Short introduction/preamble
Stillborn, formed in 1984, emerged from, or perhaps rather as a reaction to, the goth rock scene of that time in Gothenburg.
As the music was heavier and often slower, with clear influences from Black Sabbath, the band came to be more associated with the Doom metal scene. The debut album Necrosprituals from 1989, has over time gained cult status, and inspired many international bands and artists.
Biography
Swedish Stillborn stands as a unique and influential force within the gothic metal genre, emerging from the vibrant 1980s music scene with a sound that defied easy categorization. Their roots in goth rock, drawing inspiration from seminal bands like Killing Joke and Sisters Of Mercy, set a dark and brooding foundation. Yet, Stillborn distinguished themselves by incorporating heavier elements reminiscent of Black Sabbath and Motörhead, bridging the gap between metal enthusiasts and the post-punk goth crowd.
Their debut album, Necrospirituals, released in 1989, is often hailed as a pioneering work in the gothic metal genre, predating and influencing what is commonly considered the genre’s first landmark album, Gothic by Paradise Lost, in 1991. The acknowledgment of Stillborn’s influence by Paradise Lost, coupled with covers of Stillborn’s work by notable bands such as Entombed, underscores the Swedish band’s seminal impact on the metal scene.
Despite not achieving mainstream commercial success, Stillborn cultivated a devoted and sometimes fanatical fan base, drawn to the band’s mystique and the cult classic status of Necrospirituals. This loyalty was rewarded when, after years apart, the original members reconvened to discuss a new project. This culminated in the release of Nocturnals in 2017, a comeback album that was met with critical acclaim and commercial success, topping the Swedish physical records sales chart in its debut week. The band’s reemergence was marked by a series of acclaimed live performances, including shows in Gothenburg, Stockholm, Copenhagen, and the prestigious Hammer Of Doom festival in Germany, reaffirming their significance within the genre and their enduring appeal to fans old and new. Swedish Stillborn’s journey from cult figures to gothic metal pioneers exemplifies their unique place in music history, bridging disparate genres and generations with their distinctive sound and enduring influence.
In 2024, the band released a follow-up, titled Netherworlds, which was well received. The sound and style have been further refined, but still retain the essence of Necrospirituals and Nocturnals.The lyrics are still sinister and eerie with a subtle twist. The music is loud, sturdy, dark and heavy as a monolithic stone.
Line-up:
Kari Hokkanen – Lead vocals, Bass
Ingemar Scott Henning – Guitar, Additional instruments
Erik Sandquist – Guitar
Peter Asp – Drums
Niklas ”Rawback” Sundling – Keybords
Website
https://stillbornsweden.com/
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/stillbornsweden
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/stillbornsweden/
Label’s website:
Spotify: