For at least the past thirty years, Sweden has been a real fertile ground as far as music goes. Obviously, it all started with Abba who took pop music to such heights that may never be reached again. Then a few years later, with the success of Ace of Base, and Europe was in the limelight. Sweden has continuously given us pearls for every musical genre. If you’re talking hard-core, the Refused were one of the most original, cutting-edge bands on the scene (and still continue to be with the ex-singer’s new band International Noise Conspiracy, playing with their unique extremely political, intense style). ‘70s rock ‘n’ roll is practically in vogue again thanks to groups like The Hellacopters, and Backyard Babies. The ‘60s rage has claimed a few followers too, such as the Hives, with smashing success throughout the world. Scandinavians, Kent and Eskobar, playing moody alternative music, are known all over Europe. The Cardigans are still putting out their characteristic pop-country gems. And if you really want to talk success, just take a look at Britney Spears and N’Sync, whose best works have been produced by the Swedish Max Martin. By now, this unquestionable talent in recreating and inventing completely new musical styles is etched in stone. Very efficient at marketing, the Swedish also give some noteworthy attention to anyone who decides to study an instrument and play in a band. Starting at school, kids can get free music lessons, which even includes electrical instruments. And it’s no sweat to get a rehearsal space, unlike it is for many of their European counterparts. Maybe this is why I, who have been a great fan of Swedish music for many years, was amazed at the quality of the bands participating in the festival even at the first Emergenza edition in Stockholm in 2001. And so, I wasn’t too surprised when the first place at the Taubertal Final was awarded to the Swedish band Willowtree. Then the band went on to really show their best during the concerts on the Vans Warped Tour in California, and soon their first CD “Sofia Sofia” will hit the stores. The following year, we were captivated by Stonepark, these Swedes took 3rd place at the European Final, and also went home with the award for best song. This year, in the incredible, vibrating city of Stockholm, we have 50 bands up on the starting block, all ready to compete for the chance to play at the European Final. The first concert dates are at the Café mix from the 9th to the 15th of April. The semi-finals will follow at the beautiful Kagelbana on the 27th, 28th, and 29th of May. The Final, (the dates still need to be confirmed) will be at the prestigious Klubben. I have no doubt that we will be blown away at Rothenburg when the band from Stockholm goes on stage…