Swedish hard rock trio The Gems are back with new music and momentum, leading into the release of their second full-length album, Year Of The Snake, out March 13.
The band describes their new track “Gravity” as a straight-up throwback anthem with a modern edge: “’Gravity’ is an 80s-inspired rock anthem about chasing your dreams without compromise – with big hooks, soaring vocals and that timeless rock energy. Featuring Tommy Johansson, two powerful voices unite in defiance and freedom.”
With Year Of The Snake, The Gems continue building on the buzz they earned from their debut. Their first single, “Like A Phoenix”, climbed to #2 on the German Rock Radio Airplay Charts, while their 2024 debut album Phoenix helped establish them as one of the more exciting newer names in the scene.
The band also shared what the album represents thematically: “Year Of The Snake is about facing previous hardships in your life, letting go and moving forward to a brighter chapter. It’s packed with strong and empowering themes, just like a snake shedding its skin and now standing strong in its own power!”
They also framed the record as something written with the stage in mind, built for fans who show up loud: “Year Of The Snake is a homage to our fans at our live shows. We wrote the songs envisioning an excited festival crowd; from our loyal diamonds in the front row, knowing all lyrics by heart – to the crazy headbangers in the back.”
Musically, the band leans hard into classic influences while keeping things current: “The album is packed with Van Halen and Europe-inspired hard-hitting grooves and riffs that will take you back to the 80s. Yet, the production is modern and fresh.”
And they made their approach clear in a world that often feels overly manufactured: “In an increasingly artificial world, we want to stay true to our roots – solid musicianship and songwriting from the heart. Our aim is to always create a great sounding album with the live show in mind.”
The band also delivered a statement that sums up their direction going forward: “The future is live and heavy glam rock is here to stay!”
Across 14 tracks, Year Of The Snake keeps the energy moving fast. The album opens with “Walls”, where the message comes through immediately: “The time to change is now!”
The title track follows with a spotlight on frontwoman Guernica Mancini’s vocals, Mona Lindgren’s heavy riffing, and Emlee Johansson’s driving drums.
“Gravity” stands out as a key moment on the record thanks to the added vocal power of Tommy Johansson (from Majestica and formerly of Sabaton), pushing the 80s-inspired sound even further.
Other tracks explore different corners of the band’s style. “Diamond In The Rough” brings a bluesy strength, while “Live And Let Go” aims straight for radio-ready hard rock hooks. Songs like “Clout Chaser” and “Hot Bait” keep things upbeat before the band shifts into the ballad “Forgive And Forget”.
Later cuts like “Go Along To Get Along”, “Math Ain’t Mathing”, “Firebird”, and “Stars” keep the pace strong, with “Buckle Up” and “Happy Water” closing the album with big grooves and a high finish.
In only a few short years, The Gems have moved quickly from new band to serious modern hard rock contender. With Year Of The Snake on the way, they’re clearly aiming to keep heavy glam-inspired rock alive, loud, and built for the stage.
Year Of The Snake can be pre-order here and will be available in the following formats:
- 1 LP Gatefold Vinyl Purple/Black Splatter Deluxe Edition (Napalm Records Mailorder exclusive) (strictly limited to 250)
- 1 LP Gatefold Vinyl Deluxe Edition (The Gems store exclusive) (strictly limited to 250)
- 1 LP Gatefold Vinyl Black
- 1 CD Digisleeve
- Digital Album
