• Track Listing

After 12 years with DragonForce, vocalist Marc Hudson presents his first solo album, entitled Starbound Stories, set for release via Napalm Records on August 25, 2023! Starbound Stories is a sparkling, anime-inspired power metal ride, heavily influenced by both Japanese music and video game soundtracks, and featuring a horde of notable guests. Instrumental album opener "As The Twilight Met The Sea" acts as an introduction to the soundscapes of the album and features samurai metal master Ryoji Shinomoto (RYUJIN, previously known as Gyze) on traditional Japanese instruments. Shinomoto also lends his vocals on the following track, "Freedom Heart", which also features a solo by guitar virtuoso Syu (Galneryus). Explosive power metal anthem "Dracula X" features a guitar solo by Jacky Vincent (ex-Falling in Reverse, ex-Cry Venom) and guest vocals by Adrienne Cowan (Seven Spires). Beautifully emotional successor "Stars" features classically trained violinist Mia Asano on electric violin. Energetic "The Siren" is led by a tingling melody and ballad-like vocals, while "Astralive" lures with an undeniably catchy chorus whilst also featuring fast drum patterns, spellbinding guitarwork and keys, and skillful power metal vocals that reach for the skies. "Astralive" features fast drum patterns, spellbinding guitarwork and keys, and skillful power metal vocals that reach for the skies. Single Blurb 2: The Siren The second single off of DragonForce singer Marc Hudson's upcoming debut solo album, Starbound Stories, energetic "The Siren", is led by a tingling, uplifting melody and ballad-like vocals. The anime-influences that have heavily inspired the full-length are clearly present on the soundscapes of this track, and the story-like lyrics.