I did not see this one coming. I have been getting into 2025 releases when this 2024 EP landed for review from none other than Swedish Christian hard rock pioneers, Leviticus. Given that this is the first new music from the band since 1989, I would have expected a little more fanfare. That aside, the continued release of music from Christian rock and metal pioneers continues to show that making music has no expiration date, which is always cause for celebration!
Like their fellow countrymen Jerusalem, Leviticus was one of the early hard rock and metal bands that took up the banner for Christ in a world of secular influences. They were formed in 1981 and released their first EP in 1982, which was a four-song EP in Swedish. The lineup consisted of Håkan Andersson on bass and vocals, Kjell Andersson on drums, and Bjorn Stigsson on guitars. As they gained traction they expanded the band, releasing music in English and touring more extensively, which helped break barriers for faith-based hard music. Towards the end of 1990, Leviticus would disband. In the following years, spinoff projects came into being such as proto-rapcore band Jet Circus and metal band XT. After some reunion concerts, most notably at Bobfest 2003 and a 30th anniversary concert in 2011, the band reactivated in the early 2010s. But it took until 2024 for new music from the band: a four-song EP in Swedish with the three original members, just like the EP that started it all.
“MMXXIV” is a unique release for a band at the forefront of Christian hard rock and metal. Although it feels less aggressive than you’d expect, their unwavering faith through music is very clear. Through the use of Google translate, I was able to read the lyrics in my native tongue and that made all the difference in my view of the release. Some bands focus on musical style over lyrics, Leviticus on the other hand gives a master class on Christian lyrics that speak to the depth of faith, pulling in scriptural references and real life experience. I find them quite touching. This message is the central tenant of what makes the band tick. Now let’s take a journey through the music.
We start off with “Med Lyfta händer” that is driven by a hard rock guitar riff met with strong lead vocals, however it is wrapped with a heavy atmospheric synth that smooths any rough edges. The drums drive the song forward, but is not easily noticeable under the synth, kind of like a spacey take on hard rock. Very interesting if listening with an open mind.
“Jag fäster blicken” is the ballad on the album with a slower tempo and more tender melody. The chords are sustained, where the verse of the song has a hint of darkness to it only to be dispelled by the brighter and more optimistic chorus. The same atmospheric synth shrouds the song giving a very relaxed feel. An 80s pop synth motif starts off “Fyll dina tankar” that has a more driving tempo. I found the bridge a little odd in that the repetitive arpeggio sounded like the focal point, but there was this subtle melody on synths that floated on in the background which was more deserving of the spotlight. The closing track “Liva Livet” opens with a heavy and lumbering riff and features a pretty catchy melody in the chorus over some characteristic hard rock guitar riffs for the final push of the album.
Leviticus is a legend for the Christian scene because they were unwavering in Christ. To me, the message is the aim of this release with every bit of musical energy supporting. Musically, this dreamy space rock EP is quite enjoyable even if it isn’t hard and heavy. For those blessed with an understanding of Swedish, you are in for quite a treat. Even if you don’t, getting a Google translation to read along might get you close to the same experience.
Rating: 8/10
Written by Sean Bailey
Tracklist
1 – Med Lyfta händer
2 – Jag fäster blicken
3 – Fyll dina tankar
4 – Leva Livet
Leviticus is:
Håkan Andersson – bass and lead vocals
Kjell Andersson – drums
Bjorn Stigsson – guitars, synthguitars, keyboards, moog taurus, vocals
Guests:
Tina Gustavsson – backing vocals
Release Date: October 25, 2024
Record Label: Talking Music Records
Discography:
Stå och titta på – EP (1982)
Jag skall segra! (1983)
I Shall Conquer (1984)
The Strongest Power (1985)
Setting Fire To The Earth (1987)
Knights of Heaven (1989)
Live at Bobfest 2003 (2003)
MMXXIV – EP (2024)
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