Hardline Media is proud to announce that Ross the Boss will bring the mighty Sign of the Hammer album to Australian stages in May 2025 — performed in full for the very first time on our shores. To make this tour even more historic, Ross is joined by a true powerhouse lineup: Marc Lopes from Metal Church on vocals, Dirk Schlächter of Gamma Ray on bass, and Rhino, former Manowar drummer, returning behind the kit.
Recently, we sat down with frontman Marc Lopes to talk about what fans can expect from these once-in-a-lifetime shows. Marc shared his excitement about not only bringing the iconic Sign of the Hammer album to life but also delivering a “best of” set packed with Manowar’s most anthemic songs. He spoke passionately about honoring the original spirit of these tracks and how much he looks forward to meeting and performing for the dedicated fans down under.
For those unfamiliar with Marc Lopes, he’s a vocalist known for his work with Metal Church, one of the bands credited with shaping American heavy metal. He’s also been part of Ross the Boss’s solo band for several years, where his soaring range and gritty power have brought a fresh yet respectful energy to these classic songs.
Manowar’s Sign of the Hammer (1984) is considered a landmark album, with tracks like “Thor (The Powerhead)” and “Sign of the Hammer” becoming staples of true heavy metal. Long before bands like Wind Rose and Brothers of Metal popularized the “battle metal” and “symphonic warrior” styles we see today, Manowar were blazing that trail in the early ’80s — combining mythological themes, epic songwriting, and thunderous soundscapes. In many ways, this tour is a chance to experience the true roots of this style, performed by one of its original architects.
Marc emphasized how much he loves playing these songs live, describing it as an honor to celebrate the legacy with fans who’ve kept this music alive across generations. He also promised a show packed with energy, emotion, and the kind of raw power that only a band like Ross the Boss can deliver.
Don’t miss your chance to witness heavy metal history as it roars across Australia:
🎸 Ross the Boss Sign of the Hammer Australian Tour Dates:
- Thursday 1st May – Brisbane – Crowbar (Formerly The Zoo)
- Friday 2nd May – Sydney – Crowbar
- Saturday 3rd May – Melbourne – Croxton Bandroom
- Sunday 4th May – Adelaide – The Gov
🎟 Tickets & VIP Info:
- Early Bird Tickets are on sale now at www.hardlinemedia.net
- VIP Meet & Greet Packages include:
- Early entry to the venue and merch stand
- A personal photo with the band
- An exclusive Australian tour poster to get signed
- VIP lanyard/laminate
- Two personal items signed
- Entry to the show included in the package!
Australia, get ready to raise your hammers high — because Ross the Boss and Marc Lopes are bringing the thunder in 2025!
