Interview with Grand Design
"The burning flame of Rawk"
Grand Design Greetings To The Audience
*Léelo también en Español al final de la página
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Grand Design (2025), From left to right: Dan Svanbom, Joakim Jonsson, Pelle Saether,
Dennis Vestman, Magnus Engdahl.
🎙Mariana: If you had to describe Grand Design in three words, what would they be?
🎵✨️GD: “Melodic, Loud and Timeless.”
Grand Design was born in 2006 from a simple idea — to bring that golden era of ’80s rock back into today’s world, with all the hooks, harmonies, and big choruses we grew up on, but with a modern fire under it. We don’t chase trends — we make music that feels alive, fun, and larger than life. When you come to a Grand Design show, you’re not just watching a band, you’re stepping into a full-on Rawk experience — guitars blazing, voices soaring, and everyone singing along like it’s 1986 all over again.
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| Singer Pelle Seather |
🎵✨️GD: It’s an awesome time for us right now — “Baby Tell It To My Heart” has taken off, and seeing it connect with so many people feels fantastic. The response has been beyond what we hoped for — it’s on playlists, radio stations, and fans are sending us messages that they are singing along already.
The main riff for “Baby Tell It To My Heart” had actually been lying around for a couple of years. Pelle loved the groove but never quite found the right chorus for it. Then one day he happened to hear Britney Spears' "Baby One More Time" — and boom, inspiration struck! That simple run of notes and words sparked the idea that became our song.
Once the band got involved, the whole thing came to life. The result turned out better than we could’ve imagined, and who knows — this might just be the direction for the next album. You never know with us. 😉
🎙Mariana: What do you feel sets you apart from other bands in the genre today?
🎵✨️GD: We never tried to reinvent the wheel — we just made sure it rolls with style, melody, and a full tank of high-octane Rawk 'n Roll. What sets us apart is that we fully embrace what we are: a band that proudly waves the flag of melodic hard rock, with big hooks, lots of vocal harmonies, and an unfiltered love for the ’80s spirit.
While some bands spend years trying to sound modern, we’re busy making sure the spirit of Def Leppard, Bon Jovi, and the Sunset Strip still feels alive — but through our own sound and production. Pelle’s golden ear for melody, the band’s wall-of-vocals approach, and our collective sense of fun make it something we feel people instantly connect to.
We take our music seriously — just not ourselves too seriously. That’s probably the secret sauce.😉
🎙Mariana: The word "Rawk" was already used informally back in the 80s, but you managed to make it completely your own — turning it into part of your identity, your sound, and even the title of your album. What does it mean to you to have made this term so personal, and what does "Rawk" truly represent within the Grand Design universe?
While some bands spend years trying to sound modern, we’re busy making sure the spirit of Def Leppard, Bon Jovi, and the Sunset Strip still feels alive — but through our own sound and production. Pelle’s golden ear for melody, the band’s wall-of-vocals approach, and our collective sense of fun make it something we feel people instantly connect to.
We take our music seriously — just not ourselves too seriously. That’s probably the secret sauce.😉
🎙Mariana: The word "Rawk" was already used informally back in the 80s, but you managed to make it completely your own — turning it into part of your identity, your sound, and even the title of your album. What does it mean to you to have made this term so personal, and what does "Rawk" truly represent within the Grand Design universe?
🎵✨️GD: Rawk isn’t just a word — it’s a feeling. It’s that rush you felt at your very first hard rock concert — the lights, the power, the energy that hits you right in the chest and never really leaves. For us, Rawk became a way of describing what Grand Design stands for: melody, attitude, and a pure love for the kind of rock music that refuses to die quietly.
In a way, it’s like Obelix falling into the magic potion — we fell into the Rawk pot early on, and we’ve been powered by it ever since.😉 Every riff, every harmony, every grin on stage is part of that feeling. It’s loud, it’s fun, and it’s honest. And maybe that’s why fans feel it too — because deep down, everyone’s got a bit of Rawk running through their veins.
In a way, it’s like Obelix falling into the magic potion — we fell into the Rawk pot early on, and we’ve been powered by it ever since.😉 Every riff, every harmony, every grin on stage is part of that feeling. It’s loud, it’s fun, and it’s honest. And maybe that’s why fans feel it too — because deep down, everyone’s got a bit of Rawk running through their veins.
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| Basisst Magnus Engdahl |
🎵✨️GD: In many ways, the creative process hasn’t changed much over the years. Pelle usually starts things off by recording demos at home that outline the songs — the core melodies, riffs, and vibe. From there, the rest of the band steps in and the songs start to evolve. Everyone adds their own flavor, and the arrangements keep shifting until they feel right.
That’s when the magic happens — when the demos turn into real Grand Design songs. It’s a mix of old-school craftsmanship and a modern spark that keeps it sounding fresh, even if the spirit is straight out of 1986 right.
🎙Mariana: Was there any song that surprised you during the recording — one that turned out different from what you first imagined? Or perhaps a favorite that you feel represents the band more than any other?
