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Pretty Maids
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Pretty Maids
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Pretty Maids is a Danish heavy metal band from Horsens. Formed in 1981 by Ken Hammer, and completed with Ronnie Atkins in 1982, their sound and music can be described as classic guitar-laden heavy rock with a strong emphasis on melody.

Key Information

Over the years, Pretty Maids have sold hundreds of thousands of records, but have never broken through in a major way, except in Japan during the 1990s. They have supported well known bands such as Black Sabbath, Whitesnake, Deep Purple, Alice Cooper, and Saxon, and were also featured at the 1987 German version of Monsters of Rock, where Deep Purple headlined.[1]

After a prolonged international touring hiatus before the release of the 2006 Wake Up to the Real World album, the band have every year since been touring their primary markets of Denmark, Sweden, France, Germany and Japan.

History

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1980s

[edit]

Pretty Maids were formed in 1981 by friends Ken Hammer and John Jacobsen in Horsens, Denmark as a cover band initially called Pretty Panic.[2] Ronnie Atkins joined Pretty Maids in 1982, replacing John Jacobsen on vocals.[3] They wrote their own material and a self-financed demo resulted in a deal with the English record label Bullet Records.

In 1983, the band released their debut self-titled EP under the name Pretty Maids, recognition was fuelled by their UK tour the same year. In 1984 they signed to CBS Records in Denmark, who remixed and re-released their self-titled EP with a different cover.

In 1984, the band released their debut studio album, Red, Hot and Heavy,[4] which was a success.[1] The line-up featured two new members, former Shylock members Allan DeLong on bass and Rick Hanson on guitar. Hanson left the band and was briefly replaced by ex-Mercyful Fate guitarist Benny Petersen.[5]

More acclaim followed with their second studio album, Future World, released in 1987.[4] It was recorded in Bearsville Studios, New York, with producer Eddie Kramer. The collaboration did not work out and Flemming Rasmusen ended up producing the more hard rocking songs and Kevin Elson produced the more melodic tracks.[6] Bonfire guitarist Angel Schleifer joined as touring guitarist in 1987-88.

1990s

[edit]

The 1990 follow up Jump the Gun, with new guitarist Ricky Marx and produced by Deep Purple bassist Roger Glover,[7] offered more of the same catchy riffs. The band more or less broke up after the lack of success with this record, leaving only founding members Ron Atkins and Ken Hammer.

They would not quit so recruited drummer Michael Fast and bass player Kenn Jackson, and went on to record Sin-Decade in 1992, once again teaming up with Metallica's producer Flemming Rasmussen. The album produced the hit single "Please Don't Leave Me" - a John Sykes/Phil Lynott cover which opened the band up to an even wider audience.

The band did very well in Japan in the first half of the 1990s and have a large fanbase there.

In 1995 however, the band surprised the fans and critics by releasing the storming Scream. This was an altogether heavier and guitar-lead approach which gained numerous plaudits and saw the band release their first live album, Screamin' Live.

The follow-up Spooked, released in 1997, was regarded by many as an instant classic, maintaining the energy and heaviness of Scream whilst still capturing the quintessential melody that is Pretty Maids.

1999's Anything Worth Doing Is Worth Overdoing produced the commercial, hard driving rock song Hell on High Heels.

2000s

[edit]
Pretty Maids in 2007

In 2000, the band released the album Carpe Diem, which was more melodic than their previous offerings, disappointing certain factions of their fan-base.

In 2002, Pretty Maids released the album Planet Panic which was a trip back to the heavier sides of their catalogue.

In 2003, their management company Rock On went bankrupt due to some unwise business moves in September 2002. This left Pretty Maids in a bad financial situation and also left them with a lot of legal problems as well as lot of business and copyright mess.

Lead guitarist Ken Hammer had a heart attack on 6 December 2003. He has since recovered completely and has been on stage numerous times since the incident.

As of July 2005, the drummer since 1991, Michael Fast, decided to leave before the recording of Wake Up to the Real World - an album that was originally intended to be released in 2005, but the initial recordings was postponed to the summer of 2006. In April 2006, new drummer Allan Tschicaja (Royal Hunt, Kingdom Come) was announced as Michael Fast's replacement. In 2006, Morten Sandager (ex-Mercenary) joined Pretty Maids, playing the keyboards.

