Wicked Smile – When Night Falls
Veröffendlichung: 06.02.2026
Australian Heavy metal actWicked Smilerelease their second single titled ‘Face Of The Wicked’ from their forthcoming sophomore album ‘When Night Falls’. This is the follow up to the band’s highly acclaimed debut album ‘Wait For The Night’ (2021).
Face Of The Wickedis a riff heavy, slower tempo track influenced by the likes of Black Sabbath & Dio. This single really showcases the powerhouse voice of vocalistDanny Cecati(ex Pegazus & Eyefear), as he takes his hat off to his mega influenceRonnie James Dio. Guitarist Stevie goes onto add, “our new album is the natural progression for us. We wear our influences on our sleeves and the new album is no different. If you’re a fan of Dio, Judas Priest, Iron Maiden, Savatage, Dokken, Icon & Skid Row, I think you’ll like what we’ve done on our new album! We’ve written a heavier album with classic metal roots, with a wide seamless range of slower old school influenced hits and full blown up-tempo metallic tracks with a hook!
Wicked Smile’s new albumWhen Night Fallsis now available for pre-order and will be released worldwide on February 6th.
*PRE-ORDER WHEN NIGHT FALLS via:https://linktr.ee/WickedSmile
*Distribution to stores will be going through: Bertus Distribution (Benelux), The Orchard (EU), Plastic Head (UK).
Wicked Smilewill launch their new album LIVE with atour of Japan in November 2025 with dates inOsaka, Nagoya & Tokyo. A tour of Europe/UK will follow in 2026, including a string of headline club shows and festival appearances.
Bio:
Wicked Smile are all about bringing back fist pumping, melodic heavy metal to the forefront. They released one of the albums of the year in 2021; a collection of ten ‘killer songs’, produced by Paul Laine (The Defiants/ex Danger Danger) and mastered by Bruno Ravel (The Defiants/Danger Danger).
Guitarist Stevie Janevski goes on to say, “we’re a five-piece kick ass heavy rock band and I think we made our presence known with the release of our debut album Wait For The Night“.
Wicked Smile is fronted by charismatic vocal virtuoso Danny Cecati (ex Pegazus & Eyefear) with Stevie Janevski (ex Black Majesty & Cyclone Tracy) & Dave Graham (ex In Malice’s Wake) on guitars, Tom Nugara (Envenomed) on bass & Andrew Sharp (ex Pegazus) on drums.
Lyrically, the band explores current issues within society such as civil unrest, bullying and mental health. Songs like We Fall, Sign Of Times, Daze Of Delirium, Stronger, Last Goodbye & Don’t Wait For Me are all thought provoking and not the cliché lyrics that you’d expect for this style of heavy metal.
Wicked Smile has been overwhelmed by the positive response from the underground rock and metal community. Steve Price at ARfm radio called the band “kickass Australian rock with killer vocals”.
Fans of Judas Priest, Iron Maiden, Dio, Savatage and Dokken should feel at home, with the band drawing major influence from seventies and eighties heavy rock and metal.
2023 saw Wicked Smile independently release an EP worldwide titled ‚Night Time Riders‘ and touring the United Kingdom (for the second time in one year). Where they performed at renowned festivals such as Winter Storm, Hard Rock Hell & Planet Rockstock Festival. Alongside their festival appearances, Wicked Smile played 20 club shows over two UK tours in 2023 & 2024.
The reception and atmosphere received by fans at Wicked Smile’s live shows are really second to none and up there with the big guns!
Wicked Smile have toured nationally with Skid Row & H.E.A.T. and have shared the stage with legendary acts such as Michael Schenker Group, FM, Slaughter, Uli John Roth, Tygers Of Pan Tang, Tyketto, Lynch Mob, Dream Evil, Graham Bonnet Band and many more on many stages worldwide!
Wicked Smile look forward to hit the ground running harder than ever with the release of their upcoming album ‘When Night Falls’. Launching their sophomore album in Japan with a tour in November of 2025, followed by a European tour in 2026, featuring festival and club shows.
Members:
Danny Cecati – Lead Vocals
Stevie Janevski – Guitar
Davey Graham – Guitar
Tom Nugara – Bass
Andrew Sharp – Drums
MEINUNG:
„When Night Falls“,heißt das zweite Studioalbum von WICKED SMILE…
Und schon bei den ERSTEN Takten von „When Night Falls“,dem opener des Neuen Albums,rockt und rollt es und zeigt von Anfang an,wo der Hammer hängt!.Es groovt…Und das geht als ROTER Faden durch das gesamte Album!
Und wenn man mal bedenkt:DAS hier ist das 2.Album…Und es ist nicht selbstverständlich,dass das ganze schon sehr „erwachsen“ klingt.Man hat das Gefühl,die Herrschaften veröffendlichen hier ihr 10. Album.Das ganze klingt zielsicher und auf den Punkt eingespielt und produziert!DAS haben nich viel Bands/Musiker so drauf!
