Swedish symphonic metal band Eleine has dismissed drummer Jesper Sunnhagen and bassist Filip Stålberg following allegations of inappropriate conduct with fans.
Vocalist Madeleine Liljestam and guitarist Rikard Ekberg announced the immediate departure of their former bandmates in a statement shared on social media on Friday (Feb. 14).
“They have violated one of the most crucial aspects of our band member contract by behaving inappropriately towards our fans,” the statement read.
Remaining Members Assure Fans the Tour Will Continue
This April, Eleine is set to go on a European tour in support of their 2023 album We Shall Remain. Despite the lineup changes, the remaining members—Liljestam, Ekberg, and guitarist Victor Jonasson—have confirmed that the tour will proceed as planned, with stand-in musicians filling in for the departed members.
The band reassured fans that these departures “will NOT affect our upcoming tours,” emphasizing their commitment to their audience.
“Thank you for understanding that we put our fans first,” the statement concluded. While the announcement did not go into detail about the allegations against Sunnhagen and Stålberg, speculation has been widespread across social media.
Swedish Band EleineFans Applaud the Band’s Swift Response
Across online platforms, many fans commended the band’s decisive action. “Much respect to you for taking a zero-tolerance approach,” one Instagram user commented.
Another fan expressed mixed emotions, stating, “Truly saddened to hear this. It must have been a tough decision, but in the end, I’m sure it’s the right one.”
Eleine’s Journey Since 2014
Named after vocalist Madeleine Liljestam’s longtime nickname, Eleine made their debut with the single Gathering Storm in April 2014, followed by their self-titled debut album a year later.
Liljestam remains the band’s sole founding member. Jesper Sunnhagen joined in 2018, while Filip Stålberg became part of the group in January 2023.
Eleine’s 2018 album, Until the End, reached No. 22 on the Swedish album charts. According to the band’s online biography, their latest release, All Shall Remain, has quickly become their most successful and well-received album to date.
On January 22, the symphonic metal act announced plans for a Latin American tour, though specific dates have yet to be revealed.
