Ace Frehley will be there or thats what he said in Helsinki last night...

Oh yeah and could it be that W.A.S.P. will have a special line-up?... Doubt it, but it would be fakin great!!!!!!!!1

[st0n3r]

YES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! One of my favourite-livebands ever, WASP is coming to Sweden Rock. And They will only play songs from their two first albums.

W.A.S.P. (US)

Blackie Lawless & Co is one of those bands that Sweden, and not least the SRF-crowd, never seems to get enough of. When W.A.S.P:s eponymous debut arrived in 1984 Sweden was one of the regions where the band's glam-laden heavy metal caused the biggest sensation, and where their spectacular horror show rattled the parental generation the most. Since then, W.A.S.P. have kept releasing albums that remain popular to this day, but obviously that earliest period is still very special to the band's fans. Now here's a reason for them to cheer - W.A.S.P's setlist at SRF 2010 will consist EXCLUSIVELY of songs from the two first albums "W.A.S.P." and "The Last Command" (1985)! Nothing but golden oldies like "I Wanna Be Somebody", "Wild Child", "Blind in Texas" and "LOVE Machine" throughout the entire show - how's that for a great gift to every devoted W.A.S.P.-fan out there?

Another band will be confirmed tomorrow.

I want them to come to graspop now!

[Gods Favourite]

Cool. Wish I could hear "Cocaine Cowboys" live, I love that song

[Guest Satanisk_Slakt]

RAVEN (UK)

Raven from Newcastle is one of the most legendary and long-lived bands from the New Wave of British Heavy Metal. Centered around brothers John (vocals, bass) and Mark Gallagher (guitar) they delivered well-crafted and, for its time, delightfully brutal music on their first three, classic albums "Rock Until You Drop" (1981), "Wiped-Out" (1982) and "All for One" (1983). And excepting a more melodic, US-courting period in the mid-80s, Raven have continued to deliver bona fide heavy metal, disregarding musical tends - to the delight of their fans. An accident in 2001, severely injuring Mark Gallagher's legs, forced the band to take an extended, but in 2009 they returned with the new album "Walk Through Fire". And in 2010, it gives us great pleasure to welcome one of the great names of British metal to their SRF-debut!

[Guest Satanisk_Slakt]

One less pleasant band....

***************************

RATT (US)

They brought down the house at SRF 2008 - now Ratt, one of the biggest glam metal-bands in history, return to Sweden and the festival. In the 80s, the band were the main competitors of Mötley Crüe, creating a multitude of classic tracks like "Round and Round", "Lay It Down", "You're in Love" and "Wanted Man". Then came an extended period during which Ratt came and went with ever-changing line-ups, none of which came close to the stature of the original band. Order was restored in 2007, when the band resumed touring with three of the five classic members, including vocalist Stephen Pearcy. And in April 2009 Ratt signed a new record deal with Roadrunner, where their highly anticipated comeback album "Infestation" will be released Spring 2010. No doubt about it anymore, the band is back and they're hungry again!

[Guest Satanisk_Slakt]

Y & T (US)

San Francisco's Y&T caused a sensation within the metallic underground when they released "Earthshaker" in 1981. The album, and its successors "Black Tiger" (1982), "Mean Streak" (1983) and "In Rock We Trust" (1984) are all timeless classics with an equally melodic and aggressive heavy metal-sound and songs from the top drawer and then some. Sadly Y&T never played in Sweden during this golden age, so the expectations were immense when they finally arrived at SRF in 2003. The performance was a resounding success, which repeated itself on the band's return the following year. And now guitarist/vocalist Dave Meniketti, bassist Phil Kennemore and guitarist John Nymann, accompanied by (relatively) new drummer Mike Vanderhule, will return to the scene of this double triumph - at about the same time as Y&T's first new album in 13 years (!) sees the light of day.

************************

Never heard of them.

[Guest Satanisk_Slakt]

MAGNUM (UK)

British pomp-rockers Magnum enjoy a massive cult status in Sweden, where the band earned their all-time biggest chart-success when the "Wings of Heaven" album made it to #2 in 1988. Many a Swede wept bitterly when Magnum, debuting with "Kingdom of Madness" in 1978 and also responsible for such monumental records as "Chase the Dragon" (1982) and "On a Storyteller's Night" (1985), decided to call it a day in 1995. Not surprisingly, the band's return to Sweden at SRF 2002 was a triumphant success, later cemented with more seminal records, including "Princess Alice and the Broken Arrow" (2007) and "Into the Valley of the Moonking" (2009). Guitarist/songwriter Tony Clarkin remains at the helm, with competent assistance from keyboard-wiz Mark Stanway, bassist Al Barrow, drummer Harry James (of Thunder repute) and - lest we forget - ever-soulful vocalist Bob Catley.

************************

Not my cup of tea.