William Shatner Eyes Queen's Brian May for Star-Studded Heavy Metal Album
Shatner's newest project is becoming a full-scale event record, backed by a growing roster of rock and metal legends.
Queen guitarist Brian May is the latest rock icon confirmed to appear on William Shatner's forthcoming heavy metal album. May will contribute his distinctive guitar work and mix the track on which he appears.
May joins a growing roster of previously announced guests that includes Judas Priest vocalist Rob Halford, Disturbed bassist John Moyer, and drummer Dave Lombardo, whose extensive career includes influential work with Slayer and Misfits.
The album is being overseen by a production team led by Adam Hamilton, whose credits include L.A. Guns and The Brian Jonestown Massacre, and Cleopatra Records president Brian Perera. Additional production is being handled by Derek Hughes, Marcus Nand, and Die Krupps' Jürgen Engler.
Shatner is approaching the record as a full-scale artistic project rather than a novelty excursion. The album will place his commanding spoken-word delivery against the power and theatricality of heavy music, supported by musicians and producers representing several generations of hard rock and metal.
The project marks another addition to a recording career that has included rock, country, blues, holiday music, and spoken-word releases. Shatner's previous albums include Has Been, Seeking Major Tom, Why Not Me, Shatner Claus, The Blues, and the autobiographical Bill.
Work on the record continues as Shatner prepares to perform at Riot Fest in September. Further guest appearances are still being kept secret, with the album's title, release date, and remaining featured artists set to be announced later.
