Veteran Rocker Sebastian Konnackel Joins Kazuki Tokaji for New Single

LOS ANGELES, Calif. – Acclaimed drummer Sebastian Konnackel and veteran rock guitarist Kazuki Tokaji are teaming up for a new single “Redemption,” set for release on Jan. 5. The new track comes after the success of their previous collaboration for the single “H.O.P.E.” which debuted in July.

“It has been an absolute pleasure working with Kazuki on his music. Kazuki is hands down the most talented and hard working guitarist I have ever met throughout my career,” Konnackel said. “We first worked together for his song ‘At the Helm of Despair,’ featuring the legendary Derek Sherinian (ex Dream Theater, Alice Cooper, Planet X) back in 2020 when the pandemic had just begun. Since then, we’ve become best friends and the collaboration has stuck.”

Konnackel comes to the project while serving as drummer for The David Orien Band which is known for unique sound that blends punk, new wave, alternative rock and metal.

The new single features a guitar-driven melody that showcases Tokaji’s pop, hard rock and rhythm and blues influences that echo such artists as Megadeth, Monuments, Intervals and others.

“This song is a reflection of the life and the relationships we’ve all had that have left an impact on us in one way or another,” Tokaji said. “It’s very personal and at times morose and upbeat, but engaging in many ways, not to mention with a great backbeat from Sebastian who adds another dimension to the track.”

The new release, which also features guitarist Tommy Kerr, is the latest single from Tokaji who is known for his compelling riffs and guitar solos from his previous self-titled solo project. The Tokyo native is also recognized for his work with such artists as guitar legend Steve Vai, Mary Friedman, the alternative band Circle the Earth, metal rockers Angra and others.

“I love my band, but working with Kazuki is very different from what we usually do as a band,” Konnackel said. “Kazuki always has a strong vision of what he’s trying to accomplish with his sound. He’s an amazing songwriter and he always has direction that he wants me to pursue with my drumming and I follow along when it comes to writing and performing drum parts for his songs.”

The release of the song’s music video will coincide with the single’s debut on Jan. 5.

Meanwhile, Tokaji and Konnackel plan to tour next year in support of the song and their previous collaborations which include the singles “Inertia,” “Souvenir, “Celsius,” and “A Story of Joy.”

The upcoming single “Redemption” can be pre-saved by clicking here.