“We explore the turmoil of our world in The Haunted”
The enduring influence of The Haunted in heavy music is undeniable. The band, alongside icons like At The Gates, has played a pivotal role in shaping the metal genre by blending elements of thrash, hardcore, and melodic death metal. These sonic innovations laid the groundwork for the metalcore sound that has since become a dominant force in heavy music. Within this landscape, The Haunted’s contributions have been nothing short of invaluable.
The band’s early albums, including their self-titled debut and “Made Me Do It,” stand out as seminal works from the late 1990s. Subsequent releases like “Revolver” and “Unseen” showcased the band’s willingness to experiment and evolve while maintaining the core elements of their sound. Despite these shifts, these records remain impressive entries in the band’s discography.
In recent years, The Haunted has returned to its musical roots with a newfound sense of stability. Boasting one of its most consistent lineups to date, featuring Marco Aro once again on vocals, the band has released the album “Songs Of Last Resort.” This latest offering forges a strong connection with the classic “Made Me Do It” album, showcasing a return to the band’s signature sound.
As The Haunted prepares to embark on a tour that includes stops in various countries, Marco Aro shared insights about the new album, live performances, the band’s history, and the influence of acts like At The Gates. Reflecting on the journey of The Haunted over the past 25 years, Aro notes the unity of purpose that defined the making of “Songs Of Last Resort.” Collaborating with past songwriters, the band harnessed a collective creativity and shared vision unseen for many years, echoing the spirit of their early years.
Looking back on the band’s formative years and the global success that followed, Aro reminisces about the exhilarating experiences of touring and creating music alongside lifelong friends. Despite the occasional chaos and recklessness that characterized those early days, Aro emphasizes the enduring bonds of friendship that have sustained The Haunted over the past quarter-century.
The process of creating “Songs Of Last Resort” spanned eight years, a period marked by various interruptions and distractions. While initial plans for a new album were discussed during sporadic live shows over this time, it was not until the band’s reunion at the Sweden Rock Festival that a firm commitment was made to return to the studio. Drawing on eight years’ worth of material, The Haunted embarked on a focused and rapid-paced writing process to produce the album.
In addition to the material featured on “Songs Of Last Resort,” The Haunted has recorded several songs that did not make the final cut. With plans to potentially release these tracks as EPs, the band looks to explore new musical avenues while remaining true to their signature aggressive style. Aro hints at the possibility of future projects that will further push the boundaries of The Haunted’s sound.
One notable aspect of the new album is the evolution of Aro’s vocal delivery, which displays a newfound consistency and professionalism. Working with vocal producer Bjorn Strid from Soilwork, Aro attributes this growth to both experience and a desire to impress his collaborator. The resulting vocal performance on “Songs Of Last Resort” showcases Aro’s enduring artistry and dedication to pushing his creative boundaries.