The Hives

The Hives are a Swedish garage rock band formed in 1993 in Fagersta by brothers Per “Pelle” Almqvist (vocals) and Niklas Almqvist (lead guitar), joined by Mikael Karlsson, Mattias Bernvall, and Christian Grahn. Known for their matching black-and-white tuxedos and electrifying live shows, they rose to international fame during the early 2000s garage rock revival. Their breakthrough came with the 2000 album Veni Vidi Vicious, featuring the hit single “Hate to Say I Told You So,” which earned widespread exposure through soundtracks and video games. The compilation Your New Favorite Band (2001) further established their reputation, reaching number seven on the UK charts. Signed to Burning Heart Records and later Universal Music, The Hives released six studio albums, including Barely Legal (1997), Tyrannosaurus Hives (2004), and The Death of Randy Fitzsimmons (2023). After bassist Matt Destruction’s 2013 retirement, The Johan and Only took his place. Celebrated for their raw, punk-influenced garage rock and energetic performances, The Hives remain one of the most acclaimed live rock acts of their generation.