Chosen by Monk
My latest choice sees me revisiting the heady days of my late teens as two of the titans of the Teutonic metal scene re-unite to re-imagine a song off one of the albums that helped define that particular time of my life, not to mention that era in the scene’s history.
Udo Dirkschneider is marking the 40th anniversary of the immortal ‘Balls To The Wall’ album by issuing a complete reworking of that landmark release, along with some carefully chosen collaborators – including the original “metal queen”, the truly majestic Doro Pesch, on this powerful new interpretation of the power ballad, the suitably titled (given the current freezing cold conditions here at ÜRHQ) ‘Winter Dreams’:
Speaking about the reunion of the two old friends, Udo told us:
It was a very special experience. Doro and I have spent so many years together in the scene and there is a deep, almost familial connection between us. Her voice gives this song an incredible magic and emotionality that takes it to a whole new level. It was like a reunion with an old friend for me and together we made ‘Winter Dreams’ even more intense and personal. It just feels right to share this moment together!
Doro added:
‘Balls To The Wall’ has always been one of my absolute favourite albums. I was really happy to sing the wonderful ‘Winter Dreams’ as a duet with Udo. We have a long friendship and it is always special to work with him.
- ‘Balls To The Wall Reloaded‘, featuring contributions from Joakim Brodén, Biff Byford, Mille Petroza, Nils Molin, Michael Kiske, Ylva Eriksson, Danko Jones, Dee Snider, Tim ‘Ripper’ Owens and Doro Pesch’, will be released on 28 February via Napalm Records.
- Dirkschneider kick off their ‘Balls To The Wall’ 40th Anniversary Tour on 25 February:
- They then join Saxon for their ‘Hell, Fire And Steel’ tour in November:
