The Hives

Photo: Raph_PH · CC BY 4.0

The Hives

With relentless guitar riffs driving pulsating rhythms, their music commands attention through its visceral energy and tight, explosive structure.

garage rock

Sweden Est. 1989
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The song

“Hate to Say I Told You So”

The song features a catchy hook and embodies their signature style, providing an immediate introduction to their high-energy approach.

See the full guide

About The Hives

The Hives matter not just for their infectious riffs and spirited performances but for how they invigorated a rock scene often considered stagnant.
By weaving an unfiltered sense of urgency into their sound, they brought a raw, electrifying energy that reignited interest in garage rock, influencing a wave of bands eager to embrace a similarly raucous aesthetic.
By weaving an unfiltered sense of urgency into their sound, they brought a raw, electrifying energy that reignited interest in garage rock, influencing a wave of bands eager to embrace a similarly raucous aesthetic. Their ability to encapsulate the spirit of fun and rebellion shifted audience expectations; live shows transformed into high-octane celebrations where chaos and camaraderie collided. Their approach is an embodiment of spontaneity and swagger, characterized by tightly honed musicianship that belies the seemingly carefree attitude they project. The band's commitment to simplicity and directness elevates their music, emphasizing punchy rhythms and catchy hooks designed to incite movement rather than contemplation. This dynamic creates a palpable atmosphere of excitement that draws listeners in, fostering a community around shared experiences. Lyrically, The Hives often explore themes of hedonism, youth, and social commentary with a tongue-in-cheek tone that balances irony with sincerity. Their storytelling mixes sharp wit with relatable observations, painting vivid snapshots of life's absurdities while encouraging a playful engagement from their audience.

11 studio albums· 23 total releases· 2 decades· Sweden

Full discography

The Hives's albums in order, from earliest releases to latest.

23 releases • 11 albums • 4 EPS • 1996–2025
Type:

EPs ()

Tarred and Feathered album by The Hives

Tarred and Feathered

2010

A.K.A. I-D-I-O-T album by The Hives

A.K.A. I-D-I-O-T

1998

A Killer Among Us album by The Hives

A Killer Among Us

1998

Oh Lord! When? How? album by The Hives

Oh Lord! When? How?

1996

Live ()

The Return Of The Swedish Genius Live In London album by The Hives

The Return Of The Swedish Genius Live In London

2004

Singles ()

Go Right Ahead album by The Hives

Go Right Ahead

2012

We Rule The World (T.H.E.H.I.V.E.S.) album by The Hives

We Rule The World (T.H.E.H.I.V.E.S.)

2008

Tick Tick Boom album by The Hives

Tick Tick Boom

2007

Two-Timing Touch and Broken Bones album by The Hives

Two-Timing Touch and Broken Bones

2005

Walk Idiot Walk album by The Hives

Walk Idiot Walk

2004

Supply and Demand album by The Hives

Supply and Demand

2001

Main Offender album by The Hives

Main Offender

2001

Hate to Say I Told You So album by The Hives

Hate to Say I Told You So

2000

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Songs to start with

If you'd rather pick a song than an album.

  1. 1

    "Bogus Operandi" — from The Death of Randy Fitzsimmons (2023)

    accessible entry with immediate hook

  2. 2

    "Abra Cadaver" — from Tyrannosaurus Hives (2004)

    establishes the sonic palette early

  3. 3

    "Go Right Ahead" — from Lex Hives (2012)

    accessible entry with immediate hook

  4. 4

    "Tick Tick Boom" — from The Black and White Album (2007)

    accessible entry with immediate hook

Continue your journey

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