Richie Faulkner showcases stylish weapons in new performance
Elegant Weapons, a force in the realm of hard rock and heavy metal led by Richie Faulkner of Judas Priest fame, has unveiled their latest single titled “Bridges Burn,” setting the stage for the upcoming release of their second album, Evolution, slated for April 24th on Exciter Records. The album will see a digital and CD launch on April 24th, with a special edition vinyl release scheduled for later in the year. The first single, “Bridges Burn,” is currently available on all major streaming platforms and can be enjoyed by fans worldwide.
Elegant Weapons boasts a lineup of exceptional talent, with members including Ronnie Romero on vocals (known for work with Rainbow and MSG), Dave Rimmer on bass (from Uriah Heep), and Christopher Williams on drums (hailing from Accept). With Evolution, the band takes a significant step forward, blending sharp riffs, catchy hooks, and technical prowess to create a dynamic sound shaped by their extensive touring and collaborative efforts. Co-produced by Faulkner and Andy Sneap, the album was crafted across locations in Nashville, Europe, and France, showcasing the band’s global influences and musical depth.
Richie Faulkner expressed his excitement for the growth embodied in Evolution, stating, “When the four of us come together, we sound like Elegant Weapons. We’ve spent time on the road, we’ve developed a chemistry, and you can hear that evolution in the performances. I’m proud of what we’ve built, and I’m excited to begin this next chapter with Exciter Records.” This collaboration signifies Exciter Records’ strategic move into modern metal while honoring the label’s historical connection to the genre. Acquiring Judas Priest’s early albums and partnering with Richie Faulkner demonstrates the label’s commitment to both preserving metal’s legacy and investing in its future.
Evolution showcases a range of standout tracks, including the energetic opener “Evil Eyes,” the anthemic “Generation Me,” and the lead single “Bridges Burn,” among others. The album also features “Rupture,” a poignant instrumental piece inspired in part by Faulkner’s harrowing experience of a life-threatening onstage incident in 2021. Through Evolution, Elegant Weapons assert their distinctive identity as a band characterized not only by their impressive pedigree but also by their forward-thinking approach and creative momentum.
The track listing for Evolution includes a diverse selection of songs, such as “Holy Roller,” “Come Back to Me,” “The Devil Calls,” “Thrown to the Wolves,” “Shooting Shadows,” “Mercy of the Fallen,” and “Keeper of the Keys.” Fans eager to learn more about Elegant Weapons and their latest album can find additional information on Exciter Records’ official website.