Frontiers Music has announced the signing of TAK MATSUMOTO GROUP (TMG), marking the triumphant return of the internationally acclaimed project formed by guitar virtuoso, Tak Matsumoto.
After a 20-year hiatus, TMG returns with original members Tak Matsumoto (guitarist and member of the Japanese rock superstars B’z), JACK BLADES (Night Ranger) on vocals & bass, and ERIC MARTIN (Mr. Big) on lead vocals, reigniting the powerhouse trio’s signature rock sound. Now the drummer is excellent MATT SORUM (Guns n’ Roses, The Cult, Velvet Revolver)
Originally launched in 2004, TMG wowed fans worldwide with their unique fusion of hard-hitting rock and oriental influences. Now after two decades, they’re set to do it all again. The new album, ”TMG II”, was produced by Matsumoto, offered to Frontiers, and a deal was done for a physical release next December 6.
It’s a pleasure listening to Eric Martin lead vocals on all songs, Blades does backing / harmonies, while Japanese band BabyMetal and female singer Lisa appear as guests.
”TMG II” has been years in the making due to all members busy schedule. Tak’s wish was to make the second album with Martin and Blades fully involved, as happened with the group’s debut.
Opener “Crash Down Love” with its catchy melody is a perfect showcase for the current TMG sound, bluesy hard rock with a timeless sound. ‘Guitar Hero’ lyrics were written by Blades with Matsumoto in mind, despite its title it isn’t a shredding-only track but a big rocker with all members on all cylinders.
‘Eternal Flames’ features a guest appearance by BabyMetal, a metal-dance unit that is expanding its activities worldwide, sharing their voices with Eric.
”TMG II” is another strong rocking platter from this very good group, joining the talents of the skilled Asian guitarist and Western stars Martin / Blades / Sorum. Classic hard rock with a bluesy foundation, a modern sound, and a ‘twist’ here and there.
Let’s hope they don’t take 2 decades more for TMG III…
Highly Recommended
Tracklist:
1. Crash Down Love (04:28)
2. Eternal Flames (feat. BABYMETAL) (03:04)
3. The Story Of Love (feat. LiSA) (05:00)
4. Color In The World (03:23)
5. Jupiter And Mars (03:35)
6. My Life (03:41)
7. Endless Sky (03:52)
8. Dark Island Woman (03:38)
9. Faithful Now (05:16)
10. The Great Divide (03:21)
11. Guitar Hero (04:37)
TMG (Tak Matsumoto Group) members including:
frontman/bassist Jack Blades (Night Ranger)
vocalist Eric Martin (Mr. Big)
drummer Matt Sorum (Guns N' Roses / Velvet Revolver)
TMG (Tak Matsumoto Group) – TMG II (2024), MP3+FLAC
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