Review ÅSKVÄDER “Wax”

Åskväder deliver solid hard rock from Gothenburg, making them another addition to the rock scene on Sweden’s west coast. Formed in 2018, the band released their debut EP, Quick Fixes, that same year. Now they’re back with Wax, their third full-length album.

Wax also marks the band’s first album with singer and guitarist Saga Flygare Täll, who joined in 2025. Her arrival adds a new dimension to the album’s eleven tracks, while Åskväder stay true to their musical roots. It’s a mix of hard rock, retro vibes, and blues-driven guitar work.

The opening track, “Farewell,” makes it clear that the band hasn’t lost its appeal. If anything, Täll’s vocals add a fresh ingredient to the mix, occasionally bringing bands like Spiders to mind. While Åskväder operate in similar territory, the four-piece have developed a sound of their own that makes an impression from the first listen. “Farewell” is a strong opener—and really, more of a welcome than a goodbye.

Thematically, the album explores the urge to keep reaching higher. What happens when we fly ever closer to the sun? The myth of Icarus hangs over these songs: aim too high, and the fall can be just as steep.

That idea comes through on “Aim High,” a blues-soaked rocker with an easygoing groove and a subtle note of caution. The Swedes shift into high gear on tracks like the catchy “Salt,” which gets under your skin without wasting any time. The driving “Hollow” is another highlight, while “Stew” brings a slightly anarchic edge with its punk-leaning attitude. “Creep” takes things into bluesier territory before “Hyde” picks up the pace again.

The album closes with the title track, “Wax,” which clocks in at four minutes, making it the longest song on the record. It’s a fitting finale to an album that hits its stride quickly and draws the listener in with its retro charm. Wax is compact, melodic, and straight to the point. Heart and soul take center stage, making it easy to connect with what Åskväder are doing.