Iconic Drummer Mark Zonder Covers It All with A-Z

Iconic Drummer Mark Zonder
Covers It All with A-Z

Photo Credit: Stephanie_Cabra
By Justin Smulison

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One of my favorite rock albums of 2022 was the self-titled debut of A-Z, featuring a group of
heavy hitters led by drummer Mark Zonder. Zonder is best known for his 15-plus years
drumming for prog-metal icons Fates Warning, and A-Z reunited him with former bandmate,
singer Ray Alder.

Their sophomore album, A2Z2 is available worldwide from Metal Blade Records and builds on
the hard rock groundwork laid by its predecessor, but elevates the playing field by being
heavier, punchier but more dynamic in spots. This could be partially attributed to the lineup
change – the band has upgraded to a sextet, now featuring one of the most sought-after rock
guitarists/producers Simone Mularoni (from DGM, Sunstorm, who also mixed and mastered
A2Z2) and new keyboardist Jimmy Waldo (Alcatrazz).

A-Z’s new lineup also reunites Alder with another of his prior collaborators, Nick van Dyk, the
creative force behind Redemption. And Zonder also plays in Warlord along with bassist Philip
Bynoe. So, in addition to the camaraderie in the studio, everyone has a prestigious resume.
To differentiate itself from some of their prog contemporaries, Zonder ensured that half of the
10 new tracks clock in at under five minutes, with remaining songs lasting between 5-6
minutes. Check out “I Am Numb,” for a sample of how the best of prog can be condensed into
more digestible tracks that demand replays.

I’m always hopeful that these new groups featuring veteran musicians – which in this case is
certainly more than a “project” – enjoy some longevity, especially since there is so much
uncertainty in scheduling and the logistics of touring in the U.S.
But, as you will hear, Zonder assures us that this group is a full-time unit that has tour plans on
the horizon, destined to fill venues with catchy choruses, dynamic drumming, anthemic riffs
and the occasional shredding section. Clearly, even after A2Z2 has reached its final moments,
“Nothing Is Over.”

A-Z
http://www.a-zband.com
https://www.facebook.com/AthruZBand

https://twitter.com/AthruZBand
https://www.instagram.com/athruzband
http://www.metalblade.com
http://www.facebook.com/metalbladerecords
http://www.instagram.com/metalbladerecords
http://www.twitter.com/MetalBlade
https://www.metalblade.com/museum/
https://metalblade.bandcamp.com
https://www.youtube.com/MetalBladeRecords
https://open.spotify.com/user/metalbladerecordsofficial