Autograph

Autograph left an everlasting imprint on rock 'n' roll. The platinum-selling Southern California hard rock juggernauts gave the world the ubiquitous hit "Turn Up the Radio", seminal albums such as Sign In Please [1984], That's The Stuff [1985], and Loud and Clear [1987] as well as unforgettable sold out shows alongside everybody from Mötley Crüe and Ronnie James Dio to Van Halen and Aerosmith. Given those accolades, when they disbanded in 1989, they never left the hearts and minds of millions of fans around the globe. Simply put, a reunion was both inevitable and essential.

In 2011, founding guitarist Steve Lynch and bassist Randy Rand decided to meet up at the NAMM show in Anaheim. They rekindled their friendship first, opening up the lines of communication and bonding more than ever before. Almost two years after that encounter, Rand contacted drummer Keni Richards on Facebook, attending the skinsman's art gallery. With the relationship rebuilt, they made a collective decision to jam again. However, there was just one missing link.

"We approached our original singer Steve Plunkett about a reunion," recalls Lynch. "Unfortunately, he didn't have the time to join the band again due to how busy his business is. He did give us his blessing to move forward though, and that was important. There are so many eighties bands out there touring and having fun with it. We were one of the few that hadn't been out there. We missed our fans. This is for them."

Fully embracing the future, the remaining members caught some videos of singer Simon Daniels of Jailhouse on YouTube. Instantly, they sensed a connection and knew that he was meant for the open spot in the center stage.

"He has big shoes to fill," smiles Rand. "Nevertheless, he was born to front Autograph. His hard-edged, bluesy voice and massive riffing sharpen our edge. He's given us a new energy, and he impressed us immediately."

"We all had a euphoric feeling after the first rehearsal," Lynch adds. "These songs hadn't been played in 25 years, and it was indescribable. It was great to be making music with my friends again."

With the lineup solidified, Autorgraph stand poised to shake rock 'n' roll up yet again. It's as if every element has been enhanced from the guitars and drums to the bass and vocals.

Lynch puts it best, "We're much heavier than before. We're not using keyboards and we're tuning down for a much fatter sound. That strengthens everything. At the same time, the melodic vocals and catchy hooks are still an integral part of our sound."

Right now, they're gearing up for 2014's Monsters of Rock cruise and a host of touring worldwide. In addition, Autograph's imprint expands yet again with new music looming on the horizon. Get ready to "Turn Up the Radio" all over again.