🎵✨️GD: Yes — “Carry On My Wind” really surprised us. It’s quite different from most other Grand Design songs, with a touch of folk influence that gives it a unique flavor. It has a bit of that Gary Moore – Over the Hills and Far Away vibe, which we all love.
It’s also a duet between Pelle and Eric Grawsjö from Månegarm, who’s not only an amazing singer but also a longtime friend of Pelle’s — Pelle has recorded and produced Månegarm for years. It’s something fresh, unexpected, and still unmistakably Grand Design.
🎙Mariana: Looking back, what differences do you feel there were in the way you worked in the studio between Time Elevation (2009), your first album, and the album RAWK?
🎵✨️GD: The difference is huge. Time Elevation was all about the vision — we wanted to capture that larger-than-life sound of our heroes like Def Leppard, Europe, Warrant, and Mötley Crüe. It took almost three years to finish because Pelle was busy producing other bands at Studio Underground, and there was zero thought about how the songs would work live. It was purely about creating an album that sounded great.
We actually recorded nine songs, and when the label said, “You need ten” we just added an acoustic track — problem solved. The record got a ton of recognition and even some people saying it sounded like Def Leppard — or better. That wasn’t the goal though; we just wanted to make a killer ’80s-style rock record that felt authentic.
By the time RAWK came out in 2023 — 14 years later — the band had evolved a lot. Different members, new energy, and a stronger focus on songs that work live. We spent time crafting intros, outros, and moments that hit harder on stage. The recording process still happens at Pelle’s studio, but the mindset is different — it’s less about perfection and more about connection.
Time Elevation was how Grand Design wanted to sound in 2009. RAWK is how we wanted to feel in 2023. And with the next album — our seventh — who knows where the Rawk will take us next.
🎵✨️GD: Yes — “Carry On My Wind” really surprised us. It’s quite different from most other Grand Design songs, with a touch of folk influence that gives it a unique flavor. It has a bit of that Gary Moore – Over the Hills and Far Away vibe, which we all love.
It’s also a duet between Pelle and Eric Grawsjö from Månegarm, who’s not only an amazing singer but also a longtime friend of Pelle’s — Pelle has recorded and produced Månegarm for years. It’s something fresh, unexpected, and still unmistakably Grand Design.
🎙Mariana: Looking back, what differences do you feel there were in the way you worked in the studio between Time Elevation (2009), your first album, and the album RAWK?
🎵✨️GD: The difference is huge. Time Elevation was all about the vision — we wanted to capture that larger-than-life sound of our heroes like Def Leppard, Europe, Warrant, and Mötley Crüe. It took almost three years to finish because Pelle was busy producing other bands at Studio Underground, and there was zero thought about how the songs would work live. It was purely about creating an album that sounded great.
We actually recorded nine songs, and when the label said, “You need ten” we just added an acoustic track — problem solved. The record got a ton of recognition and even some people saying it sounded like Def Leppard — or better. That wasn’t the goal though; we just wanted to make a killer ’80s-style rock record that felt authentic.
By the time RAWK came out in 2023 — 14 years later — the band had evolved a lot. Different members, new energy, and a stronger focus on songs that work live. We spent time crafting intros, outros, and moments that hit harder on stage. The recording process still happens at Pelle’s studio, but the mindset is different — it’s less about perfection and more about connection.
Time Elevation was how Grand Design wanted to sound in 2009. RAWK is how we wanted to feel in 2023. And with the next album — our seventh — who knows where the Rawk will take us next.
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| Drummer Joakim Jonsson |
🎵✨️GD: It might not be the best song on the album technically, but “We Were Born to Rawk n Roll” really captures the heart and soul of what RAWK is all about. It’s got the energy, the attitude, and that unshakable belief that rock ’n’ roll isn’t just music — it’s a way of life.
🎙Mariana: The RAWK Spanish Tour 2024 took you to different stages — how was the experience with the Spanish audience?
Any funny, unexpected, or emotional anecdotes you remember from those concerts?
🎵✨️GD: Spain has really become one of the most important markets for Grand Design — we’ve done three tours there now, and every time it feels like coming home. The passion of the Spanish audience is unbelievable — they sing every word, they smile, they shout, and they make us feel like we’re part of one big family.
One city that truly stands out is Vitoria. We absolutely love playing at Urban Rock Concept — the crew is top-notch, everything runs like clockwork, and the food… well, it’s to die for. It’s one of those places where everything just feels right.
And as for funny moments — let’s just say Joakim got enough beer at Urban to pass out, which is extremely rare. That says a lot about both the hospitality and the beer supply in Spain! 🍻
🎙Mariana: Besides Spain, in what other country would you like to perform or tour?
🎵✨️GD: We’ve been lucky enough to play in quite a few countries over the years — Sweden, Norway, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, US and the UK — and every place has given us something special. This November, we’ll head to Denmark for the first time, which we’re really looking forward to.
