Distinguished guitarist Adrian Vandenberg is bringing a powerhouse night of classic hard rock to U.S. audiences this August with “My Whitesnake Years” tour.
The tour features an all-star lineup including acclaimed guitarist Vinnie Moore and veteran bassist/vocalist Marco Mendoza, celebrating decades of iconic rock music spanning Whitesnake, Thin Lizzy, UFO, Ted Nugent, and beyond. Tickets and a VIP meet and greet package are available for purchase via this link: vandenbergband.com/tour
Here is what is received via the VIP package (limited to 25 per show):
· Meet & Greet and photo with Adrian Vandenberg, Marco Mendoza, Vinnie Moore using your own camera. · Autograph session with Adrian, Marco and Vinnie · VIP Merch surprise – GIVEN TO YOU AT THE SHOW · Commemorative VIP Laminate – GIVEN TO YOU AT THE SHOW
Vandenberg first rose to prominence in the early 1980s with his band Vandenberg, earning international success with hits including “Burning Heart” and “Friday Night.” His success led to a longtime collaboration with David Coverdale and Whitesnake, where he contributed the unforgettable guitar solo to the multi-platinum smash “Here I Go Again” and co-wrote material for the Slip of the Tongue and Restless Heart releases. He also appeared on Whitesnake’s Starkers in Tokyo, Live at Donington, and the band’s celebrated Greatest Hits reunion tour.
Beyond Whitesnake, Vandenberg has continued an extensive recording career with multiple solo releases and albums with Vandenberg’s MoonKings. In 2024, he co-headlined with Geoff Tate on the Operation: Mindcrime tour, followed by performances aboard the 2025 Monsters of Rock Cruise and a successful East Coast headline run.
Joining the bill is Vinnie Moore, internationally recognized for his 21-year tenure with UFO and his acclaimed solo catalog. Moore has also performed and recorded with artists including Alice Cooper and Vicious Rumors.
And performing with Moore will be Marco Mendoza, whose impressive resumé includes 26 years with Thin Lizzy, seven years with Whitesnake, seven years with Ted Nugent, and work with The Dead Daisies and the current SatchVai Band.
“Really (REALLY!) excited to cross the ocean again with my top notch band to honor my 12 years in the golden era of Whitesnake!,” exclaims Adrian. “Be prepared to scream along with all the big ones like ‘Still Of The Night’, ‘Here I Go Again’, ‘Judgement Day’, ‘Fool For Your Lovin’ etc etc. No doubt about it, this is an absolute BIG ROCK tour with Marco and Vinnie celebrating their years in Journey, Thin Lizzy and UFO. You don’t wanna miss this! We are ready, are you?!?”
“I have to say that I’m very excited and looking forward to the US run of dates in August, and sharing the stage with Adrian Vandenberg and Vinnie Moore,” added Marco. “And having the opportunity to introduce my own music and also to pay tribute to some of my past participations and collaborations, like Thin Lizzy and Ted Nugent, along with Vinnie on some UFO tracks and some of his original stuff. It’s just going to be a great run…don’t miss it, see you there!”
“Thrilled to be doing this tour with Marco and Adrian,” Vinnie said. “Going to be a blast to play a couple UFO songs, as well as some of my tunes and some Thin Lizzy. This is going to be a lot of fun and I’m looking forward to it. See you all soon.”
Fans can expect a night packed with classic songs, guitar fireworks, and deep cuts from some of hard rock’s most celebrated catalogs. The show will feature two complete 75-minute-plus performances, or a single extended 90-minute presentation with intermission.
Moore and Mendoza will also perform together in a collaborative set backed by a shared band, revisiting fan favorites from across their legendary careers.
For fans of classic hard rock and virtuoso musicianship, this tour promises an unforgettable evening celebrating some of the genre’s most enduring songs and performers.
