Press release –
Melodic rock powerhouse Mattador is excited release their new studio album, titled “III”, out now via Frontiers Music Srl.
Carlos Benitez commented: “Out For Blood” is one of the most aggressive, no-nonsense tracks on “III”. Inspired by conflict and the determination to stand your ground, it’s ultimately a song about unity and fighting for what you believe in. We had a great time developing it in the studio with Miguel Rodriguez and Mike Villegas, and it grew into one of the album’s standout moments thanks to its raw energy, powerful vocals, sharp guitar work, and relentless rhythm section.”
“I originally recorded the demo for “Out For Blood” without lyrics, focusing purely on creating a powerful guitar-driven song. After the band added their parts, Carlos named it “Out For Blood” because of the intensity of the music, and that sparked the direction for the chorus and lyrics. Around the same time, the war in Ukraine had begun, and the inspiration suddenly fell into place. It’s a reminder that songwriting ideas can come from anywhere – sometimes when you least expect them”, added Mike Villegas.
Carlos Benitez said: “We feel that we have a great album packed with amazing songs, from big ballads and acoustic compositions to rock anthems and so much more. It’s an evolution of the band and it has it all. The production is more on the organic side of things, when talking about the sound of the album. We didn’t want it to sound like other productions out there today, and we worked hard to find the right balance to make it sound powerful and current but different from what is considered standard nowadays; and we are pleased with the results”.
“We focused more on the music we wrote for this one. The album was co/produced and mixed by Bob St John, who has worked with Bands like Collective Soul Extreme, Duran Duran, and many others. Newcomer to the band is our bass player and multi-instrumentalist Abraham Millett, who comes from working and touring as a member of Third Eye Blind and many others”, he added. “I play drums, and I also produced the album, while on vocals is original singer Mike Villegas, and on guitar is original member Miguel Rodriguez. Collectively all of the original members have been involved in high-profile gigs/bands and working with international artists and world tours during the band’s hiatus and bring all of that experience and growth to the group’s creative process. With this lineup, we found the right balance that inspired us to make this new album.”
Mattador, the veteran melodic rock band from Puerto Rico, returns with “III” – their powerful new studio album of all-original material. Originally active from 1988 to 1995, the band earned a loyal following thanks to their explosive live shows and a unique blend of hard rock and Latin influences, performing alongside legends like Aerosmith and Iron Maiden and gaining attention across the European rock scene.
Reunited in 2022, the founding members reignited their creative fire, channelling decades of experience into 12 brand-new tracks. From soaring power ballads to riff-heavy anthems and high-octane rockers, “III” captures Mattador’s signature sound with renewed energy and vision.
Co-produced and engineered by Bob St. John (Extreme, Dokken, Collective Soul), the album also marks the beginning of the band’s collaboration with Frontiers Music Srl, poised to bring their music to a global audience.
The current lineup features original members Michael Villegas (vocals), Carlos Benitez (drums, vocals), Miguel “Tito” Rodriguez (guitar, violin), and new member Abraham Millet (bass, keyboards). Together, they forge a unique sound that combines the melodic sensibilities of classic Rock with an undercurrent of Hard Rock with a hint of Prog and a contemporary edge.
Rooted in Puerto Rico and ready for the world stage, Mattador is back – tighter, louder, and more inspired than ever.
“III” Tracklist:
1. Awake
2. Black Water
3. Out For Blood
4. Say You’ll Stay
5. Levitate
6. Crawling
7. Same Kind Of Crazy
8. Falling Backwards
9. Portal
10. Slow Down
11. Moksha
12. No Way Out
Line Up:
Carlos Benitez – Drums, Percussion, Background and Lead Vocals
Abraham Millett – Bass and Keyboards
Miguel Rodriguez – Guitars, Lead Guitar, Violin
Mike Villegas – Lead Vocals, Acoustic Guitars
