Elegant Weapons are back. The hard rock and heavy metal outfit led by Richie Faulkner of Judas Priest has announced their sophomore album Evolution, due April 24, 2026, on Exciter Records, and released the lead single “Bridges Burn” across all streaming platforms.
The band — Faulkner on guitar, Ronnie Romero (Rainbow, MSG) on vocals, Dave Rimmer (Uriah Heep) on bass, and Christopher Williams (Accept) on drums — recorded Evolution across sessions in Nashville, Europe, and France. Co-producing alongside Faulkner was Andy Sneap, Judas Priest‘s touring guitarist and the producer behind the band’s Invincible Shield.
Faulkner spoke about what the road and the recording process brought to the album: “This record represents growth in every sense. When the four of us come together, we sound like Elegant Weapons. We’ve spent time on the road, we’ve developed a chemistry, and you can hear that evolution in the performances. I’m proud of what we’ve built, and I’m excited to begin this next chapter with Exciter Records.”
The album opens with “Evil Eyes” and includes the groove-driven “Generation Me,” the lead single “Bridges Burn,” and the instrumental “Rupture” — a track drawn in part from Faulkner‘s life-threatening medical emergency during a 2021 onstage performance. Digital and CD versions arrive April 24, with a special edition vinyl planned for later in the year.
The signing carries additional weight given Exciter Records’ recent acquisition, through its publishing affiliate Reach Music, of Judas Priest‘s early catalog — specifically Rocka Rolla and Sad Wings of Destiny. Founder and president Michael Closter addressed the move.
“Richie Faulkner is not only one of the most respected guitarists as a member of Judas Priest, but he is also a leader in forming and developing Elegant Weapons. Signing Elegant Weapons is a natural step for Exciter Records as we continue to honor metal’s heritage while investing in its future.”
Evolution is available for pre-save and pre-order now.
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