Illdisposed
Danish death metal band formed in 1991 in Aarhus.
Wikipedia / Wikimedia Commons
Illdisposed is a death metal band from Aarhus, Denmark, founded in 1991 by singer Bo Summer and guitarist Lasse Bak. By 2020, the lineup included Summer, guitarists Jakob Batten and Rasmus Henriksen, bassist Kussen, and drummer Rasmus Schmidt. Since the 1990s, they have ranked among the top Nordic death metal acts, with 15 albums and two EPs to their name. Their sound blends groovy rhythms, melodic yet aggressive riffs, a dense wall of sound, and a distinctive subwoofer-like vocal delivery.
The band formed in early 1991 and quickly released their first demo, *The Winter of Our Discontent*, which earned them a deal with Nuclear Blast Records. In late 1992, they contributed the track "Reversed" to the compilation *Fuck You, We're from Denmark*—a response to the foreign death metal scene’s perceived underestimation of Danish bands—released by Progress Red Labels. Their debut album, *Four Depressive Seasons*, came out in 1993, followed by a European tour in December supporting Wargasm and Sinister. In 1994, guitarist Hans Wagner was fired due to alcoholism, temporarily replaced by Morten Gilsted, and the EP *Return from Tomorrow* was released. Drummer Lars Hald played some live shows in early 1995, and the second album *Submit* arrived with new drummer Rolf Rognvard-Hansen, formerly a guitarist in Caustic. During a German tour for that album, guitarist Lasse Bak performed several concerts naked. The third album, *There's Something Rotten... In the State of Denmark*, came out in 1997, marking the departure of Gilsted, who was replaced by ex-roadie Tore Mogensen. While recording, the band appeared in the documentary *Headbang i Hovedlandet* alongside future member Jakob 'Batten' Hansen’s band Infernal Torment.
In 2000, Illdisposed released the tribute album *Retro*, featuring covers of bands like Carcass, Autopsy, Darkthrone, Venom, Motörhead, and AC/DC. It was the first album with guitarist Jakob "Batten" Hansen, who joined in 1999 after Lasse Bak’s brother Ronnie Bak left. The fourth album, *Kokaiinum*, followed in 2001 with all original songs, including the humorous track "Fear Bill Gates." It blended more melodic elements while keeping the groove/death metal style.
After a short hiatus for singer Bo Summer to treat his alcoholism, the band regrouped in 2003 and released a promo CD with early versions of songs from the upcoming album *1-800 Vindication*.
- formed
- 1991
- origin
- Aarhus, Denmark
- genre
- Death metal
- years_active
- 1991–present
- label
- Nuclear Blast Records, Roadrunner Records, Massacre Records
Lore & Background
Illdisposed was formed in early 1991 and soon released their first demo, The Winter of Our Discontent, which brought a deal with Nuclear Blast Records. In 1992, they contributed to the compilation Fuck You, We're from Denmark, followed by their debut album Four Depressive Seasons in 1993. That year, they toured Europe as support for Wargasm and Sinister. In 1994, guitarist Hans Wagner was fired due to alcoholism and was temporarily replaced by Morten Gilsted. The EP Return from Tomorrow was released that year. In 1995, the second album Submit was released with new drummer Rolf Rognvard-Hansen. During a German tour, guitarist Lasse Bak played several concerts naked. The third album, There's Something Rotten... In the State of Denmark, was released in 1997, marking the departure of guitarist Morten Gilsted, replaced by ex-roadie Tore Mogensen. While recording, the band
Reader's Guide
Illdisposed have been a consistent presence in the Nordic death metal scene since the early 1990s, releasing 15 studio albums and two EPs. Their most successful albums, 1-800 Vindication (2004) and Burn Me Wicked (2006), were released on Roadrunner Records and sold 30,000 copies each before re-release on Massacre Records. The band's music is characterized by groovy rhythms, melodic riffs, and a subwoofer vocal style. They have undergone numerous lineup changes, with vocalist Bo Summer being the only constant member. The band's sense of humor is evident in song titles such as 'Fear Bill Gates.' In 2012, the original lineup played a reunion show at Lasse Bak's 40th birthday. Illdisposed's legacy lies in their longevity and their distinctive blend of groove and death metal, which has influenced the Danish metal scene.
Did You Know?
- Lead singer Bo Summer also fronted the Danish white power skinhead band Hvid Røvfuld.
- During a tour in Germany to promote the album Submit, guitarist Lasse Bak played several concerts naked.
- The song 'Fear Bill Gates' from the album Kokaiinum is an example of the band's sense of humor.
- The original Illdisposed lineup played a reunion show on 23 June 2012 at Lasse Bak's 40th birthday.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Illdisposed?
Illdisposed is a Danish death metal band from Aarhus, founded in 1991 by vocalist Bo Summer and guitarist Lasse Bak. They have remained active since their formation and are widely regarded as one of the leading acts in the Nordic death metal scene.
Where is Illdisposed from?
The band hails from Aarhus, Denmark, where they were established in the early 1990s. Their Danish origin and characteristic Nordic death metal sound have cemented their place in the Scandinavian extreme metal landscape.
What genre does Illdisposed play and what does their sound like?
Illdisposed plays death metal built on groovy rhythms, aggressive yet melodic guitar riffs, and a thick, dense wall of sound. Their vocalist is noted for a distinctive low, subwoofer-like delivery that gives the music a uniquely heavy texture.
When was Illdisposed formed and how much material have they released?
The group was founded in early 1991 and has been continuously active ever since. Across more than three decades of output they have put out fifteen full-length albums and two EPs.
What record labels has Illdisposed been signed to?
Over the course of their career the band has released music through Nuclear Blast Records, Roadrunner Records, and Massacre Records. These labels have supported their discography from the 1990s onward.
More in Danish heavy metal musical groups 1-22
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