Stagma, the heavy rock band formed by composer/guitarist Alexandre Santos (Scar For Life), and featuring Jason Morgan (Orangefall) on vocals, Neil Fraser (Ten) on lead guitars and Joe Petro (Heaven And Earth) on bass have announced that drumming legend Vinny Appice (Black Sabbath, Dio) will join them to complete the lineup.

Vinny Appice, who has formed the backbone of such bands as Dio, Black Sabbath, Heaven And Hell and more, live and in the studio, has recorded and co-written songs on over 25 albums, including many multi-platinum records. With over two decades of touring and the sale of millions of records behind him, the other members of Stagma are delighted that he will be joining them in the studio to record their debut EP, Stagma.

“I grew up listening to Vinny's drumming,” said Lisbon-based guitarist Alex Santos. “For me, he's one of the heaviest drummers in rock history with a very personal style. Having Vinny on board is a privilege and he will add the vital ingredient that Stagma is looking for ...”

Stagma was formed in late 2015 when Alex Santos, guitarist, producer and composer with Scar For Life, got together with Jason Morgan, Neil Fraser and Joe Petro with the desire to form a new heavy rock band. Stagma was born out of this collaboration and since then Alex has composed seven new songs, with lyrics by Jason Morgan, to be featured on the band’s debut EP, also titled Stagma - due to be released this year. The band has been recording in Lisbon and LA and the EP will be mixed and produced at Alex’s PressPlay Music studios in Lisbon.

Stagma will be planning performances surrounding the release in the coming months and new dates will be announced soon.

(Photo - Stigma Facebook)