Adler | ArtistDirect

Adler

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Adler is a rock band formed by drummer Steven Adler, best known as the former member of Guns N' Roses. Established in 2011, the band represents Adler’s return to the music scene following his departure from Guns N’ Roses in 1990. Rooted in hard rock and classic heavy metal influences, Adler channels the energetic, riff-driven sound that defined late 1980s rock while incorporating a modern edge through new collaborators.

The project came together with a lineup that included vocalist Jacob Bunton, guitarist Lonny Paul, and bassist Johnny Martin, each bringing their own experience from the rock and metal world. Unlike many nostalgia-driven acts, Adler aimed to create new, original material rather than rely solely on past associations. The band’s sound reflects a continuation of Adler’s musical identity—straightforward, groove-heavy rock with an emphasis on catchy hooks, melodic choruses, and driving rhythms.

Adler released their self-titled debut album “Adler” in 2012, featuring tracks like “The One That You Hated” and “Good to Be Bad.” The album showcased a polished yet classic rock approach, combining strong vocal melodies with guitar-focused arrangements and Adler’s signature drumming style. While the project did not reach the commercial heights of his earlier work with Guns N’ Roses, it was well received by fans of traditional hard rock and served as a reaffirmation of his presence in the genre.

Live performances were a key component of Adler’s appeal, with the band delivering energetic shows that highlighted both original material and select classics associated with Adler’s past. His recognizable drumming style—marked by swing, groove, and feel—remained central to the band’s identity, reinforcing his legacy as a foundational figure in hard rock rhythm sections.

Today, Adler is remembered as a project that allowed Steven Adler to reestablish himself as an active recording artist while honoring the musical roots that made him famous. Though the band’s lifespan was relatively brief, it stands as a notable chapter in Adler’s post–Guns N’ Roses career, reflecting both continuity and reinvention within the hard rock landscape.