Elegant Weapons to release new album “Evolution” – first single now available

Elegant Weapons have returned. The hard rock and heavy metal group led by Judas Priest’s Richie Faulkner has published the lead single “Bridges Burn” on all streaming services and announced that their sophomore album “Evolution” will be released on Exciter Records on April 24, 2026, as per MetalInjection.

The group, which includes Christopher Williams (Accept) on drums, Dave Rimmer (Uriah Heep) on bass, Ronnie Romero (Rainbow, MSG) on vocals, and Faulkner on guitar, recorded “Evolution” during sessions in Nashville, Europe, and France. Andy Sneap, the touring guitarist for Judas Priest and the producer of the band’s “Invincible Shield”, co-produced with Faulkner.

This record represents growth in every sense. 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. – Richie Faulkner

“Evil Eyes” opens the album, which also has the lead single “Bridges Burn,” the groove-driven “Generation Me,” and the instrumental “Rupture“—a song partially inspired by Faulkner’s potentially fatal medical emergency during an onstage performance in 2021. A limited-edition vinyl is scheduled for later in the year, while digital and CD editions will be available on April 24. Given that Exciter Records recently acquired Judas Priest‘s early library, including “Rocka Rolla” and “Sad Wings of Destiny”, through its publishing affiliate Reach Music, the agreement is all the more significant. Michael Closter, the company’s president and founder, discussed the change.

Richie Faulkner is not only one of the most respected guitarists as a member of Judas Priest, but he is also a leader in forming and developing Elegant Weapons. Signing Elegant Weapons is a natural step for Exciter Records as we continue to honor metal’s heritage while investing in its future.

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Tracklist:

1. Evil Eyes
2. Generation Me
3. Bridges Burn
4. Holy Roller
5. Come Back to Me
6. The Devil Calls
7. Thrown to the Wolves
8. Shooting Shadows
9. Rupture
10. Mercy of the Fallen
11. Keeper of the Keys