Sänger Danny Cecati (Ex-PEGAZUS/EYEFEAR) hatte ich bislang nicht auf dem Schirm-ich bin da mal ganz ehrlich!Aber der Mann passt zur Band,wie die berühmte Faust auf´s Auge.Er weiß genau,was er da mit seiner Stimme anstellt.Rotzig und auf den Punkt ballert er mir da seine Vocals in die Ohren.Und diese Stimme steht natürlich über allem!Wenn man allerdings mal nicht so auf die Stimme achtet-was schwerfällt-merkt man aber auch,das da noch Leute sind,die auch nicht „langweilig rumstehen“!Diese Leutchen haben´s ebenfalls drauf!ALLES in der Gesamtheit macht dieses interessante Album aus.Songmäßig geht´s in einer gewissen Vorwärts-Dynamik.Hymnen lassen grüßen!
DER HR dieser Band geht nach vorne und lässt noch viel erhoffen für die Zukunft!
8 von 10 Punkte
Der technische Chamäleon und Gitarrenvirtuose Paul Gilbert kündigt heute sein neues Album „WROC“ an, das am 27. Februar über Music Theories Recordings veröffentlicht wird. Zur Feier des Tages hat er das Musikvideo zu „Go Not Thither“ veröffentlicht, das Du dir hier ansehen kannst: HERE.
WROC, kurz für „Washington’s Rules of Civility“ (Washingtons Regeln der Höflichkeit), könnte durchaus das bisher ausgefallenste Werk des Gitarren-Superstars sein. Mit George Washingtons Regeln der Höflichkeit als konzeptionellem Leitbild hat sich Gilbert getraut, über den Tellerrand hinauszuschauen und einen Etikette-Leitfaden aus dem späten 16. Jahrhundert als Hauptinspirationsquelle zu nutzen.
Er mag in der Vergangenheit eine Akku-Bohrmaschine für supersonisches Tremolo-Picking eingesetzt und mit einem Slide die Stimme von Ronnie James Dio heraufbeschworen haben. Dennoch ist diese neueste Aufnahme der Sound eines Musikers, der sich trotzig neue, unbekannte Horizonte erschließt – für sein erstes Vokalalbum seit „I Can Destroy“ aus dem Jahr 2016.
Die Idee für das Album kam ihm auf dem Heimflug von der letzten Show der Abschiedstournee von Mr. Big, bei der sich die Gruppe vor ausverkauftem Haus in der Budokan Arena in Tokio verabschiedete.
„Ich weiß nicht, warum mir das in den Sinn gekommen ist“, zuckt er mit den Schultern. „Aber ich liebe es, Melodien anhand von Texten zu komponieren. Ich glaube, ich war auf der Suche nach meinem eigenen Bernie Taupin – der alle Texte für Elton John schreibt. Neil Peart ist ein weiteres Beispiel, da er die Texte für Rush geschrieben hat, während Alex Lifeson und Geddy Lee die Musik komponiert haben. Ich wollte meinen eigenen Bernie oder Neil finden, denn obwohl ich schon Texte geschrieben habe, ist das nicht wirklich mein Lieblingsaspekt des Prozesses. Also habe ich George Washington zu meinem Bernie Taupin gemacht!“
Bei weiteren Nachforschungen stellte sich heraus, dass der erste Präsident der Vereinigten Staaten von Amerika lediglich eine englische Übersetzung der „Rules Of Civility & Decent Behavior In Company And Conversation” als Schulaufgabe kopiert hatte und so unbeabsichtigt zu ihrem bekanntesten Autor wurde. Die Ursprünge des Werks lassen sich jedoch noch weiter zurückverfolgen, bis zu einem französischen Etikette-Handbuch aus dem Jahr 1595, das von den Jesuiten verfasst wurde.
Als jemand, der die Rolle der E-Gitarre in der Rockmusik maßgeblich geprägt hat, weiß Paul Gilbert genau, welche Regeln zu befolgen sind – und wann man sie brechen kann. Bei Mr. Big war er für bahnbrechende Pop-Rock-Hymnen verantwortlich, mit denen die Band die Charts stürmte und weltweit in den Arenen auftrat. Bei Racer X reizte er die E-Gitarre bis an ihre Grenzen aus und schlug eine eher metallische Richtung ein, wobei er Zuhörer und Publikum damit faszinierte, wie seine Kompositionen gleichzeitig technisch so aufregend und musikalisch so geschmackvoll sein konnten. Als Solokünstler hat er sowohl instrumentale als auch vokalgeprägte Klanglandschaften durchlaufen, die von Blues, Klassik und Jazz bis hin zu geradlinigem Rock reichen.
Für Gilbert war es also eine spürbare Begeisterung, diese Richtlinien aus dem 16. Jahrhundert für die hypermoderne Gesellschaftsordnung der heutigen Welt wieder zubeleben. „Ich hatte noch nie so viel Spaß beim Song schreiben in meinem Leben!“, gibt er zu.
