Headless

European hard rock group HEADLESS – composed of members who have performed alongside the likes of Yngwie Malmsteen, Geoff Tate (ex-Queensryche) and Elegy – have signed with M-Theory Audio. Their new record “Square One,” which blends classic rock catchiness with heavier progressive metal influences, HEADLESS was founded in 1996 by cousins Walter (guitars) and Enrico Cianciusi (drums). The original incarnation of the band released the 1996 EP “Future to Past” and the 1998 full-length “Inside You” before disbanding in 2000. Walter and Dario Parente (who along with Walter is part of Geoff Tate’s band, and recently guested on Tate’s Sweet Oblivion project) revived the name in 2011 with an entirely new lineup, centering the new music around catchy rock choruses, progressive metal technicality and Edman’s powerful vocals. That formula – aided by drummer Scott Rockenfield (Queensryche) – formed the basis of their 2013 comeback record “Growing Apart.” Enrico rejoined HEADLESS in 2014, and subsequently contributed drumming duties on 2016’s “Melt The Ice Away,” which also featured a guest appearance from guitarist Jim Matheos (Fates Warning). In addition to the two full-length records that HEADLESS has recorded since their 2011 revival, the band has been a consistent live presence on European stages, performing alongside Fates Warning, Queensryche, Tygers of Pan Tang, Angra, Skid Row, Bonfire, D.A.D., Candlemass, The Dead Daisies and more. The group took their veteran presence back into the studio in 2020 for the recording of their upcoming full-length, “Square One.” Their existing mastery of rock-solid AOR anthems is bolstered on the new record by new bassist Martin Helmantel, whose playing helped provide the backbone for a decade’s worth of stellar progressive metal from Dutch rockers Elegy from 1992 through 2002. “I’ve long followed Goran Edman’s career, finding him to be one of the more underrated voices of hard rock who consistently delivers,” states label head Marco Barbieri. “When Walter shopped the new Headless material, I immediately knew I wanted us to be involved. Not just for the opportunity to finally work with Goran, but also due to the strength of the new material with its ability to tread the lines between classic hard rock and into more adventurous realms. Plus, the addition of Martin from Elegy, made this one a no brainer.” Göran Edman – vocals Walter Cianciusi – guitars Dario Parente – guitars Martin Helmantel – bass guitar Enrico Cianciusi – drums