ALBUM REVIEW: Teenage Rebel – Nestor

Sometimes musicians rush into production before they even know what they want to sound like overall. Not NESTOR though; these Swedish hard rockers originally formed in 1989, only to release their first album in 2021. You’ve got to be really committed to a project to keep it going underground for three decades, and let’s just say NESTOR know what their sound is and have mastered this knowledge, as heard in their brand new release – Teenage Rebel.

The Law Of Jante‘s opening intro simply asks you to listen. It takes a look at our history and how it has developed (or how it hasn’t) and asks us to reflect on our own importance. It’s a pretty deep way to open an album, but it definitely piques an interest. A smooth transition then leads nicely into the tones of We Come Alive, a classic 80s rock anthem mixing electro keys and rolling riffs. You could see this in any 80s film soundtrack, as the hero of the story trains in a boxing ring throwing a few punches and just generally vibing. It’s a fun song, easy to follow and makes you feel good by bringing a sense of nostalgia but with a modern take. Vocalist Tobias Gustavsson has the classic 80s soulful voice that you would expect, hitting all the right high notes and flowing alongside a somewhat busy backdrop.

Title track Teenage Rebel initially brings some sass to the forefront, before blending into a slower paced heartfelt verse. The chorus heads back into hard rock riff central, bouncing the melodic lyrics around to create a fun atmosphere. As with most classic rock songs, a guitar solo is almost a necessity. This track does not disappoint, bring the levels down before Jonny Wemmenstedt lets loose, shredding like his life depends on it. The track then slows slightly, before picking the pace back up. This contrast works really well, giving the listener a bit of breathing room before heading back into this anthemic tune.

Last To Know switches the tone up a bit, going for more of a ballad love song with a mix of possible country elements. This is a super surprising song, coming off the back of the riff and key-heavy previous tracks, but is a more than welcome change. This feels like the band are pouring their heart out through the music. It feels more personal and emotional compared to the in your face hard rock showmanship, resulting in a more memorable listening experience.

Unchain My Heart almost echoes the classic, The Final Countdown, a slightly slower-paced version, but the overall feel brings out that comparison. NESTOR have made a very nostalgic sounding album, filled to the brim with dynamic instrumentals and vocals. It’s great to hear a range of styles across the release, with the slower ballads standing out from the rest. Considering how long the band have had to hone their sound, they have definitely developed their identity and it’s an enjoyable listen.

Rating: 7/10

Teenage Rebel is out now via Napalm Records.

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