Adrian Vandenberg 2026 Tour Dates
· Aug. 3 – New Bedford, MA – The Vault Music Hall and Pub · Aug. 4 – New Haven, CT – Toad’s Place · Aug. 5 – Newton, NJ – Newton Theatre · Aug. 6 – Sellersville, PA – Sellersville Theater · Aug. 7 – New York, NY – Sony Hall · Aug. 8 – Derry, NH – Tupelo Music Hall · Aug. 9 – Syracuse, NY – Sharkey’s · Aug. 10 – Pittsburgh, PA – Jergel’s · Aug. 12 – Detroit, MI – Token Lounge · Aug. 13 – Wabash, IN – Honeywell Center · Aug. 14 – St. Charles, IL – Arcada Theatre · Aug. 15 – Dixon, IL – Dixon Theater · Aug. 16 – Columbus, OH – King of Clubs · Aug. 18 – Shipshewana, IN – Blue Gate Theater · Aug. 20 – Nashville, TN – Basement East · Aug. 21 – Harrison, OH – Blue Note · Aug. 22 – Gatlinburg, TN – Monsters on the Mountain Festival* · Aug. 23 – Atlanta, GA – The Loft at Center Stage
*Vandenberg only. Marco Mendoza and Vinnie Moore will not appear at the Monsters on the Mountain Festival date.
Artwork by Sem Christoffel
Adrian’s photo by David Dauphin / Dwidou Photography
As previously announced, iconic guitar legends Joe Satriani and Steve Vai have joined forces to create the SATCHVAI Band. Today, we are excited to introduce the full band line-up: powerhouse drummer Kenny Aronoff, renowned bassist Marco Mendoza, and virtuoso guitarist Pete Thorn complete the stellar quintet that is SATCHVAI Band.
“Finding the right musicians for the SatchVai Band was at first a daunting task, then, an exciting one; there are so many great musicians to choose from!” says Satriani. “It’s no secret that the chemistry between players will always be the thing that makes them a magical live band, and we’ve found that chemistry with Kenny, Marco, and Pete. The upcoming shows will focus on not only our respective solo works, but also the music from our new album. We are so excited to get this show on the road and celebrate it with all of our fans!”
As Vai explains, “When considering forming one band around myself and Joe we talked about the qualities needed for each position, bass, drums, rhythm guitar. It was a surprising challenge to find the right fits.”
Drummer Kenny Aronoff is no stranger to Satriani fans. He has toured alongside Joe as part of the Chickenfoot band, joined on Satriani solo tours since 2019, played on The Elephant of Mars album, and most recently stepped in for Jason Bonham on the Best of All Worlds tour with Satriani, Sammy Hagar and Michael Anthony.
“What can I say about the legendary Kenny Aronoff that I haven’t said before?” asks Satriani. No other drummer has the sound, feel, time, groove, and swagger like Kenny. He’s an exceptional human being too. He’s supernatural!”
“Kenny is the quintessential rock drummer,” said Vai. “His time is bullet-proof, his tone is fat and clean, and his ability to respond in an improvisational setting is instant. Besides that, he’s one of the easiest and most fun guys to tour with—an essential quality on the road.”
When it came to adding a rhythm guitarist and bass player, the duo was challenged to find the right combo. Vai had been aware of Pete Thorn for quite a while and knew he was perfect for their band. As Vai explains, “Pete’s playing is rock solid with a huge tone in his fingers. His rhythm playing is tight and in tune in a way that’s rare, and his intonation is stunning. He’s the perfect musician for this band, and we couldn’t be happier to have him.”
Satriani agrees, “Pete is an all-around monster guitarist. He has that rare ability to shine on rhythm and lead guitar, switching back and forth with finesse. He’s got the technical abilities and the rock ‘n’ roll attitude Steve, and I were hoping to find for our band.”
Then came the choice for bassist, again Vai says of the addition of Marco Mendoza, “Marco is a bass phenomenon. With his 6-string fretless, his bass sings with perfect intonation and swooning vibrato. His wide, rich tone and masterful control of dynamics will bring a new dimension to our songs.”
With Satriani echoing, “Marco’s musicianship is boundless. He’s got a special magic to his bass playing; it’s both foundational and out front at the same time. Together with his exceptional singing voice and stage presence, he will be a driving force in our band.”
