Hexed: Sweden's Pioneers of Modern Melodic Metal

Hexed is a Swedish melodic metal band known for their intricate guitar work, powerful vocals, and dynamic songwriting. Hailing from Gothenburg, the group broke through internationally with their 2021 album 'Netherworld,' which charted in several European territories and solidified their reputation as a formidable force in the modern metal scene.

Early career

Hexed formed in 2015 in Gothenburg, Sweden, a city famed for its rich metal heritage. The band's founding members, vocalist Tina Gunnarsson and guitarist Stellan Gunnarsson, aimed to blend the region's signature melodic death metal influences with contemporary progressive elements. Their self-released debut EP, 'Visions,' arrived in 2016, catching the attention of the Italian label Scarlet Records, which signed the band the following year.

Breakthrough

The band's major breakthrough came in 2021 with the release of their second full-length album, 'Netherworld,' on Scarlet Records. The album debuted at number 12 on the Swedish album charts and spent multiple weeks on the official German album chart, marking a significant commercial step forward. This success was fueled by extensive European touring and strategic digital promotion, expanding their fanbase beyond Scandinavia.

Key tracks

Netherworld — The title track showcases the band's epic scope and complex arrangements, becoming a live staple.

Guilt Trip — This single's memorable chorus and aggressive riffing helped drive the album's initial chart success.

Exhale — A fan-favorite for its dynamic shifts, blending clean and harsh vocals with technical guitar solos.

Deadly Sin — An earlier track from their 2019 self-titled album that first garnered them attention on European metal radio.

Following 'Netherworld,' Hexed maintained momentum with consistent touring across Europe, sharing stages with established acts. They returned to the studio in 2023 to record their third album, 'The Shadow in Me,' which continued their chart presence in Germany and Sweden upon its 2024 release. The band has also collaborated with notable producers like Jonas Kjellgren, known for his work with Scar Symmetry and Overkill, to refine their dense, modern sound.

Fans of Hexed's brand of technical and melodic metal often appreciate the work of similar Swedish artists. Scar Symmetry shares a similar approach to blending clean and harsh vocals with sci-fi themes. Amaranthe also operates in the realm of catchy, modern melodic metal with strong pop sensibilities. Soilwork represents the Gothenburg melodic death metal foundation that influences Hexed's core sound. Beyond The Black offers a comparable blend of symphonic elements and powerful female-fronted metal anthems.

Hexed's music has earned regular rotation on a variety of rock and metal-focused radio stations, particularly across Europe. Their tracks are frequently featured on dedicated online metal radio streams, classic rock FM stations with new metal segments, and independent music radio stations that champion modern heavy music. This consistent airplay has been instrumental in building their international audience between album cycles and tours.

Listeners can discover the powerful music of Hexed through the many rock and metal radio stations available on onairium.com. Tune in to hear their key tracks and latest releases as part of our curated metal programming, showcasing the best of the genre from Sweden and beyond.