THE HAUNTED: A Thrash Metal Resurrection Like No Other
In a raw and revealing interview with Stefan Nilsson of Roppongi Rocks, Marco Aro, the powerhouse vocalist of Swedish thrash legends THE HAUNTED, opens up about his monumental decision to rejoin the band in 2013 after a torturous decade-long hiatus. Aro candidly recalls the moment when guitarist Patrik Jensen reached out, stating, 'I know what you're gonna ask. And don't ask it because I'm not interested.' However, the allure of THE HAUNTED's evolution in 2012 and 2013 proved too magnetic to resist, leading to a triumphant return that felt like a homecoming.
The first rehearsal back was a nostalgic whirlwind, as Aro grappled with the familiar yet faded memories of the band's classic tracks. 'I was standing there, 'Oh, how does this start? How does this start? I can't remember.' But then, as soon as it was time for vocals, it all came rushing back like a flood of adrenaline. It was like coming home,' he reflects, underlining the deep-rooted connection that defines THE HAUNTED.
Fast forward to today, Aro highlights the stark contrast in the band’s lifestyle compared to their raucous beginnings. 'The partying, I believe, is a lot different now,' he admits, yet emphasizes the enduring camaraderie among the core members. With Ola Englund being the only new face, the group has maintained their brotherhood and mutual respect over the years. 'It’s a blessing to be in your 50s, riding around the world with your best mates doing very childish stuff,' he states, noting that their ability to stay friends has kept the band alive and kicking.
Speaking on their latest album, 'Songs Of Last Resort,' Aro reveals that the creative process was fraught with delays, largely due to the COVID-19 pandemic. 'We tried for eight years to make an album, and COVID got in the way. But now, we appreciate it a lot more because we’re in a good place,' he explains. The album's success has taken them by surprise, as they aimed to capture the essence of their earlier sound and crank it up to 11, resulting in an outpouring of appreciation from the metal community.
Recorded at the iconic Studio Bohus by Oscar Nilsson and brought to life by mixing maestro Jens Bogren, 'Songs of Last Resort' is more than just an album; it’s a testament to resilience and the undying spirit of metal. Released in various formats, including a limited CD mediabook and an impressive 180g vinyl, this album stands as a beacon for thrash metal enthusiasts everywhere. The journey from the garage to the global stage continues, and for THE HAUNTED, the best is yet to come.