Hard rock heavyweights Symphony of Sweden have returned with fire in their veins. Their brand-new single, “The Mistress of Sin” released last Friday, has already stormed onto streaming platforms, racking up thousands of plays within hours of its release.
A bold contrast to their recent ballad “Novel of the Past,” the new track is pure energy laced with danger and desire. “We felt we needed a more energetic track this time, almost the opposite of a ballad,” explains producer and keyboardist Pontus “Evan” Hagberg. “Despite the uptempo feel, the track is flooded with almost romantic melodies.”
The road to “The Mistress of Sin” was anything but simple. What began as a tongue-in-cheek 90s techno idea, “an extremely annoying cheap synthesizer going blipp blopp,” as Evan laughs, mutated through countless iterations, even brushing up against modern power metal before finding its true form. The turning point came when they abandoned the electronic textures and let the distorted bass take the lead. “That’s when we felt we were heading in the right direction,” – Evan added.
Lyrically and thematically, the song brings to life a femme fatale figure who embodies temptation and terror in equal measure. “She is a woman of passion and lust, but also your worst nightmare, and you’ll soon realize you regret meeting her,”Evan warns.
The track demanded relentless work, including a full re-recording in a new key and fresh chorus lyrics. “We struggled a lot to get it perfect. When we finally had the final mix, it was almost worth a beer!”
With its irresistible mix of adrenaline and melody, “The Mistress of Sin” is set to leave fans reeling. “I want listeners to think: Oh my… what did I just hear? Let’s play it again!”Evan adds.
“The Mistress of Sin” is available now on all major streaming platforms.
Welcome to the musical world of Symphony Of Sweden!
Coming from the North of Sweden with winter and ice bears all over the place, the music is the other way around. Grand and epic with huge arrangements, the missing link between pop and metal – this is Symphony of Sweden! Add the powerful voice of Linus “Lee” Wester and the creative talent of Pontus “Evan” Hagberg you will have a concept that brings you on a journey from here to eternity.
Symphony Of Sweden is: Pontus „Evan” Hagberg Linus „Lee” Wester
Evan and Lee lived in the same small town up north in Sweden. Lee had his own little service point, betting shop, tobacco store nearby which also happened to be Evan’s local service point where he went to get his parcels. After saying hello to each other for a couple of years, there was one day Evan had a parcel to get – which obviously was music-related. They fell into conversation with each other, a few days later Evan invited Lee to his studio. Evan: „he had found one of my instrumental tracks on Youtube and sang it with a new melody on top and lyrics for me in the studio, right there when he just arrived! I was blown away, and a week later we had our first ever track produced and completed. As soon he sang his first two words in the studio I wanted to work with him!”
The band released their first album, Inner Demons in January 2021, and their second album, Saints Of Yesterday came out on the 3rd of February, 2022. The band’s latest material, Haunted was released on the 7th of February, 2024.
Swedish hard rock act Symphony of Sweden are back with a soul-stirring new single, “Novel of the Past” out now on all major streaming platforms. A heartfelt ballad steeped in memory and longing, the song invites listeners to pause and reflect on the fleeting nature of life.
Frontman Linus “Lee” Wester envisioned the track as a kind of personal time capsule, a dreamlike recollection of a life lived to the fullest. “I saw myself as a very old man, sitting by a fireplace, dreaming of the life I lived: crazy parties, girls, money problems… everything,” he shares. “Hopefully I’ll get to live a full life and experience a lot. That’s what inspired the song.”
Produced by Pontus “Evan” Hagberg, “Novel of the Past” leans into a more intimate side of the band’s signature cinematic rock sound. Originally conceived as a stripped-down piano-and-vocal track, the song evolved organically during the recording process. “We wanted to keep it very minimalistic,”Evan explains, “but of course, we couldn’t resist adding layers along the way.”
One of those additions (e.g.: the haunting la-la vocal section) became a surprising emotional high point. “At first I was skeptical about including a wordless part like that,” admits Evan, “but Lee insisted, and it turned out to be the icing on the cake. It gives the track this nostalgic, almost uplifting vibe.”
