The Hives are a Swedish rock band that burst onto the music scene in the late 1990s with their high-energy performances and infectious punk-inspired sound. Over the years, the band has released numerous hit songs and albums, becoming one of the most beloved and influential bands of the 21st century.
With their signature black-and-white suits and rockstar attitude, The Hives quickly gained a loyal fanbase with their first album “Barely Legal” and the hit single “Hate to Say I Told You So.” Since then, the band has continued to evolve their sound while maintaining their distinctive style and attitude.
In this article, we will be exploring some of the best songs from The Hives extensive discography. From early classics like “Main Offender” and “Walk Idiot Walk” to newer hits like “Tick Tick Boom” and “Go Right Ahead,” we’ll take a deep dive into the band’s music and explore what makes each song so special.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to The Hives’ music, this article is sure to give you a better understanding of why the band has become such a beloved staple of the modern rock scene. So grab your black and white suit and get ready to rock out to some of the best songs from The Hives.
1. Hate To Say I Told You So
“Hate To Say I Told You So” is a high-energy punk-inspired rock anthem by the Swedish band The Hives. The song, which was released in 2000 as the lead single from their debut album “Veni Vidi Vicious,” features aggressive guitar riffs, pounding drums, and frontman Howlin’ Pelle Almqvist’s distinctive vocals.
The song’s lyrics are a defiant statement of self-confidence and vindication, as Almqvist sings about proving his doubters wrong and being proven right in the end. The chorus, which repeats the title phrase “hate to say I told you so,” is a cathartic release of pent-up frustration and anger, making the song a popular choice for live performances and sing-alongs.
With its catchy hooks and infectious energy, “Hate To Say I Told You So” became a breakout hit for The Hives, earning them widespread recognition and cementing their status as one of the most exciting and influential rock bands of the 21st century. Even today, the song remains a fan favorite and a staple of the band’s live shows.
2. Tick Tick Boom
“Tick Tick Boom” is a high-octane rock song by Swedish band The Hives, released in 2007 as the lead single from their fourth studio album “The Black and White Album.” The song features a driving beat, frenetic guitar riffs, and frontman Howlin’ Pelle Almqvist’s electrifying vocals.
Lyrically, “Tick Tick Boom” is a call to action, urging listeners to break free from their mundane routines and seize the moment. The explosive chorus, which repeats the title phrase, is a declaration of rebellion and a demand for change. The song’s urgent energy and catchy hooks make it a fan favorite and a popular choice for live performances.
The music video for “Tick Tick Boom” features the band performing in a chaotic, cartoonish world, adding to the song’s irreverent and playful spirit. The song’s upbeat tempo and infectious energy make it a perfect choice for getting pumped up before a big event or for simply letting loose and having fun. Overall, “Tick Tick Boom” is a prime example of The Hives’ ability to deliver high-energy rock songs that inspire and energize their fans.
3. Come On!
“Come On!” is a rock and roll song by the Swedish band The Hives, released in 2012 as the lead single from their fifth studio album “Lex Hives.” The song features a driving beat, jangly guitar riffs, and frontman Howlin’ Pelle Almqvist’s energetic vocals.
Lyrically, “Come On!” is an invitation to join in and let loose, with Almqvist singing about shaking off the worries of everyday life and surrendering to the moment. The chorus, which repeats the title phrase, is a joyful call to action and a celebration of the power of rock and roll.
The music video for “Come On!” features the band performing in front of a colorful, psychedelic backdrop, capturing the song’s fun and carefree spirit. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy hooks make it a perfect choice for getting the party started or for simply letting loose and having fun.
Overall, “Come On!” is a testament to The Hives’ ability to deliver infectious, high-energy rock and roll that inspires and energizes their fans. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to the band’s music, “Come On!” is sure to get you up and dancing.
4. Two-Timing Touch and Broken Bones
“Two-Timing Touch and Broken Bones” is a high-energy punk rock song by the Swedish band The Hives, released in 2004 as the second single from their third studio album “Tyrannosaurus Hives.” The song features fast-paced guitar riffs, pounding drums, and frontman Howlin’ Pelle Almqvist’s signature snarling vocals.
Lyrically, “Two-Timing Touch and Broken Bones” tells a cautionary tale of a womanizer who meets his match and suffers the consequences of his actions. The song’s catchy chorus, which repeats the title phrase, is a warning to listeners to beware of the dangers of infidelity and deceit.
The music video for “Two-Timing Touch and Broken Bones” features the band performing in front of a trippy, psychedelic background, perfectly capturing the song’s edgy and rebellious spirit. The song’s frenetic tempo and punk-inspired sound make it a fan favorite and a popular choice for live performances.
Overall, “Two-Timing Touch and Broken Bones” is a prime example of The Hives’ ability to deliver hard-hitting punk rock with a message. With its catchy hooks and infectious energy, the song is sure to get you up and moving while also delivering a powerful moral lesson.
5. Walk Idiot Walk
“Walk Idiot Walk” is a garage rock anthem by Swedish band The Hives, released in 2004 as the lead single from their third studio album “Tyrannosaurus Hives.” The song features a driving beat, crunchy guitar riffs, and frontman Howlin’ Pelle Almqvist’s distinctive snarling vocals.
Lyrically, “Walk Idiot Walk” is a sharp critique of conformity and the pressure to fit in, with Almqvist urging listeners to break free from the crowd and be their own person. The song’s chorus, which repeats the title phrase, is a defiant declaration of individuality and a call to action to reject the status quo.
