Kai Hansen is one of those figures who need no introduction. Founding member of Helloween, creator of Gamma Ray, guitarist, singer, songwriter — a man who shaped the European power metal sound as we know it today.
2026 finds him returning with his new solo album “Born With A Hammer”, his first since XXX – Three Decades In Metal. The release arrives on 18 September via earMUSIC, marking a period of absolute creative rekindling.
A record that unites all sides of Hansen
“Born With A Hammer” is an album that doesn’t try to hide behind stylistic labels. Hansen sets free every facet of his musical personality:
- heavy metal with clean, aggressive momentum
- punk attitude
- hard rock energy
- melodies that stay in the mind
- guitar work that bears his signature
It’s a record that’s immediate, raw, personal — and above all absolutely metal.
The album was written without compromises, with Hansen working as an artist who has nothing to prove, but much to express.
The band behind the record
For the recording, Hansen collaborated with musicians who combine experience and freshness:
- Eike Freese – production & guitar
- Alexander Dietz (Heaven Shall Burn) – guitar
- Dan Wilding (Carcass) – drums
- Tim Hansen (Induction) – guitar
The same team had stood beside him on XXX – Three Decades In Metal, something that gives the new album cohesion and chemistry.
The first single: “Feeding The Beast”
The track Feeding The Beast works as the ideal opener for the album. With sharp riffs, a strong rhythmic base and a chorus that shouts “Kai Hansen”, the song clearly shows that the creator of power metal hasn’t lost a trace of his flame.
The official video accompanies the single’s release, giving a first taste of the record’s aesthetic.
Tracklist – Born With A Hammer
- Feeding The Beast
- Welcome To Life
- Don’t Care
- Wait And See
- Born With A Hammer
- I.D.G.A.F.
- End Of The Road
- Triple Trouble
- Invaders
- Wonderland
A new solo chapter after the era of the great reunion
After the global success of Helloween’s recent reunion period, Hansen returns to a solo path with a record that stands autonomously and powerfully. “Born With A Hammer” is not just another release — it’s a statement of creative continuity from a man who continues to influence generations of musicians.
