THE BEAST

Rachel Bolan Announces Debut Solo Album Gargoyle Of The Garden State and Drops First Single “At War With Myself”

Fans of Skid Row finally get something a little different from longtime bassist Rachel Bolan, who’s stepping out front with his first-ever solo album, Gargoyle Of The Garden State. The record lands June 12 via earMUSIC, and if the early details are anything to go by, this isn’t just a side project. It’s a full-on statement.

A Personal Record Rooted in New Jersey Grit

Bolan describes the album as deeply personal, shaped by his upbringing in New Jersey and decades in the trenches of rock and metal. This isn’t just another name slapped on a release. It’s his identity poured into vinyl, CD, and digital formats.

Produced by Nick Raskulinecz, the same guy behind Skid Row’s The Gang’s All Here, the album carries a polished but gritty edge. Bolan reportedly handled most of the instruments himself, stepping into a frontman role with confidence and a bit of swagger that longtime fans might not expect.

Star-Studded Guest Lineup

Even though this is a solo effort, Bolan didn’t exactly go it alone. The album features a stacked lineup of contributors, including:

Dave Sabo and Scotti Hill on guitar

Rob Hammersmith on drums

Corey Taylor bringing his unmistakable vocals

Nuno Bettencourt delivering a signature solo

Danko Jones featured on the lead single

Steve Conte and Damon Johnson adding even more firepower

That’s not a guest list. That’s a backstage party that somehow made it onto tape.

“At War With Myself” Sets the Tone

The first single, At War With Myself, features Danko Jones and gives fans a taste of what’s coming. Expect hook-driven songwriting, punk attitude, and a melodic backbone that leans more into rock than straight metal.

Bolan himself has made it clear. This does not sound like Skid Row. And honestly, that’s probably the whole point.

A Blend of Influences with a Classic Twist

Musically, Gargoyle Of The Garden State pulls from everywhere. Punk, glam, Britpop, and even a bit of new wave creep into the mix. One of the more interesting moments is a reworked version of Rock and Roll Star by Oasis, flipped into something entirely different while keeping its core intact.

It’s the kind of move that shows confidence. You don’t mess with a classic unless you’ve got a vision.

Creative Freedom Outside the Band Machine

One thing Bolan emphasized in interviews is how different this process was compared to working within Skid Row. No committee decisions, no waiting around for approvals. Just him, the producer, and the songs moving fast and staying raw.

That kind of freedom tends to bring out the real stuff. Sometimes messy, sometimes brilliant, but always honest.

Where Skid Row Stands Now

While Bolan explores new territory, Skid Row is still in a state of transition. The band is currently searching for a new frontman following the departure of Erik Grönwall in 2024.

It’s been a long road since the days of Sebastian Bach, and if history has proven anything, it’s that Skid Row doesn’t stay down for long.

Final Thoughts

Look, solo records from band members can go either way. Sometimes they’re forgettable. Sometimes they surprise the hell out of you. This one feels like it might land in the second category.

Between the stacked guest list, the stylistic curveballs, and Bolan finally taking center stage, Gargoyle Of The Garden State has all the ingredients to turn some heads.

And let’s be real. After decades holding down the low end, the guy’s earned the right to do whatever the hell he wants.