Live Review: The Hives / Viagra Boys – (Sthlm Fields Festival) Gärdet, Stockholm 06.07.2024

By Anastasia Baranovskaia

Throughout Stockholm, flyers have been spotted promoting a showdown between the bands Viagra Boys and The Hives. This PR campaign, fueled by a playful rivalry between the two bands, culminating in the grand finale of the Sthlm Fields Festival, where they finally faced off, with Viagra Boys performing before The Hives.

Viagra Boys have quickly become one of Sweden’s biggest rock bands despite their music not being mainstream. Each member of the band brings a unique style, contributing to their distinctive sound and look. Sebastian Murphy, the lead singer of Viagra Boys, is likable despite his abrasive humour. He frequently jokes on stage, often turning dirty jokes into punchlines, ensuring there’s never a dull moment during their live show.

Throughout the performance, Murphy took the chance to throw jabs at The Hives. He urged all true fans to leave the area at 9:00 PM (when The Hives were set to start) and head to his nearby “afterparty.”

The setlist was well put together, with visuals that perfectly complemented the performance. Videos, graphics, and lights created a stunning look. The lights moved around in various configurations—from diagonally to up and down—amplifying the chaotic yet structured vibe of the band. Songs like “Ain’t Nice,” “Troglodyte,” “Ain’t No Thief,” and “Sports” (it is football season, after all) really got the crowd going. Crowd surfers were seen, including some of the band members, joining in on the fun.

Viagra Boys’ shows are fun and action-packed, with Murphy setting the pace and interacting humorously with the audience. Their unique sound, style, and aesthetic set them apart in the music scene, ensuring they remain a standout act that will continue to pave their own way in the industry. Murphy’s dynamic stage presence, combined with the band’s energetic performances, guarantees for a great show.

As The Hives took the stage, a downpour of rain began, perfectly matching the band’s high tempo, adding a dynamic feel to an already electric performance. Frontman Pelle Almqvist (or Howlin’ Pelle Almqvist) and the band were dressed in matching suits adorned with their signature pattern, presenting a cool, polished look.

Pelle Almqvist, a charismatic showman, led the band with unmatched energy. The visuals were striking, with lights moving in sync with the fast-paced music. Pelle moved around the stage like a well-oiled machine, jumping, singing, interacting with the audience, even throwing and catching his microphone with ease. There was never a dull moment during their set; the performance was intense from start to finish, like an exhilarating workout.

Pelle frequently ventured into the crowd, engaging with fans and keeping the excitement high. The audience was cheering, clapping, and dancing all the way to the back. The Hives’ powerful presence was felt throughout Sthlm Fields, making their show feel like a scene from a movie. Despite the raw rock ‘n’ roll vibe, the performance was impeccably timed and executed, showcasing the band’s experience and ability to entertain.

Standout songs included classics like “Hate to Say I Told You So,” “Walk Idiot Walk,” “Come On!,” and “I’m Alive.” The setlist was fun and engaging, keeping the spirit high throughout the night. Pelle, like his counterpart Sebastian Murphy from Viagra Boys, also took playful jabs at the rival band, humorously claiming that Viagra Boys are the second-best band (after The Hives, of course).

The Hives’ show was dynamic, fast-paced, and filled with organized chaos. With a professional frontman and skilled musicians. The band felt like a well-oiled machine that roared into action and left no crumbs.