2010s

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On 14 May 2010, Pretty Maids released their twelfth studio album, Pandemonium, through Frontiers Records, which was a fantastic "comeback album" although they never had been gone. First single released from the album was Little Drops Of Heaven.[8] In April 2010, Pretty Maids announced that they have parted ways with bass player Kenn Jackson.[9] In May 2010, it was announced that American bass player Hal Patino (formerly of King Diamond) had temporarily replaced Jackson.[6] Patino announced in April 2011 that he had left Pretty Maids.[7]

Celebrating their 30th anniversary, Pretty Maids played a concert at Tivoli, Copenhagen, which featured Rene Shades [Mike Tramp] on bass.

On 15 September 2012, Pretty Maids played in the US for the first time at the ProgPower festival.

Pretty Maids released their thirteenth studio album Motherland on 22 March in Europe and on 26 March in North America through Frontiers Records. Ronnie Atkins has called it the band's "best album song by song".[8]

In December 2015, Pretty Maids announced that their fifteenth studio album is set to be released in 2016.[10]

In February 2016, Pretty Maids announced that keyboard player Morten Sandager had left the band.[11] In September 2016, Pretty Maids announced that Chris Laney has joined the band, playing keyboards and guitars.

Pretty Maids released their fifteenth studio album Kingmaker on 4 November 2016 through Frontiers Records.

On 1 May 2017 it was announced that drummer Allan Tschicaja had left the band. In a statement he said: "It’s been a difficult decision for me, but I want to focus more on family, friends and other projects."[12] He was replaced by Allan Sørensen on 9 May 2017, where he played for the first time with Pretty Maids on their opening slot for Kiss in Horsens, Denmark.[13]

On 9 July 2019 it was announced that Pretty Maids were forced to cancel their September 2019 ProgPower appearance due to personnel changes. The band's latest album Undress Your Madness was released in November 2019.

2020s

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In March 2020, the band's lead singer and frontman Ronnie Atkins revealed that he had been diagnosed with lung cancer at the end of 2019.[14] Despite the initial treatment proving successful, his cancer went out of remission in October 2020. In 2021, Atkins released his debut solo album One Shot in lieu of touring or working in the studio with Pretty Maids, mainly for health and logistical reasons.[15] Ken Hammer was also doing side projects around that time[16] and in 2022 he released the album Taboo with H.E.R.O. vocalist Christoffer Stjerne.[17]

In November 2021, the band released two authorized books. One in Danish called "40 år med Pretty Maids", based on interviews with Ken Hammer and Ronnie Atkins. "We Came To Rock – The Official Pretty Maids Journals" is written in English and based on interviews with former and present members of the band, managers etc as well as a journal of the whereabouts for 40 years.[18]

In June 2024, Pretty Maids returned to the stage after a five year break and performed a few shows including at Copenhell 2024 festival[19] and the Time To Rock festival in Sweden.[16]

Influences and legacy

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Pretty Maids have on various occasions mentioned Thin Lizzy, Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple, Kiss, Icon, Slade, and Queen as some of their influences.[10]

Over the years, they have recorded cover songs from many of these influences, including their most famous hit to date: A 1992 cover of John Sykes' ballad, "Please Don't Leave Me".

Pretty Maids' song "Back to Back" from their debut album Red, Hot and Heavy was covered by two Swedish metal bands; HammerFall on their Legacy of Kings album in 1998, and Arch Enemy on their Will to Power album in 2017.[20]

Band members

[edit]
Main article: List of Pretty Maids band members

Current

  • Ken Hammer — lead guitar, backing vocals (1981–present)
  • Ronnie Atkins — lead vocals (1981–present)
  • Rene Shades — bass, backing vocals (2011–present), rhythm guitar (2004, touring)
  • Allan Tschicaja — drums (2006–2017, 2019–present)
  • Chris Laney — keyboards, rhythm guitar (2016–present)

