LAST AUTUMN'S DREAM level eleven MICP-11195

Winter Melodies Return: Last Autumn’s Dream’s ‘Level Eleven’ (MICP-11195)

Today’s entry spotlights the eleventh studio album from the consistent Swedish melodic rock band, Last Autumn’s Dream. We are looking at the 2014 Japanese pressing of “Level Eleven,” released on the Avalon label (Marquee Inc.) with the catalog number MICP-11195. This particular copy comes complete with its original obi strip.

By 2014, a new Last Autumn’s Dream album had become a beloved “winter tradition” for melodic rock fans in Japan. “Level Eleven” marked a welcome return to the band’s roots. While the preceding albums had leaned towards a poppier sound influenced heavily by drummer Jamie Borger’s songwriting, this album saw vocalist Mikael Erlandsson taking back the creative reins on the majority of the tracks.

The result is a return to the “wet,” melancholic, and lyrical hard rock sound that defined their early popularity. The album features standout tracks like the opening number “Kiss Me,” the dramatic ballad “Fight The World,” and the emotional “Losing You.” It also includes a tribute to their Swedish peers with a cover of Talisman’s “I’ll B There 4 U,” arranged in the signature LAD style.

A notable change in the lineup for this recording was the absence of original guitarist Andy Malecek due to health issues. Peter “Pac” Söderström stepped in to handle lead and rhythm guitar duties, delivering a performance that complements the band’s established style alongside bassist Nalle Påhlsson.

As is standard for Marquee/Avalon releases, this Japanese edition offers exclusive value. It includes the bonus track “Oh Darlin’,” a sweet and catchy number that rounds out the album. MICP-11195 captures a veteran band returning to their emotional core, making it an essential addition for fans of Scandinavian melodic hard rock.