Few bands embody the spirit of hard rock quite like Danko Jones. Across decades, albums, and endless tours, the Toronto trio has built a reputation for doing things their way — loud, proud, and full of that no-bullshit swagger that defines true rock ‘n’ roll.
Now, with the highly anticipated new album Leo Rising set to drop November 21st via Reigning Phoenix Music, Danko Jones are once again proving that their fire burns brighter than ever.
A New Way to Rock
In our recent chat, Danko opened up about the creation of Leo Rising and how the band has adapted to working remotely. With members spread across different cities, the trio recorded the album by sharing files back and forth — a process that’s become their new normal. While initially uncertain about how this approach might affect their sound, the end result exceeded expectations. The drums locked in beautifully, the mix hit hard, and the energy was undeniable.
Despite the change in logistics, Leo Rising captures everything fans love about Danko Jones: eleven tracks of pure, unfiltered hard rock attitude, delivered with the same punch and purpose that’s kept the band at the top of their game. It’s straightforward, it’s loud, and it’s unmistakably Danko Jones.
The Road Ahead
With the album’s release comes a new tour cycle — and the eternal challenge of balancing fresh material with fan favorites. Danko shared that the band plans to roll out three or four new songs live, while still keeping a healthy dose of the classics. After so many albums and so many anthems, it’s no easy task narrowing it down, but the focus remains on delivering a set that feels alive, inspired, and true to the band’s roots.
Among the new additions to the setlist is “Diamond in the Rough,” a blistering standout featuring a guest appearance from none other than Marty Friedman.
The Marty Friedman Connection
The connection between Danko and Friedman goes back over a decade. The two first worked together on Friedman’s 2014 album Inferno, and have kept in touch ever since. When Leo Rising came together, the band finally found the perfect track to invite Friedman into their world — and “Diamond in the Rough” turned out to be that moment.
It’s a collaboration that fits naturally, blending Danko’s riff-driven grit with Friedman’s melodic precision, and it stands as one of the album’s most exciting moments.
Rock Steady and Rising
As Leo Rising prepares to land, it’s clear that Danko Jones have mastered the balance between consistency and evolution. Even as the recording process shifts and touring evolves, their dedication to crafting timeless, hard-hitting rock songs remains the same.
Leo Rising feels like both a continuation and a celebration — a record built from experience, conviction, and the unshakable belief that rock ‘n’ roll should always be played loud, proud, and from the heart.
Pre-order “Leo Rising” now via Reigning Phoenix Music, Release Date: November 21st, 2025 https://dankojones.rpm.link/leorisingWB
