Meshuggah, whose name is taken from the Hebrew and Yiddish word for “crazy,” are a five-piece technical metal band from Umeå, Sweden. Their style is most easily described as a cross between the technical aspects of progressive metal and the aggressiveness of death and thrash metal. They use extended polymetric passages, complex drum patterns, angular, dissonant guitar riffs, and harsh vocals. Their lineup has always been consistent, apart from bass which has been handled by many people since the beginning of the band. Their current lineup consists of Jens Kidman (vocals), Fredrik Thordendal (lead/rhythm guitar + backup vocals), Marten Hagström (rhythm guitar + backup vocals), Dick Lövgren (bass) and Tomas Haake (drums).

Meshuggah is widely acknowledged as an influence on many modern metal bands from Textures to Tool. They are regarded as pioneers by critics and musicians alike.

Discography

Psykisk Testbild (EP, 1989)
Contradictions Collapse (1991)
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