Proof positive? PRIME sth's Giant Records debut album, UNDERNEATH THE SURFACE, a captivating 12-song amalgamation of "uplifting, yet melancholy" songs that channel the foursome's aggressive energy into timeless tunes, including the premiere single "I'm Stupid (Don't Worry ’Bout Me)." It's a potent effort from a group whose rabid following in Sweden earned them an opening slot for Faith No More, as well as a spot at the prestigious Hultz Festival, which featured Rage Against the Machine and other superstars.

Reworking older songs and writing new ones, PRIME sth began the recording process in Stockholm with Sandqvist in late 1999, recording an album without an American label in place. The songs took shape, the band's dark melodicism becoming more radio-friendly (without losing its distinctive resonance). Once U.S. labels heard the album that was to become UNDERNEATH THE SURFACE, the trans-Atlantic calls began, and soon, PRIME sth was in Los Angeles and New York showcasing for interested labels. "I was nervous; it was my first time speaking English between the songs," says NOA of the showcase gigs. "Then, right when we got home, Giant was calling us, saying 'You're coming back here in two weeks!' From the first time we met the people at the label, we felt very comfortable. It feels like we belong."

The feeling is mutual, as PRIME sth has moved to their new hometown of Los Angeles to begin a Giant new chapter in their lives. ("We want to move here, go to the beach, surf. And then we'll do all happy songs!" jokes NOA.) Though the past molded PRIME sth, they're now ready for the future together. "We all need each other. It's special that four people can stay together this long, rehearsing three times a week and hang out the other days," NOA says. "We're great in this band, but maybe outside of this band, we suck," he laughs. "But so far, everything from our first drink to the last has been together. We've been through so many things together, working and waiting for years, that we're very ready for this next phase. We want to TOUR! We've always been about playing live," explains NOA, concluding, "and the United States is a bit bigger than Stockholm, so we figure it'll take us a few years to get everywhere!"