The musicians behind it
Bloody Times is more than just a band – it’s a powerful collaboration of talented musicians, including some well-known names from the heavy metal world. With contributions from artists like Ross the Boss, Tim “Ripper” Owens, John Greely and many others, Bloody Times stands out as a band with a unique edge, combining the raw energy of traditional metal with the experience and flair of its distinguished members.
Ross the Boss (Manowar)
Ross “The Boss” Friedman is a legendary guitarist and a cornerstone of classic heavy metal. As a founding member of MANOWAR, he played a pivotal role in shaping the band’s unmistakable sound and image during their most influential years. Between 1982 and 1988, Ross co-wrote and performed on all six of the band’s early albums: Battle Hymns (1982), Into Glory Ride (1983), Hail to England (1984), Sign of the Hammer (1984), Fighting the World (1987), and Kings of Metal (1988).
His blazing riffs, epic solos, and unshakable sense of melody defined MANOWAR’s early sound — a powerful blend of speed, heaviness, and heroic grandeur. For many fans, Ross represents the true spirit of the band’s golden era: raw, anthemic, and unapologetically devoted to the ideals of true metal. His guitar work laid the foundation for an entire subgenre, inspiring legions of musicians and earning the lasting admiration of heavy metal fans around the world.
Ross the Boss also brought his signature guitar sound to Bloody Times, playing both rhythm and lead guitars on the track “Alliance”, featured on the 2019 album On a Mission. He returned again in 2022 for the song “No Holding Back”, released on the No Fear EP. His contributions add authenticity, intensity, and a direct link to the roots of heavy metal.
Tim “Ripper” Owens (Judas Priest, Iced Earth)
Tim “Ripper” Owens is one of the most iconic voices in modern heavy metal. He first rose to international fame when he was chosen to front the legendary band Judas Priest in 1996, following Rob Halford’s departure. With his soaring range and powerful vocal delivery, he brought a darker, more aggressive edge to the albums Jugulator (1997) and Demolition (2001), earning respect from fans and critics alike.
After his time with Judas Priest, Owens joined Iced Earth, where he recorded the albums The Glorious Burden (2004) and Framing Armageddon (2007). His vocals added power, clarity, and a dynamic edge to the band’s evolving sound.
Beyond those two major acts, Ripper has been involved in numerous other metal projects, including Yngwie Malmsteen’s Rising Force, Charred Walls of the Damned, KK’s Priest, Beyond Fear, and various solo efforts. He remains a highly sought-after vocalist in the metal world, known for his unmatched range, stage presence, and dedication to the genre.
Tim “Ripper” Owens also lent his powerful voice to Bloody Times, performing lead vocals on the track “By Metal, We Send You to Hell”, which was released in 2019 as part of a self-titled EP. His unmistakable performance brought intensity and authority to the track, making it a standout moment in the band’s discography.
Zak Stevens (Savatage)
Zak Stevens is renowned for his unmistakable voice and his work as the frontman of Savatage during one of the band’s most acclaimed periods. Taking over vocal duties in the mid-90s, he brought a melodic, emotional depth to albums like Edge of Thorns (1993), Handful of Rain (1994), Dead Winter Dead (1995), and The Wake of Magellan (1997). His warm yet powerful vocal tone became a signature element of Savatage’s evolving sound and helped bridge the gap between traditional heavy metal and progressive storytelling.
Zak Stevens also made a guest appearance with Bloody Times, performing lead vocals on the track “In a Moment of Peace”. The song stands out as an emotional and deeply melodic piece — filled with sorrow, reflection, and atmospheric intensity. Zak’s expressive performance gave the song a profound sense of depth and poignancy, perfectly complementing Bloody Times’ vision of classic and meaningful heavy metal.
Raphael Saini (Iced Earth)
Raphael Saini is a highly skilled and versatile drummer known for his precise technique and dynamic playing across a wide range of metal genres. He gained international recognition as a session and touring drummer, having worked with bands such as Iced Earth (notably on the album Plagues of Babylon in 2014), Cripple Bastards, and Serenity in Murder, among many others.
Raphael contributed drums to Bloody Times, bringing precision, power, and an organic groove to the recordings. His drumming added intensity and drive to several tracks, elevating the rhythmic foundation of the songs and reinforcing the project’s classic heavy metal roots.
Oddleif Stensland (Communic)
Oddleif Stensland is best known as the guitarist and vocalist of the Norwegian progressive metal band Communic, admired for his powerful yet introspective voice and deeply emotional songwriting. His ability to channel raw feeling through melodic and heavy arrangements has made him a respected name in both progressive and classic metal circles.
Oddleif lent his emotional and powerful voice to the original version of “Memorial” by Bloody Times. The song deals with loss, grief, and remembrance — and Oddleif’s heartfelt performance captures the sorrow and depth at the core of the track, making it a truly moving tribute.
John Greely (Iced Earth)
John Greely is best known as the powerful voice behind Iced Earth’s 1991 album Night of the Stormrider — a record that has become a cult classic in the world of heavy metal. His dramatic, expressive vocals helped elevate the album’s dark and epic atmosphere, leaving a lasting impression on fans of the band’s early era.
Greely later brought his commanding voice to Bloody Times, where he served as the lead singer on multiple singles, EP tracks, and the entire 2019 full-length album On a Mission. His performances are marked by raw intensity and classic metal strength, making him a defining voice in the band’s sound.
Balazs Fleischhauer
Balazs Fleischhauer has contributed lead and rhythm guitars to several Bloody Times tracks, adding sharp riffs and expressive solos to the band’s signature sound. With a keen sense for melody and power, his guitar work enhances the classic metal atmosphere and brings both energy and depth to the music.
Simon Pfundstein
Simon Pfundstein is the founding force behind Bloody Times. As the main songwriter, producer, and bassist, he has shaped the vision and sound of the project from the very beginning. On earlier releases, he also performed on other instruments, showcasing his broad musical range. His passion for traditional heavy metal and his dedication to detail are the driving elements behind every Bloody Times release.
Beyond the well-known names, Bloody Times has been shaped by the passion and talent of many other musicians who have left their mark on its sound. Each release reflects this collective spirit, with all contributors thoughtfully credited for their part in bringing the music to life.