Doomed Confessionary: Alexander Söderlund (Skogskult)
Skogskult is a stoner/doom metal band from Umeå, Sweden, formed in 2022 by members from other local bands, including Från Mars, Scitalis and Never Recover. The band consists of Samuel Nordström on guitar, Albin Kroon on bass, Simon Rosengrim on vocals and Alexander Söderlund on drums.
Skogskult plays stoner doom with influences from classic bands like Sleep, Dozer, Acid King, and Electric Wizard, as well as contemporary acts such as Skraeckoedlan, Monolord, Windhand, and Telekinetic Yeti. Their sound is familiar, riff-filled, and heavy. The lyrics, written in Swedish, explore themes of Nordic folklore and Swedish nature.
Skogskult is signed to Bonebag Records and their music is produced by Max Malmer (Cavern Deep, Zonaria, Folkmord, Karmanjaka). The band’s debut album is set to release in the fall of 2025.
Can you say a few words about your band?
Skogskult is a true passion project for us. Me (Alexander), Samuel (guitar) and Albin (bass) have been playing music together for about 10 years, and in 2022, we founded Skogskult. Last year, we brought in our vocalist Simon, and now the lineup feels complete. We’re all great friends, and since we all love doom, the sound naturally grew in that direction when we started writing.
What was the biggest challenge for the band?
The hardest part is staying goal-oriented. I in particular tend to want to do everything all at once, so the rest of the guys kind of act as my anchor, helping keep things focused and realistic.
What can you be most proud of so far?
We’re really proud of our first single Pakten. It came together beautifully, and with the help of our producer Max, we managed to craft a really solid stoner track that reflects what we’re about.
What was your biggest regret?
Probably not getting a dedicated vocalist earlier. We originally wanted to be a trio, but once Simon joined, it made a huge difference – especially in allowing the instrumentals to flourish without having to juggle vocals.
What was the best concert/tour so far and why?
Our latest gig in our hometown Umeå was definitely a highlight. We haven’t toured yet, but that will change soon, especially with our record coming out this fall.
What was the biggest surprise on the music scene for you?
Honestly, how incredibly down-to-earth and chill most people in the stoner/doom scene are. Sure, there are exceptions, but overall it’s the kindest music scene I’ve experienced.
What is currently in your heavy musical rotation?
Right now it’s a lot of stoner, doom, and sludge. Some standout recent favorites:
Tidal Wave – energetic and catchy stoner
Kind – I’m claiming to be their #1 listener last year
Margarita Witch Cult – high-energy, amazing live band
And of course, the usual essentials: YOB, Dozer, Lowrider, Sleep, High On Fire, Truckfighters, Monolord, Acid King… the list goes on.
What was the best advice you’ve ever been given as a musician?
Probably just to keep evolving and love the process. I try not to overcomplicate my mindset – music is literally just who I am.
What are your guilty pleasures?
Being a developer, I’m into all kinds of techy stuff – gaming, programming, video making. Also movies and food… but who doesn’t love those?
Can you say something more about the current music scene in Umeå?
Umeå and the broader Norrland scene have always been diverse. Right now, punk and indie pop/rock are leading the underground, while extreme metal, EDM, and rap dominate more mainstream spaces. But doom has been growing lately, and it’s exciting to see new bands joining the fold.
Where can we see you live this year?
We’ll be hitting a bunch of Swedish cities once our record drops this fall. Dates and locations are still being finalized, but we’re probably keeping it within Sweden for this first cycle.
What are your plans for the future as a band?
Just to keep doing what we love – writing and playing the kind of music we enjoy. Recognition and opportunities are nice, but they’re not the goal. The goal is to keep creating from a place of honesty.
How can people best support your band?
Stream our music, share it, come to shows, buy merch – all of that helps more than we can say. We’re incredibly grateful for everyone who supports us and connects with the music the way we do.
Do you have any message for your listeners?
If you really love the scene – support it however you can. Without fans, the scene is nothing.
Bojan Bidovc // music enthusiast, promoter, misanthrop and sometimes a journalist as well