Review FREEDOM “Stay Free!”

Swedish rock newcomers Freedom surprised everyone with their self-titled debut album. That was back in 2021, and the self-released records helped the band leave a first footprint. Now it’s time to follow up this first giant step and the band does it with their new record “Stay Free”.

The first important thing is that Freedom has grown. It’s now a four-piece and not a trio anymore, as Ola Göransson (Heavy Feather, Stacie Collins) and Matte Gustafsson (In Solitude, Siena Root, Heavy Feather) have become permanent members of the band.

“Stay Free!” picks up from where the band left off on their debut album an the first song “Tonight” sets the stage for “Stay Free! It is a upbeat rock song with a great groove and a well-crafted melody. It doesn’t take long for the song to unfold its beauty. It immediately feels like Freedom have taken their sound from the debut and taken it to the next level. Everything feels a bit more mature and elegant, while keeping the organic soul of rock’n’roll alive in a great way.

The Springsteen influences may be a bit more prominent on the new album, but there are songs like “Eye of the Storm” that clearly show the band’s roots in Swedish rock music.

“Freedom Song” is the track that bridges the two releases. Originally meant to be on the debut, it took a bit more effort and now it feels right to have it on the album, also with Ola and Matte on board. Also worth mentioning is the saxophone part, which I didn’t expect, but it fits so well to this song. It’s a natural addition to the usual setup of bass, guitars, drums and vocals.

“Stay Free!” is the anticipated next impressive release from Freedom. The new studio album will help Freedom to strengthen their position and surely has the potential to enlarge the fanbase in Sweden, Europe and beyond. Enjoy the warm and organic spirit of Rock’n’Roll.