Unleashed

Unleashed are a Swedish death metal band that formed after founding member Johnny Hedlund left the band Nihilist.  Formed in 1989, they are considered to be one of the first death metal acts to incorporate Norse/Viking folklore into their lyrical themes, rather than the death and gore typical of the period, and they are considered among the forefathers of Viking metal.  After taking  a several year hiatus in the late 1990's and early 2000's to concentrate on life outside of music, Unleased have been actively recording and touring since; their most recent album, Odalheim, was released in 2012.  Maryland Deathfest 2014 will be an exclusive U.S. appearance for Unleashed, and will be their first appearance on this side of the pond in many years.