Avatar is a Swedish heavy metal band formed in Mölndal (near Gothenburg) in 2001, initially as Lost Soul by drummer John Alfredsson and others, before reforming with vocalist Johannes Eckerström, guitarist Jonas Jarlsby, and additional members. The lineup stabilized with Alfredsson, Eckerström, Jarlsby, guitarist Tim Öhrström, and bassist Henrik Sandelin. They released their debut album Thoughts of No Tomorrow in 2006, followed by nine more studio albums, including Hail the Apocalypse (2014), Avatar Country (2018), and Don't Go in the Forest (2025). The band's music blends groove-oriented and melodic death metal elements. They achieved a Billboard Mainstream Rock No. 1 single with 'The Dirt I'm Buried In' in 2023, the longest climb to No. 1 in 20 years on that chart. Avatar toured extensively in Europe and the US, supporting acts like In Flames. Avatar is recognized for theatrical live performances, influenced by bands such as Iron Maiden, emphasizing high-energy showmanship.