“I’ve been performing and recording music with Joe Satriani since 2012 (Chickenfoot, Sammy Hagar, G3 and Joe’s band) and have performed live with Steve Vai, but the next level is RIGHT NOW because I am joining the SATCHVAI band for a two-month tour this summer in Europe. I am pumped, excited and ready to kick ass!” – Kenny Aronoff
“It sounds like something out of a mad fantastical dream that the 14-year-old guitar-obsessed me would have had….’Joe Satriani and Steve Vai called, they want you to join their new band!’ And then I’d wake up and go to 9th grade math class! But it’s real! It’s a mind-blowing opportunity, and yet I also feel like I’ve arrived exactly where I’ve always wanted to be. I’m beyond excited to be of musical service to these legends, and to rock out!” – Pete Thorn
“I have to say that getting invited to be part of a great project like this is monumental for me personally! I know it’s going to be something very special, and I can’t wait to get it started.” – Marco Mendoza
The SATCHVAI Band tour will kick off on June 13, 2025, and feature stops in major cities like London, Paris, Copenhagen, and Amsterdam, and will also include performances at major European summer festivals including Hellfest, Umbria Jazz Festival and Guitares en Scene Fest. The tour is set to conclude in late July, with more dates to be announced soon.
Celebrating nearly five decades of musical friendship, Joe Satriani and Steve Vai made their first musical collaboration debut in March 2024. “The Sea of Emotion, Pt. 1” showcases the unmatched synergy between these two legendary guitarists as they seamlessly trade solo sections throughout the nearly six-minute opus. Their second collaboration is set to be released just before the European tour, adding even more anticipation for this epic run.
Stay tuned for more details on this unprecedented collaboration and the release of their highly anticipated new music.
Photo by Jon Luini
Surfing with the Hydra Tour 2025 Itinerary (new dates in bold): June 13 York, UK – Barbican June 14 London, UK – Eventim Apollo June 17 Glasgow, SC – Glasgow Royal Concert Hall June 18 Wolverhampton, UK – Civic Hall June 19 Manchester, UK – O2 Apollo June 21 Clisson, FR – Hellfest June 22 Paris, FR – Palais Des Congres June 23 Amsterdam, NL – Amsterdam Afas June 24 Antwerp, BE – Lotto Arena June 26 Copenhagen, DK – Amager Bio June 27 Malmo, SE – Slagthuset Saluhallen June 29 Helsinki, FI – House of Culture June 30 Tampere, FI – Tampere Hall July 2 Uppsala, SE – Parksnackan July 3 Oslo, NO – Sentrum Scene July 5 Warsaw, PL – Torwar July 8 Munich, DE – Tollwood Festival July 10 Dusseldorf, DE – Mitsubishi Electric Hall July 11 Frankfurt, DE – Jahrhunderthalle July 12 Zurich, CH – Volkshaus Zürich July 13 Milan, IT – Comfort Festival @ Villa Casati Stampa July 15 Pordenone, IT – Parco San Valentino July 16 Perugia, IT – Umbria Jazz July 17 Bologna, IT – Sequoie Music Park July 18 Saint-Julien, FR – Guitares en Scene Festival July 20 Prague, CZ – Forum Karlin July 22 Sofia, BG – National Palace of Culture July 23 Bucharest, RO – Arenele Romane July 25 Istanbul, TR – KüçükÇiftlik Park (not yet on sale) July 28 Athens, GR – Lycabettus Theater
For over three decades, the guitar virtuoso has travelled the world, playing to sold-out crowds as both a headliner and as founder of the all-star “G3” guitar extravaganza. Satriani’s studio and live recordings have sold more than 10 million copies worldwide to date and of his many solo albums, two have gone platinum and four others went gold, with 15 Grammy nominations between them. He launched his annual “G4 Experience” in 2014 bringing aspiring guitarists together for four days of workshops, mentor sessions and live performances, providing an exclusive learning platform led by him and his accomplished peers. In 2021, he introduced the “Crystal Planet” comic series, a five-part opus interweaving the realms of music and art. The tour documentary “Beyond the Supernova,” directed by ZZ Satriani and currently available for streaming, offers an intimate behind-the-scenes glimpse that intricately chronicles his life, illuminating the profound dedication that fuels his guitar mastery. His side project, Chickenfoot, featuring former Van Halen frontman Sammy Hagar, former bassist Michael Anthony and Red Hot Chili Peppers’ drummer Chad Smith saw their debut album certified gold and their second studio album debuted at #9. Satriani released his 19th studio album, The Elephants of Mars, in April 2022. It was a busy 2024 for Joe Satriani as he embarked on the highly anticipated G3 Reunion tour alongside the original powerhouse line-up: Satriani, Eric Johnson and Steve Vai. This was followed by the Satch/Vai duo tour, where the longtime friends not only shared the stage but also unveiled a new musical collaboration together. Rounding out the year, Satriani joined forces with Sammy Hagar, Michael Anthony, and Jason Bonham for the Best of All Worlds tour, which sold out arenas nationwide and was met with widespread fan and critical acclaim.
