The cosmonaut and the ominous brothers
Lake of Tears is a Swedish metal band formed in Borås, Sweden, in 1990 by Daniel Brennare, Jonas Eriksson, Mikael Larsson, and Johan Oudhuis. The group initially gained attention with their debut album, Greater Art (1994), released through Black Mark. Their second album, Headstones (1995), marked a shift towards a more melodic sound and received positive reviews. In 1997, the band released A Crimson Cosmos, which featured progressive rock influences and fantasy-themed lyrics inspired by works like Dragonlance and Tolkien. The group underwent several lineup changes, including the departures of Eriksson and guitarist Ulrik Lindblom, with Magnus Sahlgren officially joining as a permanent member in 2004. The band disbanded after releasing Forever Autumn (1999) due to creative differences but completed their record contract with the album The Neonai (2002). They reunited in 2003 and released Black Brick Road (2004) under Noise Records. Their album Moons and Mushrooms was released on April 26, 2007, showcasing a heavier sound with more prominent guitar work. Subsequent albums include Illwill (2011).