photo by Mats Vassfjord; photo courtesy of BJF Media

Single Review of Metalite: “New Generation” (AFM Records)

“New Generation” is the third single released by Swedish melodic power metal act Metalite from the band’s upcoming album Expedition One, which is slated to drop on January 19th.

image courtesy of BJF Media

It’s as heavy as the album’s first two singles, “Disciples of the Stars” and “Blazing Skies,” but “New Generation” is a little airier, with a tunefully soaring aesthetic and a less frantic tempo, suggesting that it’s likely to appeal to a broader audience than the song’s two also-kickass predecessors – or, at least, provide a more comfortable entry point to a broader range of potential new fans. “New Generation” also features a memorable, singalongable chorus: “We are the new generation. And the future’s in our hands. For the world, for the sky. We are the new generation. Our voices will be heard. We won’t break or drop out.” (Trust me, you’ll sing along, at least to the “we are the new generation” parts.)

Musically, “New Generation” builds tension before releasing it into soaring vocals on more than one occasion. Lyrically, “New Generation” is a tribute to the younger generation, its ideals, and its motivation to act upon those ideals. Since Expedition One will be a fictitious rock opera about the world in 2055, it’s a little unclear if the song’s “new generation” has yet been born, but that’s nitpicking, as the sentiment is clearly meant to work overtime, referencing the world’s current cohort of young idealists, as well.

photo by Mats Vassfjord; photo courtesy of BJF Media

Looking Back

I noted that “New Generation” is the third single from Metalite’s upcoming album. Looking back at the first two singles, I think some of the blistering axework late in “Blazing Skies” is one of the coolest, shredding guitar solo bridges I’ve heard in a while. If you start your journey of discovery of Metalite’s music with “New Generation,” prepare yourself for the more frantic tempo of “Blazing Skies,” especially the frenetic initial 45 seconds, and then enjoy how the tempo eases as the track settles in, particularly keeping an ear out for that late-song shredding. Next, backtrack to first single “Disciples of the Stars,” which comfortably slides stylistically in-between singles two and three. At this point, you’ll join me in anxiously awaiting Expedition One‘s January release.

But still, man, as much as I enjoy the first two singles, “New Generation” is really something special! So, yeah, if you’re just discovering Metalite’s music, definitely start here!

Looking Ahead

While you await the release of Expedition One, check the “Shows” page of the Metalite’s website. There are currently no upcoming dates, but watch for some to be added. Also keep up with the band’s TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook pages.