’80s Rock Band Europe Return With New Single ‘One on One’ Ahead of Upcoming Album

After years without a full studio release, Europe are stepping back into the spotlight with new material that signals both continuity and change. Their upcoming album, Come This Madness, is set for release on September 25, marking their twelfth studio effort and first in nearly ten years.

The band has already offered a glimpse of what’s ahead through the single “One on One,” a steady, bass-driven track that opens the record. Positioned as the introduction to the album’s overall tone, the song leans into a controlled pace rather than explosive energy, hinting at a more measured approach this time around.

A New Chapter With Familiar Voices

Beyond the band’s core lineup, the album includes contributions from fellow Swedish musicians. Tobias Forge and Mikael Akerfeldt both appear on the project, adding distinct elements drawn from their own styles.

These collaborations suggest a wider sonic range while still keeping the band’s identity intact. The record will feature 11 tracks in total, with “One on One” setting the stage for what follows.

Looking Back to Understand the Shift

To see where this new direction fits, it helps to revisit the band’s earlier work. Formed in Upplands Väsby in 1979, Europe first entered the scene with their self-titled debut in 1983. That early material, along with 1984’s Wings of Tomorrow, leaned heavily toward progressive metal influences.

Their breakthrough arrived with 1986’s The Final Countdown, which transformed them into international stars. The title track became a global anthem, while “Carrie” reached the Top 5, pushing the band into a more commercial sound that defined the rest of the decade.

Listen to the new single here:

Break, Return, and Continued Output

The momentum eventually slowed, leading to a split after 1991’s Prisoners in Paradise. For over a decade, the group remained inactive before reuniting in 2004 with Start From the Dark, signaling a return with a heavier tone.

Since then, Europe has maintained a steady presence through touring and recording. Their last album, Walk the Earth, arrived in 2017, leaving a noticeable gap before this latest release.

Touring Plans and Anniversary Shows

Alongside the new album, the band has lined up an extensive series of live dates across Europe from June through October. These shows include a special set of performances celebrating the 40th anniversary of The Final Countdown, beginning in late September.

Those concerts are expected to blend classic material with newer songs, connecting different eras of their catalog. As anticipation builds, Come This Madness stands as both a continuation and a reset, bringing Europe back into focus with fresh music after a long pause.