The supergroup has always been a magical combination of talent, usually for a record or two. Bands such as Asia, The Firm, or Velvet Revolver leave us with killer singles. They present a wow factor when we hear some of our favorite musicians playing together.
Supergroups traditionally encompass a few things. Killer musicians grouping together to make next-level noise. Now, they’re making a comeback.
These days, classic rock artists in particular are finding both creativity and comfort playing with “their friends.” There are some really solid bands emerging because of this. Making music that should not go unnoticed.
Two supergroups that are on my radar are both on the ever-growing “Frontiers Music” record label. A label that also features Lynyrd Skynyrd, Sammy Hagar, Journey among others.
Black Swan and Generation Radio.
Black Swan is a group featuring MSG vocalist Robin McAuley and Winger guitarist Reb Beach. The lineup also includes Dokken and Foreigner bassist Jeff Pilson. Drummer Matt Starr rounds out the group. Starr has performed with Ace Frehley and Mr. Big.
Their third release, Paralyzed, came out a few weeks ago. If you are a fan of melodic hard rock with well-crafted songs and explosive playing, this one is for you. It’s a top-to-bottom return to hard rock. Songs like I’m Ready and When the Cold Wind Blows stand out as two of my favorite tracks on the album.
I had an in-depth chat with vocalist Robin McAuley on my Carr Stereo podcast about the freedom of choice as you enter a new phase of your musical career. Also, why he is so proud of this album.
Generation Radio will release their second album, Take Two, on April 17.
Generation Radio mixes some of the most incredible melodies, with a hook to jump over in every song. No surprise, as Jay DeMarcus of Rascal Flatts and Jason Scheff, longtime bassist for Chicago, combine their talents on a 12-song sophomore album. Scheff joined Chicago in 1985 at age 23. The project also reimagines some of their favorite melodic covers for live performance.
This supergroup also consists of Tom Yankton and Chris Rodriguez on guitar. Also the “pocket king,” legendary Steve Ferrone (Tom Petty, Clapton, Duran Duran, Average White Band, just to name a few), on drums.
There is an ease of art on Take Two. The harmonies, musicianship, and songwriting are so damn amazing. This talented band is also taking to the road, a ticket I hope I get the chance to buy.
I caught up with Jay and Jason from Generation Radio, who explained why the band is so important to them. The supergroup serves as a completely different creative vessel. They also discussed how Rascal Flatts based their craft on being fans of melodic hard rock. Plus, Jason tells a great story about teaming up onstage with Alex Lifeson for his RUSH moment.
There is a reason we have an affinity for a supergroup. The name alone says it all.
Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.
