The all-star hard rock collective Black Swan — featuring Robin McAuley of McAuley Schenker Group, Reb Beach from Winger and Whitesnake, Jeff Pilson of Foreigner, The End Machine and formerly Dokken, alongside Matt Starr of Ace Frehley and Mr. Big — has announced the release of a new studio album, Paralyzed, arriving February 13 through Frontiers Music Srl. The official music video for the album’s title track has also been unveiled.
Robin McAuley explained the meaning behind the song, saying: “Nowadays it’s difficult not to become submerged in the news and negative comments presented to us through all media sources. That feeling of being numb and unsafe with an overpowering feeling of anxiety. Desperate for change, get back to the good old days when things seemed simpler. Craving to hear something positive and yet helpless and repeatedly overwhelmed by so much negative space, leaving us feeling paralyzed.”
Jeff Pilson expanded on that idea, adding: “”Paralyzed” is another Robin McAuley story that speaks to that anxiety most of us are feeling about the state of the world right now. It’s scary, overwhelming and seemingly never-ending! We need to find the positive in all the negativity and we need it soon! Plus — it rocks!!!!!”
Matt Starr emphasized the band’s signature sound when discussing the track. “”Paralyzed” kicks ass! This is one of the things that Black Swan does best… Hard-driving, high-energy rock ‘n’ roll with great melodies, tons of hooks, thought-provoking timely lyrics and exceptional musicianship. I’m really proud of this track.”
Reb Beach shared his inspiration for the song, stating: “With “Paralyzed” I was going for a Black Sabbath “Neon Nights” vibe when I started writing it, and then it blossomed into the title track when Jeff and Robin got their hands on it. It’s a very cool song guitar-wise, and I hope we get to play it live one day because it really rocks!”
Written collaboratively by McAuley, Pilson and Beach, and produced by Pilson, Paralyzed presents Black Swan at a creative peak. The album blends powerful vocals, sharp-edged guitar work and memorable melodies, highlighting the group’s chemistry and growth as a unit.
Recorded at Pilson’s Los Angeles studio, the album reflects the close working relationship among the musicians. McAuley’s vocals remain commanding, while the instrumental performances are delivered with focus and intensity. Like the band’s previous releases, the record showcases both individual skill and collective strength.
Musically, Paralyzed balances weight and melody, offering a cohesive listening experience that feels grounded in classic hard rock while sounding current. Building on the foundation established by the debut Shake The World, the band broadens its sonic approach without losing its core identity.
The album ultimately reinforces Black Swan’s position in today’s hard rock landscape. Longtime fans of ’80s-era rock and newer listeners alike are given a record that reflects experience, discipline and passion.
McAuley shared his excitement for the album’s release, saying: “Can’t wait for you guys to hear our new record. We feel we’ve taken our songwriting to another level on this one, with amazing guitar riffs that once again show the brilliance that is Reb Beach, pounding bass, as you’d expect, from Jeff, and Matt Starr leaving no doubt about where the thunder comes from. Soaring melodies with strong lyrics are what we do best, combine that with sheer heaviness and we have a record we think you the fans are going to love”.
Beach added his perspective on the band’s sound: “Black Swan is old-school ’80s rock that is all about good guitar riffs with badass vocals. No one is better than Robin at singing this kind of music. I think the combination of my riffs and his vocals are what makes the band stand out.”
Starr echoed that confidence, stating: “I think the fans are going to love our new record. It builds on the first two records taking the songwriting, playing and energy to another level. I’m so proud to be part of this great group of musicians and guys.”
Pilson concluded with his own thoughts: “We’re all very excited for the release of Black Swan‘s Paralyzed and can’t wait for all the fans to hear it. We wanted to come up with a real step forward in melodic heaviness, and I strongly believe we delivered. Enjoy!”
The formation of Black Swan began with a discussion between Jeff Pilson and Frontiers Music president and head of A&R Serafino Perugino, who envisioned a project that would highlight McAuley’s vocal strengths while being supported by a powerful musical foundation. From there, Pilson took the concept forward and assembled the lineup.
Black Swan released its debut album, Shake The World, on February 14, 2020. The follow-up, Generation Mind, arrived in 2022 and further defined the band’s sound, reinforcing the chemistry and individual strengths that continue to shape their latest release.