That said, Spain has become a real stronghold for us — the audiance there are incredible, and the energy is second to none. We can’t wait to come back!
Looking ahead, we’d love to tour more in Germany, Finland, Switzerland, and of course keep the Rawk alive at home in Sweden. And festivals… well, we’re always ready for more of those — the bigger, the louder, the better!
That said, Spain has become a real stronghold for us — the audiance there are incredible, and the energy is second to none. We can’t wait to come back!
Looking ahead, we’d love to tour more in Germany, Finland, Switzerland, and of course keep the Rawk alive at home in Sweden. And festivals… well, we’re always ready for more of those — the bigger, the louder, the better!
🎙Mariana: Which song do you feel gets the audience the most excited and participative during your live shows?
🎵✨️GD: There are quite a few, and we always try to include at least one song from each of our six albums — it keeps the set balanced and the fans happy. “God Bless Rawk n Roll,” “Love Sensation,” and “Rawk n Roll Heart Attack” always light up the crowd — those choruses were built for sing-alongs.
And then there’s “Let’s Rawk the Nite” from our somewhat overlooked second album — it has become a real anthem live. We usually close the set with it, and it never fails to turn the place into one big, loud, smiling choir.
And then there’s “Let’s Rawk the Nite” from our somewhat overlooked second album — it has become a real anthem live. We usually close the set with it, and it never fails to turn the place into one big, loud, smiling choir.
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| Gitarist Dennis Vestman |
🎵✨️GD: Well, since the band is called Grand Design, we obviously need an architect — and that’s Pelle. He formed the band and has always been the captain of the ship. In the early days, he wrote pretty much everything himself, and to some extent, he still does.
But over time, the rest of the band has stepped in more and more with riffs, ideas, and arrangement tweaks. It’s become a true collaboration, and that’s made the sound even stronger. Plus, someone’s got to make sure Pelle doesn’t repeat himself too much! 😉
🎙Mariana: Do you have any special habit or ritual before going on stage or entering the studio?
🎵✨️GD: Before a show, there’s always a little ritual; We usually sit together, change into our stage clothes, and try to get into that Rawk zone. Pelle walks around shouting to warm up his voice — we mostly laugh at him and forget to warm up ours, duh! Then we crack a couple of beers, look at each other, and it’s showtime. Simple, loud, and perfectly unprofessional — just the way we like it. 😉
In the studio, things are a bit more structured… in our own way. Pelle usually comes in with an arrangement idea and we record everything in his own professional studio, Studio Underground. We build songs layer by layer — guitars first, then tons of backing vocals (because, well, that’s us), followed by Pelle’s leads, drums by Joakim, and finally the bass.
For our latest single, we all sat in the studio together, making small last-minute changes — even the opening vocal chorus was born right there on the spot. That’s the beauty of it: structured chaos with melody on top.
But over time, the rest of the band has stepped in more and more with riffs, ideas, and arrangement tweaks. It’s become a true collaboration, and that’s made the sound even stronger. Plus, someone’s got to make sure Pelle doesn’t repeat himself too much! 😉
🎙Mariana: Do you have any special habit or ritual before going on stage or entering the studio?
🎵✨️GD: Before a show, there’s always a little ritual; We usually sit together, change into our stage clothes, and try to get into that Rawk zone. Pelle walks around shouting to warm up his voice — we mostly laugh at him and forget to warm up ours, duh! Then we crack a couple of beers, look at each other, and it’s showtime. Simple, loud, and perfectly unprofessional — just the way we like it. 😉
In the studio, things are a bit more structured… in our own way. Pelle usually comes in with an arrangement idea and we record everything in his own professional studio, Studio Underground. We build songs layer by layer — guitars first, then tons of backing vocals (because, well, that’s us), followed by Pelle’s leads, drums by Joakim, and finally the bass.
For our latest single, we all sat in the studio together, making small last-minute changes — even the opening vocal chorus was born right there on the spot. That’s the beauty of it: structured chaos with melody on top.
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| Dan Svanbom |
🎙Mariana: What have you learned from your bandmates over the years?
🎵✨️GD: Well, we’ve all learned a lot — some of it even useful. 😉
Pelle thinks he’s a control freak, but he’s constantly losing things. And he only drinks after the last show of the tour — which means the rest of us have to make up for it.
Magnus has mastered the art of winding Pelle up about absolutely anything — and he always turns up the bass way too loud, because, let’s face it, it’s the only thing that really matters.
Dennis might not eat meat, but he’s still one of the most raw and hot-blooded guys in the band — he rocks like a butcher on overtime.
Dan is our resident tech nerd — he knows more about guitar gear than most engineers at NASA. And Joakim? He’s solid as a rock — and the scary part is, you can’t even tell when he’s had too many beers.
So yeah, we’ve learned that every band needs a captain, a philosopher, a joker, a scientist, and a drummer who never falls over. Somehow, it works!
