HIM Biography

HIM In-depth Biography

After forming in Finland in 1995, H.I.M.} (or His Infernal Majesty}) set out on the path of goth} forebears like Sisters of Mercy} and the Mission UK}. Vocalist and songwriter Ville Hermanni Valo} was the band's founding member, alongside bassist Migé Amour}, guitarist Lily Lazer}, drummer Mikka Karppinen} (aka Gas Lipstick}), and keyboardist Zoltan Pluto}. The 1996 EP 666 Ways to Love} was the group's first recording, and it did quite well in Scandinavia. One year later, Greatest Love Songs, Vol. 666} solidified their cult status throughout the region; it featured a cover of Chris Isaak}'s "Wicked Game."} Razorblade Romance} was released in 2000, and H.I.M.} supported it with an extensive European tour. Pluto} departed after Romance} and was replaced by Emerson Burton}. Deep Shadows and Brilliant Highlights}, the band's third album, arrived in 2002, followed by the Europe-only Love Metal} in 2003. In 2005, H.I.M.}'s early albums were reissued in America through Universal}; they also released Dark Light}, their official domestic debut. ~ Mario Mesquita Borges, All Music Guide