Division 7 – Herrljungafestivalen: Emerging Indie Sextet Takes On the Small Stage

Swedish indie pop/rock band Division 7 live at Herrljungafestivalen 2024. Singer Dara Hoel.

Division 7 is a young indie rock outfit that blends raw guitars with unexpected saxophone flourishes. At Herrljungafestivalen 2024’s smaller Northside Stage, the Stockholm six-piece proved that while big stages draw the headlines, raw energy and talent can shine just as brightly in more intimate settings.

Photos and Words by Jonas Gustafsson

Rising Stars of Swedish Indie Energise Herrljungafestivalen

Stockholm-based indie rock band Division 7 has quickly made a name for themselves with a mix of raw guitars, saxophone flourishes, and heartfelt lyrics.

Since their 2016 formation by singer Dara Hoel and bassist Max Söderholm, they’ve built a strong reputation on Sweden’s indie circuit. Their debut Paradis Garage (2023) and follow-up Hundhuvudet (2024) cemented their status as one of the most exciting new acts to watch.

Lineup – Division 7 Band Members

Division 7 includes:

Dara Hoel (vocals, guitar)
Max Söderholm (bass)
Anton Johansson (guitar)
Alexander Markman (guitar/synth/organ)
Oskar Flygare (saxophone/guitar)
Olle Ronach (drums)

Swedish indie pop/rock band Division 7 live at Herrljungafestivalen 2024. Guitar and keyboard players.

Guitar and keys — just one third of Division 7 in action.

A Surprise Highlight Between the Headliners

At Herrljungafestivalen, the band played the smaller Northside Stage at 19:00, right between Maxida Märak and Myra Granberg’s main-stage sets.

Passing by on my way back from a quick food break, I stumbled into an unexpectedly powerful performance. Despite the tight space, the six-piece radiated energy that pulled the crowd in.

Division 7 live at Herrljungafestivalen 2024

Almost the whole of Division 7 in one frame — sans the drummer.

Drummer Olle Ronach of Division 7 live at Herrljungafestivalen 2024

There he is — sporting a tattoo Dave Grohl would likely approve of.

Basslines, Sax and Pure Energy

Bassist Max Söderholm in particular stole the spotlight, throwing himself across the stage with contagious intensity, all while bearing a funny resemblance to Swedish actor and comedian Anders “Ankan” Johansson.

The rest of the group matched his drive, with tight guitars, dynamic drums and that distinctive saxophone adding a fresh twist.

Bassist Max Söderholm of Division 7 live at Herrljungafestivalen 2024

Bassist Max Söderholm playing his heart out.

A Band to Watch

Although I only caught part of their set, Division 7 left a strong impression: young, hungry, and clearly on the rise.

With growing tour dates across Sweden and the Nordics, they’re a band well worth keeping an eye on—especially if you’re into energetic, modern Swedish indie.