Remember Dutch hard rockers Vandenberg? Most of the current generation may not be familiar with their work, owing to the group’s lengthy hiatus and fact that they’ve not released a studio album since 1985’s “Alibi.”

“Alibi” was their third studio album after their self-titled debut in 1982 and sophomore release “Heading for a Storm” in 1983. They did put out a greatest hits offering “The Best of Vandenberg” in 1988 and a lengthier best of version with “Different Worlds: The Definitive Vandenberg” in 2004, along with a live album “Live in Japan” in 2005. But it has been over three decades since we have heard anything new from them.

Well, they have most assuredly not gone away. In fact, they are back with a brand-new line-up and a vengeance with “2020.” Founding member, guitarist and band namesake Adrian Vandenberg (Whitesnake) has teamed up with vocalist Ronnie Romero (Rainbow), bassist Randy van der Elsen (Tank) and drummer Koen Herfst (Armin van Buuren), assembling some truly remarkable musical talent. Adding some special guest appearances from bassist Rudy Sarzo (Whitesnake, Ozzy Osbourne, Quiet Riot) and Brian Tichy (Billy Idol), Vandenberg has pulled out all the stops to make this album something incredibly special.

And incredibly special it is. Vandenberg have managed to maintain that old-school 80s sound without feeling dated. They’ve somehow found that rare niche between classic and modern hard rock that gives listeners that warm, familiar feeling without boredom or repetition. The riffs are strong on this one, and the guitars are masterfully supported by the amazing baseline of the rhythm section.

But perhaps the real stand-out on this album is new vocalist Romero. Not only is he able to deliver mind-blowing performances on the tracks that were written for this album, and obviously with his range and style in mind, he also perfectly tackles “Burning Heart,” one of the band’s earlier songs. His voice soars above the melodic heaviness of the music, as if the two were always destined to be combined. 

“2020” is a very worthy welcome back for Vandenberg. It gives us a glorious meshing of Whitesnake and Rainbow in the form of a new, fresh and amazing hard rock album. Hopefully we don’t have to wait as long for more of this kind of awesomeness. 

 rock 

Author: Harley Houghton

Harley Houghton is a writer and blogger, based in Melbourne, Australia. Her passions include music, especially metal, gaming and comics. Check out her blog www.harleysmadhouse.com and follow her on Twitter.