The road was long, loud, and covered in punk rock grit. In 2002, Manifesto Jukebox set out on a 43-day DIY tour across the U.S., playing in homes, punk rock venues and bars across 25 states. The result? A whirlwind of shows all over the US, endless highway miles, cheap diner coffee, and the kind of camaraderie that only comes from cramming into a van and chasing the next gig.

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📸 Enter American Roadkill—a 120-page photo diary capturing that journey in all its raw, unfiltered glory. Featuring over 200 photos by Kristofer Pasanen, alongside original flyers from the tour, this book is a snapshot of a time when punk was built on passion, persistence, and a whole lot of duct tape. These aren’t just posed band shots or polished promo images—this is the real deal: sweaty venues, late-night drives, and the faces of the people who made each stop along the way unforgettable.

Get your copy now! If you’ve ever felt the thrill of a packed DIY show, hit the road chasing music, or just love seeing punk history documented the way it really happened, this book belongs on your shelf. This is a limited edition, so make sure to grab yours before they’re gone!

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About the photographer
Kristofer Pasanen has been capturing the punk scene since 1994. With a deep-rooted passion for music and DIY culture, American Roadkill is his fourth photo book.

About Manifesto Jukebox
Formed in 1998, Manifesto Jukebox became one of Finland’s most influential melodic hardcore bands. Known for their relentless DIY ethos and emotionally charged sound, they toured extensively across Europe and Japan, leaving an indelible mark on the punk scene.

Book title: American Roadkill
Author: Kristofer Pasanen / Manifesto Jukebox
Info: Soft cover, 120 pages (black and white)
Released: 2025
Publisher: Uprising Coalition
ISBN: 978-952-65137-3-7

We had the opportunity to ask Mikael about his journey as a comics illustrator, the inspiration behind Det Jävla Ordet, and his creative process.

Can you tell us about your journey as a comics illustrator? How did you get started in this field, and what drew you to it? What have been some of the highlights and challenges of your years as a comics illustrator?

As most kids, I read comics when I was young, back when there was a wide selection of comics at the store. I have also been drawing and painting all my life, so it was destined these two worlds would collide eventually. My first experience with the idea that it was possible to do your own comic was when I read the zine Megaton in the late ’80s. One of the people behind it, Thomas Fels, was and is a huge inspiration.

The first comic I did that anyone except myself saw, I did in 2016. It was always interesting to me to tell a story with both words and pictures, but it took me a long time to gather the courage to try it more seriously. The challenge is always just that… to gather the courage to finish the story and show it to people. I’m not the person with the biggest self-esteem or belief in his own work, so that’s always challenging. The biggest reward for me has been that I gathered the courage to try, and I have met some truly amazing people through it. People I truly admire are now my friends.

Your new comic book, Det Jävla Ordet, explores deeply personal themes. What inspired you to create this story, and how did you approach tackling such emotional subject matter?

The first ever comic zine I did was called Det Jävla Ordet, and the book is a deeper journey into that story and things that have happened since I did the original one in 2016. It’s autobiographical, so the story was clear from the start. I had to do something to not break down completely, so I did a comic-zine—to have some sort of outlet for everything that happened, to hopefully process feelings, and to try to see it from an outside perspective.

The book goes even deeper into the depression I struggle with, my worries, and the people around me. It was and is hard to write about such things, but I feel I have to. It’s taken way longer than I expected to finish it because I had to take breaks from the book after completing some parts or when it got too dark in my mind.

In Det Jävla Ordet, the protagonist, Mikael, grapples with his mother’s sudden illness. How much of this story is drawn from your own experiences, and how did you navigate balancing personal elements with fiction?

It’s autobiographical, so it’s all “true,” even though we all know memories can play tricks on you sometimes. I have, in other comics, mixed up fact and fiction a little more, but most of my work so far has been rooted in my own life or things around me. The balance for me is how much to include.

Dealing with themes of illness, anxiety, and self-reflection can be emotionally taxing. How did you take care of your own mental well-being while working on this project?

