In a somber announcement, Swedish blackened death metal band Sacramentum has confirmed the death of founding member Nisse Karlén. The band stated that Karlén, who had a long-running struggle with his mental health, died by suicide.
The band released a full statement on social media, mourning the loss of their friend and bandmate. In their message, they also reminded their followers that “suicide is never to be glorified” and provided contact information for mental health and crisis hotlines in the EU and U.S.
The band’s statement reads in full:
“With deep sorrow, we share the heartbreaking news that our dear friend, band member, and one of the founders of Sacramentum, Nisse Karlén, has passed away. He chose to leave this world due to struggles with mental health.
“At this time, we kindly ask for privacy for his family, friends, and bandmates as we come to terms with this loss. Thank you for everything, Nisse. You will always be with us.
“Suicide is never to be glorified.”
If you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts, please know that help is available..
- EU: Dial 116 123
- US: Dial 988
Sacramentum was formed in 1990 under the name Tumulus, and Karlén was a central figure in the band’s development. He initially played guitar before taking on bass and vocal duties. His contributions were instrumental in establishing the band’s unique atmospheric and melodic sound, which quickly set them apart in the black/death metal scene.
Their 1996 debut album, Far Away from the Sun, is considered a foundational work in the genre of melodic black metal, placing the band in the same conversation as Swedish contemporaries like Dissection. The band’s dark and aggressive yet melodic sound has been influential for countless modern extreme metal acts.
After releasing three full-length albums—Far Away from the Sun, The Coming of Chaos, and Thy Black Destiny—the band had recently re-emerged with festival appearances and reissues, reaffirming their legacy in the underground metal scene.
