GARY JOHN BARDEN SAYS TURN IT UP
His latest release comes with one very clear instruction
Published: 18 Sep 26 • Author: Rock Metal Machine • Reading Time: 4 mins
Gary John Barden releases new album ‘Empowered Emotions’, featuring focus track ‘Maasai Enkai’. Written by Jeff Summers, the song brings together swinging drums, Tommy Denander’s guitar, Barry Sparks’ bass and Michael Voss’ harmonies, showcasing Barden’s celebration of great songs and seasoned musicians.
RELEASE DETAILS
Artist:
Gary John Barden
Album:
Empowered Emotions
Release Date:
Out Now
Record Label:
Frontiers Music SRL Pre Order:
Link Formats:
CD • Vinyl • Digital
PR Label:
Legendary singer Gary John Barden is excited to release his new studio album, “Empowered Emotions”, out now via Frontiers Music Srl.
The focus track, “Maasai Enkai”, along with an official visualizer, is also available now.
Barden stated: “‘Maasai Enkai’ was written by my partner in chaos Jeff Summers, lead guitarist and trusted songwriter from Statetrooper. Michael Voss and I immediately knew we wanted this song on the album. I love the snap and swing of the drums, Tommy Denander’s interpretation on lead guitar, Barry Sparks’ brilliant bass work and Vossy’s beautiful harmonies at the end of the song. This album is all about great songs played by musicians who really know their craft. Turn it up to Marshall 12 and enjoy!”
🔥 FIREWORKS INSIGHT
Gary John Barden occupies an unusual place in hard rock history. He was never simply the voice attached to somebody else’s guitar, yet his work with Michael Schenker helped establish a vocal identity that could sit comfortably alongside virtuoso musicianship without being overwhelmed by it. That balance remains relevant on Empowered Emotions. “Maasai Enkai” brings together musicians from different corners of the melodic rock world, but the real point is Barden’s continued focus on the song rather than the showcase. For fans who followed his career beyond MSG, this album also raises an intriguing question: how much of the Barden character can still evolve without losing what made it distinctive?
Gary John Barden returns with “Empowered Emotions”, a powerful new studio album that reaffirms his unmistakable voice and enduring relevance in melodic hard rock.
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▶ WATCH THE NEW SINGLE
Want to hear the first taste of Empowered Emotions for yourself? Watch the official video below.
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Barden stated: “Empowered Emotions” is a very special record for both Michael and me. This album marks 25 years of writing, creating, and sharing music together, and every song carries its own story and meaning. It has truly been a labour of love from start to finish. We're incredibly grateful to Frontiers Music for their belief in us and for giving us the opportunity to bring this project to life. We can't wait for everyone to hear what we've created and celebrate this milestone with all the rock fans who have supported us over the years.”
Widely recognized as the legendary singer on the classic early-’80s albums by the Michael Schenker Group (besides working with Praying Mantis, Skatetrooper and Silver, among others), Barden delivers a confident and inspired performance that reconnects with the genre’s golden era while sounding focused and contemporary.
Michael Voss and I immediately knew we wanted this song on the album.
Gary John Barden
The album was written largely by Barden in close collaboration with German producer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Michael Voss, with whom he previously worked in the band Silver - a creative partnership that clearly benefits from shared history and musical chemistry. Together, they crafted a record rooted in classic melodic hard rock, driven by strong riffs, memorable choruses, and a timeless European approach to songwriting.
The lead single “Hit The Ground Running” offers an urgent and biting approach, powered by a driving riff inspired by the George Lynch school of hard rock. Additional highlights include “Maasai Enkai” and the title track “Empowered Emotions”, (with Don Airey on keyboards) which adds a sense of grandeur and atmosphere, as well as the epic “Dark Water”, a dramatic and emotive centerpiece that expands the album’s sonic scope and features a guitar solo by Michael Schenker.
The album is enriched by an impressive roster of more guest musicians, including Brian Tichy, Barry Sparks, Tommy Denander, and others, all contributing to a record that feels both classic and vital.
“Empowered Emotions” is a cohesive, melodic, and powerful statement - an album that celebrates classic hard rock values without sounding nostalgic. With strong songwriting at its core and a commanding vocal performance throughout, it stands as one of Gary John Barden’s most focused and compelling releases to date.
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Empowered Emotions” Tracklist:
Barden's Overture
Maasai Enkai
Hit The Ground Running
Empowered Emotions
Burning Wind
Dark Water
Ride Horsemen Ride
This Phoenix's Gonna Burn Ya
Let The Children Play
The Ruling Class
Walk Away
We'll Meet Again
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Line Up:
Gary John Barden - Vocals
Gereon Homann - Drums
Michael Voss - Guitars, Bass, Keys & Backing Vocals
Guests:
Michael Schenker - Lead Guitars on “Dark Water”
Tommy Denander - Lead Guitars on “Maasai Enkai”
Brian Tichy - Drums on “Walk Away”
Don Airey - Keyboards on “Empowered Emotions”
Barry Sparks - Bass on “Maasai Enkai”
Alen Brentini - Lead Guitars on “Ride Horsemen Ride”
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Images courtesy of Eva Von Der Forst / Frontiers Music SRL
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