Review HAREM SCAREM “Chasing Euphoria”

There are some great rock bands coming from Toronto, Canada and one of them is Harem Scarem. Formed in 1987 by Pete Lesperance and Harry Hess, the band has become one of the greats in melodic rock. The group has released numerous albums and it was in 2020 when “Change the World” hit the shelves. Five years later, Harem Scarem is back with “Chasing Euphoria” and the latest effort easily follows in the footsteps of the previous albums.

Lesperance and Hess are excellent songwriters with a perfect feel for great melodies and it is the line-up with Creighton Doane, Mike Vassos and backing vocals from Darren Smith that execute the songs in a great fashion. These melodies have been a trademark of the band since the beginning and these melodic gems are still defining the typical sound of the guys from Ontario.

The start into the new album couldn’t be better than what the energetic title track brings to the surface. A solid punch and an excellent melody are just what you want from a colorful soundtrack for the spring season. Done with great craftsmanship, every note has its meaning and the hooks have an addictive effect. Once you have heard the title track, but also the nine other songs on the album, you will want to hit the ‘repeat’ button to start again.

Catchy but never too sugary, the songs unfold a special charm that can also be found in songs like the upbeat “Slow Burn,” which is one of the album’s harder tracks. The pounding “Gotta Keep Your Heads Up” is a throbbing AOR anthem before “World on Fire” is the album’s soulful retreat.

“Chasing Euphoria” has a running time of only 37 minutes, which isn’t too long. Since each of the ten songs though is a highlight in itself, you get enough for your investment in this album. The gently rocking “Reliving History” is a true joy for fans of melodic rock, followed by the powerful “A Falling Knife”. The finale is called “Wasted Years” and I can conclude that listening to this album is definitely not a waste of time.

Harem Scarem deliver an excellent rock album that covers everything from AOR to melodic rock. The album is a positive adrenaline rush that provides a good time and that is exactly what we need in these dark times. “Chasing Euphoria” is a release that provides joy and a good vibe for more than just one spin of the record.