Hard rock ensemble A-Z is set to launch their second album ‘A2Z2‘ hitting shelves on June 6th, 2025 through Metal Blade Records. Fronted by the iconic drummer Mark Zonder (Fates Warning, Warlord) and featuring former Fates Warning collaborator Ray Alder on vocals, ‘A2Z2‘ expands on the foundation created by their highly regarded 2022 self-titled debut album.
The track “Nothing is Over”—the lead single from A2Z2—functions as a clear proclamation heralding the quintet’s 10-song follow-up project and musical ethos. It was the first song that Mark Zonder and guitarist Nick Van Dyk (Redemption) crafted when they began collaborating on A2Z2 with vocalist Ray Alder. While musical trends may continually evolve, the essence of classic rock ‘n’ roll is undeniably timeless, and A-Z remains devoted to producing heavy music that is both sophisticated and catchy.
Assisting in reaching these sonic aspirations are bassist Philip Bynoe (Steve Vai/Ring of Fire/Warlord), Italian guitarist Simone Mularoni (in charge of mixing/mastering A2Z2, DGM), and keyboardist James Waldo (Alcatrazz/New England). “Nothing is Over” is heavier and more profound than the exploration in their debut LP, showcasing increased progressive elements while still highlighting a pronounced chorus and lush vocals. Alder’s lyrics draw inspiration from H.P. Lovecraft’s short story The Outsider.
Check out the video for “Nothing Is Over”:
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The musical project A-Z was born when Zonder commenced working on new material in early 2020 with a distinct vision for the band he aimed to form: “I envisioned beer commercials, car ads, and Cobra Kai. I aspired to create a band that would resonate with the general public,” he states. The name—representing Alder thru Zonder—was a straightforward choice that would avoid confining the band’s sound. “I appreciated that it wouldn’t restrict perceptions of the band,” Zonder mentions. “If we had named ourselves Scary Serpent, it would imply a specific direction, and we wanted to prevent people from making assumptions about us.”
The band members are renowned for their prolific nature, creating an exceptional dynamic where, as Zonder articulates, “when you gather the right people, you allow them the freedom to express themselves. Everyone’s a seasoned artist, and all the diverse elements come together to shape what it is. That experience in live and studio settings enables A-Z to intuitively avoid stepping on each other’s toes musically.”
“Our focus is on the songs and the project itself, rather than individual contributions. It’s straightforward,” they unanimously affirm. “It’s about the music as a unified entity,” says Zonder, “I can assure you that each person has vastly different musical preferences, and that’s where the real magic emerges—from blending various influences and allowing everyone to contribute what they bring to A-Z. We’re not fresh-faced kids; we’ve reached a stage where if we’re going to make an impact, it needs to be significant. And that’s precisely what we’ve accomplished with A2Z2.”
A2Z2 Tracklist:
1. Fire Away 4:37
2. Running in Place 4:58
3. Nothing is Over 4:18
4. A Wordless Prison 6:04
5. Reaching Out 4:16
6. The Remedy 5:06
7. I Am Numb 4:03
8. This Chaotic Symphony 5:10
9. Learning to Fly 4:38
10. Now I Walk Away 5:39
Pre-order A2Z2 today at: https://www.metalblade.com/a-z
- Source: NEWHD MEDIA