🎙Mariana: What do you think happens only when all five of you are together — something that couldn’t happen if one of you were missing?
🎵✨️GD: That’s when the real magic happens — and a bit of chaos too! When all five of us are in the same place, things just click in a way you can’t plan. It’s not just the sound — it’s the vibe and the humor that somehow makes everything louder, tighter, and more fun.
If one of us is missing, it’s like pulling a screw out of an airplane wing — it might still fly, but you probably wouldn’t want to be on it! 😉
And of course, when we’re all together, things tend to escalate… next thing you know, we’re drinking beers in some bar, getting lost around the airport in Madrid, and ending up in someone’s apartment or hotelroom at 5 a.m. talking about life, love, and why 1987 was the best year for rock music. A Rawk n Roll brotherhood.
Pelle thinks he’s a control freak, but he’s constantly losing things. And he only drinks after the last show of the tour — which means the rest of us have to make up for it.
Magnus has mastered the art of winding Pelle up about absolutely anything — and he always turns up the bass way too loud, because, let’s face it, it’s the only thing that really matters.
Dennis might not eat meat, but he’s still one of the most raw and hot-blooded guys in the band — he rocks like a butcher on overtime.
Dan is our resident tech nerd — he knows more about guitar gear than most engineers at NASA. And Joakim? He’s solid as a rock — and the scary part is, you can’t even tell when he’s had too many beers.
So yeah, we’ve learned that every band needs a captain, a philosopher, a joker, a scientist, and a drummer who never falls over. Somehow, it works!
🎙Mariana: What do you think happens only when all five of you are together — something that couldn’t happen if one of you were missing?
🎵✨️GD: That’s when the real magic happens — and a bit of chaos too! When all five of us are in the same place, things just click in a way you can’t plan. It’s not just the sound — it’s the vibe and the humor that somehow makes everything louder, tighter, and more fun.
If one of us is missing, it’s like pulling a screw out of an airplane wing — it might still fly, but you probably wouldn’t want to be on it! 😉
And of course, when we’re all together, things tend to escalate… next thing you know, we’re drinking beers in some bar, getting lost around the airport in Madrid, and ending up in someone’s apartment or hotelroom at 5 a.m. talking about life, love, and why 1987 was the best year for rock music. A Rawk n Roll brotherhood.
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| Cover Album Rawk (2023) |
🎙Mariana: What’s next for Grand Design after RAWK? New material, tours, collaborations?
🎵✨️GD: We just released the new single “Baby Tell It To My Heart”, and the next one is already recorded and mixed — so there’s plenty more on the way. The band is also writing new material with the goal of releasing the next full album in late 2026 or early 2027.
We have a number of gigs lines up and more to come in 2026.
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| Single Cover "Baby Tell It To My Heart" |
🎙Mariana: What do you still dream of achieving as a band?
🎵✨️GD: At this stage, our dream is pretty simple — to keep having fun, making music, and playing live wherever we can. We’re lucky to have built an international following that allows us to perform in and outside of Sweden, and that’s something we truly appreciate every time we hit the stage.
We’re not a young, up-and-coming band — we’re a standing, Rawking, and sometimes even coming one! 😉 The energy is still there, the fire’s still burning, and as long as we can bring that to the stage, we’ll keep doing it.
🎙Mariana: What message would you like to share with young musicians who are just starting out today?
🎵✨️GD: Do it for the love of music and being an entertainer on stage. If you want money, do something else.
🎙Mariana: What message would you like to send to the audience that has admired and supported you since the band was formed?
🎵✨️GD: First of all — thank you! None of this would matter without the people who’ve been with us through all the albums, shows and lineup changes, You’ve kept the Rawk flame burning right alongside us.
Our message is simple: keep believing in loud guitars, big choruses, and real (human) connections. Come to the shows, sing with us, have a beer (or five), and let’s keep proving that melodic rock isn’t nostalgia — it’s alive, kicking, and sounding better than ever, and remember — we don’t just play for you, we Rawk with you. 😉
🎙Mariana: Who is in the band today and how long has this line up been going?
🎵✨️GD: The current Grand Design line-up features Pelle Saether on vocals, Dan Svanbom and Dennis Vestman on guitars, Joakim Jonsson on drums, and Magnus Engdahl on bass and have been together since July 2023.
Magnus was the latest member to join, but his connection to Grand Design goes much further back. He and Pelle played together in the ’90s in a band that landed a record deal and toured extensively — including eight shows supporting the mighty Saxon. Having followed Grand Design over the years, joining the band felt like coming home for him.
This line up is like brothers in Rawk — a tight unit built on chemistry, humor, and a shared love for loud, melodic rock and sometimes beers and occasionaly champagne.
We’re not a young, up-and-coming band — we’re a standing, Rawking, and sometimes even coming one! 😉 The energy is still there, the fire’s still burning, and as long as we can bring that to the stage, we’ll keep doing it.
🎙Mariana: What message would you like to share with young musicians who are just starting out today?
