Three decades of musical genius

It feels as if new musical trends crop up daily, leaving music lovers searching for bands with staying power. One band seamlessly blending music scene permanence with talent is the Swedish rock band The Hellacopters. Formed in 1994, the quintet has delivered one incredible album after the next ever since. With another studio album under their belts, The Hellacopters remains the bastion of authenticity that the music world needs- their latest offering, Overdriver, is set for release on January 31, 2025.

From the outset, Overdriver is unabashedly melodic but with the perfect blend of power. There’s no denying that The Hellacopters put forth what they do best: high-octane riffs, infectious hooks and an unyielding energy that refuses to quit. There’s just enough distortion to keep the album gritty from its inception while not overthrowing the power behind the prose and vocal stylings. Each track has something for everyone, including catchy hooks, especially in songs such as “Do You Feel Normal.” 

The entire album has nods to ’80s powerpop with an irresistible invitation to play each track on repeat. Between the soulful lyrics, skilled guitar riffs, relentless percussion and dynamic bass, The Hellacopters offer an explosive soundscape. Each song showcases the band’s staying power thanks to invigorating tracks, including “Wrong Face On” and “Coming Down.” 

Handled seamlessly, the production is as invigorating as the music, offering the instrumentals plenty of opportunities to stand on their own merit while paving the way for vocals that command just as much attention. With the right infusion of both modern and classic rock and heavy-hitting guitar riffs, it’s understandable why The Hellacopters are still creating music that speaks to fans three decades deep. 

Is it their lyrics? Is it the way their tracks toggle between major and minor chords, evoking a myriad of emotions? Or is it the way they promise to deliver quality sound time and again? Whatever the secret to The Hellacopters’ staying power is, Overdriver is one more way of connecting with fans far and wide.