Gardenian
| Company type | Band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1996 |
| Defunct | 2004, 2016 |
| Fate | Disbanded (twice) |
| Headquarters | Gothenburg , Sweden |
| Products | Music albums |
Gardenian was a melodic death metal group originating from Gothenburg, Sweden, established in 1996. The band ceased operations in 2004 but reunited for a period spanning from 2012 until 2016.
History
The inception of Gardenian occurred in April 1996, initiated by drummer Thim Blom alongside vocalist and guitarist Jim Kjell. Shortly thereafter, guitarist Niklas Engelin and bassist Håkan Skoger joined the lineup. Within the same year, they produced a demo which led to securing a recording contract with Listenable Records. Their first full-length album was recorded at Studio Fredman.
In 1997, Gardenian released their debut record titled Two Feet Stand. Due to limited promotional efforts from Listenable Records, guitarist Niklas Engelin participated in tours with In Flames. Eventually, the band parted ways with Listenable after bassist Håkan Skoger decided to prioritize his involvement with his other project, Headplate.
Subsequently, Gardenian inked a deal with Nuclear Blast and delivered their sophomore album Soulburner in 1999, once again recorded at Studio Fredman. This release included guest vocal performances by Eric Hawk and Sabrina Khilstrand. Following the album’s launch, the band embarked on tours alongside notable metal groups such as In Flames, Dark Tranquillity, Children of Bodom, and Hypocrisy.
Their third studio effort, Sindustries, was unveiled in 2000 and produced by Peter Tägtgren at Abyss Studio. Discontent with the level of support received from Nuclear Blast led Gardenian to terminate their contract with the label. After experiencing major personnel shifts in 2003, the band ultimately dissolved in 2004.
In January 2013, the original members reunited intending to perform at The Gothenburg Sound festival as a one-time event but later opted to resume activities together. This reunion lasted until the group disbanded again in 2016.
Members
Final lineup
- Jim Kjell – vocals and guitar (1996–2003, 2012–2016)
- Niclas Engelin – guitar (1996–2004, 2012–2016)
- Thim Blom – drums (1996–2004, 2012–2016)
- Håkan Skoger – bass guitar (1996–1999, 2012–2016)
Former members
- Kriss Albertsson – bass (1999–2003)
- Robert Hakemo – bass (2003–2004)
- Apollo Papathanasio – vocals (2003–2004)
Timeline
Discography
| Title | Release date | Label |
|---|---|---|
| Two Feet Stand | 1997 | Listenable Records |
| Soulburner | 1999 | Nuclear Blast |
| Sindustries | 2000 | Nuclear Blast |
| Soulburner/Sindustries (Remastered) | 2008 | Metal Mind |