International Reviews for I Rise – 5/5 Stars from French Music Magazine Direct Actu
Since the release of I Rise, NERVED has received reviews and media attention not only in Sweden but from around the world. It has been incredible to see the song resonate with listeners, journalists and music writers across different countries, languages and cultures.
One of the latest international reviews comes from the French online magazine Direct Actu, who published an in-depth article about the track, its emotional themes and the band’s sound - awarding the song a full 5 out of 5 stars.
In their review, they describe I Rise as a song that transforms darkness into strength and reconstruction, highlighting the blend of alternative metal, symphonic rock and industrial energy that defines NERVED’s music.
Below is an English translation of the original French review.
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NERVED - I Rise
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Between alternative metal, symphonic rock and industrial energy, NERVED delivers with I Rise a track that seeks less to contemplate darkness than to move through it. An inner ascent where the weight of the past gradually transforms into a drive to move forward.
Metal has often maintained an almost natural relationship with shadows, inner conflict and downfall. Yet some works choose a different path. With I Rise, NERVED creates an interesting paradox: a heavy track that does not aim to crush, but to lift up. Behind the massive guitars and almost cinematic arrangements lies a dynamic of reconstruction.
The Swedish band does not place the listener in an emotional dead end, but rather in a movement where light appears as a gradual conquest instead of an immediate reward.
NERVED is a Swedish band active since the early 2000s, now celebrating twenty years since the release of Off Line in 2004. Their sonic identity stands out through a deliberate hybridization of genres, blending alternative metal, industrial textures, symphonic elements and an unexpectedly melodic dimension at times. Over the years, the band has shared stages with major acts such as Korn, Opeth, Mastodon and Sabaton.
Their universe sometimes evokes the mechanical power of Rammstein combined with more emotional sonic architectures.
When the past still leaves traces deep within our relationship to the world
The lyrics of I Rise describe an intimate struggle with something rooted in the past. A persistent memory seems to haunt the narrator, acting like a force pulling backward. The idea of a “key” returns as a constant search, almost as if an inner solution remains unreachable. The arrival of another person, however, changes this fragile balance.
This presence becomes a focal point capable of gradually pulling the character out of their own darkness. The song therefore speaks less about a victory already achieved than about a process of rising again.
There was once a wave of symphonic metal, but here we find Symphonic Rock borrowing from several styles to create something powerful and almost unifying.
This impression directly connects to one of the track’s strongest aspects: the original way emotion is used. The lyrics do not function as a series of brutal revelations or a detailed story filled with specific events. Everything unfolds through an inner progression. The song avoids spectacular storytelling in favor of a repetitive, almost hypnotic emotional mechanism.
The presence of the past acts like an invisible force constantly dragging downward, while the figure being evoked becomes an anchor point allowing for gradual elevation.
The originality mainly comes from the contrast between the simplicity of the language and the musical construction proposed by the band. The imagery remains intentionally simple - shadow, ascent, key, fall - but these elements are used as universal symbols rather than narrative details. This restraint gives the song a broader emotional reach.
The emotion does not come through a definitive gesture or sudden rupture. Instead, it evolves more like a reflection trying to transform itself into movement. The chorus then functions almost like a mantra of reconstruction.
Where many heavy songs maintain a prolonged relationship with suffering or anger, I Rise seems to use that energy as momentum to break free from an emotionally blocked state.
NERVED Receives 4/5 Review from Sweden’s Biggest Rock & Metal Media
Sweden’s leading rock and metal outlet Rocknytt has published a review of NERVED’s latest album Kompromat — awarding the record a strong 4 out of 5 rating.
In the review, Kompromat is presented as more than a retrospective release. The album is described as a reconstruction of NERVED’s earlier material — rebuilt with heavier dynamics, cinematic depth, and sharper intent. The combination of industrial rhythms, electronics, orchestral textures, and guest performances is highlighted as one of the album’s defining strengths.
“Kompromat isn’t about nostalgia. It’s about taking back control of our own material.”
Being recognized by Rocknytt carries special meaning for the band. As Sweden’s largest rock and metal media platform, the publication has long been an important voice within the Scandinavian heavy music scene.
For NERVED, Kompromat represents both closure and transformation — revisiting the past not to preserve it, but to reshape it into something stronger, darker, and more aligned with the band’s vision today.
Translation as follows:
Kompromat brings together re-recordings of tracks from the band’s first two albums, *Off Line* and *Finally Nerved*, released as singles during the band’s 20th-anniversary year in 2024. The album also features a number of well-known artists who have put their own personal stamp on the tracks.