It’s been very hard, and I have taken breaks from time to time. It’s also hard really focusing on things like I write about in the book because you really have to look at it, analyze it, and how you felt—and also maybe how people around you felt or were affected by it.

But it has also helped me to be more open and talk about how I feel and that I have these problems. Don’t underestimate people’s ability to listen and care… and never underestimate just putting a record on and crying your eyes out.

As an illustrator, where do you typically find inspiration for your work? Are there certain artists, writers, or experiences that have particularly influenced your style and storytelling?

I find inspiration all over the place. It can be music, movies, books, comics, games, or even overhearing something said on the bus going downtown—yeah, basically anything can become an idea.

I get really inspired by people who won’t compromise with their work, like DEVO, Francis Bacon, and Charles Bukowski. Some comic book artists I really admire and that inspire my work are Mats Jonsson, Joe Matt (R.I.P.), David Liljemark, Åsa Schagerström, Johannes Torstensson, Henrik Bromander, and Stina Hjelm, among a few.

Can you walk us through your creative process when developing a new comic book? How do you go from initial concept to finished product?

Det Jävla Ordet was my first long project, and I have gotten some valuable lessons for future projects while doing it.

But the process from start to finish is basically always the same:

• I get an idea and try to think roughly how short or long it needs to be—if it even works or is interesting enough to do.

• Then I usually do some of the writing, if not all, depending on the length of the comic.

• After that, I do some really rough sketches, and when I get a feeling of how the image should be, I draw it up and then do all the ink-work, filling in blacks and greys.

I work with pens and paper.

What do you hope readers take away from Det Jävla Ordet and your other works? Are there specific messages or themes that you aim to convey through your storytelling?

I’ve said before—I hope at least someone feels something reading my comics or my writing. Whether it’s laughing at my silly adventures or crying over the sad parts, whatever the feeling may be.

Det Jävla Ordet was hard to do and very personal, so I hope people can see that—and that they understand that it’s okay to feel bad, be depressed, sad, angry, or whatever emotion you may have. There’s no shame in it.

Looking ahead, what are your goals as a comics illustrator? Are there any new projects or collaborations on the horizon that you’re particularly excited about?

My goal has always been to keep doing different projects and try new styles of expressing myself.

Right now, I’m halfway through my part for the upcoming issue of Pelarhelgon, a comic zine I do with Johannes Torstensson, Robin Larsson, and Eddie Karlsson. They are great people, great illustrators, and great storytellers, so I’m really looking forward to that.

Hopefully, I’m also doing a short movie based on one of my comics. Other than that, I just hope the ideas keep coming.

Finally, what advice would you give to aspiring comics illustrators who may be looking to pursue a similar career path? What lessons have you learned along the way that you wish you knew when you were starting out?

Find your own voice and your own style, and just go with it. I think every person has a story to tell in one way or another.

The one thing I wish I had known when I started doing comics is how long it takes—and that what took you hours, days, weeks, or years to make will be read in a flash. And that’s okay.

Mikael Hammarberg’s Det Jävla Ordet is an uncompromising, deeply personal journey—raw, honest, and impossible to ignore.

📖 Get your copy now. Contact Mikael directly on Instagram.

Marc’s art has left its mark on everything from record covers and band shirts to soda cans, restaurants, and even hockey league apparel. But to us, his most important contribution is his deep-rooted connection to hardcore. As he writes in the book:

“I played in my first band at 10 and had a bunch of bands non-stop until 2018. Hardcore taught us to release our music, make artwork and book shows. I received CDs in the mail from labels like Victory, Hydra Head, Good Life, Trustkill, Indecision, Deathwish Inc for my small fanzine. The hardcore community embraced me and involved me.”

When developing the book’s concept, we explored different themes before landing on the most obvious choice—Hardcore Superheroes!

This 120-page, full-color book is designed for action. The perforated pages let you tear out your favorite heroes and put them on your wall. Honestly, you might want to grab two copies—one to keep intact and one to share, frame, or gift to friends.

