There is no bigger Michael Anthony fan than I. It’s true that he was the only one of the original band who didn’t look like a rockstar, but he could sing his balls off. Those high harmonies that he contributed are as important to the VH signature as Eddie’s guitar and Alex’s drums. They’re inextricably linked. That said, I saw Van Halen twice with Wolfgang Van Halen, Eddie’s son on bass. Those shows in 2012 and 2015 were, sorry to say, notable for how terrible David Lee Roth sounded. But Wolfie? He was fine. I don’t think a perfectionist like Eddie would have let him take the stage if he couldn’t handle it. He was fine. Also- he didn’t look like a rock star, but I digress. So now Wolf’s debut solo album has an official release date – the band’s official name, Mammoth WVH, is also the album’s title. The two songs I’ve heard reveal a solid voice that is how own. He sounds great. The album will be available worldwide on June 11th via EX1 Records/ Explorer1 Music Group. A pre-order for Mammoth WVH in various configurations – including exclusive color vinyl as well as limited autographed copies via the band’s online store – can be found here: https://found.ee/MammothWVH. Fans that pre-order the album digitally will receive instant downloads of the chart-topping single “Distance” and the Howard Stern premiered track “You’re To Blame.” Both tracks will be available via all global digital streaming partners as well. Writing all of the songs and performing all of the instrumentation and vocals for the debut album, Wolfgang Van Halen set out to establish his own musical identity. From the rocking opening guitar riff on album opener “Mr. Ed” to the driving bass and drums on album closer “Stone,” Mammoth WVH showcases the various musical influences that have inspired Wolfgang. Songs like “Resolve,” “The Big Picture” and “Think It Over” are all sonically different from each other but unique to what Mammoth WVH is. The current single “Distance” – the song written as a tribute to his father and guitar icon Eddie Van Halen – is another side of Mammoth WVH and is currently #3 at Active Rock Radio. The emotional video has been viewed 4 million times on YouTube and can be seen below. The song was not originally intended to be on the debut album, but due to the overwhelming response, it has been added as a bonus track. All of Wolfgang’s proceeds from “Distance” are being donated to Mr. Holland’s Opus. |
The band have made a couple of high profile appearances. I also enjoyed WVH’s interview with Howard Stern. What’s your take on the music so far? |
