Reviving the Flame: A New Era for Metal Veterans
The return of Entombed marks a significant moment in the history of extreme metal. With nearly two decades since their last studio effort, "Serpent Saints: The Ten Amendments," the band has embarked on a quest to recapture the magic that made them legends. Working at Nicke Andersson's personal studio, the trio is delving into riffs, tones, and the essence of what defined their earlier work. Even the Peavey Studio Pro 40 amplifier, which played a crucial role in shaping their sound on "Left Hand Path," has been dusted off to test its enduring power. This nostalgic yet forward-looking approach promises fans a blend of familiar elements with innovative twists.
Entombed's commitment to preserving their musical heritage while pushing boundaries is evident in their recent activities. The band's exclusive performance at the Gefle Metal Festival in July 2022 showcased their enduring influence. Joined by esteemed guests like Cronos from Venom, Tomas Lindberg from At the Gates, and Johnny Hedlund from Unleashed, the concert was a testament to the band's impact on the global metal scene. Notably, the inclusion of former bassist Jörgen Sandström added depth to the lineup, while the dual-drummer setup during the final set created a unique and powerful experience for attendees.
Legacy and Loss: Honoring L.G. Petrov
The absence of frontman Lars-Göran "L.G." Petrov, who passed away in March 2021 after battling bile duct cancer, looms large over the band's resurgence. His tragic departure left a void that cannot be easily filled. Yet, Entombed has found ways to honor his memory. During the Gefle Metal Festival, a poignant tribute to L.G. included a playback of his piano instrumental "DCLXVI," followed by performances of "Chief Rebel Angel" and "Stranger Aeons" with both Nicke and L.G.'s former drummer Peter Stjärnvind on drums. The emotional weight of these moments underscored the band's deep respect for their fallen comrade.
L.G. Petrov's battle with cancer was a harrowing ordeal that touched many within the metal community. Diagnosed with an incurable form of the disease, he remained hopeful about treatment options. In interviews, he candidly discussed the challenges he faced, revealing a vulnerability that resonated with fans worldwide. Despite the grim prognosis, L.G. continued to contribute to the band's evolution, forming Entombed A.D. in 2014 to avoid legal conflicts with Hellid over the use of the Entombed name. This decision allowed him to continue touring and recording, ensuring that his musical legacy would endure.
A Legal Saga: The Struggle Over the Band Name
The story of Entombed's revival is intertwined with a complex legal saga. Following L.G. Petrov's formation of Entombed A.D., a dispute arose over the rights to the original band name. Hellid, Cederlund, and Andersson fought to retain the Entombed moniker, culminating in a legal battle that lasted several years. In 2014, Petrov was granted the right to use the name for future recordings and tours, a decision that Hellid appealed unsuccessfully. This conflict extended beyond just the band name, as Hellid registered "Entombed" as a trademark for spirits production, sparking further controversy.
Petrov vehemently protested this move, arguing that it could confuse fans and misrepresent the band's identity. However, his objections were dismissed by the Swedish Patent and Registration Office in 2016. Despite the tension, both parties maintained their commitment to the music. Hellid defended his actions in interviews, emphasizing the importance of moving forward and preserving the band's legacy. Meanwhile, Petrov focused on Entombed A.D., releasing albums and touring to keep the spirit of the band alive.
New Beginnings: Looking Forward
As Entombed embarks on this new chapter, the anticipation among fans is palpable. The band's return to the studio signals not only a continuation of their storied career but also a fresh start filled with potential. The combination of original members and the exploration of new sounds ensures that the upcoming material will be both a nod to the past and a leap into the future. Fans can expect a blend of the raw, aggressive energy that defined Entombed's early days with modern influences that reflect the band's evolution.
Entombed's resilience and dedication to their craft have always been hallmarks of their success. From their groundbreaking album "Clandestine" to their current studio sessions, the band has consistently pushed boundaries and challenged conventions. The coming months will reveal more about this new phase, but one thing is certain: Entombed's return is a monumental event in the world of metal, promising innovation, passion, and a renewed sense of purpose.