Das Album wurde live über vier Tage in den Hallowed Halls in Portland, Oregon, aufgenommen, mit Nick D’Virgilio am Schlagzeug, Doug Rappoport an der Gitarre und Timmer Blakely am Bass. Paul nahm zu Hause zusätzliche Gesangsparts auf, um die Tracks zu verfeinern, aber die Kernenergie stammt vom gemeinsamen jammen der Live-Band.
Den Auftakt macht „Keep Your Feet Firm And Even” (Bleib standhaft und gleichmäßig), das auf einer Regel von Washington basiert, die Paul persönlich als Herausforderung empfindet. In dem mit Hooks gespickten „Speak Not Evil Of The Absent” (Sprich nicht schlecht über Abwesende) formt Gilbert einzigartige Formulierungen, um eine Regel zu vermitteln, die mittlerweile 430 Jahre alt ist. „Einige dieser Regeln sind leicht zu befolgen, andere hingegen … Ich weiß nicht, ob ich sie jemals einhalten könnte! Aber es ist auf jeden Fall erstrebenswert, über sie nachzudenken“, sagt Paul.
„Ich freue mich sehr darauf, diese Musik live zu spielen und zu sehen, wie sie den Leuten gefällt“, fügt Gilbert hinzu. „Ich würde sagen, WROC ist eines der musikalischsten und hörenswertesten Alben, die ich je gemacht habe. Es ist viel mehr als nur Gitarrenriffs, die aus meinen Fingern kamen. Die Musik entsprang meinem Sinn für Melodien. Ich genieße diese reine Verbindung immer mehr. Ich habe das Gefühl, dass dies die erfolgreichste Reise zu meinem inneren Melodiengenerator war … dank der Inspiration von George Washington. Insgesamt war der Prozess sehr angenehm, und diese Freude kann man in den Tracks hören.“
Track listing
1. Keep Your Feet Firm and Even
2. Show Not Yourself Glad (At the Misfortune of Another)
3. Maintain a Sweet and Cheerful Countenance
4. Go Not Thither
5. Orderly And Distinctly
6. If You Soak Bread in the Sauce
7. Let Thy Carriage
8. Speak Not Evil of the Absennntt
9. Turn Not Your Back (To Others)
10. Conscience is the Most Certain Judge
11. Every Action Done in Company
12. Spark of Celestial Fire
13. George Washington Rules
AUSTEN STARR’s debut album, ‘I Am The Enemy,’ delivers a hard-hitting blend of contemporary rock with classic influences, drawing comparisons to artists like The Warning and Halestorm while infusing a more traditional hard rock sound. Featuring powerhouse musicians, the album songs’ have been written by AUSTEN in collaboration with Joel Hoekstra (Whitesnake, Revolution Saints, Iconic, Cher, Trans-Siberian Orchestra), who also takes care of all guitars on the album. Other musicians appearing include Chris Collier (Mick Mars, Lita Ford) on bass and drums, Steve Ferlazzo (Hugo’s Voyage) on keyboards and Chloe Lowery (Trans-Siberian Orchestra) on background vocals.On the upcoming release, AUSTEN shares:„I’m ecstatic to finally be releasing an actual album! This project has been a long time coming–a lifetime in the making, as cliché as that may be. It’s a really wild feeling to be putting music out into the world after being so afraid to for the duration of my existence, and the fact that the first couple of songs have been received well is completely blowing my anxious, self-deprecating mind. With the release of this debut album, I feel like I’m putting my life in your hands just to see what you’ll do with it. It’s terrifying, exhilarating, and freeing. Thank you so much to everyone at Frontiers, thank you to Joel Hoekstra, Chris Collier, Steve Ferlazzo, and Chloe Lowery, thank you to everyone who has made this project possible, and thank you to everyone who listens to the music. I hope you all enjoy it!“Pre-Order ‚I Am The Enemy‘ HERE
‚I Am The Enemy‘ Track List:
1. Remain Unseen
2. Medusa
3. I Am The Enemy
4. Read Your Mind
5. Get Out Alive
6. Effigy
7. Running Out Of Time
8. All Alone
9. Not This Life
10. The Light
11. Until I See You Again
AUSTEN STARR is a reluctant Bostonian with a penchant for self-induced misery. A natural contrarian, she was raised in a household where being a musician was the last thing she was encouraged to do—so, of course, AUSTEN recorded an album with the help of some heavy-hitters from Frontiers and beyond. While AUSTEN considers herself to be an “anxious wreck,” she’s channeled her inner turmoil and contradictions into a compelling musical statement. AUSTEN’s penchant for hypocrisy is almost as defined as her narrative voice. After all, she admits to both hating bad grammar and using it in one of her own songs because it fits the meter. When she’s not rocking out on stage or recording, AUSTEN is learning guitar, embracing „emo karaoke nights,“ and forging ahead with a relentless, albeit trepidatious, determination to carve out her place in the music world.
