Stone Axe: The Modern Torchbearers of Classic Rock

Stone Axe is an American rock band celebrated for reviving the raw, blues-drenched sound of 1970s hard rock and heavy metal. Hailing from Port Orchard, Washington, the band, formed in 2007, built a dedicated following through relentless touring and a series of critically acclaimed albums that channel the spirit of rock's golden era.

Early career

Stone Axe was founded in 2007 by multi-instrumentalist and producer Tony Reed, initially conceived as a studio project to explore his passion for vintage rock tones. Reed collaborated with vocalist Dru Brinkerhoff, whose powerful, soulful voice became the band's defining instrument. Their self-titled debut album was released in 2009 on Ripple Music, a label known for its focus on stoner and classic rock, immediately establishing their authentic throwback ethos.

Breakthrough

The band's breakthrough arrived with their second album, Stone Axe II, released in 2011. This record captured the attention of the international rock underground, praised for its faithful recreation of the riff-centric, analog warmth of bands like Free and early Bad Company. Extensive touring across Europe and North America solidified their reputation as a formidable live act, leading to their music being licensed for several compilation albums on specialty rock labels.

Key tracks

Black Widow — This driving opener from their debut album perfectly encapsulates their blend of heavy riffs and melodic, bluesy vocals.

For All Who Fly — A standout track from their second album, showcasing epic song structures and Brinkerhoff's dynamic vocal range.

Old Soul — A slower, soulful ballad that highlights the band's depth beyond pure rock power and their connection to 70s rock traditions.

Riders of the Night — A concert favorite known for its infectious, head-banging groove and sing-along chorus.

Following their initial studio albums, Stone Axe focused heavily on live performance, releasing the acclaimed Live '78 album in 2012, engineered to sound like a discovered live tape from the 1970s. While the band's recorded output became less frequent as members pursued other projects like Mos Generator, their influence persisted. Their albums remain sought-after on vinyl, with original pressings from Ripple Music and Roadburn Records commanding attention from collectors.

Fans of Stone Axe's authentic classic rock revival should also explore similar artists featured on our radio stations. Listen to Radio Mothership for a similar blend of psychedelic rock and heavy blues. Discover Freedom Hawk for another American band channeling 70s hard rock with soaring vocals. Check out Wo Fat for heavier, riff-focused stoner rock with deep grooves. Explore Scorpion Child for a more modern take on epic, anthemic classic rock.

The music of Stone Axe maintains a steady presence on rock radio formats that celebrate guitar-driven heritage. Their songs are regularly featured on independent music radio stations and online rock radio streams dedicated to stoner, classic, and heavy rock, often played alongside the legendary acts that inspired them.

You can hear the powerful riffs and soaring vocals of Stone Axe on various rock radio stations featured on our website. Listeners can discover this essential modern rock act through the classic rock FM stations and alternative rock radio stations available on onairium.com.