Extreme is a US Rock band that achieved popularity in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Some of Extreme's influences, Queen and Van Halen (the latter of which Gary Cherone would eventually join and later leave), are readily apparent from their music's multi-part vocal harmonies and electric guitar tone and instrumental techniques.

The band lends the listener a sound that blends the genre of glam metal with the shredding guitar work of thrash metal. Being asked about their style, Extreme categorized their music as 'Funky Metal'. Extreme has released four studio albums, two EPs (in Japan) and two compilations since its formation. The band was one of the most successful of those from the early 1990s, selling over 10 million albums worldwide. Extreme rose to fame with its 1990 release Pornograffitti, which peaked at #10 on the Billboard 200.

Saudades de Rock (which roughly translates from Portuguese as "Nostalgic Yearning for Rock") is Extreme's fifth studio album that was released on August 4, 2008. It is the band's first album of new material since 1995's Waiting for the Punchline, and also their first release with new drummer Kevin Figueiredo.

On August 14, 2007, it was reported on Blabbermouth.net that Extreme were writing a new song, entitled "Rock 'n' Roll Man", to perform at the Brad Delp (late Boston singer) tribute concert, which was being held on August 19 in Boston, Massachusetts. In addition, vocalist Gary Cherone and guitarist Nuno Bettencourt had begun writing new material for what would be Extreme's first post-reunion album. On November 26, 2007, while it was reported that Extreme were officially back, the band would eventually begin work on their new album for a spring 2008 release as well as a world tour to follow.

On January 15, 2008, Bettencourt posted an update stating that Extreme were "finishing up the recording" of their "new release". He claimed the band "had a great time jamming and creating" and also "ended up with about 24 tunes", which they "dwindled down to the 14 that will be on the record." He also described the songs as "a 'mishmash' of old-school rock and some tasty abstract ditties". On April 29, 2008, Cherone posted an update stating that the album was finished "except for one lead vocal and a few backgrounds" and said that Bettencourt was "working overtime finishing up the mixes". Cherone also stated the album contains "the best performances of the band... ever".

On June 16, 2008, Blabbermouth.net announced August 1, 2008 as the release date for Saudades de Rock in Europe and later on July 15, 2008 the band's website revealed a release date of August 12, 2008 for the USA.On July 22, 2008, the song "Comfortably Dumb" premiered on the band's profile at Ultimate Guitar.

What a great year for fans of rock music! Just when you thought it couldn't get better here comes Extreme with a rocking new album. Nuno Bettencourt is a guitar wizard and this album showcases his awesome skills in riffing, soloing and songwriting.

The whole band sounds really good and the album has a positive vibe throughout. The production is similar to "Waiting For The Punchline" with it's raw but clear and live feel rather than the polished sound of "Pornograffiti". As you would expect on an Extreme album there's a great mix of tunes and even a couple of unexpected styles. This is their best album for 2008 and highly recommended to fans of this awesome band.

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14 December 2008 05:21 | ICQ: -- |

21 February 2009 19:31 | ICQ: -- |