🎵✨️GD: Do it for the love of music and being an entertainer on stage. If you want money, do something else.
🎙Mariana: What message would you like to send to the audience that has admired and supported you since the band was formed?
🎵✨️GD: First of all — thank you! None of this would matter without the people who’ve been with us through all the albums, shows and lineup changes, You’ve kept the Rawk flame burning right alongside us.
Our message is simple: keep believing in loud guitars, big choruses, and real (human) connections. Come to the shows, sing with us, have a beer (or five), and let’s keep proving that melodic rock isn’t nostalgia — it’s alive, kicking, and sounding better than ever, and remember — we don’t just play for you, we Rawk with you. 😉
🎙Mariana: Who is in the band today and how long has this line up been going?
🎵✨️GD: The current Grand Design line-up features Pelle Saether on vocals, Dan Svanbom and Dennis Vestman on guitars, Joakim Jonsson on drums, and Magnus Engdahl on bass and have been together since July 2023.
Magnus was the latest member to join, but his connection to Grand Design goes much further back. He and Pelle played together in the ’90s in a band that landed a record deal and toured extensively — including eight shows supporting the mighty Saxon. Having followed Grand Design over the years, joining the band felt like coming home for him.
This line up is like brothers in Rawk — a tight unit built on chemistry, humor, and a shared love for loud, melodic rock and sometimes beers and occasionaly champagne.
✨️Thanks to all the members of Grand Design for sharing so many wonderful things about the band in this interview.🫶
💿DISCOGRAPHY💿
📀Rawk — 2023
📀V — 2020
📀Viva La Paradise — 2018
📀Thrill of the Night — 2014
📀Idolizer — 2011
📀Time Elevation — 2009
💿Singles💿
📀Baby Tell It To My Heart — 2025
📀Tuff It Out — 2023
📀God Bless Rawk ’n’ Roll — 2023
📀Love or a Fantasy — 2023
📀Get Out — 2021
📀We Were Born to Rawk n Roll — 2020
📀Right Away — 2020
📀Face It — 2018
📀Baby It’s You — 2013
🎖Recognitions/Awards🎖
🎖Thrill Of The Night (2014) "Best Album" by RockEyez
🎖Time Elevation (2009)— "Best Album" And "Best Song" by BeRockRadio.
Follow Gand Design:
https://open.spotify.com/artist/0N0w9UlWBwFKmEfzMTtSc2
https://youtube.com/@granddesignsweden?si=PIAmDh8kfPBeMXdu
https://www.instagram.com/granddesignband?igsh=cGh6Y2pobDBjcXlu
https://granddesign.bandcamp.com/
📽VIDEOS
VERSION ESPAÑOL
🎙 Mariana: Si tuvieras que describir a Grand Design en tres palabras, ¿cuáles serían?
🎵✨ GD: “Melódico, Ruidoso, Atemporal.”
Grand Design nació en 2006 a partir de una idea simple; traer la era dorada del rock de los ’80 al mundo de hoy, con todos los hooks, armonías y grandes coros con los que crecimos, pero con un fuego moderno debajo. No seguimos tendencias — hacemos música que se siente viva, divertida y más grande que la vida. Cuando vas a un show de Grand Design, no solo estás viendo a una banda, estás entrando en una experiencia completa de Rawk — guitarras a todo, voces elevándose, y todos cantando como si fuera 1986 otra vez.
🎙 Mariana: ¿Cómo están viviendo este momento como banda después del lanzamiento de su último sencillo “Baby Tell It To My Heart”, Cómo surgió la idea de esta canción y qué inspiró a la banda a crearla?
🎵✨ GD: Es un momento increíble para nosotros — “Baby Tell It To My Heart” ha despegado, y ver que conecta con tanta gente se siente fantástico. La respuesta ha superado lo que esperábamos — está en playlists, estaciones de radio, y los fans nos envían mensajes diciendo que ya la están cantando.
El riff principal de “Baby Tell It To My Heart” en realidad había estado rondando por un par de años. A Pelle le encantaba el groove pero nunca encontraba el coro adecuado. Hasta que un día escuchó... "Baby One More Time” de Britney Spears — ¡y boom, la inspiración llegó! Esa simple combinación de notas y palabras inspiró la idea que se convirtió en nuestra canción.
Cuando la banda se involucró, todo cobró vida. El resultado salió mejor de lo que imaginábamos, y quién sabe — quizás esta sea la dirección para el próximo álbum. 😉
🎙 Mariana: ¿Qué sienten que los distingue de otras bandas del género hoy en día?
🎵✨ GD: Nunca intentamos reinventar la rueda — solo nos aseguramos de que ruede con estilo, melodía y un tanque lleno de Rawk n Roll de alto octanaje. Lo que nos distingue es que abrazamos totalmente quienes somos: una banda que orgullosamente ondea la bandera del hard rock melódico, con grandes hooks, muchas armonías vocales y un amor sin filtros por el espíritu de los ’80.
