DIRKSCHNEIDER

Dirkschneider is a German heavy metal band led by legendary vocalist Udo Dirkschneider, best known as the former frontman of the iconic band Accept and the founder of U.D.O. Formed in 2015 as a temporary project, Dirkschneider was originally intended as a farewell tour where Udo would perform Accept songs one final time before retiring them from his live repertoire. However, the overwhelming response from fans around the world transformed Dirkschneider into a full-fledged touring act, keeping the legacy of classic Accept material alive with raw energy and authenticity.

The band features members of U.D.O., including Udo’s son Sven Dirkschneider on drums, guitarist Andrey Smirnov, and bassist Tilen Hudrap (formerly Fitty Wienhold), who deliver faithful yet powerful renditions of timeless tracks like “Balls to the Wall,” “Fast as a Shark,” and “Metal Heart.” Known for Udo’s unmistakable raspy vocals and commanding stage presence, Dirkschneider captures the spirit of 1980s heavy metal while appealing to both longtime fans and new listeners. Their live album Live – Back to the Roots (2016) and its follow-up Live – Back to the Roots – Accepted! (2017) received critical acclaim for preserving the fire of Accept’s early catalog.

While U.D.O. continues to produce original music, Dirkschneider remains a passion project devoted to honoring the songs that helped shape heavy metal history. With relentless touring and fierce performances, Dirkschneider serves as a living tribute to one of the genre’s most influential eras, led by one of its most enduring voices.