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Meshuggah

Meshuggah is a Swedish extreme metal band formed in Umeå in 1987.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Meshuggah is a Swedish extreme metal band formed in Umeå in 1987. The band is known for complex rhythms, polyrhythms, and innovative guitar work, and it has been influential in the development of djent and technical metal.

History

Meshuggah began in 1987 and released early material before issuing its debut album, Contradictions Collapse, in 1991. The band later broadened its profile with albums such as Destroy Erase Improve and Nothing.

Musical style

The band is recognized for intricate rhythmic patterns, odd meters, and polyrhythms. Its sound combines elements of extreme metal, progressive metal, and technical metal.

Influence

Meshuggah has been cited as a major influence on djent and related progressive metal styles. Its approach to guitar tone, rhythm, and structure has made it a reference point for modern metal musicians.

Discography

Meshuggah has released multiple studio albums, including Contradictions Collapse, Destroy Erase Improve, Nothing, The Violent Sleep of Reason, and Immutable. The band has also issued EPs, singles, and live recordings.

Key facts

  • Founded by Jens Kidman in 1987 in Umeå, Sweden.
  • The band name means 'crazy' or 'insane' in Yiddish.
  • Meshuggah gained wider attention with Destroy Erase Improve in 1995.
  • They are known for polyrhythmic song structures and complex, highly precise musicianship.
  • The current lineup includes long-time members Jens Kidman, Fredrik Thordendal, Mårten Hagström, Tomas Haake, and Dick Lövgren.
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Canadian context

Meshuggah has toured internationally and has an audience in Canada through the country’s metal and progressive music scenes.

Frequently asked questions

What type of band is Meshuggah?
Meshuggah is a Swedish extreme metal band known for technical and progressive elements.
When was Meshuggah formed?
The band was formed in 1987.
Where is Meshuggah from?
Meshuggah originated in Umeå, Sweden.
What does the name Meshuggah mean?
It comes from Yiddish and means 'crazy' or 'insane'.
What is Meshuggah best known for?
The band is best known for polyrhythms, complex song structures, and precise musicianship.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Meshuggah
    Supports: Formation year, origin, name meaning, and general band overview.
  2. Louder — https://www.loudersound.com/features/meshuggah-tech-metal-band-history-interview-2012
    Supports: Early history, release chronology, and name origin explanation.
  3. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portal:Sweden/Selected_article/9
    Supports: Lineup history, influence, and stylistic description.
  4. Wikipedia (Spanish) — https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Meshuggah
    Supports: Current lineup and discography count as of the source.