Kashmir

Formed in 1990 in Copenhagen, Denmark, the band initially went under the Nirvana moniker, although soon changing to Kashmir for obvious reasons. The original trio consisted of Mads Tunebjerg (bass), Asger Techau (drums) and Kasper Eistrup (vocals/guitars), who gained their first taste of success after placing second in the DM i Rock competition. After impressing judges, they gained a contract with new label, Start in Århus. Owner Poul Martin Bonde then went on to produce their debut album, “Travelogue,” which was released in 1994. The album took influence from the alt-rock world, of artists like Rage Against The Machine, Primus, Nirvana and Sonic Youth. The album instantly found huge popularity within the Danish youth market, establishing a strong and loyal fancies in their native country.

Returning in 1996 with “Cruzential,” Kashmir established a heavier, dark sound that moved away from the mainstream-friendly rock of their debut, yet the album still built up a wealth of critical acclaim. As the band’s sound progressed, they looked increasingly more to the likes of Radiohead, evident in 1999’s “The Good Life.” This album featured US producer, James Guthrie, obtaining a more accomplished and dynamic tone that was set to find international success. In Denmark, Kashmir were hugely successful, earning six Danish Grammy Awards in 2000.

After the addition of fourth member, Henrik Lindstrand (guitar, keys, vocals), it was four years before new material arrived, in the shape of 2003’s “Zitilites,” and Kashmir spent the following year touring extensively across Scandinavia and the rest of Europe in support of the release. Their next release surprised fans and critics alike, as it featured two legendary rock performers, David Bowie and Lou Reed, taking their music to a more prog-influenced direction. “Trespassers” followed in 2010, which again topped the Danish charts. After the compilation album, “Catalogue,” Kashmir were ready for new material, offering fans the mature and experimental “E.A.R.” in 2013.