Bochum-based guitarist and composer Axel Rudi Pell is gearing up to release his next studio album, Ghost Town, arriving March 20, 2026 through SPV/Steamhammer.
The new record continues the sound that has defined Pell’s long career: a blend of heavy, driving guitar riffs paired with memorable melodies, all delivered by his longtime band — American vocalist Johnny Gioeli, former Rainbow drummer Bobby Rondinelli, bassist Volker Krawczak, and keyboardist Ferdy Doernberg. Even after more than three and a half decades, Pell still finds ways to add fresh moments or unexpected collaborations, and Ghost Town follows that tradition with eleven new tracks.
One of the most notable songs is “Breaking Seals”, which features a standout duet between frontman Gioeli and German metal icon Udo Dirkschneider. It marks the first time Pell has paired these voices together, further highlighting the respect he commands within the rock and metal community.
Pell handled production duties on Ghost Town, while Tommy Geiger — known for work with Blind Guardian and Helloween — recorded and mixed the album at Blind Guardian Studios in Grefrath, helping shape its overall sound.
The record’s first single, the title track “Ghost Town”, offers a strong introduction to the album. It’s an energetic and tightly written piece that recalls the spirit of classic early Rainbow material, giving listeners a clear sense of what they can expect from Pell’s latest chapter.
Ghost Town will be released in the following configurations and it can now be pre-ordered here.
- CD DigiPak incl. poster
- CD Jewel case
- 2LP Gatefold, 140 g, black vinyl, padded inner sleeves, colored insert
- Exclusive CD/2LP Bundles with a shirt and exclusive vinyl only at the Steamhammer shop
- 2LP Gatefold exclusive coloured edition only at the Napalm shop
- 2LP Gatefold exclusive coloured edition only at the EMP shop
- Download + Streaming
