We Are To Blame is a Swedish alternative melodic metal band based in arctic Gällivare, that has steadily evolved from a genre-blending studio project into a fully realized act known for balancing melody, heaviness, and emotional depth. Formed in 2020, the band began as a collaboration between vocalist Alice Hartvig and guitarist/vocalist Johan Karlsson, whose contrasting musical backgrounds became central to their sound.

From the outset, We Are To Blame was built on the idea of contrast. Johan brought experience from heavier metal scenes, while Alice came from a more melodic and pop-oriented background. This duality shaped their early material and became a defining artistic concept, most clearly expressed in their debut releases, the Duality EPs.

Their first major release, Duality I (2022), introduced a sound rooted firmly in alternative melodic metal with strong pop sensibilities. Critics highlighted the unusual but effective pairing of pop vocals with heavy instrumentation and occasional growls, noting how the band pulled from across the metal spectrum, including power, symphonic, and melodic death metal influences. 

Follow-up release Duality II expanded on this foundation, further refining their blend of alternative melodic metal. Publications praised its “diverse sonic landscapes” and “breathtaking vocals,” highlighting the band’s ability to move between aggressive instrumentation and rich, melodic arrangements. Together, the Duality releases established We Are To Blame as a band capable of combining heaviness with accessibility, often described as metal with a distinct pop and atmospheric edge.

A major turning point came as the project evolved into a full band lineup, with additional members Sebastian “Seppo” Lindgren, Oliver Älmeros and Marcus Lillsebbas contributing to songwriting and arrangement, and significantly impacted their sound. The lineup change elevated the complexity and depth of their material, transforming earlier ideas into something more dynamic and fully realized.

This progression culminated in the release of Women In This World (followed by the lineups live debut at Sweden Rock Festival 2024) and the Altar EP, which marked a stylistic evolution while still retaining the core of the band. Critics and interviews alike described it as a natural continuation of the Duality era, but with more depth, emotion, and musical chemistry. The EP showcases the band’s expanded range, from atmospheric tracks like “Numb” to heavier compositions such as “Eye of Death,” reflecting their willingness to explore new musical horizons.

Today, We Are To Blame stands as a band defined by duality in both concept and execution. Drawing from metal, alternative rock, and pop influences, they have created a sound that resists simple categorization. Their evolution reflects a commitment to growth, collaboration, and emotional authenticity, positioning them as a distinctive voice within the modern metal landscape.