Mientras algunas bandas pasan años intentando sonar modernas, nosotros estamos ocupados en asegurarnos de que el espíritu de Def Leppard, Bon Jovi y el Sunset Strip siga vivo — pero a través de nuestro propio sonido y producción. El oído dorado de Pelle para la melodía, el enfoque de la banda en muros de voces, y nuestro sentido colectivo de la diversión hacen que la gente conecte al instante.
Nos tomamos la música en serio — solo que no a nosotros mismos demasiado en serio. Probablemente esa sea la salsa secreta. 😉
🎙 Mariana: La palabra "Rawk" ya se usaba informalmente en los ’80, pero ustedes la hicieron completamente suya. ¿Qué significa para ustedes haber hecho este término tan personal, y qué representa realmente "Rawk" dentro del universo de Grand Design?
🎵✨ GD: Rawk no es solo una palabra — es un sentimiento. Es esa adrenalina que sentiste en tu primer concierto de hard rock — las luces, la potencia, la energía que te golpea el pecho y nunca se va. Para nosotros, Rawk se convirtió en una manera de describir lo que representa Grand Design: melodía, actitud y un amor puro por ese tipo de rock que se niega a morir silenciosamente.
De cierta forma, es como Obelix cayendo en la poción mágica — caímos en la olla de Rawk muy temprano, y desde entonces hemos estado alimentados por ella, 😉 Cada riff, cada armonía, cada sonrisa en el escenario es parte de ese sentimiento. Es ruidoso, divertido y honesto. Tal vez por eso los fans lo sienten también — porque en el fondo, todos llevan un poco de Rawk corriendo por sus venas.
🎙 Mariana: El álbum RAWK tiene ese espíritu clásico del hard rock de los ’80, pero con una energía moderna. ¿Cómo fue el proceso creativo para este álbum?
🎵✨ GD: De muchas maneras, el proceso creativo no ha cambiado mucho con los años. Pelle normalmente inicia grabando demos en casa que delinean las canciones — las melodías principales, los riffs y la vibra. Desde ahí, el resto de la banda entra y las canciones empiezan a evolucionar. Cada uno agrega su propio sabor, y los arreglos siguen cambiando hasta que se sienten bien.
Ahí es cuando ocurre la magia — los demos se convierten en canciones reales de Grand Design. Es una mezcla de artesanía old-school y un chispa moderna que mantiene todo fresco, aunque el espíritu venga directamente de 1986.
🎙 Mariana: ¿Hubo alguna canción que los sorprendiera durante la grabación, o quizás un tema que sientan que representa a la banda más que otros?
🎵✨ GD: Sí — “Carry On My Wind” realmente nos sorprendió. Es bastante diferente a la mayoría de las canciones de Grand Design, con un toque de influencia folk que le da un sabor único. Tiene un poco de la vibra de "Over the Hills and Far Away " de Gary Moore, que nos encanta a todos.
También es un dúo entre Pelle y Eric Grawsjö de Månegarm, que no solo es un cantante increíble sino también un amigo de toda la vida de Pelle — Pelle ha grabado y producido Månegarm por años. Es algo fresco, inesperado, y aún así inconfundiblemente Grand Design.
🎙 Mariana: Mirando hacia atrás, ¿qué diferencias sienten que hubo en la manera de trabajar en el estudio entre Time Elevation (2009), su primer álbum, y el álbum RAWK?
🎵✨ GD: La diferencia es enorme. Time Elevation se trataba de la visión — queríamos capturar ese sonido más grande que la vida de nuestros héroes como Def Leppard, Europe, Warrant y Mötley Crüe. Tomó casi tres años terminarlo porque Pelle estaba ocupado produciendo otras bandas en Studio Underground, y no había pensamiento sobre cómo sonarían las canciones en vivo. Era puramente sobre crear un álbum que sonara increíble.
De hecho, grabamos nueve canciones, y cuando la discográfica dijo “Necesitan diez”, simplemente agregamos una acústica — problema resuelto. El disco recibió mucho reconocimiento e incluso algunas personas dijeron que sonaba como Def Leppard — o mejor. Pero ese no era el objetivo; solo queríamos hacer un killer álbum de rock estilo ’80 que se sintiera auténtico.
Para cuando RAWK salió en 2023 — 14 años después — la banda había evolucionado mucho. Diferentes miembros, nueva energía y un enfoque más fuerte en canciones que funcionen en vivo. Pasamos tiempo perfeccionando intros, outros y momentos que impacten en el escenario. El proceso sigue pasando en el estudio de Pelle, pero la mentalidad es diferente — menos sobre perfección y más sobre conexión.
Time Elevation era como Grand Design quería sonar en 2009. RAWK es como queríamos sentirnos en 2023. Y con el próximo álbum — nuestro séptimo — quién sabe a dónde nos llevará el Rawk.
🎙 Mariana: ¿Qué canción captura mejor el alma del álbum RAWK, y por qué?