The single is accompanied by a sepia-toned official video filmed in an old Swedish house once home to generations of artists. “It was a magical place to shoot in,” Evan says. “It tied beautifully into the song’s themes: fading memories, the passage of time, and the stories we leave behind.”
“Novel of the Past” marks a tender new chapter in Symphony of Sweden’s journey.
Whether it’s a turning point or simply a quiet breath between storms, this release showcases the band’s ever-evolving artistry. “That’s the beauty of music,” says Evan. “You never really know which song will take flight.”
Welcome to the musical world of Symphony Of Sweden!
Coming from the North of Sweden with winter and ice bears all over the place, the music is the other way around. Grand and epic with huge arrangements, the missing link between pop and metal – this is Symphony of Sweden! Add the powerful voice of Linus “Lee” Wester and the creative talent of Pontus “Evan” Hagberg you will have a concept that brings you on a journey from here to eternity.
Symphony Of Sweden is: Pontus „Evan” Hagberg Linus „Lee” Wester
Evan and Lee lived in the same small town up north in Sweden. Lee had his own little service point, betting shop, tobacco store nearby which also happened to be Evan’s local service point where he went to get his parcels. After saying hello to each other for a couple of years, there was one day Evan had a parcel to get – which obviously was music-related. They fell into conversation with each other, a few days later Evan invited Lee to his studio. Evan: „he had found one of my instrumental tracks on Youtube and sang it with a new melody on top and lyrics for me in the studio, right there when he just arrived! I was blown away, and a week later we had our first ever track produced and completed. As soon he sang his first two words in the studio I wanted to work with him!”
The band released their first album, Inner Demons in January 2021, and their second album, Saints Of Yesterday came out on the 3rd of February, 2022. The band’s latest material, Haunted was released on the 7th of February, 2024.
Scandinavian symphonic rock powerhouse Symphony Of Sweden returns with a bold sonic shift in their brand-new single, “Get Lost In The Feeling,” released on April 11th on all major streaming platforms.
With this track, the band invites listeners to break free from whatever holds them back and embrace the power of being unapologetically themselves. “It’s about cutting ties with everything that’s keeping you from being your true self,” says lead vocalist Lee. “Be brave enough to go your own way.”
Musically, “Get Lost In The Feeling” is a return to the band’s classic rock roots, layered with a pulse-pounding “four-on-the-floor” rhythm that feels as energizing as it is defiant. “We wanted to make an uptempo song with a positive, slightly crazy vibe,” says Evan, the band’s keyboardist and producer. “Our last single leaned into electronic elements, but this time we wanted to show fans we haven’t left our origins behind. This one’s a wild ride.”
While the track radiates good energy, the production process was anything but simple. “We did a thousand versions of this one,” Evan admits. “But the moment we brought our live lineup into the studio — with Bullen on drums, Erik Arkö making his studio debut on bass, and Henrik laying down guitar — the pieces finally fell into place.” Henrik’s contributions even earned him a songwriting credit for his role in crafting the explosive middle-eight section.
Lee elaborates on the songwriting process, which often begins with a spark of melody. “They come to me fast, usually in seconds,” he shares. “But the lyrics — they need more time. If I’m not telling a personal story, I want to inspire. There are so many people afraid to speak their mind, to go their own way. I want them to know they’re not alone.”
Despite its upbeat energy, the band insists this isn’t dance music, though it might make your heart race like it is. “We wanted that danceable rhythm but without making it feel like a club track,” Evan says. “It was a tough balance, but I think we nailed it.”
For fans, the single marks a unique blend of the old and new. “It’s like a bridge between our last release and our earlier sound,” Lee reflects. “We love to mix it up — to explore, evolve, and still stay true to who we are.”
So, what’s next for Symphony of Sweden?
