German guitarist Axel Rudi Pell is one of heavy metal's masterminds, thanks to his spiraling playing techniques, which helped Pell remain a mainstay in the hard rock genre for decades. His first band, Steeler, kicked off a career in Europe during the early part of the '80s, issuing three albums (1984's Steeler, 1985's Rulin' the Earth, 1986's Strike Back) prior to 1987's Undercover Animal, which signaled the beginning of Pell's solo career. This professional jaunt allowed Pell to fully expose his riveting playing power and collaborations between he and other musicians.

No doubt about it: The world would be a much poorer place without Axel Rudi Pell. On his 22nd (!) studio album ‘Risen Symbol’, the Bochum-based guitarist and songwriter continues to fly the melodic hard rock flag without watering down his style with pseudo-modern stylistic variations or expendable studio gimmicks. At the same time, he is constantly looking for new influences, exciting inspirations and catchy hooks. One of the best things about ARP’s anthems is that they are perfectly tailored to the charismatic voice of frontman Johnny Gioeli. The American vocalist is one of the most eminent rock singers worldwide and, together with Pell, former Rainbow drummer Bobby Rondinelli, and the two longstanding ARP members Ferdy Doernberg (keyboards) and Volker Krawczak (bass), has been an integral part of a perfectly oiled machine for more than ten years, wowing fans and media alike.

Axel Rudi Pell's album "Risen Symbol" is a powerful release by the renowned guitarist, showcasing his exceptional talent and signature sound. Featuring a collection of epic tracks that blend melodic guitar solos with hard-hitting riffs, "Risen Symbol" takes listeners on a journey through the realms of rock music. Axel Rudi Pell's masterful musicianship shines through in each song, delivering an unforgettable listening experience.

Ballads play a very special role in the history of rock music. Firstly: They document the emotional side of the genre and show that behind (almost) every rocker`s hard chest beats a soft heart. Secondly: Those quieter songs are being played by radio stations without rock-affinity – and are loved by listeners for their emotional depth. And thirdly: In an increasingly hectic world, ballads offer brief moments of pause, of reflection on the essential things in life. So it`s no wonder that the ballad compilations of the Axel Rudi Pell Band are an absolute success. Over 250,000 copies have been sold of ‘The Ballads I’ (1993) to ‘The Ballads V’ (2017) alone.

German hard rock guitar wizard Axel Rudi Pell has finished recording and mixing his latest album "Diamonds Unlocked II", set for release on July 30th 2021 on Steamhammer/SPV.The successor to last year's top 5 album "Sign Of The Times" is the follow-up to his 2007 cover recording "Diamonds Unlocked". Pell's carefully considered decision not to release brand-new material for the first time in almost 15 years is mainly based on the ongoing pandemic and current restrictions on live concerts. The 61-year-old explains that "it makes no sense at all to put out new songs that we will not be able to perform live." But fans desperately waiting for a new studio album will have to acknowledge that this kind of solution is a pretty good one indeed!

Boredom in Lockdown? Not with AXEL RUDI PELL! After last year's Top 5 album "Sign Of The Times," the German hard rock guitarist will release "Diamonds Unlocked II," the sequel to 2007's covers album "Diamonds Unlocked," on July 30, 2021. The decision not to release new material for the first time in years is more than understandable given the ongoing pandemic and performance restrictions. After all, says the 61-year-old, "it doesn't make sense to put out brand new songs that you're not allowed to play live." So, should the album be "only" a kind of transition to the next one, but it has become a damn good one! "Diamonds Unlocked II" has become an offer that is hard to refuse as a hard rock fan.