In a recent discussion with Rockaxis TV, members of the band U.D.O.—Udo Dirkschneider (vocals), Sven Dirkschneider (drums), and Fabian “Dee” Dammers (guitar)—talked about the potential for a new album following their “Touchdown” release, which debuted in August 2023 through Atomic Fire Records. Dee mentioned that there have been conversations about making more music, suggesting that any plans would likely take shape after the DIRKSCHNEIDER tour, which celebrates the 40th anniversary of “Balls To The Wall.” He expressed enthusiasm about the prospect of creating new music, highlighting the diverse musical perspectives within the band, particularly between himself and fellow guitarist Andrey Smirnov. Sven added that Dee and Andrey are always equipped to create music wherever they are, although nothing is yet finalized regarding a new studio album.
Udo shared his excitement about Peter Baltes, formerly of ACCEPT and now part of U.D.O. and DIRKSCHNEIDER, contributing to the songwriting process. He anticipates that Baltes’s involvement will bring a fresh dynamic to the next U.D.O. album. The “Touchdown” album was produced by Martin “Mattes” Pfeiffer at Redhead Studio in Wilhelmshaven, Germany, and mastered by Stefan Kaufmann at ROXX Studio in Solingen, Germany. The album features a guest appearance by violinist Stefan Pintev on the final track, with bass tracks recorded by Baltes. The artwork for the album was created by Martin Häusler, who also took photos for the album’s promotional campaign.
In April 2023, Baltes officially joined U.D.O. and DIRKSCHNEIDER. He had been playing bass for U.D.O. since September 2022, initially as a temporary replacement for Tilen Hudrap, who was hospitalized after a concert in Munich, Germany. DIRKSCHNEIDER is Udo’s band dedicated to performing ACCEPT songs. Despite announcing a decade ago that his initial DIRKSCHNEIDER tour would be his last performing ACCEPT material, Udo has continued to play select shows under the DIRKSCHNEIDER banner.