“We’re hunkering down this summer to finish a new album,” Evan teases. “So, while live shows may be few for now, we’re laying the groundwork for something big — hopefully a full return to the stage in late 2025 and beyond.”
In the meantime, the band invites you to do exactly what the title says: Get lost in the feeling.
Welcome to the musical world of Symphony Of Sweden!
Coming from the North of Sweden with winter and ice bears all over the place, the music is the other way around. Grand and epic with huge arrangements, the missing link between pop and metal – this is Symphony of Sweden! Add the powerful voice of Linus “Lee” Wester and the creative talent of Pontus “Evan” Hagberg you will have a concept that brings you on a journey from here to eternity.
Symphony Of Sweden is: Pontus „Evan” Hagberg Linus „Lee” Wester
Evan and Lee lived in the same small town up north in Sweden. Lee had his own little service point, betting shop, tobacco store nearby which also happened to be Evan’s local service point where he went to get his parcels. After saying hello to each other for a couple of years, there was one day Evan had a parcel to get – which obviously was music-related. They fell into conversation with each other, a few days later Evan invited Lee to his studio. Evan: „he had found one of my instrumental tracks on Youtube and sang it with a new melody on top and lyrics for me in the studio, right there when he just arrived! I was blown away, and a week later we had our first ever track produced and completed. As soon he sang his first two words in the studio I wanted to work with him!”
The band released their first album, Inner Demons in January 2021, and their second album, Saints Of Yesterday came out on the 3rd of February, 2022. The band’s latest material, Haunted was released on the 7th of February, 2024.
Today marks the release of “We Go Off Tonight,” the latest single from the trailblazing Scandinavian rock band, SYMPHONY OF SWEDEN. Known for their cinematic melodies and hard-hitting instrumentation, the band is now pushing boundaries with a fresh, modern sound that fuses electronic beats, heavy guitars, and orchestral elements.
Lead vocalist Lee describes the track as a culmination of the band’s creative journey to craft a hybrid sound that’s both innovative and undeniably Symphony of Sweden.“We’ve always loved experimenting, and this time we wanted more — more energy, more layers, and more impact. It’s the ultimate party anthem, blending real drums, electronic beats, and killer melodies. When that big drum hits, there’s no way you’ll stay seated!”
Keyboardist and producer Evan adds, “We aimed for a hybrid that combines heavy metal riffs with a super catchy chorus. Something in the spirit of bands like Electric Callboy but still uniquely us. Henrik Bodin-Sköld played a huge role in bringing this to life with his incredible guitar riffs. Once we had that foundation, the production just clicked into place.”
With its upbeat vibe, “We Go Off Tonight” is a celebration of new beginnings — perfectly timed for the holiday season. Lee shares, “It’s about ending a chapter with energy and charging into the next with full throttle. That’s how life should be — no slow walks, just running headfirst into the unknown.”
In addition to the single, fans can dive deeper into this electrifying new sound through the official music video, also released today. Lee teases, “It’s futuristic, electronic, and full of surprises—just like the song.”
This release sets the stage for Symphony of Sweden’s exciting plans for 2025. “We’re going bigger, faster, and stronger,” says Lee. “From more live shows to new music, we’re inviting fans to join us on this thrilling ride.”
To their loyal fanbase, Lee expresses gratitude: “Thank you for all the love and support you’ve given us. We hope you’ll join us in this next chapter—it’s going to be bigger and better than ever!”
“We Go Off Tonight” is available now on all major streaming platforms, alongside its official music video on YouTube. Brace yourselves for an explosive anthem that’s guaranteed to light up your playlists — and your celebrations.
Welcome to the musical world of Symphony Of Sweden!
Coming from the North of Sweden with winter and ice bears all over the place, the music is the other way around. Grand and epic with huge arrangements, the missing link between pop and metal – this is Symphony of Sweden! Add the powerful voice of Linus “Lee” Wester and the creative talent of Pontus “Evan” Hagberg you will have a concept that brings you on a journey from here to eternity.
