Spain’s four‑piece melodic hard rock outfit LOST WINGMAN arrives with serious pedigree: vocalist Chema Sales (Bon Jovi tribute, Gloria Estefan band), bassist Daniel Fernández (Dark Moor), guitarist Daniel Pereira (Warrior Poet, Motropolis VI), and drummer Javier Martín (Warrior Poet). With résumés like these, expectations are high — and their new album Mach 2 doesn’t just meet them, it blasts right past.
Rooted in the classic DNA of Bon Jovi, Def Leppard, Hardline and other ’80s giants, Mach 2 blends rockers, mid‑tempo AOR gems and a heartfelt ballad, all delivered with sharp songwriting and pristine production. Sales’ English is flawless, and his vocal range — from gritty rock power to smooth melodic phrasing — gives the band a distinctly international feel.
The album opens with “Stranger,” a standout track that marries classic melodic rock structure with a modern, Scandinavian‑style production punch. That American flavor also shines through, especially on “Lonely,” whose lush harmonies channel pure Nelson circa 1989.
“Run Away Hide Away” brings a driving contemporary edge, while “The Air I Need to Breathe” slides beautifully into mid‑tempo AOR territory reminiscent of Strangeways at their ’80s peak. The diversity keeps coming: the heavier “Fade to Grey,” the bright and emotional ballad “Shine,” the insanely catchy “Junkie,” and the bold statement track “Fuck A.I.”
Then comes the closer: “If Only.” Fully acoustic, rich, and emotionally huge, it’s not just a stripped‑down moment — it’s a grand finale and easily one of the best songs we’ve heard this year.
LOST WINGMAN’s Mach 2 is a cohesive yet refreshingly varied melodic hard rock album, far from formulaic and full of personality.
This band will surprise you.
HIGHLY recommended.