Discography

[edit]
Main article: Pretty Maids discography

Studio albums

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Pretty Maids

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Pretty Maids is a Danish melodic heavy metal band formed in 1981 in by vocalist and guitarist Ken Hammer. The group initially operated as a performing songs by influences such as before transitioning to original material in 1982, developing a sound characterized by guitar-driven , soaring melodies, and elements of . Over their four-decade career, Pretty Maids has released sixteen studio albums, beginning with their debut Red Hot and Heavy in 1984 and culminating in Undress Your Madness in 2019, alongside several live recordings and compilations. Notable releases include the critically acclaimed Future World (1987), which solidified their international presence, particularly in Japan where they achieved significant popularity, and later works like Pandemonium (2010) and Kingmaker (2016) that maintained their blend of classic heavy metal with modern production. The band underwent lineup changes in the early 1990s but continued releasing music, and after a hiatus from 2020 to 2024 prompted by lead singer Ronnie Atkins' lung cancer diagnosis in 2019, they returned to performing at festivals in 2024 while staying true to their roots in the 1980s heavy metal scene. The current lineup features the longstanding core of Atkins on lead vocals and Hammer on lead guitar, joined by René Shades on bass, Allan Tschicaja on drums, and Chris Laney on keyboards and . Previous members have included bassists like Allan Delong and drummers such as Phil Moorheed, reflecting lineup changes over the years while preserving the band's signature dual-guitar attack and Atkins' powerful vocals. Pretty Maids continues to represent Denmark's enduring contribution to melodic heavy metal, with a discography that spans from their early polished NWOBHM-inspired efforts to more contemporary explorations.

History

1980s

Pretty Maids formed in , , in 1981 as a specializing in material, initially consisting of Ken Hammer, bassist John Darrow, and drummer Phil Moorhead. Vocalist Ronnie Atkins joined the following year, prompting a transition to original compositions and solidifying the band's core duo of Atkins and Hammer. With the addition of second Pete Collins and Alan Owen, the group recorded and self-released a demo in 1983 before issuing their self-titled debut EP later that year on Bullet Records. The EP, featuring tracks like "City Light," "Shelly the Maid," and "Bad Boys," showcased a melodic heavy metal style influenced by the New Wave of British Heavy Metal, and its release was supported by the band's first major tour in the . Building on the EP's momentum, Pretty Maids signed with CBS Records and released their debut full-length album, Red, Hot and Heavy, on October 29, 1984. The album, produced by Charlie Bauerfeind, included standout songs such as the title track, "Yellow Leaves," and "Fight to Survive," blending aggressive riffs with Atkins' soaring vocals and Hammer's dual-guitar work alongside Collins. Bassist Darrow was replaced by Allan Delong during recording, marking an early lineup shift, while the band toured Europe extensively in promotion, including opening slots for Saxon and appearances at festivals like Heavy Sound Festival in Belgium. This period established Pretty Maids as a rising force in the European metal scene, with the album achieving moderate chart success and strong sales in Japan. The band's second album, Future World, arrived on April 20, 1987, also via and produced by , known for his work with Metallica. Featuring anthemic tracks like the title song, "We Stand as One," and "Love Games," it refined their sound with polished production, keyboards, and power-ballad elements, earning critical acclaim for its accessibility and earning placements on charts. Supported by international tours, including headlining dates in and —where they cultivated a dedicated fanbase—Future World solidified Pretty Maids' reputation, with the lineup of Atkins, , Collins, Delong, Moorhead, and Owen remaining stable through the decade's end. By the late , amid the shifting metal landscape, the band had released two landmark albums that defined their melodic heavy rock identity.

1990s

In the early 1990s, Pretty Maids released their third studio album, Jump the Gun, on June 25, 1990, via CBS Records, marking a shift toward a more accessible sound produced by . The album included tracks like "Don't Settle for Less" and "Savage Heart," but achieved limited commercial success globally, performing best in where the band built a dedicated fanbase. They also issued the EP In Santa's Claws and Lethal Heroes that same year. The band supported the release with the Jump the Gun Tour, performing across and , including shows in and . Following the tour, Pretty Maids underwent significant lineup changes in , as bassist Allan Delong, rhythm guitarist Ricky Marx, and drummer Phil Moorhead departed due to the band's failure to break through , leading to a brief hiatus. Vocalist and guitarist Ken Hammer reformed the group, recruiting drummer Michael Fast and bassist Kenn Jackson to stabilize the core sound. The rise of during this period severely impacted their visibility, with Atkins later describing it as "so depressing" for displacing the upbeat '80s scene on radio and , resulting in plummeting album and tour sales. Pretty Maids released Sin-Decade on February 24, 1992, via Columbia Records, which yielded the Japan hit single "Please Don't Leave Me" and reinforced their regional popularity there. They followed with the acoustic-focused Stripped in 1993, which highlighted ballads from their catalog. Their fifth studio album Scream arrived in 1994, produced by Flemming Rasmussen and Pretty Maids, featuring heavier riffs on tracks like "Psycho Tea" and accompanied by the live release Scream It Out capturing European tour performances. Touring remained focused on Europe and Japan, including festival appearances like Roskilde in 1997. By the decade's end, Spooked arrived on February 19, 1997, via Massacre Records, blending melodic metal with orchestral elements, while Anything Worth Doing Is Worth Overdoing closed the era in 1999 with singles like "Hell on High Heels," maintaining their reputation for consistent output amid industry shifts.

