September 26, 2026, Joe Hasselvander released “Armor Plating”, the title track and lead single from his highly anticipated new album, also titled “Armor Plating”, released through American label Savant Guarde Records.
Listen / Buy / Pre-order the album: JoeHasselvander.lnk.to/armorplating
“Armor Plating” is Hasselvander’s second album for Savant Guarde Records, following 2025’s “Fire on the Mountain”. The two releases can be seen as twin works in a continuing musical journey from the artist affectionately known by his fans as “The Godfather of Dooom.”
The announcement of a second Joe Hasselvander release in less than a year has been met with enthusiasm by fans around the world, celebrating the return of an artist whose career and unmistakable sound have made him a unique figure within Heavy Rock and Doom.
In spring 2017, a health scare forced Joe to step away from drumming and touring completely. Although he returned to the studio with The Hounds of Hasselvander in 2021, that project represented a band effort rather than the distinctive one-man recording approach for which Hasselvander is particularly known.
Following the recording of 2025’s “Fire on the Mountain”, Joe’s dedication to health and spiritual growth allowed him to return to both drumming and songwriting.
The release of “Armor Plating” also coincides with the 25th anniversary of Pentagram’s legendary “Sub-Basement”, released in 2001 — an album for which Joe Hasselvander is widely recognized as a major creative force.
Joe performed all drums, guitar and bass on “Sub-Basement” and co-produced the record with his former musical counterpart Bobby Liebling, continuing a musical history that dates back to 1978.
With “Sub-Basement”, Hasselvander developed a distinctive recording approach that remains highly regarded by fans of the genre. His ability to create a complete, powerful sonic landscape through his multi-instrumental and production work became a defining element of his musical identity.
“Armor Plating” continues the evolution of Hasselvander’s one-man sonic studio craft, now strengthened by decades of musical experience.
That journey has included live performances and recording sessions with some of Joe’s lifelong musical heroes, including legendary psychedelic/acid rock pioneers Blue Cheer, as well as his years with Raven, one of the iconic names of the NWOBHM movement.
Joe remained with Raven until 2017 and continued his work with his solo project The Hounds of Hasselvander until 2021.
During his years with The Hounds, Joe also welcomed a number of special guests and musicians into his studio, including T.C. Tolliver of the Plasmatics, as well as his Savoy Brown bandmate Jimmy Kunes, with whom he recorded several duets.
Now, “Armor Plating” and 2025’s “Fire on the Mountain” stand together as two powerful peaks in Hasselvander’s continuing musical journey — showcasing the talent, heaviness and unmistakable character that have defined his work throughout the years.
Savant Guarde Records: www.savantguarderecords.com – savantguarderecordsusa.bandcamp.com
