Interview by Angela Croudace
Swedish rock juggernauts The Hives are currently storming stages across Australia, kicking off a tour that feels like both a celebration of their legacy and a fiery new beginning. Speaking from his hotel in Perth with a view of “rivers and mountains,” guitarist Niklas Arson exuded gratitude and excitement about being back down under.
“This tour kind of feels like we’re both starting the new record and finishing the last one,” Arson explained. The band’s latest release, The Hives Forever Forever The Hives, is packed with high-energy tracks—most brand new, with just a few songs like Paint a Picture having existed in live form before. “We don’t just throw songs together—we make albums,” he said, revealing their meticulous approach to sequencing and flow.“
Despite over 30 years as a band, The Hives show no signs of slowing down. “It feels more like a beginning,” Arson insisted. “We like doing The Hives more than not doing The Hives.” That passion remains their driving force—and it shows. Each show is performed with full-throttle intensity, something Arson says is crucial: “Touring at 70% capacity would suck. You have to pour everything into it.”
Australia holds a special place in the band’s heart, from mangoes and surfboards to the rock-loving fans (after some confusion on whether Sweden had mangoes, Nik kindly let me know they do in fact have mangoes there, but not the trees!). “It’s a country where there’s rockers,” Arson said with a grin. The band’s first Aussie visit in 2001 left such a mark that they continue returning with enthusiasm.
Collaborations on the new record include industry heavyweights like Mike D (Beastie Boys) and Josh Homme (Queens of the Stone Age), both of whom brought unique energy to the studio. Yet, Arson emphasises that the sound remains purely The Hives—tight, explosive, and always crowd-focused.
As they gear up to support My Chemical Romance in South America next year, The Hives are proving they’re not just survivors of the rock ‘n’ roll era—they’re lifers. And right now, Australia is getting the full force of their never-ending sonic assault.