Steve Vai is a virtuoso guitarist, composer, and producer, considered by many as one of the greatest guitarists of all time. In over 45 years in the industry, Vai has sold over 15 million records, received three Grammy Awards, and recorded with music legends like Frank Zappa, David Lee Roth, Whitesnake and many more. Vai has also toured extensively and recorded live projects with G3 (collaborating with different touring line-ups including Joe Satriani, John Petrucci, Eric Johnson, Yngwie Malmsteen, and Steve Lukather) and Generation Axe, a supergroup Vai formed with Zakk Wylde, Yngwie Malmsteen, Nuno Bettencourt and Tosin Abasi. Vai is the author of Vaideology: Basic Music Theory for Guitar Players (Hal Leonard), his inaugural music theory book designed to help both beginners and veteran guitar players. In the recent past, he has travelled the globe supporting his most recent studio album Inviolate, staging performances in 51 counties across the globe. Over the course of his 43 years touring, he continues to visit locations for the first time. His final excursion in 2023 saw Vai perform in Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam), Kaohsiung (Taiwan), Zallak (Bahrain), Bangalore and Kolkata (India), alongside six new markets in China (Foshan, Xi’an, Chengdu, Chongqing, Nanjing, and Hefei).
About Kenny Aronoff Kenny Aronoff is a world-renowned drummer celebrated for his precision, versatility, and powerhouse performances. With a career spanning over four decades, Aronoff has played on more than 60 Grammy-nominated recordings and worked with an extraordinary range of artists, including John Mellencamp, John Fogerty, Elton John, Bob Dylan, and Chickenfoot. His contributions extend across genres, from rock and pop to jazz and country, showcasing his adaptability and mastery of rhythm. A sought-after session and touring musician, Aronoff is known for his high-energy style and impeccable timing, which have established him as a prominent figure in the music industry. In addition to his extensive studio and live work, he is a published author, motivational speaker, and educator, sharing his experiences and expertise with audiences worldwide.
About Pete Thorn Pete Thorn is a celebrated guitarist whose dynamic and versatile playing has earned him spots alongside legends like Don Henley, Chris Cornell, and Melissa Etheridge. Originally from Edmonton, Thorn moved to Los Angeles to study at the prestigious Musicians Institute, launching a prolific career that includes stints with Sony-signed band Surreal McCoys and rock acts like Forty Foot Echo and Five for Fighting. Beyond his work as a sideman, Thorn has toured globally with stars such as Jewel and Mylene Farmer and collaborated with luminaries like Courtney Love and Linda Perry. His solo album Guitar Nerd showcases his mastery across a range of styles, from bluesy shredding to atmospheric fingerpicking. A true “guitar nerd,” Thorn also shares his expertise with a massive audience on his YouTube channel, where his gear demos and tutorials have amassed millions of views, solidifying his status as a modern guitar virtuoso.
About Marco Mendoza Marco Mendoza is a highly versatile bassist, vocalist, and songwriter with an extensive career that spans a variety of genres. He has recorded and toured with some of the biggest names in rock, including Blue Murder, Whitesnake, Thin Lizzy, Ted Nugent, and The Dead Daisies. A dynamic live performer, Marco is equally at home on large stages as in intimate settings, showcasing his ability to play everything from jazz and Latin groove to hard rock. As a solo artist, he has released several acclaimed albums, including Viva La Rock, Live for Tomorrow, and New Direction. In addition to his musical achievements, Marco is a dedicated ambassador for music, connecting with fans through clinics and interviews. With The Dead Daisies, he has contributed to multiple studio and live albums, performing across the globe from Cuba to Australia.