Here we have “Don’t Lie”, a knockout starter that has been given a new lease of life. This version features Richard Sjunnesson (The Unguided). “Takin’ Its Toll” is a collaboration with Thobbe Englund (Sabaton, etc.) and hip-hop artist MAD-A. On “Scars” we hear Zak Tells’ (Clawfinger) well-known rap, and on “Disclosure” both Jens Westin (Corroded) and Pontus Norgren (Hammerfall, The Poodles, etc.) can be heard.
Art has always been about challenging, pushing boundaries and breaking conventions. NERVED’s musical driving force and founder, Marcus Hanser, therefore does not let narrow categories stand in the way. For NERVED, it is completely natural to blend house beats with metal riffs and beautiful choral arrangements, which they do, for example, in “The Lid”. Another example is the band’s cover of Adele’s “Set Fire To The Rain”, which works absolutely brilliantly in a more muscular and metallic guise.
NERVED draws as much influence from electronic music as from industrial metal. Add to that singer Petra Kvännå, the band’s greatest asset, whose expression contains as much blues and soul as rock and metal, and we get an interesting fusion with its own unique DNA within the Swedish metal scene.
Kompromat brings the first twenty years to a close and is, at the same time, the first step into the future for NERVED, a band that wants to, dares to, and is capable of evolving. I look forward to seeing what the next step will be.
Interview with Marcus Hanser – The Story Behind Kompromat
Photo Niklas Palmklint
A Band Reinventing Itself
On April 24, Swedish “concrete metal” band NERVED release their fourth album Kompromat - a powerful collection of reworked tracks from their early catalogue, combined with previously unreleased material and an impressive lineup of guest artists.
In a candid interview in Rocknytt, Sweden's biggest and metal media, founder, guitarist and creative force Marcus Hanser reflects on both the album and the journey that led to it.
Closing the Gap Between Vision and Reality
For Hanser, Kompromat marks more than just a release - it represents closure. The band’s early albums never fully lived up to his vision, largely due to production limitations at the time. Revisiting those songs became a way to finally do them justice. With the help of skilled collaborators and guest appearances from artists like Zak Tell, Jens Westin and Thobbe Englund, the material has been reshaped into something far more aligned with the band’s identity today.
Creative Freedom Over Genre Rules
At its core, NERVED thrives on creative freedom. With members coming from diverse musical backgrounds, the band refuses to be boxed into genre conventions. Whether it’s incorporating disco breaks, soul-influenced basslines or unexpected vocal arrangements, their guiding principles remain melody, energy and rhythm - not rules.
Photo Claudia Chiodi
A Sound Built on Contrast
Fronted by the distinctive voice of Petra Kvännå, whose blues and soul expression contrasts with the band’s industrial metal foundation, NERVED has carved out a sound that feels both raw and unpredictable. That tension between opposites is exactly what fuels their creativity.
End of an Era - and a New Beginning
The album also marks the end of an era, as it becomes the final release featuring drummer Adde Larsson. Stepping in is Tommie Liekola, a seasoned musician whose background in metal and hardcore brings new energy into the band.
What Comes Next
Looking ahead, NERVED is far from slowing down. The process of revisiting old material has helped define the sound of what comes next - rougher, more energetic and more collaborative than ever. With new material already in the works and live shows planned across Sweden and beyond, Kompromat is not just a retrospective - it’s a launchpad.
Summary
Kompromat is both a closing chapter and a new beginning for NERVED - a bold reimagining of their past that sets the tone for an even more creative and uncompromising future.
Tommie Liekola Joins NERVED Ahead of KOMPROMAT Release
As we approach the release of our fourth album KOMPROMAT on April 24, NERVED are introducing a new member to the lineup. Taking over the drums is Tommie Liekola.
Also known as Tommie Lee Cool, he’s a seasoned musician with a background spanning both metal and hardcore punk. Over the years, he’s played with bands like Devilicious, Stillborn, The Nuts, Banned in GBG, and Mary Beats Jane - bringing both experience and attitude into the band.
“Tommie has exactly the experience, playing style, and mindset we were looking for,” says Marcus Hanser, founder of NERVED.
For Tommie, the decision to join was an easy one.
“This is really exciting. I’ve always liked NERVED’s music. That mix of raw energy, mechanical drive, and Petra Kvännå’s incredible vocals is exactly what I’ve been looking for,” he says.
Tommie will make his live debut with the band on April 25 at Encore in Sundbyberg, during the official release event for KOMPROMAT.
April 24 marks the release of the new NERVED album – Kompromat.