🎵✨ GD: Quizás no sea la mejor canción técnicamente, pero “We Were Born to Rawk n Roll” realmente captura el corazón y alma de lo que RAWK representa. Tiene la energía, la actitud y la creencia inquebrantable de que el rock ’n’ roll no es solo música — es un estilo de vida.
🎙 Mariana: La gira española RAWK Spanish Tour 2024 los llevó a diferentes escenarios — ¿cómo fue la experiencia con el público español? ¿Alguna anécdota divertida, inesperada o emotiva que recuerden de esos conciertos?
🎵✨ GD: España se ha convertido en uno de los mercados más importantes para Grand Design — ya hicimos tres giras allí, y cada vez se siente como volver a casa. La pasión del público español es increíble — cantan cada palabra, sonríen, gritan y nos hacen sentir como parte de una gran familia.
Una ciudad que realmente destaca es Vitoria. Nos encanta tocar en Urban Rock Concept — el equipo es de primera, todo funciona como reloj, y la comida… bueno, para morirse. Es de esos lugares donde todo simplemente se siente bien.
Y en cuanto a momentos divertidos — digamos que Joakim consiguió suficiente cerveza en Urban como para desmayarse, lo cual es extremadamente raro. ¡Eso dice mucho sobre la hospitalidad y el suministro de cerveza en España! 🍻
🎙 Mariana: Además de España, ¿en qué otro país les gustaría tocar o hacer una gira?
🎵✨GD: Hemos tenido la suerte de tocar en varios países — Suecia, Noruega, Alemania, Italia, Suiza, EE. UU. y Reino Unido — y cada lugar nos ha dado algo especial. Este noviembre iremos a Dinamarca por primera vez, lo cual esperamos con ansias.
Dicho esto, España se ha convertido en un verdadero bastión para nosotros — la audiencia allí es increíble y la energía insuperable. Queremos volver. Mirando hacia adelante, nos encantaría tocar más en Alemania, Finlandia, Suiza y, por supuesto, mantener vivo el Rawk en Suecia y festivales… siempre estamos listos para más — ¡cuanto más grande, más fuerte, mejor!
🎙 Mariana: ¿Qué canción sienten que emociona y hace participar más a la audiencia durante los shows en vivo?
🎵✨ GD: Hay varias, y siempre tratamos de incluir al menos una canción de cada uno de nuestros seis álbumes — así mantenemos el set equilibrado y felices a los fans. “God Bless Rawk n Roll”, “Love Sensation” y “Rawk n Roll Heart Attack” siempre encienden al público — esos coros fueron hechos para cantar juntos.
Luego está “Let’s Rawk the Nite” de nuestro segundo álbum, algo subestimado — se ha convertido en un verdadero himno en vivo. Normalmente cerramos el set con ella, y nunca falla en convertir el lugar en un gran coro ruidoso y sonriente.
🎙 Mariana: ¿Cómo dividen las ideas y la composición dentro de la banda? ¿Trabajan juntos todo el tiempo o cada miembro contribuye desde su espacio?
🎵✨ GD: Bueno, como la banda se llama Grand Design, obviamente necesitamos un arquitecto — y ese es Pelle. Él formó la banda y siempre ha sido el capitán del barco. En los primeros días, escribía prácticamente todo él, y hasta cierto punto, todavía lo hace.
Pero con el tiempo, el resto de la banda ha aportado cada vez más riffs, ideas y ajustes de arreglos. Se ha convertido en una verdadera colaboración, y eso ha hecho que el sonido sea aún más fuerte. Además, alguien tiene que asegurarse de que Pelle no se repita demasiado.😉
🎙 Mariana: ¿Tienen algún hábito o ritual especial antes de subir al escenario o entrar al estudio?
🎵✨ GD: Antes de un show, siempre hay un pequeño ritual; nos sentamos juntos, nos cambiamos a la ropa del escenario y tratamos de entrar en la zona Rawk. Pelle camina gritando para calentar su voz — nosotros la mayoría de las veces nos reímos de él y nos olvidamos de calentar la nuestra, duh! Luego abrimos un par de cervezas, nos miramos, y es hora del show. Simple, ruidoso y perfectamente poco profesional — justo como nos gusta.😉
En el estudio, las cosas son un poco más estructuradas… a nuestra manera. Pelle normalmente viene con una idea de arreglo y grabamos todo en su estudio profesional, Studio Underground. Construimos las canciones capa por capa — guitarras primero, luego toneladas de voces de respaldo (porque, bueno, así somos), seguidas de los leads de Pelle, la batería de Joakim y finalmente el bajo.
Para nuestro último sencillo, todos nos sentamos en el estudio juntos, haciendo pequeños cambios de último minuto — incluso el coro vocal de apertura nació allí mismo. Esa es la belleza; caos estructurado con melodía encima.
🎙 Mariana: ¿Qué han aprendido de sus compañeros a lo largo de los años?