Known throughout the music world as a talented solid bass player for bands like Thin Lizzy, Whitesnake, Journey, Ted Nugent and The Dead Daisies to name a few, MARCO MENDOZA has recorded a body of amazing music in his own right. But when his fourth effort in his own name, “New Direction”, hits the streets in September this year, it will be a very special beast of its own.
Working with world-class producer Soren Andersen, owner of Medley Studios in Copenhagen, dubbed by some as ‘the new Mutt Lange’, the partnership that has already produced the career-defining “Viva La Rock” 2017 album has created in “New Direction” another future masterpiece together.
As it often happens, demanding times produce special opportunities, and writing and recording amidst a pandemic was a trigger for Mendoza’s creativity.
With Andersen himself handling guitars and keyboards as a background for Mendoza’s top-class bass lines and superb vocals, Tommy Gentry (Gun) stepped in for guest guitar solos in selected tracks, while drumming duties were split between Morten Hellborn (Electric Guitars) and Allan Tschicaja (Pretty Maids). A super-team surrounding Marco. But then again, the bassist/vocalist is used to working with the best of the best, and wouldn’t have it any other way in what is clearly the tightest set of songs he has ever recorded in his own name.
“New Direction” is out today on digital, CD and LP (black and turquoise vinyls, each limited to 500 units) via Mighty Music. Orders are available here.
Recording lineup: Marco Mendoza: lead vocals, bass Soren Andersen: guitars, keyboards Morten Hellborn: drums (tracks 1, 2, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9) Allan Tschicaja: drums (tracks 3, 4, 10) Tommy Gentry: guitar (tracks 3, 5, 6, 7, 9) Ivan Pedersen: backing vocals (track 4) Jorgen Thorup: backing vocals (track 4) Peter Busborg: backing vocals (track 4)
“New Direction” tracklist:
1. Take It To The Limit 2. I Just Can’t Get Over You 3. Light It Up 4. Walk Next To You 5. Shoot For The Stars 6. All That I’m Living For 7. Free Ride 8. Can’t Explain It 9. Scream And Shout 10. New Direction
Known throughout the music world as a talented solid bass player for bands like Thin Lizzy, Whitesnake, Journey, Ted Nugent and The Dead Daisies to name a few, MARCO MENDOZA has recorded a body of amazing music in his own right. But when his fourth effort in his own name, “New Direction”, hits the streets in September this year, it will be a very special beast of its own.
Working with world-class producer Soren Andersen, owner of Medley Studios in Copenhagen, dubbed by some as ‘the new Mutt Lange’, the partnership that has already produced the career-defining “Viva La Rock” 2017 album has created in “New Direction” another future masterpiece together.
As it often happens, demanding times produce special opportunities, and writing and recording amidst a pandemic was a trigger for Mendoza’s creativity.
With Andersen himself handling guitars and keyboards as a background for Mendoza’s top-class bass lines and superb vocals, Tommy Gentry (Gun) stepped in for guest guitar solos in selected tracks, while drumming duties were split between Morten Hellborn (Electric Guitars) and Allan Tschicaja (Pretty Maids). A super-team surrounding Marco. But then again, the bassist/vocalist is used to working with the best of the best, and wouldn’t have it any other way in what is clearly the tightest set of songs he has ever recorded in his own name.
“New Direction” will be released on digital, CD and LP (black and turquoise vinyls, each limited to 500 units) via Mighty Music on September 16th, 2022. Pre-orders available here.
Lineup: Marco Mendoza: lead vocals, bass Soren Andersen: guitars, keyboards Morten Hellborn: drums (tracks 1, 2, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9) Allan Tschicaja: drums (tracks 3, 4, 10) Tommy Gentry: guitar (tracks 3, 5, 6, 7, 9) Ivan Pedersen: backing vocals (track 4) Jorgen Thorup: backing vocals (track 4) Peter Busborg: backing vocals (track 4)
Tracklist: 1. Take It To The Limit 2. I Just Can’t Get Over You 3. Light It Up 4. Walk Next To You 5. Shoot For The Stars 6. All That I’m Living For 7. Free Ride 8. Can’t Explain It 9. Scream And Shout 10. New Direction
After “Take It to the Limit”, legendary bassist MARCO MENDOZA releases a new single from his upcoming album. This is time for “Shoot For The Stars”.