A record shaped by past and present
NERVED Kompromat. It’s a record that carries both history and something new. During 2024, as we celebrated 20 years of Concrete Metal, we revisited a selection of our older tracks and released them as reimagined singles. Those songs became the foundation of this album – but Kompromat is more than a retrospective. It also includes previously unreleased material that naturally found its place alongside those reinterpretations. Together, it feels like a body of work that reflects where we’ve been and where we are right now.
Guests who became part of the sound
Over the years, we’ve had the privilege of crossing paths with musicians we respect deeply. On Kompromat, some of those voices and energies are now part of the record. We’re proud to feature guest appearances from Zakk Tell, Jens Westin, Thobbe Englund and several others who helped shape the sound of this release.
Digital everywhere – physical for those who want more
The album will be available across all major streaming platforms, but we also wanted to create something physical that carries its own value. A limited vinyl edition will be released alongside the digital version. On that vinyl, you’ll find an exclusive remix of Everlasting – a version that will not be made available on streaming services. It’s a small, intentional nod to those who still appreciate music as something you can hold in your hands.
The end of an era
Kompromat also marks the end of an era for us. This will be the final album featuring our drummer Adde Larsson. Adde has been a vital part of NERVED for years, both on and off stage, and his contribution to the band’s sound and journey is impossible to overstate. We’re deeply grateful for everything we’ve experienced together – the music, the miles, the moments. Thank you for all the incredible years.
The beginning of something new
At the same time, this release is the beginning of something new. A new chapter, a new energy, and a new direction taking shape. Kompromat stands right at that turning point – closing one era while opening the next.
For those who’ve been there – and those just arriving
This album is, in many ways, a reflection. Not just of the past, but of the energy that still drives us forward. Whether you’ve been with us since the early days or just recently found your way into our world – this one is for you.
Kompromat – out April 24.
7 out of 10 on our gig at Encore Sundbyberg
And so our two first gigs in three years are done. And we're happy. We are even happier with the reviews and pics we got from Rockbladet from our gig at Encore. Here's translation
"As for NERVED, they are a new acquaintance for yours truly, but I like what I hear. I can't really understand why they are compared to Rammstein, but my thoughts go more to post-rock. There is a dark and suggestive theme here and the songs shift freely between the toned down and the bombastic (in “Silence”, for example, singer Petra Kvännå takes on king and country with her powerful pipe). Good dynamics from the band and the loyal fans who are on site this evening let loose and enjoy to the fullest. That's how it should look!
The band offers two covers during the gig, namely Adele's “Fire to the Rain” and Leila K's “Electric”. The former in particular is remarkably good but really the band could have been content with their own material which really does well in this club environment, my personal favorite of the evening being “Everlasting”."
You can read it in Swedish right here! A rating on seven out of 10 is a brilliant start. Looking forward to see more of you out there!
The Lid receives thunderous acclaim from Mexico
Again we got a great review from the Mexican music blog Expansion Radial - to see it click here!
But it you Spanish is a bit rusty we got a translation for you!
A powerhouse that’s only grown stronger
To celebrate 20 years as a band, Swedish act NERVED releases a new version of *The Lid*, the song that originally opened their 2008 album *Finally Nerved*. Now it returns with renewed strength, wrapped in razor-sharp production and a sound that blends industrial metal, dark electronica, and relentless vocals. One thing is clear: NERVED hasn’t lost an ounce of power over the years.
Lyrics that cut deep
The lyrics are raw and brutally honest, painting a picture of a collapsing mind, weighed down by its own mistakes and frustrations. Lines like “Another bad mistake / Another poor judgement” and “My curse will be that no one knows / That I had a life with plans and goals” hit hard. This is not a song about hope – it’s a song about reality. About mental exhaustion, self-sabotage, and silent battles. Heavy, real, beautiful.
Petra Kvännå’s vocals elevate the track
Musically, it begins with a deceptively soft synthpop touch before exploding into a storm of sharp guitars, crushing drums, and a bass line that dares to break the rules. Petra Kvännå’s vocals are key – melodic yet fierce. The harmonies and dynamic structure elevate *The Lid* into something more than just attitude-filled metal – this is metal with emotional depth.
For those who love soul-driven metal
If you’re into bands that balance weight and melody without losing their identity, NERVED deserves your attention.
Listen to The Lid right here!
New Single Out Friday April 11: The Lid – A Reinvented Classic!
We’re thrilled to announce that we’re dropping a brand-new single this Friday, April 11. The Lid -available on all major platforms!
