Hollow

Originally performing as Vaalkyrian, Andreas Stoltz on vocals and guitar joined forces with bassist Thomas Nilsson and drummer Urban Wikstrom before expanding the lineup with guitarist Marcus Bigren and adopting the name Hollow. The members chose Hollow because it captured the atmosphere of both their personal outlook and sonic direction. In 1998 the band issued its first full-length release, Modern Cathedral, layering progressive rock progressions over a deep admiration for classic-era Rush and Queensryche. Early the next year Hollow followed with Architect of the Mind, an album that emerged devoid of any trace of optimism.