Swedish heavy metal frontman Nils Patrik Johansson has unveiled Stay Behind, the second single from his upcoming album War and Peace, due out October 10th via Metalville Records. Watch the official video now at Metalville’s YouTube channel.
A slow-burning yet powerful track, Stay Behind explores the little-known NATO-backed underground resistance networks organized in Western Europe during the Cold War. Known as Stay Behind, the groups were meant to defend nations against potential Soviet invasion, but their existence has also fueled conspiracy theories — including alleged connections to the assassination of Swedish Prime Minister Olof Palme.
War and Peace marks Johansson’s third solo outing, combining his signature storytelling approach with crushing traditional heavy metal. Produced by longtime Lion’s Share bandmate Lars Chriss, who also handled guitar and bass duties — the album features Johansson’s son Fredrik Johansson on drums, Saecred Spirit Anuviel on keyboards, and a guest appearance from Tommy Denander on trumpet.
“I am so proud of this album and the fact that I finally got my Gustav Vasa song out to the world,” says Johansson. “My fans have been waiting. I’m also proud of Lars for his great work, my son Fredrik for his amazing drum playing, and Anuviel for the high-quality keyboard arrangements. Also, a big thanks to Tommy Denander for his efforts.”
A veteran of Astral Doors, Lion’s Share, Civil War, and Wuthering Heights, Johansson has been a defining voice in Scandinavian heavy metal for over two decades. With War and Peace, he blends history and legend with his trademark bombast, offering eight epic tracks for both headbangers and history buffs alike.
War and Peace Tracklist:
- Himalaya
- Gustav Vasa
- Prodigal Son
- Stay Behind
- Barbarossa
- Hungarian Dance
- The Great Wall Of China
- Two Shots In Sarajevo
Lineup:
- Nils Patrik Johansson – vocals
- Lars Chriss – guitars & bass
- Saecred Spirit Anuviel – keyboards
- Fredrik Johansson – drums
- Guest: Tommy Denander – trumpet on Prodigal Son
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