Review: The Night Flight Orchestra – Give Us The Moon

Napalm Records Handels GmbH (January 31^st 2025)

Reviewer: Chris O’Connor

“The time has come,” the Walrus said, “to talk of many things.” This well-known quote from Lewis Carroll’s ‘The Walrus and the Carpenter’ perfectly encapsulates my thoughts as I reflect on what The Night Flight Orchestra represents. To some, they are the epitome of polished ’70s/’80s retro rock, cut from the same luxurious cloth as Cats In Space, Ghost, and Mrs Henry. To others, they are seen as an over-the-top parody act, stitched together with second-hand material. As for me? I stand firmly in the first camp. Their seamless blend of rock, funk, and disco is pure joy.

So, a brief history: Björn Ove Ingemar “Speed” Strid, a powerhouse Swedish vocalist, has an impressive resume, having worked with rock and metal bands such as Allegaeon, Disarmonia Mundi, Terror 2000, Coldseed, Act of Denial, Gizmachi, and of course, Soilwork. The Night Flight Orchestra, formed in 2007 by Strid and David Andersson during a Soilwork tour in the U.S., soon grew into something special. The line-up expanded to include bassist Sharlee D’Angelo (Arch Enemy, Spiritual Beggars, ex-Mercyful Fate), Richard Larsson (Von Benzo), Jonas Källsbäck (Mean Streak), and more recently, Sebastian Forslund (Kadwatha). Over the years, they have gifted the world with seven studio albums, each brimming with infectious energy.

The Album Breakdown: The very first notes of the intro ‘Final Call’ sets the stage for what’s to come, leading seamlessly into ‘Stratus’, a turbocharged anthem reminiscent of Boston on steroids. It sets a powerful pace, and the momentum never falters. ‘Shooting Velvet’ is the kind of track Cats In Space would have dreamt of creating—silky smooth yet packing a satisfying punch. ‘Like The Beating Of A Heart’ is delightfully kitsch, evoking the spirit of ABBA playing hard rock, with a soaring, anthemic chorus that’s simply impossible to ignore or to resist.

‘Melbourne, May I’ keeps the energy high with a driving riff and a chorus that reaches the skies, while ‘Miraculous’ channels the best of Donnie Iris & The Cruisers, delivering a pop-rock gem. ‘Paloma’ transports the listener to the golden era of Journey, REO Speedwagon, and Foreigner – a polished, shimmering jewel of a song. Then there’s ‘Cosmic Tide’, a fascinating fusion of Journey, Kansas, and Cheap Trick. On paper, it might sound improbable, but in execution, it’s nothing short of magic, carrying you effortlessly in its wake.

‘Give Us The Moon’ itself is pure euphoria—’70s pomp rock colliding with classic disco in a way that is both nostalgic and irresistibly fresh. ‘A Paris Point Of View’ firmly plants itself in the ’70s disco scene, complete with an infectious, dance-worthy chorus. ‘Runaways’ opens with a spoken-word intro before launching into a track that City Boy could have penned—a true compliment, and a testament to the song’s brilliance.

‘Way To Spend The Night’ is another adrenaline-fueled rocker, bursting with a pulsing riff and a chorus made for singalongs. Finally, the grand finale, ‘Stewardess, Empress, Hot Mess (and The Captain Of Pain)’, is an epic journey. This progressive, pomp-infused masterpiece conjures the spirit of Angel jamming with Starcastle, 10cc, A.C.T., and Ghost. At nearly eight minutes, it’s a monumental way to close the album.

Final Thoughts: If you approach this album with an open mind and an open heart, you’ll find yourself swept away by its golden melodies and exhilarating energy. It’s a celebration of rock’s most vibrant eras, delivered with passion, precision, and undeniable flair. Quite simply, this album is wonderful, a true gift for those who love their music bold, nostalgic, and utterly captivating. Massively recommended!

Tracklist: 

1. Final Call (Intro)
2. Stratus
3. Shooting Velvet
4. Like The Beating Of A Heart
5. Melbourne, May I
6. Miraculous
7. Paloma
8. Cosmic Tide
9. Give Us The Moon
10. A Paris Point Of View
11. Runaways
12. Way To Spend The Night
13. Stewardess, Empress, Hot Mess (And The Captain Of Pain)

Line-up:
Björn Strid – Vocals
Sharlee D’Angelo – Bass
Jonas Källsbäck – Drums
Sebastian Forslund – Guitar, Percussions
John Lönnmyr – Keys
Rasmus Ehrnborn – Guitar
Anna Brygard – Backing Vocals
Åsa Lundman – Backing Vocals

Official Website

Facebook

Instagram

TikTok

Napalm Records