2000s

In the early 2000s, Pretty Maids continued their studio output with , their ninth full-length , released on November 29, 2000, by Massacre Records. This record marked a shift toward a more melodic sound compared to their heavier work, featuring tracks like "Violent Tribe" and "Clay" that emphasized catchy hooks and emotional ballads. The album received mixed reception from fans expecting a return to their classic heavy metal roots, but it showcased the band's versatility under the core duo of vocalist and guitarist Ken Hammer, supported by drummer Michael Fast and bassist Kenn Jackson. Following , the band released Planet Panic on April 15, 2002, also through Massacre Records, which leaned back into heavier riffs and with songs such as "Virtual Brutality" and "Playing God." This tenth studio album was produced with a polished sound that blended their melodic sensibilities with aggressive elements, though it did not achieve significant commercial breakthrough. In 2003, Pretty Maids issued their first live album, Alive at Least, recorded during performances in and released on May 12 by XIII Bis Records, capturing energetic renditions of classics like "Red, Hot and Heavy" and newer material to affirm their presence amid a period of relative touring activity in . Drummer Michael Fast departed in 2005 and was replaced by Allan Tschicaja for subsequent releases. After Planet Panic, Pretty Maids entered a four-year recording hiatus, focusing on sporadic live shows rather than new material, which some attributed to internal creative reevaluation and label transitions. This break ended with the release of Wake Up to the Real World on November 10, 2006, via Steamhammer/SPV, a long-awaited comeback that revitalized their career with raw, heavy tracks like the title song and "All in the Name of Love," produced to recapture their intensity while incorporating modern production. The 's success prompted renewed touring, including a European headlining run in November 2008 supporting select dates, marking the end of their international touring lull and setting the stage for increased activity.

2010s

In the early 2010s, Pretty Maids released their twelfth studio album, Pandemonium, on May 14, 2010, via Frontiers Records, marking a return to form with heavy riffs and melodic hooks that revitalized their sound after a four-year gap. The album featured tracks like "Little Drops of Heaven" and "Pandemonium," produced by the band's core duo of vocalist and guitarist Ken Hammer, emphasizing their signature blend of and heavy metal. Bassist Kenn Jackson departed in April 2010, with Hal Patino playing on the album; René Shades joined in 2011. To promote it, the band embarked on the , performing 147 shows across , , and in 2010 alone, including headlining slots at festivals like Sweden Rock and Firefest. Following the tour's success, Pretty Maids issued their first live album in over a decade, It Comes Alive - Maid in Switzerland, on April 27, 2012, capturing performances from a 2011 show in Pratteln, Switzerland, with re-recorded tracks and new arrangements to showcase their enduring stage energy. The release bridged their past catalog with contemporary vigor, including live renditions of classics like "Future World" alongside newer material. In 2013, they delivered their thirteenth studio album, Motherland, on March 22 via Frontiers Records, exploring themes of heritage and resilience through songs such as "Mother of All Lies" and "Sad to See You Suffer," recorded at Atkins' own Medley Studio in Copenhagen. Keyboards were handled by Morten Sandager during this period. The Motherland Tour followed, with 13 documented concerts primarily in Europe, reinforcing their dedicated fanbase in Scandinavia and Germany. The band maintained momentum into the mid-decade with Louder Than Ever, their fourteenth studio album, released on March 21, 2014, by Frontiers Records, which leaned into anthemic choruses and guitar-driven intensity on tracks like "Deranged" and "A Gain in Pain." This era saw continued touring, including the Louder Tour with stops in key European venues. By 2016, arrived on November 4 via Frontiers Records, their fifteenth studio effort, noted for its polished production and socially conscious lyrics in songs such as "" and "Face the World," once again helmed by Atkins and . Chris Laney joined on keyboards and rhythm guitar in September 2016. The World Tour encompassed 94 performances worldwide, highlighting their global appeal with appearances in and extensive European legs. Closing the decade, Pretty Maids released Undress Your Madness on November 8, , through Frontiers Records, their sixteenth studio album, delving into personal turmoil with raw energy on cuts like "" and "Will I Lose My Way," maintaining their melodic metal core while experimenting with atmospheric elements. Accompanying it was the Undress Your Madness Tour, featuring European dates that underscored the band's resilience. Additionally, in , they issued the live compilation A Blast from the Past (Alive at Least), a career-spanning of recordings from various eras, celebrating over three decades of activity. Throughout the , the lineup evolved with Atkins on vocals, guitar, Shades on bass from , Tschicaja on drums, Sandager on keyboards until 2016, and Laney from 2016, allowing consistent creative output and live performances that solidified their status in the scene.