Vocals: Austen Starr
Guitars: Joel Hoekstra (Whitesnake, Revolution Saints, Iconic, Cher, Trans-Siberian Orchestra)
Bass/Drums: Chris Collier (Mick Mars, Lita Ford)
Keyboards: Steve Ferlazzo (Hugo’s Voyage, Avril Lavigne)
Background Vocals: Chloe Lowery (Trans-Siberian Orchestra)
Finnish rockers Temple Balls are excited to announce the release of their new self-titled studio album, out on February 13, 2026, via Frontiers Music Srl.
Pre-Order “Temple Balls” HERE
Temple Balls are back with a brand-new self-titled album, continuing the sonic evolution started with their latest work, “Avalanche”, and delivering an even more personal and refined sound. Once again produced by Jona Tee, the album boasts anthemic choruses, high-energy guitar work, and a thunderous rhythm section – classic Temple Balls, but bolder and better.
The band commented: “After releasing four albums, it felt like we have found ourselves a preferred sound and a way to write our music. The northern darkness brings, depending on the listener, its bitter or tickling side taste into our way of interpreting hard rock. So naturally, it’s about a time to release an album carrying our divisive band’s name”.
This new release takes no prisoners. It’s a statement of intent: Temple Balls are here to stay, and ready to expand their global fanbase with a sound that’s bigger, louder, and more powerful than ever.
Over the past several years, Temple Balls have stayed busy both in the studio and on stage. Having opened for legendary acts such as Sonata Arctica, Queen, Deep Purple, and Uriah Heep, Temple Balls has proven it can command stages of any size, from large festival arenas to small club venues. With their electrifying live shows, the band energizes the audience and always leaves fans convinced of their raw talent and unstoppable energy.
The band’s first official single, “Hell And Feelin’ Fine”, was released in September 2016 and quickly received substantial airplay on Finnish Radio Rock. Their debut album, “Traded Dreams”, was recorded at Karma Sound Studios in Thailand in May 2016 and released on February 24, 2017. Produced by Tobias Lindell, known for his work with Europe, Mustasch, and H.E.A.T., the album laid the foundation for the band’s rise in the melodic rock scene.
The fall of 2017 began with a sold-out tour across Finland alongside Battle Beast. That year also marked the band’s debut in Japan, followed by an intense five-day tour of Ukraine. After their Japanese shows, readers of the country’s leading rock magazine, Burrn!, voted Temple Balls as “the second brightest hope”. At the same time, they were also honored as the Newcomer of the Year on Masa Ito’s Rock TV, marking a significant breakthrough on the international stage.
The band’s second album, “Untamed”, was released on March 8, 2019, and was quickly praised by leading music outlets like Soundi and Burrn! magazines. After its release, the band traveled across Europe as special guests of Sonata Arctica, further solidifying their reputation as a powerful live act.
“Pyromide”, the band’s debut on Frontiers and their third album overall, was a true showcase of melodic hard rock, launching them onto the international stage. Produced by the well-known Jona Tee, the album is filled with catchy hooks, pounding rhythms, and anthemic rock ’n’ roll delivered just as it was meant to be. In May 2022, the band kicked off a three-week European tour with Swedish melodic metal giants H.E.A.T., then continued to energize audiences across Finland throughout the summer festival season.
The band released their fourth studio album, “Avalanche”, in November 2023. Praised by both fans and media, the album not only made it onto the Finnish charts but also solidified the band’s reputation as one of the most exciting acts today. Following the release, the band excited audiences with a series of shows across Finland and internationally during the summer festival season, culminating in a successful UK tour in November 2024.
In 2025, the group primarily focused on recording a highly anticipated new album while continuing to engage audiences at select performances, both domestically and internationally, including a festival appearance in Switzerland.
“Temple Balls” Tracklist:
1. Flashback Dynamite
2. Lethal Force
3. Tokyo Love
4. There Will Be Blood
5. We Are The Night
6. Hellbound
7. Soul Survivor
8. The Path Within
9. Stronger Than Fire
10. Chasing The Madness
11. Living In A Nightmare
Line Up:
Arde Teronen – Vocals
Jimi Välikangas – Bass
Jiri Paavonaho – Guitar
Niko Vuorela – Guitar
Antti Hissa – Drums
MEINUNG:
Mittlerweile das 5. Album…
Die Vorgänger-Alben kenn ih nicht.Umso mehr war ich also gespannt,was da aus den Lautsprechern kommt.Und?Tja…Hard Rock skandinavischer Machart – gepaart mit amerikanischem Sleaze Rock.Und zuerst erinnerte mich das ganze schon an H.E.A.T.!Und so ist es denn auch.Aber dieser Stil ist nicht der verkehrteste.Was jetzt aber nicht gleich bedeutet,das diese Band klingt wie angesprochene H.E.A.T!Aber so hat man als Hörer auch eine gewisse Richtung im Kopf 😉
Und grundsätzlich kann man schon sagen,das die Songs schon sehr nach VORNE gehen.Da kommt keine Langeweile auf.UND…das Songmaterial ist schön abwechslungsreich gestaltet bzw. arrangiert worden.SUPER!Und gerade diese Abwechslung ist für mich der „Rote Faden“ dieses Albums.Die Eingängigkeit ist ebenfalls ohne Ende vorhanden,so das man dann schon mal dabei „erwischt“,das man die ein oder andere Melodie im Kopf behält.
