Crashdïet

Crashdiet at Peace and Love festival 2007

Crashdïet is a Swedish glam metal band from Stockholm, formed in 2000. They are known for their revival of the sleaze metal movement, drawing significant influence from the 1980s glam metal scene. The band's style combines elements of hard rock, punk rock, and glam rock, characterized by high-energy performances, catchy melodies, and an aesthetic that pays homage to the glam metal era.

History

Formation and Early Years (2000–2005)

Crashdïet was formed in Stockholm by Dave Lepard (vocals/guitar), Peter London (bass), Martin Sweet (guitar), and Eric Young (drums). The band quickly gained a following with their raw energy and dedication to bringing back the glam metal of the 1980s. Their early years were marked by local gigs and the release of demos that showcased their sleaze metal sound.

Rest in Sleaze (2005–2006)

In 2005, Crashdïet released their debut album, Rest in Sleaze. The album was a commercial success in Sweden, leading to widespread recognition for the band. The singles "Riot in Everyone" and "Breakin' the Chainz" received significant radio play, establishing Crashdïet as a leading force in the Swedish glam metal revival. However, the band faced a tragic setback with the suicide of Dave Lepard in January 2006, casting uncertainty over their future.

Continuation and Subsequent Albums

After a period of mourning, Crashdïet decided to continue in honor of Lepard. They recruited a new vocalist, H. Olliver Twisted, for their second album, The Unattractive Revolution (2007), which continued their sleaze metal sound but with a slightly heavier edge. Twisted left the band after the album's tour, and Simon Cruz took over vocal duties for Generation Wild (2010), a critically acclaimed album that further solidified their position in the glam metal scene. Cruz's tenure included the release of The Savage Playground (2013), after which he departed from the band.

In 2015, Crashdïet announced Gabriel Keyes as their new lead vocalist. With Keyes, the band released Rust in 2019, continuing their legacy of high-energy glam metal with modern touches.

Musical Style and Influence

Crashdïet's music is a blend of 1980s glam metal with elements of punk and hard rock. They are known for their catchy hooks, anthemic choruses, and decadent visual style, reminiscent of bands like Mötley Crüe, Guns N' Roses, and Skid Row. Their lyrics often deal with themes of rebellion, love, and the rock and roll lifestyle.

Legacy

Crashdïet is credited with spearheading the Swedish sleaze metal revival in the early 2000s. They have inspired a new generation of glam metal bands and have a dedicated fan base worldwide. Despite the tragic loss of Dave Lepard and multiple lineup changes, the band has continued to release music and perform, maintaining their status as icons of the genre.

Discography

• Rest in Sleaze (2005)
• The Unattractive Revolution (2007)
• Generation Wild (2010)
• The Savage Playground (2013)
• Rust (2019)

Members

• Current Members:
  • Gabriel Keyes – vocals
  • Martin Sweet – guitar
  • Peter London – bass
  • Eric Young – drums

• Former Members:
  • Dave Lepard (deceased) – vocals/guitar
  • H. Olliver Twisted – vocals
  • Simon Cruz – vocals