🔥 Available now. Get yours before they’re gone.

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Hardoes: Superheroes of HardCore features 109 hardcore superheroes, featuring the bands in alphabetical order: Abhinanda, Ace Edge, Afi, Anklebiter, Anxious, Axe To Grind, Blood Command, Bloodhound Gang, Brand Of Sacrifice, Candy, Carpenter Brut, Cave In, Chastity, Chisel, Clique, Code Orange, Combust, Converge, Despize, Destiny Bond, Domain, Drain, Drug Church, Earth Crisis, End It, Eternal Sleep, Fiddlehead, Firewalker, Fleshwater, Foreign Hands, Gatecreeper, Gel, Gods Hate, Gouge Away, Harms Way, Hatebreed, Higher Power, High Vis, Hole, Holyname, Incendiary, Inclination, Initiate, Ithaca, Jesus Piece, Jivebomb, King Nine, Knocked Loose, Koyo, Kublai Khan, Last Wishes, Life’s Question, Madball, Magnitude, Mannequin Pussy, Militarie Gun, Mindforce, Meet Me @ The Altar, Momentum, Ms Paint, Nasty, Never Ending Game, New Found Glory, Night Verses, No Cure, No Pressure, Offspring, One Step Closer, Origami Angel, Paint Of Truth, Pit Barbie, Poison The Well, Regulate, Sawed Off, Scarab, Scott Vogel, Scowl, Section H8, Shapel Lacey, Shelter, Simulakra, Snapcase, Spaced, Speed, Speedway, Spiritworld, Strife, Sunami, Seeyouspacecowboy, Throwdown, Terror , Touche Amore, Trail Of Lies, Trapped Under Ice, Trasht Alk, Trench, Turnstile, Twitching Tongues, Vein.Fm, Webbed Wing, World Of Pleasure, Xibalba, Xweaponx, Yasi Salek Rob Harvilla, Year Of The Knife, Zulu

In the journals of Swedish punk rock history, few bands have left as indelible a mark as Outlast. Hailing from Linköping, their raw energy and unapologetic sound captured the essence of a generation. Now, their story is immortalized in the pages of “We Used To Be The Angry Youth”, a comprehensive tome curated by renowned photographer Kristofer Pasanen.

From digital edition to printed book

Originally released in 2008 as a digital edition, “We Used To Be The Angry Youth” faced a unique challenge—it was ahead of its time. Despite its accessibility on iPads, the punk rock community, staunchly analog in its preferences, struggled to embrace the digital format. Despite the modest price point, the book languished in obscurity, with fewer than ten purchases.

Undeterred by the initial setback, Kristofer Pasanen refused to consign his work to oblivion. With the resurgence of interest in punk rock culture, spurred in part by the success of “LKPG Hardcore: Where We Belonged”, Kristofer saw an opportunity to breathe new life into his forgotten project. Thus, “Angry Youth” found its second wind, reborn as a print edition and seamlessly integrated into the legacy of “LKPG Hardcore”.

From the archives

Drawing from his extensive archives of Outlast’s performances and candid moments, Kristofer meticulously curated a visual narrative that captures the band’s essence. From electrifying live shots to intimate portraits, the book offers a window into the tumultuous world of punk rock.

“It’s surreal to reminisce about those moments capturing Outlast on film. With limited shots, each frame held weight. We’d snap just a couple, convinced we’d nailed it. And sure enough, one shot would grace a record cover—a testament to the power of raw authenticity.”

In addition to Kristofer’s evocative photography, “We Used To Be The Angry Youth” features the band’s complete discography, including all lyrics penned by its members. Henrik Lindqvist and Jon Lindqvist, two members of Outlast, provide insightful linear notes that offer a deeper understanding of the band’s ethos and evolution.

“Incorporating the band’s discography and lyrics adds depth to the visual narrative, enhancing the reader’s immersion into Outlast’s world. Additionally, curated quotes from fanzines and interviews with band members offer a glimpse into the past, enriching the story with timeless relevance.”