Erwähnen möchte ich noch an dieser Stelle die Live-Präsenz im Vorprogramm bei Deep Purple, Uriah Heep und Queen…Das kann man ruhig mal erwähnen,denn es zeigt,das die Herrschaften schon was draufhaben.Denn genannte Bands nehmen schließlich nicht irgendwelche Bands mit dazu ins Vorprogramm!
Bei aller angesprochenen Abwechslung des Songmaterials möchte ich natürlich nicht die Mitglieder der Band vergessen.Da ist ein Sänger,bei dem ich manchmal dachte:“Au,Au…nicht die Stimme überreißen!“Allerdings…im letzten Moment hat er seine Stimmbänder wieder unter Kontrolle!Der Kerl hat was drauf-ein GEILER Sänger!Und dann die Drums…Da „arbeitet“ jemand RICHTIG gut!Die Gitarren…nicht zuviel…aber auch nicht zu wenig vorhanden.Die Mischung der Gitarrenarbeit ist ebenfalls schön ausgewogen und klingen gut und gekonnt!Bassist Jimi Välikangas macht einen soliden Job.
Im Großen und Ganzen ein Album,an dem ich eine Menge Spass habe.Und ihr hoffendlich auch 🙂
8 von 10 Punkte
Joel Hoekstra’s 13 – From The Fade
Veröffendlichung: 27.02.2026
Joel Hoekstra (Whitesnake, Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Revolution Saints) is pleased to announce the release of the fourth album of his solo project Joel Hoekstra’s 13, titled “From The Fade” and out on February 27, 2026, via Frontiers Music Srl.
Pre-Order “From The Fade” HERE
Joel commented: “The songs were built from the guitar riffs up. Most of the riffs were written during the time I was filling in with Accept, so there is a heavier edge to this album overall. That being said, the album still would be more accurately described as melodic hard rock, not straight-up metal”.
“As always with the Joel Hoekstra’s 13 albums, I wrote the style of music that inspired me to pick up the guitar and tried to focus on SONGS for you to enjoy, not overly self-indulgent guitar solos”, he continued. “HUGE thanks to Vinny Appice, Tony Franklin, Derek Sherinian, Girish Pradhan and Jeff Scott Soto for bringing the songs to life! I hope you all enjoy ‘From The Fade’ as much as I enjoyed making it!”
Joel Hoekstra’s 13 returns with its fourth studio album, “From the Fade” – a dynamic collection of 10 brand-new tracks that combine soaring melodies, thunderous riffs, and the high-level musicianship fans have come to expect.
Once again, guitarist and composer Joel Hoekstra (Whitesnake, Cher, Trans-Siberian Orchestra) is joined by an elite cast of rock veterans: powerhouse drummer Vinny Appice (Black Sabbath, Dio), legendary bassist Tony Franklin (The Firm, Blue Murder), virtuoso keyboardist Derek Sherinian (Dream Theater, Sons of Apollo), and rising vocal sensation Girish Pradhan (Girish and The Chronicles, The Nail).
“From The Fade” delivers a blend of classic hard rock and modern melodic metal, characterized by tight arrangements, technical precision, and emotionally charged performances. Each track reflects Hoekstra’s signature songwriting – rooted in tradition but pushing the genre forward with a fresh and contemporary sound.
This is more than just a studio project; it’s a statement of intent from one of rock’s most respected guitarists and his band of world-class collaborators.
New York guitarist Joel Hoekstra currently plays for Whitesnake and Trans Siberian Orchestra. Joel is also well-known for his work with: Cher, Night Ranger, the Broadway show Rock of Ages, his fill in work with Foreigner, Accept, his annual sets on the Monsters of Rock Cruise, recording projects like Revolution Saints, Iconic, viral collaboration videos with the likes of Dino Jelusick, Arnel Pineda, Mike Portnoy, Billy Sheehan and his acoustic shows with Brandon Gibbs.
Exhibiting a knack for music education, he has also been a frequent columnist for Guitar World Magazine, taught at Musician’s Institute, Rockstars of Tomorrow, Guitar Workshop Plus and often been a counselor at Rock N’ Roll Fantasy Camp.
