Fredrik Lindgren, the original guitarist of the Swedish death metal band Unleashed, has passed away at the age of 53. The band announced the tragic news on Facebook on January 6, accompanied by a heartfelt statement and a photo of Lindgren performing. The cause of death has not been disclosed.
“Warriors!!! Sadly, the news have reached us that Fredrik Lindgren, lead guitar of Unleashed 1989-1995, has passed away,” the statement read. “Fredrik was a huge part of the early history of the band. For this, we are eternally grateful. See you in Valhalla, brother!”
Lindgren, also known by his stage name Freddie Eugene, co-founded Unleashed in 1989 alongside vocalist and bassist Johnny Hedlund, drummer Anders Schultz, and guitarist Robert Sennebäck. When Sennebäck left the group in 1990, Tomas Måsgard joined as rhythm guitarist. Recognized as one of the “Big 4” of Swedish death metal alongside Entombed, Grave, and Dismember, Unleashed helped shape the genre’s early days.
During his six-year tenure with the band, Lindgren contributed to their first four albums: Where No Life Dwells (1991), Shadows in the Deep (1992), Across the Open Sea (1993), and Victory (1995). He departed in 1995 and was succeeded by Fredrik Folkare as lead guitarist.
Lindgren also played with several other Swedish bands throughout his career, including Atlantic Tide, Loud Pipes, Celestial Pain, Born on Fire, Harms Way, and Terra Firma. His Terra Firma bandmate, Lord Chritus (Christian Lindersson), shared a touching tribute online:
“In loving memory of Freddie Eugene 1971-2025. Numbed by the news of your passing, Fredrik my old friend. Hard to put emotions into words. Just hope you have found your peace as you deserve no less. You will not only be missed by me but many, I know this much. Thank you for being a part of my life and coloring it with your friendship and musicianship both embodied in what was Terra Firma. We had some really great times, and that will never change. All my love.”
Fans of the death metal legend also expressed their sorrow. One commenter on Unleashed’s announcement said, “So sorry to hear about your loss. Fredda was the riff master of my childhood, and the first couple of Unleashed records still mean the world to me. My sincere condolences to all his former band members, friends, and family.” Another added, “Such sad news. Great guy and awesome guitarist/riff writer/songwriter.”
Fredrik Lindgren’s contributions to death metal and his impact on the music community will remain an enduring legacy.
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