Symphony Of Sweden is: Pontus „Evan” Hagberg Linus „Lee” Wester
Evan and Lee lived in the same small town up north in Sweden. Lee had his own little service point, betting shop, tobacco store nearby which also happened to be Evan’s local service point where he went to get his parcels. After saying hello to each other for a couple of years, there was one day Evan had a parcel to get – which obviously was music-related. They fell into conversation with each other, a few days later Evan invited Lee to his studio. Evan: „he had found one of my instrumental tracks on Youtube and sang it with a new melody on top and lyrics for me in the studio, right there when he just arrived! I was blown away, and a week later we had our first ever track produced and completed. As soon he sang his first two words in the studio I wanted to work with him!”
The band released their first album, Inner Demons in January 2021, and their second album, Saints Of Yesterday came out on the 3rd of February, 2022. The band’s latest material, Haunted was released on the 7th of February, 2024.
Swedish hard rock sensation, Symphony of Sweden returns with their emotionally charged new single, “You Fooled My Heart.” Lee (vocals) and Evan (keyboards) opened up about the inspiration behind the song, its creation process, and what fans can expect next.
The story behind the song
Lee explained the emotional depth behind “You Fooled My Heart“, noting that many people fall for someone who plays the perfect partner but ultimately leaves them heartbroken. “There’s a lot of fake people out there,” Lee said. “But also, a lot of people want real love, but don’t know how to act or be.”
Cinematic soundtrack
If the song were a film, Evan envisions it as a thriller or horror movie, with Garance Marillier (Raw, 2016) playing the lead role. The track blends grand piano, symphonic strings, and hard-hitting guitar riffs to create a theatrical atmosphere that surprises listeners with its dynamic shifts.
However, the songwriting process wasn’t without its hurdles. “We had some struggles with a couple of different melody alternatives both for the verses and the chorus,” Evan recalled. “But sometimes the struggle pays off, and we feel it did this time.”
Evan also shared some of the creative choices made during the recording. “We experimented by removing guitars from the verses and adding a grand piano and strings instead, giving the song a more dramatic, almost cinematic vibe.”
The emotional core
The song’s powerful chorus is designed to leave a lasting impact on listeners. “I think the theatrical vibe overall will really resonate,” Evan added.
Fans can expect a darker music video, directed by their live session bassistErik, with a mysterious black-and-white concept and red elements.
The song’s cover is a striking photo by Péter Tepliczky during Symphony of Sweden’s sold-out Premier Show at Hudiksvalls Teater in August.
What’s next?
“You Fooled My Heart” will be part of the band’s upcoming album, expected to drop by mid-2025. With Lee now working full-time on music, the band is in a creative flow, with more exciting releases on the horizon.
Check out the official video by clicking here! Or stream on Spotify
Welcome to the musical world of Symphony Of Sweden!
Coming from the North of Sweden with winter and ice bears all over the place, the music is the other way around. Grand and epic with huge arrangements, the missing link between pop and metal – this is Symphony of Sweden! Add the powerful voice of Linus “Lee” Wester and the creative talent of Pontus “Evan” Hagberg you will have a concept that brings you on a journey from here to eternity.
Symphony Of Sweden is: Pontus „Evan” Hagberg Linus „Lee” Wester
Evan and Lee lived in the same small town up north in Sweden. Lee had his own little service point, betting shop, tobacco store nearby which also happened to be Evan’s local service point where he went to get his parcels. After saying hello to each other for a couple of years, there was one day Evan had a parcel to get – which obviously was music-related. They fell into conversation with each other, a few days later Evan invited Lee to his studio. Evan: „he had found one of my instrumental tracks on Youtube and sang it with a new melody on top and lyrics for me in the studio, right there when he just arrived! I was blown away, and a week later we had our first ever track produced and completed. As soon he sang his first two words in the studio I wanted to work with him!”
The band released their first album, Inner Demons in January 2021, and their second album, Saints Of Yesterday came out on the 3rd of February, 2022. The band’s latest material, Haunted was released on the 7th of February, 2024.
