Interview with Unleashed’s Johnny Hedlund: “This has been our way of life from the very beginning – and there’s no end in sight”

Swedish death metal veterans Unleashed released their 15th album “Fire Upon Your Lands” on August 15th. The band has been around for 37 years, yet their creative fire and intensity remain as strong as ever. Chaoszine recently caught up with bassist/vocalist Johnny Hedlund to discuss the new record, its storytelling, and what keeps Unleashed moving forward after nearly four decades.

37 years as a band and you just released your 15th album. How does it feel to still be creating such intense and creative music?

Johnny Hedlund: It feels absolutely amazing! I think we’re making better albums all the time. And there’s definitely no stopping.

The album continues the World of Odalheim saga, with the Midgard Warriors fighting against “White Christ.” How has the storyline evolved throughout your discography, and what new elements appear in this chapter?

Johnny Hedlund: “Fire Upon Your Lands” picks up exactly where the previous album left off. At the foot of Mount Sinai, the son of White Christ was captured and killed, but the hunt for his father continues. The warriors travel further north, face many hardships, and after years of war and death, they begin longing for home. That’s where this album ends – with the thought of returning home. What happens when they cross the sea again will be revealed on the next record.

“To My Only Son” stands out as one of the most emotional tracks on the album. What inspired you to write such a personal song while keeping the Viking death metal sound intact?

Johnny Hedlund: First of all, it’s part of the storyline that the album follows. But it’s also a song for everyday life. If you have a son or daughter, it’s wise to encourage them to go out into the world and experience life. Children should have lives of their own, and letting go is part of that – even if we sometimes want to keep them very close.

How has your approach to songwriting and these Viking battle narratives changed over the years?

Johnny Hedlund: I’d say the fundamentals are the same. Naturally, you get more inspiration from reading and researching, but also from life itself. And that’s how it should be.

The album features both brutal tracks like “Left For Dead” and more anthemic songs like “Hold Your Hammers High!” How do you balance raw aggression with epic storytelling?

Johnny Hedlund: That’s exactly the challenge. Some songs demand a specific approach. When Fredrik brings me songs, I spend a lot of time working on vocal melodies and lyrics to make sure they fit perfectly with the story.

You describe the record as “11 songs of pure Viking Death Metal.” How do you define that term in 2025?

Johnny Hedlund: I don’t think it has fundamentally changed. We’re still the same band. But development is key – you have to try new things over time, otherwise you’ll stagnate. I still call our music death metal, and since our albums are heavily rooted in Viking traditions and values, Viking Death Metal sounds like the right label to me.

The production on Fire Upon Your Lands captures both raw energy and cinematic depth. What was your studio approach?

Johnny Hedlund: Thank you! That was exactly the goal. We wanted a mix of slow, mid-paced, and fast songs to keep the dynamics flowing. We worked on that long before entering the studio – it’s a very real part of our creative process.

Songs like “Hail The Varangians!” and “The Road To Haifa Pier” reference historical elements. How much research goes into your songwriting? Do you see yourselves as musical historians of Viking culture?

Johnny Hedlund: (laughs) Well, maybe! But yes, a lot of time goes into research. It makes the whole creative process more interesting. Still, I’m no historian – I don’t qualify for that at all.

What keeps you motivated after 15 albums? Is there something you still feel Unleashed hasn’t expressed or achieved?

Johnny Hedlund: The real answer is that this is what we do. It has always been our way of life, and I can barely remember living any other way. That’s what makes life interesting, and I don’t see us stopping anytime soon.

The album ends with “Unknown Flag.” Without spoiling too much, can you tell us where this chapter of the Odalheim saga is heading?

Johnny Hedlund: The Son of Thor asks his armies if they will follow him once again out on the open sea. The goal is to return to Svithiod, but of course he knows it won’t be easy. After a good rest with their allies in Miklagard, they head out again – and soon they see a fleet sailing under an unknown flag. More will be revealed in the next album.

How important is the live element to Unleashed, especially when presenting these epic narratives?

Johnny Hedlund: Very important. That’s when you really know if the songs work. I’m really looking forward to the upcoming festivals.

Looking back on 37 years and ahead to the future, what do you want Unleashed’s legacy to be?

Johnny Hedlund: I hope people feel that we always stayed true to our roots, gave it all on stage, and brought some courage through our lyrics. Life’s battles are filled with hardship – but we never surrender. Hopefully, that’s something people will appreciate in the end. Or even better, sooner! (laughs)

Finally, is there something you’d like to say to your Finnish fans?

Johnny Hedlund: Thanks a lot for the interview! I really hope we can play in Finland soon.
Hail Odin!