The Truth and a Little More

The Truth and a Little More is the debut by Eclipse, the Swedish hard rock band formed in Stockholm in 1999. Its central figure is Erik Mårtensson (vocals, guitar, bass), who would grow into one of the scene's foremost songwriters and producers. Together with guitarist Magnus Henriksson, he released this record through England's Z Records. Raising sharp guitars and polished choruses, it is a rough but firm starting point that hints at a new generation of Swedish melodic hard rock. From the dramatic development of "Midnight Train" and "The Truth" to the melodic lift of "Message of Love," respect for 1980s hard rock coexists with a modern sensibility. Guests including Europe guitarist Kee Marcello and keyboardist Mats Olausson — Yngwie Malmsteen's longtime collaborator — add depth to the songs. Also Mårtensson's first production, it already reveals throughout the buds of the huge hooks he would later perfect. It is a meaningful record marking the beginning of the band's long journey.