HOT SHÖT Ignites the Scene with Debut Album
Heavy metal enthusiasts, brace yourselves—HOT SHÖT is here to shake the foundations of the genre with their self-titled debut album, set to drop via Kenyon Records. This isn't just another side project; it's a formidable alliance of seasoned metal warriors led by the vocal powerhouse Jason McMaster, known for his work with DANGEROUS TOYS and WATCHTOWER. Joining him are Paul Lidel on guitar, the thunderous Dave McClain on drums, Jack Pyers on bass, and the riff master Dave Beeson, also on guitar. Together, they've forged a sound that's as electrifying as it is nostalgic.
Before unleashing their full-length beast, HOT SHÖT tantalized fans with a two-track EP titled "We'll Be Right Back," which hit the airwaves in May 2025. Featuring the infectious tracks "Digging For Diamonds" and "Catwalk," this EP served as a taste test for what was to come—four long years after a nostalgic reunion performance at Selinsgrove Speedway, where the band revisited DIRTY LOOKS' revered 1988 album "Cool From The Wire." The show was immortalized in the "Cool From The Speedway" CD/DVD package, a testament to their enduring legacy.
In a recent interview on the Rock N' Danger podcast, McMaster laid bare the origins of HOT SHÖT. It all began when Jack and Gene from DIRTY LOOKS sought to rekindle the magic of their past after the tragic loss of frontman Henrik Ostergaard. McMaster recalls the excitement of reuniting with familiar faces, and the pivotal moment when Lidel insisted, "I'll do it if Jason sings." This declaration ignited a fire within McMaster, showcasing the bond that fuels this band.
As rehearsals kicked off, the chemistry was palpable, and excitement surged. However, the pandemic struck, putting a damper on their initial plans. Fast forward to a triumphant return, where they rocked a makeshift stage on a flatbed trailer at Selinsgrove Speedway to a crowd of a thousand fans. It was pure metal magic, and they seized the moment to record their performance, all the while plotting their next moves.
With the wheels in motion, the vision for HOT SHÖT began to take shape. Respecting the legacy of DIRTY LOOKS, they chose to forge their own path with a new name. Now, as they prepare to unleash their debut album, the anticipation is palpable. HOT SHÖT is not just a resurgence; it’s a bold declaration that the spirit of heavy metal is alive and well.