The music video for “Walk Idiot Walk” features the band performing in front of a colorful, retro backdrop, capturing the song’s irreverent and playful spirit. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy hooks make it a fan favorite and a staple of the band’s live shows.
Overall, “Walk Idiot Walk” is a quintessential Hives song, combining catchy hooks, high-energy rock and roll, and a rebellious spirit. Whether you’re looking to break free from the pack or simply rock out, “Walk Idiot Walk” is sure to get you moving.
6. Main Offender
“Main Offender” by The Hives is a high-energy garage rock song that features driving guitars, pounding drums, and energetic vocals. The song begins with a raw and gritty guitar riff that immediately grabs the listener’s attention.
Lyrically, “Main Offender” is a tongue-in-cheek take on the idea of being a troublemaker. The song’s protagonist revels in their status as a “main offender” and takes pride in causing chaos and shaking things up.
The chorus of the song is particularly memorable, with lead singer Howlin’ Pelle Almqvist shouting out the title in a bold and theatrical voice. The band’s trademark harmonies and gang vocals are also present, adding to the song’s sense of camaraderie and shared excitement.
Overall, “Main Offender” is a raw and powerful rock song that showcases The Hives’ signature sound and attitude. Its driving beat, catchy hooks, and memorable lyrics make it a standout track that is sure to get listeners pumped up and ready to cause some trouble of their own.
7. Abra Cadaver
“Abra Cadaver” by The Hives is a fast-paced punk rock song that combines catchy riffs, driving drums, and energetic vocals to create an unforgettable track. The song begins with a pounding drumbeat that immediately grabs the listener’s attention, before the guitars kick in with a series of sharp, staccato chords.
Lyrically, “Abra Cadaver” is a playful and irreverent take on the classic horror genre. The song’s protagonist is a necromancer who uses his powers to bring the dead back to life, and the lyrics are filled with references to zombies, skeletons, and other ghoulish creatures.
The chorus of the song is particularly catchy, with lead singer Howlin’ Pelle Almqvist shouting out the song’s title in a bold and theatrical voice. The band’s trademark harmonies and gang vocals are also in full force, creating a sense of camaraderie and shared excitement among the band members.
Overall, “Abra Cadaver” is a high-energy punk rock anthem that showcases The Hives’ trademark sound and irreverent sense of humor. With its catchy riffs, driving beat, and memorable lyrics, it’s a song that’s sure to get audiences singing and dancing along.
8. Won’t Be Long
“Won’t Be Long” is actually a song by The Hives as well, so here is a description of that track:
“Won’t Be Long” by The Hives is a high-energy rock song that bursts with punk-inspired attitude and energy. The track features driving drums, gritty guitar riffs, and punchy vocals that combine to create a powerful and memorable sound.
Lyrically, “Won’t Be Long” is a defiant and rebellious anthem that encourages listeners to stand up and fight against the status quo. The song’s protagonist is determined to take on the world and refuses to be held back by anyone or anything.
The chorus of the song is particularly catchy, with lead singer Howlin’ Pelle Almqvist shouting out the title in a bold and theatrical voice. The band’s trademark harmonies and gang vocals are also present, adding to the song’s sense of camaraderie and shared excitement.
Overall, “Won’t Be Long” is a powerful and infectious rock song that showcases The Hives’ signature sound and attitude. Its driving beat, catchy hooks, and memorable lyrics make it a standout track that is sure to get listeners pumped up and ready to take on the world.
9. Die, All Right!
“Die, All Right!” by The Hives is a high-energy garage rock song that features driving guitars, pounding drums, and aggressive vocals. The song begins with a thunderous drumbeat and a distorted guitar riff that sets the tone for the rest of the track.
Lyrically, “Die, All Right!” is a call to arms for listeners to break free from the monotony of everyday life and embrace their rebellious spirit. The song’s protagonist is determined to live life on their own terms and refuses to be held back by anyone or anything.
The chorus of the song is particularly memorable, with lead singer Howlin’ Pelle Almqvist shouting out the title in a frenzied and passionate voice. The band’s trademark harmonies and gang vocals are also present, adding to the song’s sense of camaraderie and shared excitement.
Overall, “Die, All Right!” is a raw and powerful rock song that showcases The Hives’ signature sound and attitude. Its aggressive instrumentation, catchy hooks, and memorable lyrics make it a standout track that is sure to get listeners fired up and ready to take on the world.
10. 1000 Answers
“1000 Answers” by The Hives is a catchy and upbeat rock song that features a driving rhythm, jangly guitars, and powerful vocals. The song begins with a bouncy guitar riff and a catchy drumbeat that sets the tone for the rest of the track.
Lyrically, “1000 Answers” explores the idea of searching for answers and finding meaning in life. The song’s protagonist is on a journey of self-discovery and is determined to find the answers they seek, no matter how elusive they may seem.
The chorus of the song is particularly memorable, with lead singer Howlin’ Pelle Almqvist belting out the lyrics in a passionate and emotive voice. The band’s harmonies and gang vocals are also present, adding to the song’s sense of unity and shared purpose.
Overall, “1000 Answers” is an infectious and uplifting rock song that showcases The Hives’ ability to create catchy and memorable tracks. Its catchy hooks, driving rhythm, and powerful lyrics make it a standout track that is sure to get listeners singing and dancing along.
April Johnson is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
