The first time Way Out West was held in 2007, Sweden’s greatest garage rock band The Hives played. On Friday, August 14, Fagersta’s finest return to Slottsskogen — this time with new music and countless world tours behind them. The Hives forever, forever The Hives!

The Hives were formed in Fagersta in 1993 and consist of Howlin’ Pelle, Chris Dangerous, The Johan And Only, Nicholaus Arson and Vigilante Carlstroem. For more than thirty years, the band has carved its name into the history of rock with their patented, razor-sharp garage rock. Their exploits have seen them sell out major arenas and share the stage with some of rock’s biggest acts, including AC/DC and The Rolling Stones. The BBC has called them “a force of nature,” and Rolling Stone named their album Veni Vidi Vicious (2000) one of the 100 best albums of the decade. Their anthem “Hate To Say I Told You So” also earned an honorable spot on Pitchfork’s list of the 500 best songs of the 2000s. With millions of albums sold and a long list of awards — Grammys, MTV Awards, NME Awards, and more — they have become one of rock’s most iconic acts. According to Joe Strummer, The Hives even saved rock ’n’ roll. True or false? Make up your own mind when the band takes over Slottsskogen on Friday, August 14.

The Hives will perform in Slottsskogen on Friday August 14th.