This one’s special. It’s a powerful remake of the opening track from our 2008 debut album Finally Nerved. Reimagined with fresh energy, this version blends our signature concrete metal sound with hypnotic house beats and beautiful vocal harmonies. It’s both a nod to our roots and a leap into new sonic territory.
Whether you’ve been with us since day one or you’re just discovering NERVED, this track is a must-hear. Expect something bold, unexpected, and truly unique.
🎧 Available on all platforms - > click here!
Let us know what you think when it drops – and turn it up loud.
Stay Nerved.
– NERVED
NERVED Featured on Two Mexican Music Blogs!
NERVED are moving into Mexico! We are beyond excited to see our latest singles making waves in Mexico! Both "Don't Lie", featuring Richard Sjunnesson, and "Disclosure", featuring Jens Westin & Pontus Norgren, have been highlighted by two major Mexican music platforms.
🔥 PopPunkers Mexico has written about Don't Lie, highlighting its energy and dynamic intensity. Check out their feature here:
👉 PopPunkers - Don't Lie
We let Chat GTP translate it for you:
"Get ready to be blown away by this fiery release! This time, NERVED has left us speechless with their powerful and intense style, and we’re sure their latest composition will captivate you.
This time, we bring you a Hard Rock and Alternative Metal masterpiece that will take you on a cathartic journey. NERVED, a Swedish band, delivers an immersive and highly addictive experience. We’ve been absolutely fascinated by the commanding female vocals, and we know this band will push you to the limit with this release. They offer a calm yet deeply penetrating rhythm that will take you by surprise with its crunchy riffs and choruses you’ll want to belt out at the top of your lungs.
"Don't Lie (feat. Richard Sjunnesson)" is a high-energy journey that invites deep reflection, as its lyricism will resonate in your mind. This electrifying track will ignite your emotions, with formidable melodic arrangements that create a whirlwind of emotions, thoughts, and sensations. It’s an absolute pleasure to surrender to the sonic brilliance of this extraordinary song.
The fleeting guttural vocals add a surge of intensity, making this exceptional Rock/Metal piece all the more thrilling. We guarantee this sonic Molotov cocktail will set your emotions ablaze!"
🔥 Expansion Radial has featured both tracks! They describe Don't Lie as a powerful alternative metal experience and Disclosure as a dark, gothic metal powerhouse. Read their take here:
👉 Expansion Radial - Don't Lie
👉 Expansion Radial - Disclosure
It’s always amazing to see our music reach new audiences, and the response from Mexico has been incredible. We want to send a huge thank you to these blogs for shining a light on our latest releases.
To all our fans in Mexico: we see you, we hear you, and we can’t wait to bring our music to you live! Let’s make it happen!
NERVED Releases New Single Featuring Jens Westin from Corroded and Pontus Norgren from Hammerfall
A Milestone in NERVED’s 20-Year Journey
NERVED, often referred to as "The Rammstein of Dalarna," continues to honor its 20th anniversary in style. As part of their celebration, the band is revisiting iconic tracks from their first two albums. On Friday, January 24th, they’ll release their fourth anniversary single, Disclosure.
LISTEN ON ALL PLATFORMS - CLICK HERE
A Riff-Driven Classic That Stands the Test of Time
First introduced on NERVED’s debut album, Off Line (2004), Disclosure has been a fan favorite and critic’s delight. Sweden Rock Magazine’s Janne Stark hailed the track as “a song that beats most others.” What makes it even more special is that it was the first song written by Marcus Hanser for NERVED.
“It’s a true riff-heavy masterpiece and so much fun to play,” says Marcus Hanser, reflecting on the track's legacy.
Guest Stars Jens Westin and Pontus Norgren Join the Party
True to their tradition of star-studded collaborations, NERVED invited two prominent guest artists to join this release. Jens Westin of Corroded lends his voice in a powerful duet with Petra Kvännå, while Hammerfall’s Pontus Norgren delivers a thrilling guitar solo alongside NERVED guitarist Jocke Björkegren.
“It’s a great song,” says Jens Westin. “And it was a lot of fun to perform a duet with Petra. I love her work with Hårdrockskören.”
Continuing the Celebration with Disclosure
The release of Disclosure follows a string of anniversary singles featuring guest appearances: Don’t Lie featuring Richard Sjunnesson, Takin’ Its Toll featuring Thobbe Englund (Sabaton) & MAD-A, and Scars featuring Zak Tell.
With Disclosure, NERVED proves once again that their legacy is one of relentless creativity and collaboration. Make sure to mark your calendar for January 24th, as this release promises to be another epic chapter in the band’s ongoing celebration.
Stay tuned for more surprises from NERVED as they continue to honor two decades of heavy music mastery!