Europe - Final Countdown 12" Vinyl LP Album

"The Final Countdown" is the third studio album by the Swedish hard rock band Europe. Released on 26 May 1986 through Epic Records. It was recorded at Powerplay Studios in Zürich, Soundtrade Studios in Stockholm, Mastersound Studios in Atlanta and Fantasy Studios in Berkeley.

Album Front Cover Photo of Europe - Final Countdown

Production & Recording Information

This album "Europe - Final Countdown" includes the original custom inner sleeve with album details, complete lyrics of all songs by and artwork/photos

The album: "Europe - Final Countdown" was produced by: Kevin Elson for Elson Music Vision

Sound/Recording and Sound Mix Engineer(s): Kevin Elson, Wally Buck

This album was recorded at: Powerplay Studios, Zurich, Switzerland; Soundtrade Studios, Stockholm, Sweden; Mastersound Studios, Atlanta; Fantasy Studios, San Francisco.

Mastered by Bob Ludwig at Masterdisk, New York

  Bob Ludwig Bob Ludwig is an American mastering engineer and record producer. He is widely regarded as one of the best mastering engineers in the music industry, and has worked with a diverse range of artists across various genres, including classical, rock, pop, and jazz.

  more...

Ludwig has been active in the music industry since the 1970s and has worked on numerous critically acclaimed and commercially successful albums, including records by Led Zeppelin, The Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd, and many others. He has also been recognized for his contributions to the industry and has won several Grammy Awards for his work.

Throughout his career, Ludwig has been known for his technical expertise, attention to detail, and his ability to bring out the best in recordings. He has also been a strong advocate for the preservation of audio quality and has worked to promote the use of high-quality analog and digital technologies in the recording and mastering process.

Overall, Bob Ludwig is a highly respected and accomplished mastering engineer who has made a significant impact on the music industry through his work with many of the biggest and most influential artists of our time.

Art Direction: Joel Zimmerman

Album cover Illustration: Les Katz


Music Genre:

Hard Rock, Heavy Metal

Label & Catalognr:

Epic EPC 26808, BFE 40241

Media Format:

Origina custom inner sleeve with photos and lyrics of all songs by Europe
Record Format: 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram  

Year & Country:

1986 Netherlands and Europe

Musicians (Uncredited):
  • Joey Tempest – Lead Vocals
  • John Norum – Guitar, Backing Vocals

    John Norum John Norum is a highly acclaimed Swedish guitarist known for his exceptional skill, melodic style, and contributions to the world of rock music. Born on 13 February 1964, in Vardø, Norway, Norum gained widespread recognition as the lead guitarist for the Swedish rock band EUROPE.

    Norum's musical journey began at a young age when he discovered his passion for the guitar. Influenced by iconic guitarists such as Jimi Hendrix, Gary Moore, and Michael Schenker, he developed a distinct playing style characterized by his impeccable technique and soulful solos. Norum's guitar playing blends elements of blues, hard rock, and melodic metal, creating a signature sound that resonates with fans around the world.

    In 1979, Norum co-founded the band FORCE alongside his childhood friend, Joey Tempest, who would later become EUROPE's lead vocalist. FORCE would eventually evolve into EUROPE, and Norum's exceptional guitar skills played a vital role in shaping the band's sound and success.

    Norum's contributions to EUROPE are evident in the band's breakthrough album, "The Final Countdown" (1986), which featured his memorable guitar solos and riffs. Songs like the title track "The Final Countdown" and "Rock the Night" showcased his technical proficiency and melodic sensibility, elevating the band's music to new heights. Despite leaving the band temporarily in the late '80s, Norum returned to EUROPE in 2003 and continues to play a significant role in their ongoing musical journey.

    Apart from his work with EUROPE, Norum has also pursued a successful solo career. He released his debut solo album, "Total Control," in 1987, which showcased his songwriting abilities and further displayed his mastery of the guitar. Throughout his solo discography, Norum has consistently delivered albums that combine powerful guitar work with melodic hooks, including notable releases such as "Face the Truth" (1992), "Worlds Away" (1996), and "Play Yard Blues" (2010).

    Norum's skills as a guitarist have earned him widespread acclaim and respect within the music industry. He is often praised for his precise technique, tasteful use of vibrato, and ability to evoke emotion through his playing. His contributions to the world of rock music have influenced and inspired countless aspiring guitarists, making him a revered figure among fans and fellow musicians alike.

    In addition to his work as a guitarist, Norum is also a talented songwriter and has contributed to EUROPE's songwriting process over the years. His collaborations with other artists, including fellow guitarists and vocalists, further highlight his versatility and dedication to his craft.

    John Norum's legacy as a guitarist continues to grow, and he remains an influential figure in the world of rock music. His melodic solos, technical proficiency, and passionate playing have left an indelible mark on the genre, solidifying his status as one of the most revered guitarists in the rock music pantheon.

  • John Levén – Bass Guitar
  • Mic Michaeli – Keyboards, Backing Vocals
  • Ian Haugland – Drums, Backing Vocals
Tracklisting Side One:
  1. The Final Countdown 5:09
  2. Rock The Night 4:04
  3. Carrie 4:29
  4. Danger On The Track 3:45
  5. Ninja 3:47
Tracklisting Side Two:
  1. Cherokee 4:12
  2. Time Has Come 4:00
  3. Heart Of Stone 3:46
  4. On The Loose 3:08
  5. Love Chaser 3:28

High Resolution & Quality Photos
Front Cover Photo Of Europe - Final Countdown
Front Cover Photo Of Europe - Final Countdown
Photo Of The Back Cover Europe - Final Countdown
Photo Of The Back Cover Europe - Final Countdown
Photo of the custom inner sleeve Europe - Final Countdown
Large Hires Photo
Photo of the custom inner sleeve Europe - Final Countdown
Photo of the custom inner sleeve Europe - Final Countdown
Photo Side One Europe - Final Countdown
Photo Side One Europe - Final Countdown
Photo of Side Two Europe - Final Countdown
Photo of Side Two Europe - Final Countdown