2020s

In the early 2020s, Pretty Maids entered a hiatus following the late 2019 diagnosis of frontman with stage four , which led to the cancellation of planned tour dates and a pause in band activities. During this period, Atkins focused on his health and released his debut solo album, One Shot, in 2021, featuring collaborations with musicians from and , as a creative outlet amid the band's inactivity. The band remained dormant for live performances until June 2024, when they returned to the stage after nearly five years for a set at the Copenhell festival in , , marking their first show since the hiatus. This reunion performance was followed by an appearance at the Jailbreak festival in their hometown of later that summer, their debut at the event. In March 2025, Pretty Maids performed aboard the Monsters of Rock Cruise, sailing from to . By April 2025, the band was actively discussing the possibility of new music, with Atkins stating that the members were "seriously talking about making new music again," though no recording timeline had been set, as he prioritized a second solo album first. The band performed at Lion Rock Fest in Spain on November 8, 2025, with additional shows scheduled, including December 6, 2025, in Aarhus, Denmark, and club dates in Sweden later that year. No new studio album or major releases from Pretty Maids have materialized as of November 2025, with the group focusing on select live engagements.

Musical style and influences

Musical style

Pretty Maids are renowned for their melodic heavy metal sound, which blends aggressive guitar riffs with soaring, anthemic melodies. The band's style is characterized by powerful, high-pitched vocals delivered by lead singer , often alternating between gritty and soaring tones to heighten emotional impact. Complementing this are dual guitar harmonies from Ken Hammer and supporting players, creating layered, riff-driven structures that emphasize catchiness without sacrificing heaviness. Keyboards play a prominent role in their arrangements, adding atmospheric depth and melodic hooks that distinguish their music within the heavy metal genre. This integration of synth elements with foundations results in a polished, radio-friendly edge, particularly evident in their choruses, which frequently feature gang vocals and uplifting progressions. Early works like their 1984 debut Red, Hot and Heavy leaned toward faster tempos and raw energy, while later albums refined this into a more mature approach, maintaining melodic accessibility. As of 2025, the band continues to perform this style on tours and festivals. Overall, Pretty Maids' style occupies a space between traditional heavy metal and adult-oriented rock (AOR), prioritizing memorable songcraft and production clarity over extreme aggression. Their consistent focus on thematic depth through music—often addressing social issues—further enhances the narrative drive in their compositions.

Influences

Pretty Maids' music draws heavily from the classic and heavy metal traditions of the 1970s and early 1980s, blending melodic elements with powerful riffs and anthemic choruses. Founding members and Ken Hammer have frequently cited a shared for bands that emphasized guitar-driven energy and vocal expressiveness, shaping the duo's songwriting approach since the band's formation in 1981. Ronnie Atkins, the band's lead vocalist, has highlighted , Led Zeppelin, and Queen as pivotal influences, appreciating their blend of heavy rhythms, intricate arrangements, and theatrical flair. He has described 's impact particularly on melody and distinct vocal delivery, noting Ozzy Osbourne's ability to craft memorable lines despite not being a technically flawless singer. Atkins also acknowledges the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) scene, including , , and , for inspiring the band's aggressive yet accessible metal edge during their formative years. Ken Hammer, Pretty Maids' guitarist, points to , , and as his earliest and most enduring inspirations, crediting them for igniting his passion for guitar playing after switching from drums in his youth. These influences are evident in the band's dual-guitar harmonies and bluesy foundations, which Hammer has emulated in Pretty Maids' riff-heavy compositions. The overlap in Atkins' and Hammer's tastes—particularly around and —has fostered a cohesive sound that balances Atkins' heavier leanings with Hammer's melodic rock sensibilities.