Known throughout the music world as a talented solid bass player for bands like Thin Lizzy, Whitesnake, Journey, Ted Nugent, and The Dead Daisies to name a few, Marco has recorded a body of amazing music in his own right.
Working with world-class producer Soren Andersen, owner of Medley Studios in Copenhagen, dubbed by some as “the new Mutt Lange”, the partnership that has already produced the career-defining “Viva La Rock” album in 2017, has created another future masterpiece together.
As with “Take It To The Limit”, “Shoot For The Stars”, was recorded before the world went crazy with a pandemic, then a war, which really has seen the world be taken to the limit.
“Shoot For The Stars” will be released as a digital single via Mighty Music on June 3rd, 2022. A new Marco Mendoza album is expected to be released in 2022.
MARCO MENDOZA will be releasing his fourth solo album and second on Mighty Music/Target later in 2022. First up is the single “Take It To The Limit”.
Known throughout the music world as a talented solid bass player for bands like Thin Lizzy, Whitesnake, Journey, Ted Nugent, and The Dead Daisies to name a few, Marco has recorded a body of amazing music in his own right.
Working with world-class producer Soren Andersen, owner of Medley Studios in Copenhagen, dubbed by some as “the new Mutt Lange”, the partnership that has already produced the career-defining “Viva La Rock” album in 2017, has created another future masterpiece together.
The first offering, “Take It To The Limit”, was recorded before the world went crazy with a pandemic, then a war, which really has seen the world be taken to the limit. A hard-hitting track with as many hooks as a fishing boat, this opening single opens the doors wide to what can be expected from the new album later this year.
“After the World going through some dramatic changes and having to wait for so long, I am extremely excited to share the first single”, Mendoza offers. “This was the first song Soren Anderson and I wrote back in November of 2019. It is the first of an album of songs that I am very proud of! Thank you for the Love and continued support, it’s greatly appreciated. VIVA LA ROCK!”
“Take It to the Limit” will be released as a digital single via Mighty Music on April 15th, 2022. A new Marco Mendoza album is expected to be released in 2022.
UK TOUR SAT APRIL 2ND THE UK BASS SHOW LIVERPOOL ENGLAND SUN APRIL 3RD TRILLIANS NEWCASTLE ENGLAND* TUE APRIL 5TH BANNERMANS EDINBURGH SCOTLAND* WED APRIL 6TH THE STATION CANNOCK ENGLAND* THU APRIL 7TH THE PATRIOT CRUMLIN WALES* FRI APRIL 8TH YORKSHIREMAN SHEFFIELD ENGLAND* SAT APRIL 9TH THE WATERLOO BLACKPOOL ENGLAND* SUN APRIL 10TH THE BLACK HEART LONDON ENGLAND* (*Bad Actress support)
EUROPE APRIL: 14 RETRO GARDEN TIMISOARA RO 15 CLUB FLEX ARAD RO 16 CULT MUSIC CLUB CRAIOVA RO 17 T B A 22 BOUNTY ROCK CAFE OLOMOUC CZ 23 TBA KYJOV CZ 24 KLUB VAGON PRAGUE CZ 27 BLUE NOTE NOVE MESTO NAD VAHOM SL 28 M K Z UNICOV CZ 29 UNADRAZI CESKA KAMENICE CZ 30 OPEN AIR FESTIVAL TEPLICE CZ
MAY : 1 TBA 6 KAROSSERIFABRIKEN ELSINORE DK 7 HIGH VOLTAGE COPENHAGEN DK 8 T B A 11 QUANTIC BUCHAREST RO 12 NO LIMIT BUSAU RO 13 T B A 14 ROCK & BIKE SIBIU RO 15 T B A 19 DAME DE CANTON PARIS FR 20 T B A 21 ROCK’ IN REBRECH FESTIVALORLEANS FR 26 MASTER CLASS – WHITESTONEORANGE FR 27 PRIVATE SHOW ORANGE FR 28 SONOGRAF LE THOR AUVIGNON FR
JUNE : 15 ROCK N EAT LYON FR 24 HARLEY DAVIDSON FESTIVAL DE
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