After almost three decades of rock ‘n’ roll excess, Swedish hard rock veterans HARDCORE SUPERSTAR aren’t showing any signs of slowing down. If anything, they’re finding new ways to turn up the volume. With their latest single Halo offering a taste of what’s to come following 2024’s Abrakadabra, vocalist Joakim is embracing the band’s next chapter, even if the song itself wasn’t exactly love at first listen.
“I didn’t believe in the song,” he admits, recalling when guitarist Vic first brought the track to the band. Initially unconvinced it had the makings of a single, Joakim needed some convincing. It wasn’t until the song was properly recorded that something clicked. Now, Halo has become the band’s first encore choice, with audiences singing along as though it’s been part of their catalogue for years. “It’s very catchy,” he laughs, admitting he’s since struggled to understand why he was so hesitant in the first place.
Lyrically, Halo plays with religious imagery and the idea of having a less-than-perfect relationship with salvation. For Joakim, its meaning is deliberately open to interpretation, with a rebellious streak running through its central idea. “It’s a little bit of a fuck you,” he explains, describing the idea of wearing his own dirty halo. That attitude is accompanied by a sound that balances everything fans have come to expect from HARDCORE SUPERSTAR with some new musical territory. Joakim reveals the upcoming album will feature more melodic material alongside the band’s trademark rougher moments, even teasing a particularly beautiful closing track featuring piano, strings and cello. It’s a combination that promises both heaviness and vulnerability, without abandoning the band’s identity.
Their new partnership with Frontiers Music Srl is another important step forward, with Joakim believing the label has the resources to help get their music in front of the right audiences. But despite the changes, one thing remains non-negotiable: the live experience. “We are first a live band,” he says, explaining that the group’s songwriting process always considers how material will translate on stage. That energy has been central to their identity for nearly 30 years, and Joakim isn’t about to let age get in the way.
At 52, he still trains four or five times a week to maintain the stamina required to deliver the band’s famously energetic performances. Longevity, he believes, comes down to writing great songs, delivering memorable hooks and continuing to put on an incredible show. Interestingly, the band’s audience continues to grow rather than simply relying on those who have followed them for decades. Joakim recalls seeing teenagers as young as 13 at a recent festival alongside fans who have supported the band for 30 years.
With new drummer Frame Larson bringing fresh energy into the fold, HARDCORE SUPERSTAR are continuing to build on their legacy while welcoming a new generation into the fold. And while an Australian return isn’t confirmed just yet, Joakim is hopeful a promoter will help make it happen. The band has visited Australia around five times previously, and he’d clearly love to return. As for the secret behind surviving three decades together, the answer is surprisingly simple.
“We are like brothers,” Joakim says. “I meet them more than I meet my family.” Thirty years in, the brotherhood remains intact, the hooks are still massive, and HARDCORE SUPERSTAR have no intention of taking their foot off the accelerator.
