THE OLD GANG

Dirkschneider & The Old Gang (DATOG) is a powerhouse German heavy metal project that emerged in 2020, bringing together iconic figures from Germany’s metal legacy. At the heart of the band is Udo Dirkschneider, the unmistakable voice behind Accept and the driving force of U.D.O., joined by bassist Peter Baltes, guitarist Stefan Kaufmann, and fellow guitar veteran Mathias Dieth. The group also features Udo’s son, Sven Dirkschneider, on drums, and vocalist Manuela Bibert, whose soaring melodies add a dynamic edge. More than a supergroup, DATOG represents the unshakable bond of longtime collaborators rekindling their shared passion for raw, melodic metal.

In 2021, the band released their debut EP, Arising, a tightly packed record featuring standout tracks like “Where the Angels Fly,” “Face of a Stranger,” and “Every Heart Is Burning.” Each song reflects the group’s signature style—fierce riffs, anthemic choruses, and Udo’s instantly recognizable growl—balanced with fresh, modern production. Rather than rehashing old glories, DATOG focuses on creating original material, rooted in experience but unafraid to evolve. The project grew organically from the team’s work on U.D.O.’s We Are One album, leading to a creative rebirth that felt both timely and powerful. Dirkschneider & The Old Gang isn’t just a celebration of legacy—it’s a vibrant continuation of it, offering fans a new chapter in the story of German heavy metal that feels both familiar and thrillingly alive.