Vildhjarta is Swedish Progressive Metal band, formed in Hudiksvall in 2005. Their sound draws on the influences which were quite present in metal at the time: staccato riffs on low tuned guitars, atmospheric soundscapes, backbeat driven grooves despite odd time signatures, guttural vocals. Reminiscent of the sub-genre, djent, stylized and popularized by the band, Meshuggah; but finding their own niche with a depth of imagery, rhythmic complexity, and more of a nod to themes of bleakness, loss, despair, and nature. The group debuted with the 2009 two song EP, Omnislash; before signing to Century Media in 2011. Shortly afterwards, they released their debut album, Maastaden, which received positive reviews. Maastaden tells the story of a hidden town, and it’s many trials and tribulations. Their most recent album, Maastaden Under Vatten, revisits the fictional town of their debut album; with many of the same lyrical themes coming up, but the musical composition continues to mature and grow in intensity. Fans have speculated whether the sound is hinting at their continued evolution.