The Sounds
Swedish new-wave revivalists fronted by Maja Ivarsson, who has never once given less than everything — 'Living in America' still a rocket.
The Sounds formed in Helsingborg, Sweden in 1999, part of a wave of Scandinavian bands reworking late-1970s new wave for a garage-rock era. Their music sits on synthesiser hooks and terse guitar lines, with Maja Ivarsson's flat, hard-edged delivery out front — a debt to Blondie and The Cars that the band has never much disguised.
The debut album Living in America brought them attention outside Sweden, and was followed by Dying to Say This to You, Crossing the Rubicon and further records. Ivarsson is a physical, combative performer, and the group's live reputation rests largely on her.
Festivals The Sounds is playing
The Sounds at a glance
What festivals is The Sounds playing in 2026?
The Sounds is booked at 1 festival: Darker Waves 2026.
Is The Sounds playing Darker Waves 2026?
Yes — The Sounds is on the Darker Waves 2026 lineup, November 14, 2026 at Huntington State Beach, Huntington Beach, CA. They play Saturday, November 14.
Where is The Sounds from?
The Sounds is from Helsingborg, SE.
What kind of music does The Sounds play?
The Sounds is tagged new-wave and indie-rock.
Also on these bills
Simple MindsThe Psychedelic FursGeneModern EnglishThe MotelsMissing PersonsMorrisseyThe Smashing PumpkinsBad ReligionAdam AntSoft CellThe Damned
More new wave acts
SantigoldAdam AntMen at WorkBilly IdolBow Wow WowDavid ByrneDevoEcho & The BunnymenElvis Costello & The ImpostersLene LovichMissing PersonsModern English
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