Soon to be sold out

The reception to “We Used To Be The Angry Youth” has exceeded all expectations. With over half of the printed edition sold through pre-orders alone, the book has struck a chord with fans old and new. Its impending sell-out status is a testament to the enduring legacy of Outlast and the timeless allure of punk rock culture.

“In retrospect, the overwhelming response to this project was unexpected yet deeply gratifying. It reinforced the importance of pursuing personal passion projects, even when success isn’t guaranteed. Karl’s surprise at the book’s focus on Outlast served as a reminder of the power of storytelling and the unexpected connections it fosters.”

As the final copies of “We Used To Be The Angry Youth” find their way into the hands of eager fans, it’s clear that Outlast’s defiant spirit lives on. Through Kristofer Pasanen’s lens, their story continues to inspire, emboldening a new generation to embrace their anger and channel it into art.

In the tumultuous landscape of a global pandemic, Kristofer Pasanen embarked on a journey into the heart of nostalgia and creativity. His latest endeavor, “LKPG Hardcore: Where We Belong,” is more than just a book—it’s a testament to the enduring spirit of punk rock in Linköping, Sweden.

Living amidst the pandemic posed significant challenges to Kristofer's creative process. Working alone, without the possibility of meeting people in person, hindered collaboration and added complexity to the project. Despite these obstacles, Kristofer remained undeterred in his pursuit of documenting the LKPG hardcore scene.

An artistic journey

The punk rock scene in Linköping evolved alongside Kristofer’s own artistic journey. Starting from humble beginnings, the scene grew more professional over time, mirroring Kristofer’s own progression as an artist. His aesthetic style transitioned to a more polished look and feel, ultimately shaping his professional career.

For Kristofer, the DIY ethos is intrinsic to the punk rock scene. It’s a philosophy that he’s carried with him throughout his life, believing that anything is possible with determination and collaboration. The creation of “LKPG Hardcore” epitomized this ethos, from the formation of a publishing company to the collaborative process of design and image selection.

“For me, DIY is essential to the punk rock scene. I’ve taken so much of the DIY attitude and ways of doing things through my entire life. No matter I do, I bring the attitude of “anything is possible”, and that you can learn just about anything. At the same time, the "yourself" of DIY more often than not means working together with others.”

What began as a labor of love soon evolved into a cultural manifesto. “LKPG Hardcore” is more than just a book; it’s a testament to the resilience and camaraderie of their community, a celebration of their shared history and identity.

Kristofer hopes that “LKPG Hardcore: Where We Belong” will evoke fond memories for readers, both within and beyond the punk rock community. As many of the individuals depicted in the book may no longer be part of the scene, he aims to reignite nostalgia and spark conversations that transcend generations.

A legacy

As Kristofer delved deeper into the project, his perspective shifted. No longer was the focus solely on idolizing bands; it was about celebrating the vibrant crowd that fueled the scene. The faces and voices of the crowd became the beating heart of their community.

The legacy of the LKPG hardcore scene continues to reverberate through contemporary music and artistic movements. Kristofer’s work on the book even inspired a forthcoming documentary – LKPG Hardcore: The Movie”, showcasing the enduring impact of the scene on future generations.

Kristofer’s personal aesthetic has evolved over the years, diverging from the traditional punk rock scene while still maintaining its essence. His distinct style has left an indelible mark on record covers and artistic endeavors, embodying the spirit of punk rock authenticity.

“Back then, it was a time of experimentation and growth. From cut-and-paste to early Photoshop, punk rock's raw aesthetic appealed to me. My personal style, though, has always been a contrast—yet it's this divergence that fuels my creativity anew.”

For aspiring artists and authors looking to embark on similar creative projects, Kristofer offers sage advice. Whether choosing to venture alone or collaborate with others, the key is to embrace experimentation, learning, and the willingness to fail. It’s through these experiences that true creativity flourishes.

“Decide what path you want to take – try out by yourself, or, find someone like me and work together. I’m always open for discussions and co-operations.”