Legacy

Critical reception

Pretty Maids' early albums, particularly their 1984 debut Red, Hot and Heavy and 1987 follow-up Future World, received strong praise within the heavy metal and hard rock scenes for their energetic riffs, soaring vocals by Ronnie Atkins, and anthemic choruses that blended NWOBHM influences with melodic accessibility. Critics highlighted Future World as a standout, noting its "headbanging, stomping rockers" and pure melodic drive, which helped establish the band as a key player in European metal during the 1980s. The album's production and songcraft were commended for capturing a sense of urgency and catchiness, contributing to its enduring status as a genre classic. In the and early , reception remained largely positive but showed some mixed responses as the band incorporated more AOR and elements, occasionally drawing criticism for softening their heavier edge. Albums like Planet Panic (2001) elicited disappointment from some reviewers for lacking the memorable hooks and harmonies of prior works, with tracks described as forgettable "b-sides" despite strong moments like the power metal-infused "Playing God." However, efforts such as Pandemonium (2010) were appreciated for their fist-pumping energy and consistent performances from core members Atkins and Ken Hammer, though noted as primarily appealing to dedicated fans rather than broader audiences. Later releases in the 2010s and 2020s, including Motherland (2013) and Kingmaker (2016), reaffirmed Pretty Maids' reputation for high-quality melodic hard rock, with critics lauding their "stunning set of memorable, melodic" songs and top-form musicianship that showed no signs of decline after decades. Louder Than Ever (2014), featuring re-recorded classics alongside new material, was praised for its glossy production and catchy songwriting reminiscent of their 1980s peak, earning a solid 3.5/5 rating for maintaining the band's signature style. Overall, Pretty Maids have been consistently viewed as a reliable force in melodic metal, valued for longevity and hooks, though occasionally critiqued for a commercial polish that distances them from more extreme metal subgenres.

Cultural impact

Pretty Maids have exerted a notable influence on the Scandinavian and European hard rock and heavy metal landscapes, serving as pioneers of a melodic, guitar-driven style that bridged the New Wave of British Heavy Metal with accessible hard rock sensibilities. Formed in 1981, the band introduced this sound through their 1983 debut EP and subsequent albums like Red, Hot and Heavy (1984), helping to define Denmark's early metal scene and inspiring a generation of regional acts with their blend of heavy riffs, soaring vocals, and anthemic choruses. Their longevity—spanning over 40 years and 16 studio albums—has cemented their status as Danish legends. Pretty Maids' ability to evolve while maintaining core melodic elements has kept them relevant, influencing the broader and melodic metal movements through consistent touring and festival appearances across . A tangible measure of their cultural footprint is the enduring appeal of tracks like "Back to Back" from their 1984 debut, which has been covered by major acts including on their 2008 compilation Masterpieces and on their 2019 covers album Covered in Blood, demonstrating how Pretty Maids' combative energy and hooks continue to resonate in the global metal community. As of 2025, the band remains active, with members discussing the possibility of new music following their 2019 release Undress Your Madness.

Band members

Current members

The current lineup of Pretty Maids consists of the band's two founding members along with long-term collaborators who have contributed to recent recordings and tours. As of 2025, the group is actively performing and considering new material following a period of hiatus due to frontman ' health challenges. (born Paul Christensen) serves as lead vocalist and is a co-founder of the band, having joined in 1981 alongside guitarist Ken Hammer in , . He has been the primary songwriter and creative force throughout the band's history, contributing to all studio albums and handling lead vocals on every release. Ken Hammer (born Kenneth Hansen) plays and provides backing vocals, also co-founding the band in 1981. He has remained a constant member, co-writing many of the band's signature songs and performing on all albums since their debut. Rene Shades (born Rene Sehic) handles bass guitar and backing vocals, having joined as a full-time member in 2011 after serving as a temporary bassist during select tours starting in 2004 and making his live debut in April 2011. He has appeared on all releases since the 2013 album Motherland, including the 2016 effort Kingmaker. Allan Tschicaja performs on drums, first joining in April 2006 as a replacement for Michael Fast and contributing to albums from Pandemonium (2010) through Kingmaker (2016). He departed in 2017 but returned in 2020, rejoining for live performances and the band's reactivation in 2024. Chris Laney plays and keyboards, having joined in September 2016 to fill the keyboard role vacated by Morten Sandager. He has since become a key part of the touring and recording lineup, appearing on live releases and contributing to the band's 2024 festival appearances.

