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Introduction to Ola Englund

Born and raised in Sweden, Ola Englund has carved a niche for himself in the metal world both as a musician and a gear entrepreneur. His journey began at a young age, fueled by a passion for heavy metal and a desire to push the boundaries of guitar playing. Englund’s career took a significant turn when he joined The Haunted, a Swedish metal band known for its aggressive sound and intricate compositions.

The Haunted: A Brief History

The Haunted emerged in the late 1990s, gaining recognition for their unique blend of thrash and melodic death metal. With several acclaimed albums under their belt, the band has become a staple in the metal community. Englund joined The Haunted in 2013, bringing his distinctive style and technical prowess to the band’s sound.

Ola Englund’s Guitar Style

Ola Englund’s guitar style is characterized by its precision, speed, and melodic sensibility. He seamlessly combines aggressive riffing with intricate lead work, creating a dynamic sound that is both powerful and emotive. Englund’s ability to blend various techniques, such as alternate picking, palm muting, and sweep picking, showcases his versatility as a guitarist.

Technique and Influence

Englund’s technique is heavily influenced by a range of guitarists, from the thrash metal legends of the 1980s to modern virtuosos. His playing showcases a deep understanding of rhythm and melody, allowing him to craft riffs that are both complex and memorable. Englund is also known for his use of extended range guitars, often incorporating seven and eight-string instruments into his repertoire.

Exploring Ola Englund’s Favorite Riffs

In this section, we explore some of Ola Englund’s favorite riffs, highlighting the nuances and technical elements that make them stand out. Englund’s selection of riffs reflects his diverse influences and his commitment to pushing the boundaries of metal guitar playing.

Riff 1: “D.O.A” – The Haunted

The riff from “D.O.A” is a prime example of Englund’s ability to blend aggression with melody. This track features a driving rhythm section complemented by intricate lead lines that showcase Englund’s technical proficiency. The use of alternate picking and palm muting creates a tight, percussive sound that is quintessentially metal.

Riff 2: “Eye of the Storm” – Feared

“Eye of the Storm” by Feared, one of Englund’s side projects, features a riff that is both heavy and melodic. The song’s main riff utilizes a mix of downpicking and fast alternate picking, creating a sense of urgency and intensity. Englund’s use of dynamics and phrasing in this riff highlights his ability to convey emotion through his playing.

Riff 3: “Cutting Teeth” – The Haunted

The riff from “Cutting Teeth” demonstrates Englund’s knack for crafting memorable hooks. The song features a riff that is both catchy and rhythmically complex, utilizing syncopated rhythms and precise picking. Englund’s attention to detail and sense of timing make this riff a standout in The Haunted’s discography.

Riff 4: “Wage Slaves” – Feared

Another standout riff from Englund’s project Feared is “Wage Slaves.” This track features a fast-paced, aggressive riff that highlights Englund’s technical skill and ability to create a relentless, driving sound. The riff’s complexity lies in its intricate picking patterns and use of extended range guitars, showcasing Englund’s versatility as a guitarist.

Riff 5: “The Flood” – The Haunted

“The Flood” features a riff that is both haunting and powerful. Englund’s use of dissonant chords and melodic phrasing creates a sense of tension and release, making the riff a key element of the song’s structure. The combination of heavy rhythm guitar and soaring lead lines showcases Englund’s ability to blend different elements into a cohesive sound.

Conclusion

Ola Englund’s contribution to metal guitar playing is undeniable. His ability to craft intricate, powerful riffs has solidified his place as one of the leading guitarists in the genre. Through his work with The Haunted and various other projects, Englund continues to inspire guitarists around the world with his dedication to innovation and excellence.

Englund’s favorite riffs, as explored in this article, highlight the diversity and depth of his playing. From aggressive, fast-paced rhythms to melodic, emotive leads, Englund’s riffs are a testament to his skill and creativity. As he continues to push the boundaries of metal guitar, Ola Englund remains a pivotal figure in the evolution of modern metal music.

For more information on Ola Englund and his musical journey, visit his official website or follow him on social media for the latest updates on his projects and performances.