In the vibrant city of Linköping, Sweden, the underground punk hardcore scene thrived, with the iconic venue Skylten serving as its beating heart. From local acts to Swedish bands spanning from Malmö to Umeå, and even international heavyweights like Sick of It All, Snapcase, and Earth Crisis, the stage of Skylten witnessed it all. Amidst the chaos and camaraderie, Kristofer stood with his camera, amidst the mosh pits and anthems, capturing every moment from the front row. Little did he know, this would mark the genesis of a remarkable journey that would redefine his life.

The birth of “Identity Parade”

"Now, with over 30 years of experience in photography and design, let's rewind 23 years to the time of the release of ‘Identity Parade.’ At that time, seven years didn’t seem like a significant duration. The punk hardcore scene, particularly the D.I.Y. attitude, epitomized the belief that ‘anything is possible’ and that conviction alone was enough.

Inspired by friends who were part of bands and record labels, Kristofer felt compelled to channel his creativity into the realm of art. He lent his graphic design skills to bands, designing demo cassettes, albums, and clothing. His photography found its way into fanzines, magazines, posters, and record covers.

“Looking back, seven years felt like a lifetime of experience. Back then, the idea of creating a book didn't seem far-fetched. Today, it's incredible to reflect on its realization," recalls Kristofer. "It was my way of giving back to the scene, creating something enduring to remind us of a formative time in our lives. Personally, it was a journey of self-discovery, acquiring skills that remain invaluable to me to this day.”

‘Identity Parade’ wasn't a solo endeavor. It was a crowdfunded co-release with labels spanning Europe and the US, including Oljud, Busted Head Records, 7 Ply Records, Combat Rock Industry, Havoc, Close-Up Magazine, Reflections, Armed With Anger Records, La Calavera Discos, Carcrash Records, Paraply, Function, and Bridge Records.

“Crowdsourcing wasn't even a term back then, yet ‘Identity Parade’ exemplified the power of global collaboration. I remain forever grateful to all those who contributed, coming together from all corners of the world to make a dream a reality.”

Henrik Lindqvist (Outlast, Dead End and now Alarm! to mention a few) wrote this in the book:

“Around the first time I saw Kristofer at a hardcore show he was taking pictures. As the years passed by he got really close with the band that I played for at the time, contributing to our records, by showing our passion to the world. Dedicated to the aesthetics of hardcore punk … Within these pages you can see the desperation in the eyes of the band members. You can feel their energy and their dedication …

… To recreate the past is a meaningless attempt. To find new ways of existing is vital. Therefore I will not ”linger in the past” (Outlast), I will use this documentation in the only way I see meaningful. Remembering what we felt and why and how that affects Kristofer’s and my life today. Inspiring to be as much as we can be, to never give in to convenience. The path less travelled is probably the most interesting.

This is a product of stubbornness and never giving your dreams up. Kristofer never did, and I hope you wont either.”

20+ years later, this still resonates. Do what we can with what we have, take the difficult path, strive forward. Never give up on your dreams, you never know where it will take you.

"I had no idea what it took to release a book—from conception to printing and distribution. However, in the D.I.Y. scene, learning by doing was par for the course. Moreover, given the limited adoption of the internet at the time, selling books primarily occurred at shows or through mail-order," Kristofer reminisces.

In the book, Kristofer wrote:

"My perspective on punk hardcore has always been and hopefully will continue to be positive. Remaining on a constant quest for change and unafraid to showcase my true self is my identity parade."

Reflecting on these words today, their resonance remains unchanged. Kristofer's unwavering curiosity, willingness to challenge himself, and refusal to be confined by past conventions continue to define his journey.

In the annals of punk hardcore history, “Identity Parade” stands as a testament to the transformative power of art and community. Through its pages, Kristofer immortalized a moment in time when music was more than just sound—it was a rallying cry for change, a beacon of hope in a world of uncertainty. As we look back on its legacy, let us remember that the spirit of punk hardcore lives on, forever etched in the collective memory of those who dared to dream.