ZEBRA Roars Back with 'V' to Mark 50 Years of Metal Glory
After nearly two decades of silence, the iconic power trio ZEBRA is ready to unleash their latest opus, titled 'V', in celebration of their 50th anniversary. Set to drop on November 13, 2026, via Flatiron Recordings, this will be their first taste of new blood since the release of 'Zebra IV' in 2003. Featuring the indomitable Randy Jackson on guitar and vocals, Felix Hanemann on bass and keys, and Guy Gelso on drums, ZEBRA is poised to reclaim their throne in the heavy metal pantheon.
Recorded in the intimate confines of Jackson and Gelso's home studios, 'V' has been partially produced by the legendary Jack Douglas. Known for his work on ZEBRA's early classics, including their self-titled debut and 'No Tellin' Lies', Douglas’ return has ignited a creative fire within the band. In a candid interview with Jimmy Kay from The Metal Voice, Jackson shared how their new manager, Dave Rothstein, sparked this long-overdue reunion with Douglas, making the recording process feel like they never left the studio.
'V' is not just a collection of new songs; it’s a journey through ZEBRA's storied past. Jackson reveals that several tracks date back to the band's formative years. Among them is 'The Last Time', the first original song they ever played, which has finally been immortalized in studio form. Another standout, 'She's Waiting For You', promises to encapsulate the heavy metal essence that fans have been yearning for, with Jackson proclaiming it the heaviest track on the record.
Yet 'V' isn't just a nostalgia trip. Jackson has pushed the envelope by collaborating with various writers, including revisiting songs from his days with CHINA RAIN. He introduced a unique twist by adapting Edgar Allan Poe's poetry into music, with tracks like 'The Conqueror Worm' and 'Eulalie' exploring themes of love and existential reflection in ways that only ZEBRA can. This innovative blend of classic literature and metal showcases their growth while staying true to their roots.
Musically, Jackson hints that 'V' traverses familiar ground while also forging new paths. Drawing influences from their past works, particularly '3.V', the album promises catchy hooks and hearty choruses, all wrapped in a heavier sound that will resonate with long-time fans and newcomers alike. He believes that the essence of ZEBRA—rich musicianship and timeless songwriting—will continue to captivate metalheads across generations.
As the band gears up for the release of 'V', they stand ready to remind the world why ZEBRA has been a staple of the metal scene for half a century. With a potent mix of nostalgia, innovation, and unapologetic heavy metal, ZEBRA is not just celebrating their past; they are charging forward into the future, ready to reclaim their rightful place in the annals of rock history.