Review GLUECIFER “Same Drug New High”

One of the most anticipated returns in 2026 is undoubtedly Gluecifer with their new album, “Same Drug New High.” The Norwegian quintet defined Scandinavian rock in the late ’90s and early ’00s before embarking on a farewell tour in 2005. It seemed like the final curtain had fallen and their motivation was gone. But never say never.

The band members found their footing again, leading to a reunion in 2017. Live shows sparked the idea of more, and what was almost a mission impossible became a reality. Gluecifer worked on a new album, and now we’re facing the release of “Same Drug New High.” It’s the sixth album from the Norwegian rock band and their first studio release in 22 years. The remaining question is whether the group can reconnect with the vibrant sound of their early years.

The answer is yes. Listening to the eleven songs on “Same Drug New High” makes it feel like 2005 was just yesterday.

The band launched with “The Idiot,” a lead single that made it clear to everyone that Gluecifer is a force to be reckoned with. Their sound is defined by an electric fusion of rock, punk, and glam, and what blasts out of the speakers reflects the band’s signature sound. Fast and untamed, “The Idiot” is a great start to the album, which has the throbbing title track, another fierce masterpiece. Rock is the drug, and the new high resonates throughout the title track as well as the ten other dirty rock anthems.

Gluecifer is known for energy-infused rock songs that immediately unveil the greatness of rock music, and the new record fully lives up to that reputation. Biff Malibu and his bandmates are back with a bang, as evidenced by furious songs like “Armadas.” This punk and rock fusion bursts with energy, while “I’m Ready” leans more toward the band’s hard rock roots. The five-piece band from Oslo, Norway, is certainly ready to rock, as they prove with the gloomy “The Score.”

“Pharmacity” combines a glam factor with a gritty edge. It’s a smoothly grooving rock song that takes you back to “1996. ” The latter is the next burst of energy on the album, followed by a pulsating bassline that kicks off “Made in the Morning.” A dark groove starts the song and remains a main theme throughout, even when the song turns into a roaring rock anthem.

Up to this point, Gluecifer deliver vibrant, upbeat rock songs, and the last three songs on the album maintain this high standard. There’s the high-octane “Made Control,” a song with a hypnotic groove and real hit potential. “Another Night, Another City” reflects on life on the road. By the way, Gluecifer will play at Große Freiheit 36 in Hamburg on March 6, 2026. The energetic and gloomy “On the Wire” marks the final chapter of an excellent rock band’s return.

Gluecifer hasn’t lost any power or energy during their hiatus, and what they’ve already delivered on stage now continues with a new record. Gluecifer sticks to their trademark sonic identity while sounding more versatile and mature, and the rebellious heart of rock ‘n’ roll still beats strongly. Fans of well-crafted rock music should check out this release.