In the modern music landscape, where digital connections often replace physical ones, the story of Beyond Black feels like a refreshing anomaly. A powerhouse duo separated by 900 kilometres of Swedish terrain, vocalist Dan Wande and multi-instrumentalist Tomas Ylivainio (better known as Tylivain) have spent years moving in the same circles and playing the same venues without ever crossing paths. It wasn’t until 2022 that a remote collaboration sparked a creative flame, and remarkably, they 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 first offering, ‘Money Talks’, is a high-octane metal anthem that pays homage to the 70s and 80s titans. 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, a veteran frontman with a pedigree stretching back to the early 80s, 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 slow-burn atmosphere builder, proving that Beyond Black can do more than just provide high-speed thrills. The transition between the two tracks showcases a partnership that is hitting its stride, blending Tylivain’s meticulous self-taught production with Wande’s expressive vocal range.
Ultimately, ‘II’ is a testament to the fact that distance is no match for a shared vision. These two "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 release above, along with last year’s debut, and for more, be sure to catch the duo on Facebook and Instagram.