Over the years, Joel has released three instrumental solo albums and three critically acclaimed albums with his side project Joel Hoekstra’s 13. Most recently, he was the guest guitarist on Dancing with the Stars (Hair Metal Episode) and played with Cher at her Rock N Roll Hall of Fame induction and the SNL 50 Homecoming Concert.
“From The Fade” Tracklist:
1. You Can Give
2. The Fall
3. Lifeline
4. Will You Remember Me
5. Misunderstood
6. Start to Fight
7. All I’d Do
8. Free To Be
9. The End Of Me
10. Quite The Ride
Line Up:
Joel Hoekstra – guitars
Girish Pradhan – lead vocals
Vinny Appice – drums
Tony Franklin – bass
Derek Sherinian – keyboards
Jeff Scott Soto – backing vocals
Follow JOEL HOEKSTRA’S 13:
Facebook
Instagram
Website
MEINUNG:
Bei den Ersten Klängen dieses Scheiblings dachte ich,wer denn diese Stimme da ist,die mich da „anschreit“…UND…WER ist Girish Pradhan (THE END MACHINE, GIRISH & THE CHRONICLES)?JETZT weiß ich es:Ein verdammt GEILER Sänger!Und als ich dann las,das Jeff Scott Soto die BACKING VOCALS eingesungen hat…Wahnsinn!Das kann doch einfach nur klingen.Vorab:Oh JA!
Und man muss hier auch garnicht viel zu diesem Album schreiben.Bei den Mitgliedernamen weiß der „Kenner“,was er bekommt.Nämlich gut arrangierte und bis zum Ende super durchproduziertes Songmaterial!Fertig!Aus die Maus!Und JA:DAS ist hier schon eine sogenannte „SUPERGROUP“…Aber letztendlich „auch“nur Menschen,die das abliefern,was sie am Besten können!
Musikalische Schwächen?FEHLANZEIGE!Über allem steht-na klar…wen wundert es-die Gitarrenarbeit von Joel Hoekstra (Ex-WHITESNAKE-, REVOLUTION SAINTS- und TRANS_SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA).Und dieser Mann ist über jeden Zweifel erhaben!Genauso wie alle anderen,die an diesem Album mit gearbeitet haben!
Zum Songmaterial ansich:Die Songs setzen sich in den Gehörgängen fest und kommen mit starken Refrains und eingängigen Melodien um die Ecke.Das IST eine Qualität…Junge,Junge!UND…die gesamte Produktion ist klar,fett und rund insich!
Aber nochmal zurück zu den hervorragenden Vocals von Girish Pradhan.Ich glaube,das Mister Soto extrem mit ihm gearbeitet hat.DENN:viele Parts klingen da irgendwie nach Jeff Scott Soto!Ich denke,dass das die weitere Karriere von Girish Pradhan prägen wird!
Und die folgende Punktzahl vergebe ich nur äußerst selten…
10 von 10 Punkte
Black Swan – Paralyzed
Veröffendlichung: 27.02.2026
The all-star hard rock collective Black Swan – featuring Robin McAuley (McAuley Schenker Group), Reb Beach (Winger, Whitesnake), Jeff Pilson (Foreigner, The End Machine, ex-Dokken), and Matt Starr (Ace Frehley, Mr. Big) – are thrilled to announce the release of a new studio album, “Paralyzed”, set for release on February 27, 2026, via Frontiers Music Srl.
Pre-Order “Paralyzed” HERE
McAuley expressed his enthusiasm for the new record, by saying: “Can’t wait for you guys to hear our new record. We feel we’ve taken our songwriting to another level on this one, with amazing guitar riffs that once again show the brilliance that is Reb Beach. Pounding Bass as you’d expect from Jeff, and Matt Starr leaving no doubt about where the thunder comes from. Soaring melodies with strong lyrics are what we do best, combine that with sheer heaviness and we have a record we think you the fans are going to love”.
“Black Swan is old school eighties rock that is all about good guitar riffs with badass vocals. No one is better than Robin at singing this kind of music. I think the combination of my riffs and his vocals are what makes the band stand out”, Reb Beach said.
“I think the fans are going to love our new record. It builds on the first two records taking the songwriting, playing and energy to another level. I’m so proud to be part of this great group of musicians and guys”, stated Matt Starr.
Jeff Pilson commented: “We’re all very excited for the release of Black Swan’s Paralyzed and can’t wait for all the fans to hear it. We wanted to come up with a real step forward in melodic heaviness, and I strongly believe we delivered. Enjoy!”
Black Swan are back with their explosive third album, “Paralyzed”. Following the critical acclaim of their previous releases, the supergroup once again delivers a powerful statement in modern hard rock.
With all songs written and composed by McAuley, Pilson, and Beach, and expertly produced by Pilson, “Paralyzed” showcases Black Swan at their peak performance – offering a dynamic mix of towering vocals, razor-sharp riffs, and hook-laden melodies. The band’s chemistry continues to shine, elevating their songwriting and musical delivery to new heights.
