All Aboard the Powertrain! Get ready for a thrilling ride with Majestica's latest power metal album! This concept album takes a unique approach, using a train as a metaphor for the album itself. Each song represents a different character on board, creating a diverse and engaging listening experience.
The album showcases the band's evolved sound, blending traditional melodic power metal with a mature and refined edge. Prepare for soaring vocals, intricate musicianship, and a healthy dose of theatricality.
Highlights include the explosive opening track "Powertrain" and the recently released single "Story in the Night," a fast-paced power metal anthem.
Tommy Johansson, the band's vocalist and guitarist, shared his excitement for the album and a potential tour, saying, "I hope that one of the places we will stop by is, of course, in Portugal!"
M.I. - Hello, Tommy! How are you?
I'm doing fine! How about you?
M.I. - I'm good, thank you! Congratulations on the new album!
Thank you very much!
M.I. - I listened to "Powertrain," and it’s a really powerful song. Can you tell us about the story behind this album?
We wanted to do a concept album but not in the traditional sense. Our last album was based on "A Christmas Carol," and we enjoyed that, but we didn’t want to do another direct concept album. Then, we noticed all the abandoned trains and train stations near our rehearsal space, which inspired us. We thought, "Why not make an album about trains?" We had everything we needed for photos and videos right there. So, we imagined a train where each character on board represents a different song, and that’s how "Powertrain" came to be.
M.I. - That’s an interesting concept! How did you approach the songwriting process for this album? Do all members contribute?
Generally, I write most of the songs—about 95%. Some tracks were co-written with Chris or Peter, and for "Powertrain," we all contributed ideas. I also wrote nearly all the lyrics, except for one song that Peter and I worked on together.
M.I. - Which song was the most challenging to create?
"Powertrain," for sure. Our first album, "Above the Sky," started with an explosive song, and we needed another strong opening track. But we couldn’t just copy what we had done before—it had to be fresh and just as powerful. We went through many ideas before landing on the right one.
M.I. - What themes do you explore in the lyrics?
The lyrics take the listener on a journey through space and time. For example, the line "Don’t worry, my friend, the train is safe as the band entertains" reflects how Majestica is playing on board. We also included subtle hints to classic rock influences, like Ozzy Osbourne’s "Crazy Train."
M.I. - You recently released a new single. Can you tell us about it?
Yes! It’s called "Story in the Night." It’s one of the best songs on the album, in my opinion. This track is fast, energetic, and captures the essence of Majestica’s sound. It has a strong melody, powerful guitar riffs, and an epic chorus that will get stuck in your head. The lyrics tell a tale of adventure, mystery, and destiny, fitting perfectly within the concept of the album. We wanted to create a song that would excite fans and transport them into a magical, nocturnal journey.
M.I. - How do you think Majestica’s sound has evolved since your days with ReinXeed?
Quite a lot. Some people say "Story in the Night" sounds like an old ReinXeed song, which is cool. With Majestica, we’ve taken a more traditional melodic power metal approach but with more musical maturity. Back in the ReinXeed days, I was dealing with burnout and industry pressure, which affected my songwriting. Now, with Majestica, I create music with joy and inspiration.
M.I. - Why did you change the band’s name from ReinXeed to Majestica?
Several reasons. First, people had trouble pronouncing "ReinXeed." Also, our previous label held rights to the name in some regions, which complicated releases. We wanted a fresh start for what we considered our "perfect" album, so we rebranded as Majestica.
M.I. - Which song on the album do you think will surprise fans the most?
Probably "Story in the Night" because it’s so fast and intense. Another surprise might be "My Epic Dragon"—our first song about dragons! If you’re a real power metal band, you have to sing about dragons at some point, right?
M.I. - Which song is the most personal to you?"My Epic Dragon," because I wrote it in 2018 purely for my love of power metal. Also, "Go Higher," which is inspired by "Back to the Future." It imagines Marty McFly traveling back 30 years from today—landing in 1995 instead of 1955—and realizing he doesn’t want to return to the present because the ‘90s were better.
M.I. - If you could give advice to your younger self when starting the band, what would it be?
Don’t sign with the first record label that approaches you. We had a bad experience that caused a lot of stress and long-term anxiety. I’d tell my younger self to wait for a better opportunity.
M.I. - You were in Sabaton as well. How did you balance both bands?
I didn’t. That’s why I left Sabaton. During the pandemic, I had time to focus on Majestica, but when Sabaton resumed touring, I had to cancel all Majestica plans. I realized I had to choose, and I didn’t want to reach old age regretting not pursuing my own music.
M.I. - What sets Majestica apart in the power metal scene?
I think our combination of advanced musicianship and theatrical stage presence. Plus, I handle both lead vocals and guitar, which is rare. Our drummer and bassist are also great singers, so we have multiple strong vocalists live.
M.I. - Do you have plans for a tour?
Yes, we’re working on a big tour, but I can’t reveal details yet. Hopefully, we’ll visit Portugal!
M.I. - What can fans expect from your live shows?
A spectacular show with great songs, singalong moments, and stage props. We even play Christmas music in summer!
M.I. - What’s the most memorable fan interaction you’ve had?
I met a musician I admire, and he told me he’s been a fan of my music since the ReinXeed days. It was surreal to hear that from someone I respect so much.
M.I. - If Majestica could perform in any fictional world, where would it be?
In Middle-Earth, at the top of Minas Tirith! Imagine lighting the beacons—when the beacon is lit, it signals that Majestica is coming! The Majestica Alliance would rally from everywhere, joining together in song.
M.I. - That sounds amazing! So, all your fans would gather just like the great armies?
Exactly! Imagine a village filled with Majestica fans, waiting for the signal. The moment the beacon is lit, they know it’s time. And then, instead of war, everyone would sing power metal together.
You’d hear people singing "Above the Sky." Power metal unites people—there’s no need to fight!
M.I. - That’s an incredible idea. It could even inspire an album! Finally, do you have a message for your fans in Portugal?
Obrigado! Thank you for your amazing support. I truly hope our next tour includes Portugal. I’d love to see you all again!
For Portuguese version, click here
Listen to Majestica, on Spotify
Questions by Isabel Martins
