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Artist
Masterplan
12+ albums
Power metalheavy metalmelodic metalmetalgerman
about
1. Masterplan is a German power metal band founded in 2001 by guitarist Roland Grapow and drummer Uli Kusch after both musicians left Helloween. During Helloween’s “The Dark Ride” tour in 2001, Grapow and Kusch began developing material for a separate project. Tensions within Helloween increased as other members perceived their focus to be shifting toward the new project, and both musicians were subsequently dismissed from the band. The name Masterplan was chosen to reflect the idea of a “master plan” to create a new power metal band for the new millennium. To complete the initial lineup, Grapow recruited keyboardist Janne Wirman. Vocalists Russell Allen and Michael Kiske were both approached but declined the role. The position was eventually filled by Norwegian singer Jørn Lande, whose work with Ark and solo material had impressed the founders. Masterplan’s self-titled debut album, “Masterplan”, was released in 2003 and produced by Andy Sneap. Although Wirman contributed to early sessions, Axel Mackenrott joined as a full-time keyboardist for touring and future work. Studio bass contributions were handled in part by Jürgen Attig, while Grapow performed most bass parts on the album. Jan-Sören Eckert later became the band’s touring and recording bassist. The album achieved significant success in Europe, earning the band the European Border Breakers Award in 2004. Their second album, “Aeronautics”, was released in 2005 and followed a similar production approach with Andy Sn
