Amaran (band)
| Company type | Band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1, 2000 in Stockholm, Sweden |
| Defunct | December 28, 2005 |
| Headquarters | Stockholm , Sweden |
| Products | Music albums |
| Website | https://web.archive.org/web/20060101000000*/http://www.amaran.nu |
Amaran was a Swedish metal ensemble recognized for merging heavy metal guitar riffs with the clear vocal style of lead singer Johanna DePierre.
Formation
The band took its name from a Hindi word signifying "immortal" or "eternal" and was established in the spring of 2000 in Stockholm, Sweden. Guitarists Kari Kainulainen and Ronnie Backlund initiated the songwriting process and brought on board bassist Mikael Andersson, vocalist Johanna DePierre, and drummer Robin Bergh. Each member contributed varied musical influences, with the shared goal of crafting a unique sound that fused powerful guitar work with female vocal clarity.
"Promo" (2001)
Prior to recruiting a permanent drummer, Amaran recorded their initial "Promo" using programmed drums. This demo was circulated among magazines, fanzines, and record companies, earning favorable feedback that resulted in a contract with the French label Listenable Records.
A World Depraved (2002)
In February 2002, the band entered Aabenraa Studio in Denmark to record their debut album A World Depraved under the guidance of producer Jacob Hansen. Distributed throughout Europe, the album was praised for its innovative combination of aggressive guitar elements, driving percussion, and pristine female vocals.
Pristine In Bondage (2004)
After their first release, Amaran experienced considerable growth both artistically and personally. By April 2003, they had composed approximately 14 new tracks and returned to the studio to work on their sophomore album. Pristine in Bondage, produced at Studio Underground in Sweden with Pelle Saether, showcased a heavier sonic approach designed to intensify the interplay between instruments and vocals. Shortly after recording concluded, bassist Mikael Andersson departed due to personal reasons and was succeeded by Ronnie Bergerståhl, a seasoned musician and longtime acquaintance.
The album was launched by Listenable Records on December 17 in Japan, featuring three bonus tracks, followed by releases in Europe and the United States containing 11 songs. To promote the album, Amaran created a music video for the single "Inflict" and arranged tours during the autumn and January periods.
Disbandment
In 2004, drummer Robin Bergh left for personal reasons and was replaced by Pär Hjulström. Throughout 2005, numerous lineup adjustments took place, ultimately leading to the group's breakup in December. The key factor behind this decision was vocalist Johanna DePierre’s exit and the band's inability to find an adequate substitute who could maintain their signature blend of heavy guitar riffs paired with clean female singing. Amaran officially ceased activity on December 28, 2005.
Final line-up
- Ronnie Backlund – Guitar (2000–2005)
- Gunnar Hammar – Guitar (2005)
- Niklas Sandi – Bass (2005)
- Robin Bergh – Drums (2001–2003, 2004–2005)
Former members
- Kari Kainulainen – Guitar (2000–2004)
- Mikael Andersson – Bass (2000–2003)
- Ronnie Bergerståhl – Bass (2003–2004)
- Johanna DePierre – Vocals (2000–2005)
- Pär Hjulström – Drums (2004; live 2004)
Live members
- Ronnie Bergerståhl – Bass (2002)
- Esa Orjatsalo – Guitar (2004; live stand-in during Ronnie Backlund’s injury)
Timeline
This timeline outlines Amaran's membership changes and album releases from May 2000 through August 2005, emphasizing significant personnel shifts and studio recordings.
The original lineup as of May 1, 2000 consisted of Johanna DePierre (vocals), Kari Kainulainen (guitar), Ronnie Backlund (guitar), and Mikael Andersson (bass). Drummer Robin Bergh joined on July 1, 2001. Their debut studio album was released on May 20, 2002. Mikael Andersson left on December 1, 2003 and was replaced by Ronnie Bergerståhl. The second studio album came out on January 20, 2004. Robin Bergh departed on April 1 and was succeeded by Pär Hjulström; both Kari Kainulainen and Ronnie Bergerståhl exited on September 1. Pär Hjulström left on November 1 with Robin Bergh rejoining that same day. Gunnar Hammar and Niklas Sandi became members on March 1, 2005. The timeline concludes August 1, 2005.
Discography
- "Promo" (April 2001)
- A World Depraved (Released May 20, 2002)
- Pristine in Bondage (January 20, 2004)