Dirkschneider & The Old Gang Babylon Review
Dirkschneider & The Old Gang
Babylon
Reigning Phoenix Music
2025
What began as a humble charity project for musicians affected by the coronavirus has evolved into a full-fledged Metal machine. Dirkschneider & The Old Gang is exactly what the name implies, Udo Dirkschneider surrounded by some of his dearest friends, bandmates, and family. The lineup reads like a German Metal Hall of fame: Peter Baltes (bass, vocals; Accept), Stefan Kaufmann (guitar; Accept, U.D.O.), and Mathias Dieth (guitar; Sinner, U.D.O.), joined by Udo’s son Sven Dirkschneider behind the kit, a role he’s owned for over a decade. Rounding out this powerhouse is Manuela Bibert, whose voice has graced several U.D.O. releases in recent years. Strip away the new faces and, aside from Mathias, Sven, and Manuela, this is essentially Accept, and it sounds every bit like it.
The band’s debut album, “Babylon”, dropped recently after a steady build-up of singles that kept fans eager and hungry. For longtime followers like me, this record feels like a gift, because let’s be honest, there’s no such thing as too much U.D.O. unless we’re counting that “Balls to the Wall” re-recording. (Yeah, I’m still trying to forgive that one.)
Thankfully, “Babylon” brings us right back into the metallic heartland we’ve come to love. Udo himself remains untouchable, his voice still sounds like torn steel and shattered glass, the true voice of German Metal. The album leans slightly more melodic than the usual U.D.O. fare, with Manuela’s harmonies and keyboard flourishes adding a new texture, but it never softens the blow. Udo’s presence is massive - commanding, unmistakable, and gloriously abrasive.
There are even a few moments where Manuela steps up to take lead vocals, and surprisingly, it works. Her parts don’t dilute the heaviness, they complement it. This isn’t just another side project; it’s a genuine collaboration among friends, and that chemistry bleeds through every riff and chorus. The record feels alive, spirited, and joyful - qualities often lost in a genre that prides itself on aggression. Across twelve tracks, there isn’t a single one worth skipping.
Accept may have moved on, and U.D.O. continues marching forward on his own path, but when these familiar faces join forces again, the spirit of the original Accept is undeniably resurrected. Call it nostalgia, call it magic - either way, “Babylon” radiates the kind of camaraderie and joy that can only come from seasoned musicians doing what they love. Its Metal forged in friendship, tempered by history, and fired by pure passion.
Standout tracks: “Metal Sons,” “Hellbreaker,” “Deadman’s Hand,” and “Beyond The End Of Time.”