Symphony of Sweden is turning up the volume with the electrifying addition of Erik Arkö as their new bassist. Fresh from Stockholm, Erik brings a dynamic blend of experience and energy, currently shaking stages with Six Feet Deeper and known for his powerhouse performances with bands like Structural Disorder, Sorcerer, Frontback, and Misth. Beyond the stage, Erik captivates fans with his YouTube channel, where he delves into the world of bass and music gear, adding yet another layer of excitement to Symphony of Sweden’s evolving sound.
Below you can find an exclusive interview with Erik Arkö.
-Welcome to Symphony of Sweden! How does it feel to be making your debut with the band at such a significant event?
Hello! Thank you so much! It feels amazing – it’s truly an honour and a privilege to get to join the band for this upcoming chapter and I couldn’t possibly be more excited about this!
-How did this opportunity come about?
It was a bit of a “Sliding Doors” moment, really. I was just about to head to bed and, just out of routine I opened up the Swedish buy/sell music gear page Vend. I scrolled down to the “Bass Player Wanted” section – and there I found the ad saying that the band was in need of a bass player. I googled the band and listened to a few songs before writing a short introduction and attaching a few videos of me playing both live and “in the studio” and pretty instantly got a reply from Evan. A few days passed and I saw that they were (in the later “adds”) also asking for social media links, which I hadn’t provided – so, wanting to be a bit “on top of things” and prove myself interested I emailed those as well. I think that resonated in a positive way with Evan and I got talking a bit over email. We scheduled a lunch meeting a week or so later and when we met, we just clicked instantly as individuals – which is very important, in my humble opinion. A band that can’t hang as individuals off stage seldom lasts very long as a group. Basically, Evan offered me the gig as the bass player a few minutes into the lunch, which got me firing on all cylinders and I basically got started with transcribing and learning the full set that very day. And it all comes down to me, with no intent whatsoever checking that buy/sell page before going to bed.
-What was your reaction when you found out that the Premier Show sold out in just two weeks?
It really got me pumped up! I’ve played gigs to both thousands of people and three people and a dog in the audience – and although I love playing no matter the size of the venue and the crowd, a sold-out venue is always a wee bit more exciting to hit the stage to!
-How have you been preparing for your first live performance with the band?
I’ve been going through the live set front-to-back pretty much ever since I got the setlist from Evan. I actually transcribed all of the bass parts as part of the learning process, so if there’s an aspiring bass player out there who wants tabs and sheet music they can always hit me up (given that we’re playing the song that they want to learn in this set…) I really want the set and the songs to be part of my muscle memory so that I can focus more on the interaction with the crowd and really lock in with the guys of the band.
-What are you most excited about for the Premier Show?
The very first note that hits the crowd from the full band – and the last note of the set! That’s when some extra adrenaline really hits your brain!
-How has the band helped you integrate and prepare for this debut performance?
This aspect has been extremely professional! Evan provided me with both the isolated bass tracks, bass-less songs, and tempo charts for all of the songs – things that really made my learning process a whole lot smoother. I’m used to getting a Spotify playlist and a “see you in two weeks for rehearsal! Let us know if you need any help!”, which I don’t mind at all – but this made things a whole lot smoother!
-Are there any particular songs in the setlist that you’re especially excited to play live?
Spoilers ahead! “Even if Solo” and “Slave” are two really high-octane numbers that I’m really looking forward to playing live!
-How do you handle the pressure of making your debut at a sold-out show?
I make sure that I’m fully prepared, both in terms of learning the songs, setting up and dialing in my gear, and physically (as in going out running and building up actual physical endurance). Then it’s all just about relaxing and enjoying the moment!
-What unique elements do you feel you bring to Symphony of Sweden’s sound and performance?
A really solid bass tone and an energetic stage persona!
-Do you have any pre-show rituals or routines to get ready for this big night?
