Hard rock band A-Z, featuring legendary drummer Mark Zonder and vocalist Ray Alder—both former members of Fates Warning—has shared a new drum playthrough video for their latest single “I Am Numb.” This follows the recent announcement of their upcoming sophomore album, A2Z², set for release on June 6 via Metal Blade Records. The video showcases Zonder’s dynamic drumming in vivid detail, bringing an additional layer of energy to the track’s already intense sonic landscape.
“I Am Numb” marks the second single from A2Z², following the debut track “Nothing Is Over.” The song delves into themes of emotional detachment, capturing the numbness many people feel in the modern world. While its title suggests despair, the song is built around a powerful and hopeful chorus. Musically, it channels the intensity of Rainbow’s “Kill the King,” blending full-throttle riffs with post-rock ambient textures that allow the drums to explore bold, creative rhythms. These layered counter-rhythms carry the listener through an emotional and sonic whirlwind.
The project was spearheaded by Zonder, who teamed up with guitarist Nick Van Dyk of Redemption and Ray Alder to begin crafting what would become the album’s first single. Their collaboration laid the foundation for an album that is heavy, sophisticated, and accessible. Joining them are bassist Philip Bynoe (Steve Vai, Ring of Fire, Warlord), Italian guitarist Simone Mularoni (who also handled mixing and mastering duties and plays with DGM), and keyboardist Jimmy Waldo (Alcatrazz, New England). Each band member brings extensive experience, creating a synergy that drives the music forward without ego or competition.
Zonder conceived A-Z in early 2020 with a clear vision: to create music that was broad in appeal—something fit for beer and car commercials or shows like Cobra Kai. The band’s name, A-Z, representing Alder through Zonder, reflects a desire to stay genre-fluid and not be constrained by a specific musical label. According to Zonder, avoiding a name like “Scary Serpent” allowed the band to avoid being misjudged or boxed in by preconceived notions.
The members’ long histories in the music industry lend a strong sense of cohesion to the band’s sound. Zonder emphasized the importance of letting each seasoned musician contribute freely. The group’s shared maturity and collaborative spirit ensure that no one overpowers the music, and that all elements contribute to the band’s unique identity. Their guiding philosophy is simple: it’s all about the songs. According to Zonder, the magic lies in their diverse musical tastes, which come together organically to form the band’s distinctive sound.
With A2Z², the band is determined to go big. Embracing their collective experience and creativity, A-Z has crafted a follow-up album that promises to expand on the strength of their 2022 self-titled debut. The new drum playthrough of “I Am Numb” offers fans a deeper look into the intricate rhythms that drive their music, further building anticipation for the full album release.
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