Swedish garage-rock champions The Hives unleashed their signature sonic blitzkrieg in this intimate 2012 session, broadcast by KEXP from the Doug Fir Lounge during Portland's MusicfestNW. Known for their explosive energy and impeccably sharp black-and-white suits, the band delivered a characteristically riotous performance, condensed into a potent, in-your-face club setting. Frontman Howlin' Pelle Almqvist is in his element, commanding the stage with the swagger and sharp-witted banter that has made him a legendary live presence.
This set captures the raw, frenetic power that catapulted The Hives to international fame. The performance is a high-octane cocktail of blistering guitar riffs, relentless rhythms, and pure, unadulterated rock 'n' roll arrogance. Stripping away the massive festival stages they often command, this KEXP session offers a chance to witness the band's ferocious chemistry up close, proving that their electrifying stage presence is just as powerful in a small room as it is in a massive arena. It’s a perfect snapshot of a band that never gives less than one hundred percent.