AVATAR's Johannes Eckerström: We Have Watched and Learned from Metallica for a Long Time
In an interview with Radioactive MikeZ on the 96.7 KCAL-FM show "Wired In The Empire," Johannes Eckerström, vocalist of the Swedish metal band AVATAR, discussed the group's upcoming role as the opening act for Metallica at several European stadium concerts in May and June.
Influence and Inspiration
“We have watched and learned from Metallica for a long time. There is no AVATAR without Metallica.”
Eckerström explained that AVATAR’s sound and artistic identity owe much to their predecessors, crediting Metallica and many other iconic rock bands as key influences. He connected the band’s lineage back through major musical milestones, mentioning Black Sabbath, The Beatles, and At The Gates as sources of artistic inspiration.
The Origins of AVATAR
Johannes shared a personal story about AVATAR’s beginnings. When drummer John Alfredsson broke his leg in a skiing accident at age twelve, he spent weeks bedridden with a pile of gifted CDs. Among them were Metallica’s “Load” and “Reload,” which inspired him to pick up drums and form a band. He soon invited guitarist Jonas Jarlsby to join him, marking the start of AVATAR’s journey.
“That whole butterfly effect — here we are — it all started with John’s bad skiing and those CDs he was given.”
Looking Ahead
“What I’m looking for — the thing I think about the most — is that big, round stage.”
Eckerström closed by reflecting on the magnitude of performing with Metallica in massive arenas, describing his anticipation and respect for the scale of the opportunity.
Author's summary: Johannes Eckerström reflects on Metallica’s enduring influence on AVATAR’s sound and recounts how a childhood accident set the band’s journey in motion.