Metal Blade Records has announced the signing of a new band named A-Z.
A-Z (pronounced “A through Z”) equals Ray Alder (FATES WARNING; vocals) and Mark Zonder (ex-FATES WARNING, WARLORD; drums), and also means “anything is possible” — and with this lineup of musicians, that is no exaggeration. This exciting new band reunites Alder with Zonder, and they’re joined by Philip Bynoe (WARLORD, STEVE VAI, NUNO BETTENCOURT) on bass, Joop Wolters (STEVE WALSH, SIMON PHILLIPS) on guitar, and Vivien Lalu (STEVE WALSH, JORDAN RUDESS) on keys.
Zonder comments: “When we were looking for a deal, Metal Blade was number one on the list. First worked with Brian Slagel about 40 years with ‘Metal Massacre II’ and WARLORD. No question that they do a great job and we are very excited and proud to be back at MB.”

In the meantime, fans can check out a video signing message from A-Z and Metal Blade CEO/founder Brian Slagel below.
A-Z is:
- Ray Alder / Vocals
- Mark Zonder / Drums
- Philip Bynoe / Bass
- Joop Wolters / Guitar
- Vivien Lalu / Keys
In the meantime, can check out a video signing message from A-Z and Metal Blade CEO/founder Brian Slagel below and from Mark Zonder below.