Hard rock band A-Z has released a new single titled “I Am Numb,” the second track from their upcoming album ‘A2Z².’ The album is scheduled for release on June 6, 2025, via Metal Blade Records.
“I Am Numb” delivers a bold, intense sound that explores themes of emotional disconnection. The track’s heavy tone is lifted by a strong, catchy chorus and a message of hope. Musically, it features high-energy riffs similar to Rainbow’s “Kill the King,” mixed with long, post-rock-style notes. This blend gives the drums room to stand out creatively. The use of counter rhythms creates a dynamic, fast-paced experience for listeners.
Led by legendary drummer Mark Zonder (Fates Warning, Warlord) and vocalist Ray Alder (also from Fates Warning), A-Z continues to build on the foundation of their well-received self-titled debut from 2022. The writing process for the new album began when Zonder and guitarist Nick Van Dyk (Redemption) worked with Alder on the album’s first single, “Nothing Is Over.” That track set the tone for the band’s style—heavy music that is both smart and accessible.
The band’s lineup also includes bassist Philip Bynoe (Steve Vai, Ring of Fire, Warlord), Italian guitarist Simone Mularoni (who handled mixing and mastering), and keyboardist Jimmy Waldo (Alcatrazz, New England). Together, the group aims to deliver a modern hard rock sound that is full of energy and strong melodies.
‘A2Z²’ Tracklist:
Fire Away (4:37)
Running in Place (4:58)
Nothing Is Over (4:18)
A Wordless Prison (6:04)
Reaching Out (4:16)
The Remedy (5:06)
I Am Numb (4:03)
This Chaotic Symphony (5:10)
Learning to Fly (4:38)
Now I Walk Away (5:39)
Fans can also watch the video for the first single “Nothing Is Over” on the band’s official page.
A-Z was formed in early 2020 when Mark Zonder began writing music with a clear concept in mind. “I was thinking beer commercials, car commercials, and Cobra Kai,” Zonder said. “I wanted a band that was accessible and would appeal to a wide audience.” The name A-Z—short for Alder to Zonder—was chosen to reflect the band’s flexibility in style and sound. Zonder explained, “A name like Scary Serpent might make people expect a certain type of music. We didn’t want that. We wanted to stay open.”
All members of A-Z are experienced musicians. According to Zonder, this creates a special chemistry. “When you have the right team, you let them do their thing. Everyone brings something different, and it all fits together. That’s the power of this band.”
The group emphasizes that their focus is on the music, not individual performances. “It’s about the songs,” Zonder said. “Each of us has different influences, and that’s where the magic happens. We’re not kids anymore—we’re seasoned musicians, and we’re going all in with A2Z².”
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