Band:	Torch
Album:	Torch
Style:	Heavy metal
Release date:	1983
Guest review by:	Blackcrowe

01. Warlock
02. Beauty And The Beast
03. Watcher Of The Night
04. Rage Age
05. Beyond The Threshold Of Pain
06. Battle Axe
07. Hatchet Man
08. Sweet Desire
09. Sinister Eyes
10. Gladiator

The Streaker’s Torch.

In the early '80s, few metal bands were as powerful as Torch. Torch's styles ranges between early US speed metal and a strong rendition of the classic NWOBHM sound. Their debut album from 1983 perfectly captured the spirit of that time. A friend first introduced me to Torch, thinking they were an early Bruce Dickinson band or side project. While that wasn’t true, I quickly got into their sound; back then, I was into bands like Judas Priest, Riot, and Iron Maiden, and Torch fit right into that mix.

Formed in 1979 in Eskilstuna, Sweden, Torch released their first EP, Fire Raiser !!, in 1982, followed by their full-length debut album Torch in 1983. Their heavy riffs and energetic performances helped shape Sweden’s metal scene, and that debut album now stands as a tribute to their drummer, Steve Streaker. His drumming was the backbone of the band, and he even helped write some of their best songs; tracks like “Warlock”, “Gladiator”, and “Sweet Desire” were driven by his power and precision. Steve’s influence went beyond the band and left a mark on the local metal scene.

Torch never reached the same level of comercial success as their influences, but they’ve always been loved by die-hard metal fans. Their music left a lasting impression, bringing back memories for those who love classic heavy metal. As Ian Greg once said, “We didn’t know if there was still a place for our type of metal...”; Torch’s sound may have been uncertain in a changing metal scene, but their love for raw, solid metal never faded.

Steve Streaker wasn’t just a drummer; he was the heartbeat of Torch. I’ve loved Torch since I was a teenager, and they still mean a lot to me today. Sadly, bands like Torch are often forgotten until a member passes away. While they might not have been the most unique band, their love for real metal always stood out.

In 2020, Torch released their final record, Reignited, largely written by Steve Streaker and guitarist Ian Greg, and it ultimately turned out to be Steve’s farewell.

Torch’s impact on heavy metal history in Sweden can’t be ignored. Streaker’s drumming and passion for metal kept the band alive. He didn’t just play drums; he helped shape a sound that still connects with fans. Creating music that stands the test of time is rare, but Torch did that. In memory of Håkan Hedlund AKA Steve Streaker, we remember not only what he gave to the band but how his music made us feel: alive and connected through metal. His spirit will live on in every beat of the drum, in every song he helped bring to life.

I hope this isn’t the end of the Torch. While this is a major loss, I hope they wash their wounds and carry on as a tribute to the bandmates who are no longer with them; that’s what every metal warrior wants as a legacy...