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A-Z
A2Z2
Metal Blade Records
https://www.a-zband.com

2022 saw the self-titled debut of the Mark Zonder-led project A-Z. Although Zonder doesn't like the term 'project', A-Z was almost a one-off for the current WARLORD drummer. Even though there was much fanfare surrounding their Metal Blade Records debut, there were also some behind-the-scenes issues that could have derailed a follow-up.

With his line-up now firmly in place, Zonder returns with his 'band' A-Z, and their sophomore release A2Z2. Joining Mark once again are bassist Phil Bynoe (WARLORD) and vocalist Ray Alder (FATES WARNING). Rounding out the line-up are guitarist Nick Van Dyk (REDEMPTION), guitarist Simone Mularoni (DGM), and keyboardist Jimmy Waldo (ALCATRAZZ).

For more on A-Z, check out our recent interview with Mark Zonder on KNAC.COM HERE.

A driving riff and unique drum patterns kick off the opening track "Fire Away". I've said this in the past, but it's tough to ignore some of the intricacies of what Mark Zonder is doing on the drums. In addition, there is so much melody and catchiness in the chorus, it will be tough to shake it all out of your head. Simone Mularoni cuts in with some fiery soloing during the break.

A-Z transitions into their second track without a pause, much like they would if playing it live. Ray Alder's vocals are just as intense and melodic on "Running In Place" as they were on the prior track. When he cuts loose, he shows why he's one of the best vocalists in Hard Rock. Multi-part harmonies dominate the chorus. If you're a shred fan, Mularoni once again doesn't let you down.

Zonder wows with his drumming patterns on "Nothing Is Over". Guitarist Nick Van Dyk goes riff-for-lick with Simone before Alder comes hot and heavy. This is another lyrically infectious track with guitar work that will drop the snobbiest of jaws.

I'm sure Jimmy Waldo has been adding some soft keyboard tones up until "A Wordless Prison", but this track is where he has been most noticeable. Waldo sets up this dark ballad with piano like tones, as Alder laments about heartbreak and pain. The tempo, groove, and intensity shifts in the same manner the emotions do.

Initially I thought "Reaching Out" started off a little 'meh', but once that bridge and highly melodic chorus kicked in, A-Z captured my attention. The band really shines during the instrumental break. You can hear the years of experience behind their playing. "The Remedy" hits you with an opening guitar attack that shifts in tempo quickly, to a drum and vocal assault.

Jimmy Waldo adds some great progressive elements through his keyboard work on "This Chaotic Symphony". Alder is earnest in his performance as he observes the crumbling world around us. Mularoni expresses similar sentiments through his guitar licks. Bassist Phil Bynoe locks in sync on the bottom end with drummer Mark Zonder on "Learning to Fly". I'd be remiss not to mention he's been locked in with Zonder the entire ride.

A2Z2 is thematically dark, but full of melody and astounding musicianship. Catchy hooks and memorable choruses prevail throughout. Every song on the album could be a featured single, but at the same time, they come together collectively to make a cohesive Hard Rock album. Each musician delivers a performance above and beyond anything I've heard in their other current musical projects.

4.9 Out Of 5.0