A Change In Destination by One: A Raw Slice of Swedish Alt-Rock Brilliance
Let’s get one thing straight—this album isn’t perfect. But damn, does it feel alive. Released back in 1999 under the radar (literally, on "Not On Label"), A Change In Destination is a scrappy little gem from Sweden that punches way above its weight. It's not flashy or overproduced; instead, it feels like four guys just letting loose in a garage somewhere near Stockholm. And honestly? That’s what makes it stick.
The band calls themselves One, which might sound kinda pretentious at first glance, but once you dive into their music, it clicks. This is rock ‘n’ roll stripped down to its bones, with no gimmicks or frills—just raw emotion and grit. The lineup reads simple enough: Peter Lundin handles bass and vocals, Anton Fredriksson smashes the drums, and Anders Palm plus Anders Rehn shred on guitars. Oh yeah, they also wrote all the songs together as a unit. No egos here, just teamwork.
Now let me tell ya about two tracks that really hit home for me.
First up, there’s “All For Now.” From the opening riff, it grabs you by the collar and doesn’t let go. There’s something so achingly real about Peter’s voice—he sounds tired yet determined, like he’s been through some stuff but refuses to give up. The lyrics are vague enough to make you think, but specific enough to hit hard. I found myself humming this one days after listening, not because it’s catchy in an obvious pop-rock way, but because it lingers. Like a bruise you can’t stop poking. You know?
Then there’s “Once In A While.” Man, this track sneaks up on you. It starts slow, almost hesitant, like someone trying to find the words to say goodbye. When the chorus kicks in, though, holy crap—it’s like a punch to the gut. The harmonies between the guitars and vocals create this bittersweet vibe that sticks with you long after the song ends. It’s messy, imperfect, and absolutely beautiful. Kinda like life itself, right?
What strikes me most about A Change In Destination is how unpolished it feels. These guys weren’t chasing fame or trends—they were just making music that mattered to them. And maybe that’s why it still resonates today. Sure, the production could’ve used a bit more love, and yeah, Peter’s vocals waver sometimes, but those “flaws” only add to the charm. It’s human. Real.
As I sat there replaying these songs, I couldn’t help but wonder: How many other hidden treasures like this exist out there? Albums made with heart, buried beneath layers of commercial noise? Maybe that’s the magic of discovering something like A Change In Destination. It reminds you that great music doesn’t need a big budget or flashy marketing—it just needs soul.
Oh, and here’s the kicker: turns out Peter Lundin did both bass AND vocals. Talk about multitasking! Makes me wanna pick up a bass myself… or at least try singing in the shower without cracking my voice.