Former members

Pretty Maids' lineup has evolved significantly since its formation in 1981, with founding members Ken Hammer and remaining constant, while other positions saw frequent changes, particularly in bass, drums, and keyboards. Early iterations included session musicians and short-term contributors before stabilizing in the late 1980s. A major shift occurred in 1991 when bassist Allan Delong, guitarist Ricky Marx, and original drummer Phil Moorheed departed following unsuccessful U.S. promotion efforts, leading to a brief band hiatus and subsequent reformation with new recruits. The rhythm section underwent the most turnover. On bass, (also known as Johnny Møller) played from 1981 to 1983, contributing to the band's initial phase and debut EP. He was succeeded by Allan Delong (real name Allan Klitgård Jensen), who served from 1983 to 1991 and appeared on key early albums like Red, Hot and Heavy (1984) and Future World (1987). Pedersen took over from 1991 to 1999, supporting the band's transition through the 1990s. Kenn Jackson (Ken Jacobsen) handled bass duties from 1999 to 2010, departing amid a period of lineup instability. Hal Patino (ex-King ) joined temporarily as bassist from 2010 to 2011, filling in after Jackson's exit before Rene Shades assumed the role. Drummers also rotated frequently to accommodate touring and recording demands. Phil Moorheed (Henrik Andersen) was the original drummer from 1981 to 1991, performing on the debut EP and Red, Hot and Heavy. Michael Fast held the position from 1991 to 2005, contributing to albums such as Wish for the Moon (1990) and Anything Worth Doing Is Worth Doing Well (2003). Allan Sørensen (ex-Royal Hunt) served briefly from May 2017 to July 2019, recording drums for Stage Struck (2019) before parting ways amicably. Additional guitarists augmented Hammer's leads in the band's formative years. Pete Collins (Jan Piet Sørensen) co-led guitars from 1981 to 1983, appearing on the 1983 EP. Ricky Hansson filled in briefly on guitar in 1984. Later, Ricky Marx (Henrik Mark) joined as second guitarist from 1990 to 1991, playing on Jump the Gun (1990) during a push for international appeal. Keyboards were introduced for melodic enhancement starting in the mid-1980s. Alan Owen (Allan Nielsen) provided keyboards from 1983 through the early 1990s, featured on albums like Future World and Wish for the Moon. Dominic Gale contributed keyboards from 1990 to 1994, adding orchestral elements to Jump the Gun. Morten Sandager (ex-Mercenary) handled keyboards from 2006 to 2016, supporting the progressive shift on Pandemonium (2010) and later releases including Motherland (2013) and Kingmaker (2016).
InstrumentName (Real Name)Years ActiveNotable Contributions
BassJohn Darrow (Johnny Møller)1981–1983Debut EP (1983)
BassAllan Delong (Allan Klitgård Jensen)1983–1991Red, Hot and Heavy (1984), Future World (1987)
BassIvan Pedersen1991–19991990s albums including Carpe Diem (1992)
BassKenn Jackson (Ken Jacobsen)1999–2010Anything Worth Doing Is Worth Doing Well (2003)
BassHal Patino2010–2011 (temporary)Touring and recordings post-2010
DrumsPhil Moorheed (Henrik Andersen)1981–1991Red, Hot and Heavy (1984)
DrumsMichael Fast1991–2005Wish for the Moon (1990), Anything Worth Doing Is Worth Doing Well (2003)
DrumsAllan Sørensen2017–2019Stage Struck (2019)
GuitarPete Collins (Jan Piet Sørensen)1981–1983Pretty Maids EP (1983)
GuitarRicky Hansson1984Session work in 1984
GuitarRicky Marx (Henrik Mark)1990–1991Jump the Gun (1990)
KeyboardsAlan Owen (Allan Nielsen)1983–early 1990sFuture World (1987), Wish for the Moon (1990)
KeyboardsDominic Gale1990–1994Jump the Gun (1990)
KeyboardsMorten Sandager2006–2016Pandemonium (2010), Kingmaker (2016)

Discography

Studio albums

Pretty Maids has released 16 studio albums since their debut in 1984, showcasing their evolution from hard rock roots to melodic heavy metal with progressive and power metal influences across various labels.
YearAlbum TitleLabel
1984Red, Hot and HeavyCBS
1987Future WorldCBS
1990Jump the GunEpic
1992Sin-DecadeEpic
1993StrippedEpic
1994ScreamMassacre
1997SpookedScandinavian
1999Anything Worth Doing Is Worth OverdoingScandinavian
2000Carpe DiemMassacre
2002Planet PanicFrontiers
2006Wake Up to the Real WorldFrontiers
2010PandemoniumFrontiers
2013MotherlandFrontiers
2014Louder Than EverFrontiers
2016KingmakerFrontiers
2019Undress Your MadnessFrontiers

