When HIM, fronted by the iconic Ville Valo, concluded their journey on December 31, 2017, at Helsinki’s Tavastia club, they left behind a powerful legacy deeply rooted in their unique blend of alt-rock, goth, and doom. This fusion, often dubbed “love metal,” resonated with a devoted fanbase and produced a catalog rich with songs exploring themes of love and darkness.
Formed in 1991, HIM, initially featuring Ville Valo, Mikko ‘Mige’ Paananen, and various drummers, immediately established their signature balance between intense romance and heavy musicality. Mige’s temporary departure in 1993 paused their progress, but their resurgence in 1995, with the addition of Mikko ‘Linde’ Lindström, Juhana ‘Pätkä’ Rantala, and Janne ‘Burton’ Puurtinen, marked a significant turning point. Their debut album, Greatest Lovesongs Vol. 666, recorded in 1997, captured the attention of listeners drawn to its alluringly dark and romantic soundscapes.
Throughout their career, spanning over two decades and eight studio albums, HIM’s exploration of love in their music remained a central theme. Despite sometimes polarizing opinions within the metal community, their hits like “Right Here In My Arms” and “Buried Alive By Love” became anthems in rock clubs, celebrated for their passionate and melancholic lyrics combined with powerful riffs. Deeper tracks such as “Venus Doom” further showcased their ability to push musical boundaries while maintaining their core romantic sensibility.
Looking back at HIM’s discography, it’s clear why their “love songs” continue to captivate. They crafted a singular and compelling sound that intertwined the allure of romance with a darker, more sinister edge, solidifying their place as pioneers of love metal and leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of alternative music.
