The Artist
Michael Monroe (Matti Antero Kristian Fagerholm) is a Finnish rock musician, best known as the vocalist and saxophonist for the glam punk band Hanoi Rocks. After they broke up in 1985, Monroe decided to start his solo career.
Band Members
- Michael Monroe – vocals, saxophone, harmonica, guitars, tambourine
- Steve Conte – guitars
- Sami Yaffa – bass
- Rich Jones – guitars
- Karl Rockfist – drums
The Album
Outerstellar is Michael Monroe’s eleventh studio album. It was released on February 20, 2026.
The Songs
1. Rockin’ Horse. The first track has a very chaotic, energetic, but engaging rock mood. At times, Michael sounds a little bit like David Bowie. Good guitar solo.
2. Shinola. Calmer than the previous one, it reminded me of New York Dolls.
3. Black Cadillac. My favorite song on this album. It starts with a super rocker vibe, yet it has a blues rock feeling too. I love the guitar riff (solid and dirty).
4. When the Apocalypse Comes. It has a soft rock tone, and it would be perfect for driving and chilling on a lost highway. Nice guitar solo.
5. Painless. It begins like a dark ballad, but then it gets a Middle Eastern flavor. Cool track.
6. Newtro Bombs. Punk song, bringing back The Clash sound.
7. Disconnected. Catchy chorus, rock song. Another one of my favorites.
8. Precious. Interesting song, bluesy rock, harmonica solo.
9. Pushin’ Me Back. Fine bass lines and song. Terrific guitar solo.
10. Glitter & Dust. Lovely ballad with an electro-acoustic guitar that gives a country vibe. A soulful guitar solo.
11. Rode To Ruin. Catchy chorus, rock, anthemic feeling.
12. One More Sunrise. The last track on this album, also the longest one, was worth it; it has a nostalgic vibe. Another perfect song to drive. It has my favorite guitar work and solos of the album. Also has a sax solo and a piano solo. An epic song with amazing build-ups and transitions. Gorgeous choice to end the album.
Final Thoughts
I liked the general style of the album, very blues rock. I know Michael Monroe mostly from his Hanoi Rocks era, which was more of glam rock with The Rolling Stones’ inspired guitar riffs, but I like the direction he has taken with his solo career now.
Outerstellar has splendid guitar solos and guitar work, combined with Michael’s voice and seal. Most of these songs would be wonderful for the radio with their bluesy rock sound. An album of rock & roll in its purest form.
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Tracklist
1. Rockin’ Horse
2. Shinola
3. Black Cadillac
4. When the Apocalypse Comes
5. Painless
6. Newtro Bombs
7. Disconnected
8. Precious
9. Pushin’ Me Back
10. Glitter & Dust
11. Rode To Ruin
12. One More Sunrise