Tracked at Pilson’s Los Angeles studio, the album reflects the tight-knit synergy among its members. McAuley’s commanding vocals remain as ageless, while the instrumentalists deliver with precision and fire. Much like its predecessors, the new record is a testament to the individual and collective talents of these seasoned musicians.
“Paralyzed” is fresh, heavy, and melodically rich – a cohesive and compelling album that feels both classic and contemporary. Building upon the blueprint laid by their debut, “Shake The World”, the band expands their sonic universe.
The result is a record that not only meets but surpasses expectations, cementing Black Swan as a formidable force in the modern hard rock scene. Whether you’ve followed these legendary musicians since the heyday of ’80s rock or you’re just now discovering their magic, “Paralyzed” is essential listening – a masterclass in melodic hard rock delivered by artists who continue to defy time and expectations.
The genesis of Black Swan was sparked by a conversation between Jeff Pilson and Frontiers‘ President & Head of A&R, Serafino Perugino, who wanted a project that would not only showcase McAuley’s vocal prowess, but have a mighty musical backbone to stand skyscraper tall behind him. Thus, the initial seeds were planted and Pilson ran with it from there.
Black Swan released their debut album, “Shake The World”, on February 14, 2020. A killer slice of melodic hard rock and heavy metal from seasoned players who have gelled musically. Their sophomore album, “Generation Mind”, followed in 2022, a powerful hard rock statement that consolidates the unique sound of the quartet and highlights the talent of each of them.
“Paralyzed” Tracklist:
1. When The Cold Wind Blows
2. Death Of Me
3. Different Kind Of Woman
4. If I Was King
5. Shakedown
6. The Fire And The Flame
7. I’m Ready
8. Paralyzed
9. Carry On
10. Battered And Bruised
11. What The Future Holds
Line Up:
Robin McAuley – Lead Vocals
Reb Beach – Guitars
Jeff Pilson – Bass
Matt Starr – Drums
Follow BLACK SWAN:
Facebook
MEINUNG:
Was für Namen hier am Start sind : Robin McAuley (MSG), Reb Beach (WINGER, WHITESNAKE), Jeff Pilson (FOREIGNER, THE END MACHINE, Ex-DOKKEN) und Matt Starr (ACE FREHLEY, MR. BIG)Das muss doch knallen ohne Ende…
Vorab:Ja…DAS tut es.Das kann ich auch schon mal verraten!Und wenn man mal z.b. die Karriere eines Robin McAuley ansieht…Das Alter spielt in der Musik überhaupt KEINE Rolle.Der Mann ist 73 Jahre JUNG!Klasse!Aber zur Musik dieser fantastischen Band,die uns hier das 3. Album in dieser Besetzung präsentieren.Fetter Hard Rock…Top arrangierte Songs…ein tolles Songwriting!Und dann die Stimme von Robin McAuley.Mehr geht nicht!Das Teil rockt an jeder Stelle und die Herrschaften liefern das ab,was man erwartet.Der Fan erhält hier die „Vollbedienung“!Ob das nun schnelle Nummern,Midtempo oder Balladen sind…Hier gibt´s das volle Brett.Ich fühle mich bei den Songs an die 70er und 80er Jahre erinnert.Und all das im modernen Sound der Jetzt-Zeit!Und dann die Gitarrenarbeit…WOW!
Die Riffs,die Melodien,die Arrangements,der Sound,die Refrains…DAS hier ist für mich ein Album,das ich auch noch in 10 Jahren gern hören werde-ohne Frage!Es gibt KEINEN Song,der mich NICHT abgeholt hat.Oder anders gesagt:KEIN SONG dieses Albums war auch nur annähernd schlecht.Dieses Album macht Spaß!Und vorallen gute Laune!
Klar ist aber auch:Niemand kann das Rad NEU erfinden.Aber hier wird musikalisch all das in einen musikalischen Topf geworfen,was die Jungs in den vergangenen Jahren bei anderen Bands „mitgenommen“ haben.Und hier kommt nun das Ergebnis in Form dieser fantastischen Band mit diesen fantastischen Songs.
10 von 10 Punkte
Transatlantic Radio – Midnight Transmission
Veröffendlichung: 20.02.2026
Transatlantic Radio, the international AOR supergroup based in Los Angeles, are pleased to announce the release of their debut album “Midnight Transmission”, out now via Frontiers Music Srl.
The focus track “All For You”, along with an official visualizer, is also out now.
Victor Brodén commented: “All For You” was written by our keyboard guru Fred Kron and it shows his strong pop leanings with infectious melodies and mesmerizing instrumental synth sections that are reminiscent of the glory days of Toto. Lyrically, it is about a man realizing that no matter what he did, it was never enough for the wrong woman. This story is still baked into a giant arena-ready mega chorus!”
