N2K2 (short for Nirvana 2002) are a Swedish Death metal band from Edsbyn, Gävleborg, formed in 1988. Their music blends crushing riffs, guttural vocals, and heavy rhythms with lyrical explorations of metaphysics, parapsychology, and other esoteric themes, making them a unique force in the Scandinavian extreme metal underground.
The project began as Prophet 2002, before changing to Nirvana. Shortly afterward, the Seattle grunge band Nirvana released their first 7" EP on Sub Pop Records, so the Swedish band added the suffix 2002, long before Kurt Cobain and the American Nirvana became internationally famous.
Over the years, N2K2 created demos, splits, and compilations that combined classic death metal brutality with dark, intellectual lyrical content. Their sound is characterised by guttural vocals, complex riffs, and heavy, relentless drumming.
The last known line-up featured Erik Qvick on drums, Orvar Säfström on guitars and vocals, and Lars Henriksson on bass. Before splitting in 2012, Lars Henriksson and Erik Qvick went on to play in Under the Church, continuing their contributions to the Swedish metal scene.
All releases are available on CD and vinyl, ideal for collectors and fans of early Scandinavian death metal with esoteric themes.
This page focuses primarily on N2K2 T-shirts, sourced from Relapse Records and other trusted distributors. Designs reflect the band’s dark, metaphysical death metal aesthetic, perfect for fans of extreme metal with intellectual and esoteric lyrical themes.
Stock rotates regularly, so if something catches your eye it’s worth picking it up while available. We’re also looking to expand the range with more T-shirts and hoodies in the near future. We do occasionally carry releases on CD and vinyl alongside the apparel selection. Fans of early death metal, Scandinavian underground metal, and esoteric lyrical themes will find N2K2 delivers a raw, intellectual, and intense listening experience.
N2K2 has been a key part of Relapse Records - browse the full roster here.
Eyesore Merch – by and for the fans.
WE LOVE MUSIC – WE LOVE ENTERTAINMENT – WE LOVE MERCH!