I usually spend a lot of time with my instrument before a gig. I usually run through some tricky parts, play some arpeggios, and make sure that both of my hands are nice and relaxed. I never drink alcohol before a show, but I gladly accept a cup of coffee or a Coca-Cola – just to get some caffeine going through my bloodstream.
-How have the fans responded to the news of you joining the band?
The reception has been great! I feel truly welcomed by the fans and I can’t wait to prove myself to them!
-What are your goals as the new bassist for Symphony of Sweden, both for this show and moving forward?
For this show: a rock solid show with great tunes performed with a lot of heart and energy. Moving forward: playing (and potentially headlining) big festivals! My dream is to play Rock in Rio in Brazil – and I won’t say no to the Sweden Rock Festival or Wacken either!
-How do you plan to connect with the audience during your debut performance?
I’m gonna reiterate what Ian Gillan told Bruce Dickinson in the early ’80s: Look them in the eye and mean it! You want the person at the very back to feel just as part of what’s on stage as the one standing at the very front row. That has always been my mission when on stage – and I intend on continuing that crusade with Symphony of Sweden as well!
-Finally, what message would you like to share with the fans who will be seeing you perform for the first time at the Premier Show?
Thank you for making the show sell out! Can’t wait to see you all there!
Welcome to the musical world of Symphony Of Sweden!
Coming from the North of Sweden with winter and polar bears all over the place, the music is the other way around. Grand and epic with huge arrangements, the missing link between pop and metal – this is Symphony of Sweden! Add the powerful voice of Linus “Lee” Wester and the creative talent of Pontus “Evan” Hagberg you will have a concept that brings you on a journey from here to eternity.
Symphony Of Sweden is: Pontus „Evan” Hagberg Linus „Lee” Wester
Contributing musicians for the upcoming Premier Show:
🎸 Erik Arkö – Master of 4-String 🎓 Erik hails from Stockholm, Sweden, and brings a wealth of experience and talent to the lineup.
Henrik Bodin-Sköld – Guitar Virtuoso & Arrangement Maestro 🎨 Henrik’s fretwork prowess defines the soul-stirring sound of Symphony Of Sweden’s “Haunted” album, making each track an odyssey into hard rock mastery.
🥁 Niklas “Bullen” Bengtsson – Rhythmic Dynamo 🔥 Fueling the band’s heartbeat on drums, Niklas “Bullen” Bengtsson brings relentless energy and precision.
The HistoryEvan and Lee lived in the same small town up north in Sweden. Lee had his own little service point, betting shop, tobacco store nearby which also happened to be Evan’s local service point where he went to get his parcels. After saying hello to each other for a couple of years, there was one day Evan had a parcel to get – which obviously was music-related. They fell into conversation with each other, a few days later Evan invited Lee to his studio. Evan: „he had found one of my instrumental tracks on Youtube and sang it with a new melody on top and lyrics for me in the studio, right there when he just arrived! I was blown away, and a week later we had our first ever track produced and completed. As soon he sang his first two words in the studio I wanted to work with him!”
The band released their first album, Inner Demons in January 2021, and their second album, Saints Of Yesterday came out on the 3rd of February, 2022. The band’s latest material, Haunted was released on the 7th of February, 2024.
Kimmo Kuusniemi’s ASA unveil the long-overdue release of "Collective Failure" + first music video for title-track! Check it out and stay tuned for more news! Click image to watch the video
Kimmo Kuusniemi’s SARCOFAGUS return with a Historic 2010 Concert Video Premiere on YouTube! Click image to watch the video
Ads
Visionary artist KIMMO KUUSNIEMI's ANCIENT STREAMING ASSEMBLY (ASA) have released “Aurora Nuclearis”, a powerful 12-minute audiovisual experience, dedicated to the Late Keyboardist Esa Kotilainen. - Click image to watch the video
Kimmo Kuusniemi's Ancient Streaming Assembly - 'Perpetuae Memoriae', ft. Tuomas Rounakari + Steve Di Giorgio - Click image to watch the video
Click image to watch the video
Metal Shock Finland (World Assault ) 