Watch the official visualizer for “All For You” HERE
Order “Midnight Transmission” HERE
Brodén stated: “The completion of this album is a love letter to the music that shaped my life, musically and otherwise. The guys in this band took what was a casual idea and turned it into something beyond my wildest dreams. Mattias Osbäck is truly one of the greatest rock voices of this generation with a rough edge that brings our big, sweeping melodies to life and gives them attitude”.
“RJ Ronquillo, on lead guitar, is a legend in his own right and a role model for guitarists around the world as well as one of the world’s most watched six-string heroes with his YouTube channel”, he continued. “His work on this album makes me grin ear to ear. Chris Reeve on drums is one of the most sought-after touring drummers in the world right now, and a bass player’s dream come true. Him agreeing to join this project is still mind boggling to me. Fred Kron on keyboards, my partner in production for this project, is nothing short of a wizard. There would be no Transatlantic Radio without his invaluable input, otherworldly mixes, and his ability to sprinkle magic dust on all of these songs. This is the band I could never have imagined being in growing up, and this is the record I always dreamed of making”.
An inspired celebration of classic AOR with a fresh, modern pulse, “Midnight Transmission” marks the official album debut of Transatlantic Radio, a truly international band founded by Victor Brodén, a Swedish-born bassist and producer now based in Los Angeles.
Conceived during the isolation of the 2020 lockdown, the project was born out of a desire to bring timeless melodic rock back into the spotlight – with a lineup as global as their sound.
Fronted by powerhouse Swedish vocalist Mattias Osbäck and featuring American guitarist R.J. Ronquillo (known for his work with Ricky Martin, Santana, Stevie Wonder, and Stone Sour), the band blends European sensibility with American fire.
The lush keyboards of Fred Kron – who had his work featured in Anchorman 2 and High School Musical 2, and longtime member of the Jimmy Kimmel Live! band – add cinematic depth and vintage flair. Behind the kit is Chris Reeve, drummer for Filter and Avril Lavigne, whose dynamic style gives the album its drive and precision. At the center of it all is Brodén himself, anchoring the songs with groove, vision, and a deep understanding of the genre’s melodic soul.
Following a string of well-received singles and video releases, Transatlantic Radio made their live debut at the Malmö Melodic Festival 2024, where their sound and presence confirmed that this is more than just a studio project – it’s a band with heart, muscle, and chemistry.
Musically, “Midnight Transmission” is a love letter to the 80’s giants of the genre – Foreigner, Toto, Danger Danger, Starship – but it’s no nostalgia act. Each track balances polish with punch, fusing massive choruses, slick arrangements, and emotionally charged performances with crisp, contemporary production.
Packed with arena-ready anthems, the album showcases a band fully aware of their influences, yet unafraid to carve their own path forward. “Midnight Transmission” is more than a debut – it’s a statement: melodic rock is alive, and Transatlantic Radio is here to carry the signal.
“Midnight Transmission” Tracklist:
1. That’s What You Get (For Falling In Love)
2. City Of Angels
3. Wide Awake
4. Fever Dream
5. The Good Times
6. First To Be The Last
7. All For You
8. Against All The Odds
9. Born To Rise
Line Up:
Mattias Osbäck – Lead and background vocals
RJ Ronquillo – Guitar
Victor Brodén – Bass
Fred Kron – Keyboards
Chris Reeve – Drums
Follow TRANSATLANTIC RADIO:
Facebook
Instagram
ROZARIO – Northern Crusaders
Veröffendlichung: 20.02.2026
After receiving ecstatic reviews from all over the world for their 2023 debut „To The Gods We Swear“, Norwegian heavy metal warriors ROZARIO return with a vengeance.
Their new album, „Northern Crusaders, is not just a follow-up — it’s a statement of intent.
This is a band on their own Northern Crusades“, carrying the flag for classic, melodic heavy metal into a new era.
The new album is an explosive collection of 12 powerful tracks that blend soaring, epic melodies with hard-hitting rockers — all packed with massive sing-along choruses, fierce conviction, and unstoppable energy.
Behind the wall of sound lies an impressively crafted production,
driven by massive drums, thunderous bass, blazing guitars and a powerful, commanding vocal performance. Every riff hits hard, every chorus soars high, and every note bleeds passion and conviction.
ROZARIO have added fresh firepower to the lineup with the incredible young guitarist Taran Lister, whose talent brings an extra edge and intensity to the band’s signature sound.
„Northern Crusaders“ was recorded at Holter Studio, once again with the amazing Trond Holter (Jorn, Wig Wam) at the helm — the band’s trusted producer and unofficial sixth member — ensuring a sound that’s as grand and powerful as the band’s vision itself.
Get ready — the crusade has begun.
Line-up: David Rosario (vocals), Stein Hjertholm (guitar), Taran Lister (guitar), Anders Halsan Engum (bass), Per Helge Bruvoll (drums)
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rozarioband