🎵✨ GD: Bueno, hemos aprendido mucho — algunas cosas incluso útiles. 😉
Pelle cree que es un maniático del control, pero pierde cosas constantemente y solo bebe después del último show de la gira — lo que significa que el resto tiene que compensarlo.
Magnus ha perfeccionado el arte de molestar a Pelle sobre cualquier cosa — y siempre sube demasiado el bajo, porque, seamos sinceros, es lo único que realmente importa...
Dennis quizá no coma carne, pero sigue siendo uno de los tipos más crudos y apasionados de la banda — toca como un carnicero en horas extras.
Dan es nuestro nerd de tecnología — sabe más de equipo de guitarra que la mayoría de los ingenieros de la NASA. Y Joakim? Firme como una roca — y lo aterrador es que ni se nota cuando ha bebido demasiado.
Así que sí, hemos aprendido que cada banda necesita un capitán, un filósofo, un bromista, un científico y un baterista que nunca se cae. ¡De alguna manera funciona!
🎙 Mariana: ¿Qué sucede solo cuando los cinco están juntos — algo que no podría pasar si faltara uno?
🎵✨ GD: Ahí es cuando ocurre la verdadera magia — y un poco de caos también! Cuando los cinco estamos en el mismo lugar, las cosas simplemente encajan de una manera que no puedes planear. No es solo el sonido — es la vibra y el humor que hacen que todo sea más fuerte, más preciso y más divertido.
Si falta uno, es como sacar un tornillo de un ala de avión — todavía puede volar, pero probablemente no quieras estar ahí.😉
Y claro, cuando estamos todos juntos, las cosas tienden a escalar… al siguiente momento estamos tomando cervezas en algún bar, perdiéndonos por el aeropuerto en Madrid, y terminamos en el departamento o hotel de alguien a las 5 a.m. hablando sobre la vida, el amor y por qué 1987 fue el mejor año para el rock. Una hermandad de Rawk n Roll.
🎙 Mariana: ¿Qué sigue para Grand Design después de RAWK? ¿Nuevo material, giras, colaboraciones?
🎵✨ GD: Acabamos de lanzar el nuevo sencillo “Baby Tell It To My Heart”, y el siguiente ya está grabado y mezclado — así que hay mucho más en camino. La banda también está escribiendo nuevo material con el objetivo de lanzar el próximo álbum completo a finales de 2026 o principios de 2027.
Tenemos varias fechas confirmadas y más por venir en 2026.
🎙 Mariana: ¿Qué sueñan todavía lograr como banda?
🎵✨ GD: En esta etapa, nuestro sueño es bastante simple — seguir divirtiéndonos, haciendo música y tocando en vivo donde podamos. Tenemos la suerte de haber construido un público internacional que nos permite actuar dentro y fuera de Suecia, y eso es algo que realmente apreciamos cada vez que subimos al escenario.
No somos una banda joven que recién comienza — ¡somos una banda establecida, Rawkeando, y a veces incluso llegando! 😉
La energía sigue ahí, el fuego sigue ardiendo, y mientras podamos llevar eso al escenario, seguiremos haciéndolo.
🎙 Mariana: ¿Qué mensaje les darían a los jóvenes músicos que recién empiezan hoy?
🎵✨ GD: Hazlo por amor a la música y por ser un entertainer en el escenario. Si quieres dinero, haz otra cosa.
🎙 Mariana: ¿Qué mensaje enviarían al público que los ha admirado y apoyado desde la formación de la banda?
🎵✨ GD: Primero que todo — ¡gracias! Nada de esto tendría sentido sin las personas que han estado con nosotros a través de todos los álbumes, shows y cambios de formación. Han mantenido la llama del Rawk viva junto a nosotros.
Nuestro mensaje es simple: sigan creyendo en guitarras ruidosas, grandes coros y conexiones reales (humanas). Vengan a los shows, canten con nosotros, tomen una cerveza (o cinco), y sigamos demostrando que el rock melódico no es nostalgia — está vivo, potente y sonando mejor que nunca. Y recuerden — no solo tocamos para ustedes, tocamos con ustedes. 😉
🎙 Mariana: ¿Quién está en la banda hoy y desde cuándo está este line-up?
🎵✨ GD: La formación actual de Grand Design incluye a Pelle Saether en voces, Dan Svanbom y Dennis Vestman en guitarras, Joakim Jonsson en batería y Magnus Engdahl en bajo, y están juntos desde julio de 2023.
Magnus fue el último en unirse, pero su conexión con Grand Design viene de mucho antes. Él y Pelle tocaron juntos en los ’90 en una banda que consiguió contrato discográfico y giró extensamente — incluyendo ocho shows como soporte de los poderosos Saxon. Haber seguido a Grand Design a lo largo de los años hizo que unirse se sintiera como volver a casa para él.
Esta formación es como hermanos en Rawk — una unidad sólida construida sobre química, humor y un amor compartido por el rock melódico fuerte y, a veces, cervezas y ocasionalmente champagne.
