In a modern music landscape where digital connections often feel fleeting, the story of Beyond Black is a refreshing reminder of the power of shared history. Separated by nearly 900 kilometres of Swedish terrain, vocalist Dan Wande and multi-instrumentalist Tomas Ylivainio (better known as Tylivain) spent years haunting the same venues and moving through overlapping circles without ever actually crossing paths. It wasn’t until 2022 that a remote invitation to collaborate sparked a creative flame, and remarkably, the pair only met face-to-face for the first time in August 2025.
This long-distance chemistry is the engine behind their latest two-track release, ‘II’, a follow-up that firmly cements their status as a formidable force in the hard rock and metal scene. The duo draws from a deep well of experience; Wande has been a commanding presence since the early 80s, while Ylivainio returned to music in 2018 after a 23-year hiatus, mastering the art of modern production.
The first offering, ‘Money Talks’, is a high-octane metal anthem that pays homage to the titans of the 70s and 80s. It is a masterclass in building a bridge between eras; while the DNA of Black Sabbath and AC/DC is evident in the heavy riffs and driving percussion, the production feels entirely contemporary. Tylivain’s guitar work is layered and biting, providing a thick wall of sound for Wande to tear through. Wande delivers a vocal performance that is as authoritative as it is fiery. It is the sound of two artists who aren't just imitating their heroes but are genuinely “crafting the music they genuinely love and breathe together.”
The momentum shifts gear with ‘Shadow Warrior’, a track that leans into Wande’s penchant for the theatrical side of metal. It is a darker, more cinematic affair that highlights the duo's versatility. Where the previous track was a punch to the gut, this one is a mood-builder, proving that Beyond Black can do more than just provide high-speed thrills.
Ultimately, ‘II’ is a testament to the fact that distance is no match for a shared vision. These “musical soul mates” have managed to bottle the essence of classic rock and infuse it with a grit that feels uniquely theirs. For anyone craving a dose of heavy music that respects its roots while looking forward, Beyond Black is a name you need on your radar.
You can stream the new double single above via Spotify, and for more, be sure to catch the duo on Facebook and Instagram.