Live albums

Pretty Maids has released four live albums, showcasing their high-energy performances and fan-favorite tracks from various stages of their career. These recordings highlight the band's ability to translate their studio sound to the stage, often featuring extended sets with classics from their catalog.
TitleRelease YearLabelRecording Details
Screamin' Live1995Epic RecordsRecorded live at Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen, Denmark, on June 20, 1995, capturing a 14-track set including songs from Scream and earlier albums like "Rock the House" and "Sin-Decade." [] (https://www.discogs.com/release/3633660-Pretty-Maids-Screamin-Live)
Alive at Least2003Scandinavian RecordsDouble live album recorded during tours in Japan (Tokyo and Osaka, March 2001) and Germany (Hamburg and Bochum, April 2002), mixed at Jailhouse Studio in Denmark; features 20 tracks spanning their discography up to Planet Panic. [] (https://www.discogs.com/release/3743130-Pretty-Maids-Alive-At-Least)
It Comes Alive (Maid in Switzerland)2012Frontiers RecordsRecorded at Z7 in Pratteln, Switzerland, on November 11, 2011; a two-CD/DVD set with 18 songs, emphasizing their melodic hard rock style and including rarities like "Worthless". [] (https://www.metal-archives.com/albums/Pretty_Maids/It_Comes_Alive_%28Maid_in_Switzerland%29/1070170)
Maid in Japan: Future World Live 30th Anniversary2020Frontiers Music SrlFilmed and recorded at Nakano Sun Plaza in Tokyo, Japan, on October 30, 2019, celebrating the 30th anniversary of Future World; includes a full performance of the album plus additional hits, available in CD/DVD and Blu-ray formats. [] (https://www.discogs.com/master/1742713-Pretty-Maids-Maid-In-Japan)
These live releases demonstrate the band's enduring appeal in the heavy metal scene, with each album reflecting evolving setlists and production quality over decades.

Other releases

Pretty Maids have issued various compilations, EPs, singles, and box sets outside their studio and live albums, often featuring early material, holiday tracks, or career retrospectives. These releases highlight the band's evolution from their formative years to later anniversary celebrations.

Compilations

The band's compilations include collections of hits and rarities. The Best of... Back to Back (1998), released by , compiles 12 tracks from their early albums, such as "Back to Back" and "Dead or Alive," spanning their melodic era. A reissue appeared in 2004. First Cuts ...And Then Some (1999), issued by Bullet Records, gathers pre-debut demos and early songs like "City Light" and "Fantasy" from 1983 sessions, offering insight into their initial sound before Red, Hot and Heavy. It includes seven tracks, including a Christmas-themed closer "In Santa's Claws." Two Originals (2003), a budget compilation from , bundles full albums Future World (1987) and Jump the Gun (1990) as a two-CD set, targeting fans seeking accessible entry points to their 1980s output. Original Album Classics (2016), released by , is a four-CD remastering Red, Hot and Heavy (1984), Future World (1987), Jump the Gun (1990), and Sin-Decade (1992), preserving their classic heavy metal phase with updated artwork.

EPs

Early EPs capture the band's raw energy. The self-titled Pretty Maids EP (1983), an independent release, features four tracks: "Shelly the Maid," "Bad Boys," "City Light," and "Fantasy," recorded as demos that influenced their debut. Waitin' for the Time EP (1984), on Records, includes the title track alongside "Lethal Heroes" and live cuts, serving as a promotional precursor to their breakthrough album. Red, Hot and Heavy EP (1985), also via , expands on the album's title track with B-sides like "A Place in the Night," emphasizing their anthemic style. Later EPs include Love Games (1984, Easy Sound Recording), a four-track mini-album with the title song and covers, showcasing pre-label material. Off-Side EP (1992, / ), features alternative takes and rarities from the 1980s. Pretty Maids Shape Edition EP (1999, shaped CD format by Epic), a limited promotional item, collects "Destination Paradise," "Love and a Fiction," "Forever and Eternal," "Walk Away," and a Kiss cover "."

Singles

Singles often promoted albums or marked special occasions. "In Santa's Claws" (1999, Bullet Records), a single, blends rock with festive themes and appears on compilations. Later digital singles include "Mother of All Lies" (2013, Frontiers Records) from Motherland, and "Sad to See You Suffer" (2013), both acoustic-oriented tracks.

Box Sets

A Blast from the Past (2019, Frontiers Music Srl), a 12-CD , compiles remastered studio albums plus bonus live disc Alive at Least, celebrating 35 years with extensive and memorabilia. It underscores the band's enduring catalog.

References

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