THE GRANDMASTER – Black Sun

Back for the attack after the success of their debut album Skywards in 2021, The Grandmaster has come out swinging with the new album featuring the amazing voice of Danish front man Peer Johansson (Fate, Pentakill). Founded by the excellent German guitarist Jens Ludwig (Edguy), The Grandmaster also features Alessandro Del Vecchio on bass and keyboards, with Brett Jones also on the keyboards, and Mirko De Maio on the drums.

Power Metal Extreme

The Grandmaster – Black Sun has stunning production work from Alessandro Del Vecchio, with some very impressive riffing from Jens Ludwig that keeps you headbanging. The addition of Peer Johansson has definitely kicked things up a notch or two. Jens Ludwig on getting Peer on board for the follow-up: “I’ve actually been a fan of Peer’s for decades and own all the Fate albums he was involved in. The excitement was back for this second record and it was great to see the songs take shape from their original demo form and also see how Peer’s voice has developed over the years.”

For his part, Johansson describes ‘Black Sun’ as “a fantastic collaboration from inception to completion. When I first heard Jens’ riffs, I was completely blown away. His guitar playing is absolutely mind-blowing and has left me with a sore neck from all the headbanging! He plays like a musical deity and I feel honored to be part of this extraordinary project. I can’t wait to share the stage with him during live shows and give it everything we’ve got.”

Final Notes

Black Sun has everything Power Metal fans are looking for. Peer Johansson’s voice is reminiscent at times of vocal legend Dan McCafferty (Nazareth), while also having a more modern growl to compliment his epic screams. Jens Ludwig’s guitar work feels fresh, and drives the music from start to finish. The drumming is solid and pounding, while the production is top notch. As with every good album, Black Sun gets better with every spin. Fans of Helloween, U.D.O. and everything Power Metal will want to dig in and make this a part of their collection.

Lineup

• Peer Johansson – vocals
• Jens Ludwig – guitars
• Alessandro Del Vecchio – bass, keyboards
• Brett Jones – keyboards
• Mirko De Maio – drums

Black Sun – Tracklist

1. Black Sun
2. Watching the End
3. While the Sun Goes Down
4. Learn to Forgive
5. Heaven’s Calling
6. Something More
7. Fly, Icarus Fly
8. I’m Alive
9. What We Can Bear
10. Soul Sacrifice
11. Into the Dark