Refused

Refused @ Hultsfredsfestivalen 1994 1

Refused June 2012

Refused is a Swedish punk rock band originating from Umeå and formed in 1991. The band is composed of vocalist Dennis Lyxzén, guitarist Kristofer Steen, drummer David Sandström, and bassist Magnus Flagge. Refused is known for their incorporation of a wide array of genres including hardcore punk, post-hardcore, and experimental music into their sound. Their lyrics often delve into themes of anti-capitalism and revolution, making them a prominent voice in the punk community.

History

Early Years and Initial Breakup

Refused formed in 1991 and quickly became a staple in the Swedish hardcore scene. Their early work was heavily influenced by the hardcore punk sound, but they soon began to incorporate elements of post-hardcore and experimental music. The band released their debut album, This Just Might Be... the Truth in 1994, followed by Songs to Fan the Flames of Discontent in 1996, which saw them gaining a larger audience.

The release of The Shape of Punk to Come in 1998 marked a significant turning point for the band. The album's innovative sound, blending hardcore punk with elements of jazz, electronics, and experimental music, was critically acclaimed but led to tensions within the band and with their record label. The band announced their breakup in 1998, shortly after the album's release, citing creative differences and exhaustion.

Reunion and Later Work

After years of speculation and rumors, Refused reunited in 2012 for a series of festival appearances and a tour, which was met with enthusiasm from fans and critics alike. This reunion led to the release of Freedom in 2015, their first album in 17 years. The album continued the band's tradition of blending genres and political lyricism, though it received mixed reviews from critics.

In 2019, Refused released War Music, which saw the band returning to a more straightforward hardcore punk sound. The album was praised for its energy and political urgency, reaffirming the band's relevance in the punk scene.

Musical Style and Influence

Refused's musical style is characterized by a blend of hardcore punk, post-hardcore, and experimental music. Their sound is marked by complex rhythms, innovative guitar work, and Lyxzén's impassioned vocals. The band's willingness to experiment with different genres and sounds has made them influential figures in the punk and hardcore scenes.

Lyrically, Refused is known for their political and revolutionary themes. Their music often critiques capitalism, authoritarianism, and social injustice, making them a voice for political and social change within the punk community.

Legacy

Refused's impact on the punk and hardcore scenes cannot be overstated. The Shape of Punk to Come has been cited as a landmark album in the genre, influencing countless bands and musicians. The band's reunion and subsequent albums have also been significant, demonstrating their lasting relevance and influence in the music world.

Discography

• This Just Might Be... the Truth (1994)
• Songs to Fan the Flames of Discontent (1996)
• The Shape of Punk to Come (1998)
• Freedom (2015)
• War Music (2019)

See Also

• Punk rock
• Hardcore punk
• Post-hardcore
• Experimental music