In a recent interview on Side Jams with Bryan Reesman, VOLBEAT frontman Michael Poulsen revealed his deep admiration for boxing and how it transformed his life. Known for his powerful stage presence, Poulsen credits Danish boxing champion Mikkel Kessler for helping him overcome alcoholism, lose weight, and regain mental clarity. This journey not only reshaped his personal life but also influenced VOLBEAT’s latest album, “God Of Angels Trust.”

The Power of Transformation Through Boxing

The world of boxing has long been a source of inspiration for many, and for Michael Poulsen, it became a lifeline. At a pivotal moment in his career, when excessive drinking began to take its toll, Poulsen found solace in the discipline of boxing. His father’s influence during childhood, combined with the guidance of Mikkel Kessler, set him on a path to sobriety and fitness. Kessler, known for his own battles in the ring, crafted a rigorous plan for Poulsen that included dieting and recovery techniques. This structured approach helped Poulsen shed 25 kilos and emerge as a healthier individual.Boxing, Poulsen discovered, was more than just a sport; it was a philosophy. The discipline required in training mirrored the dedication needed to excel in music. By incorporating these principles into his daily routine, Poulsen not only improved his physical health but also enhanced his mental well-being. The transformation was profound, leading to a renewed sense of purpose both personally and professionally.

A Legacy of Fighters: Inspirations Beyond the Ring

Poulsen’s admiration for fighters extends beyond those who have directly impacted his life. He holds legendary boxers like Muhammad Ali and Sonny Liston in high regard, appreciating their contributions to the sport and their cultural significance. However, his appreciation is not limited to historical figures. Modern athletes such as Oleksandr Usyk and the Klitschko brothers have also inspired him. Usyk, in particular, resonates deeply with Poulsen due to his ambassadorial role in promoting peace and unity within Ukraine.Usyk’s victories are celebrated not merely for their athletic prowess but for the messages they convey. As an advocate for his country, Usyk exemplifies the qualities Poulsen admires most: talent, craftsmanship, and integrity. These attributes inspire Poulsen both as a musician and as a person, reinforcing the values he strives to embody in his own life.

Reinventing Creativity: The Making of “God Of Angels Trust”

The impact of Poulsen’s transformation extended into VOLBEAT’s creative process, culminating in the release of “God Of Angels Trust.” Departing from previous methods, Poulsen adopted a freer approach to songwriting, eschewing rigid structures in favor of spontaneity. This shift allowed him to explore new musical landscapes, resulting in a collection of tracks that reflect his evolving perspective.During the summer of 2024, Poulsen embarked on this ambitious project, balancing recovery from throat surgery with composing fresh material. Collaborating closely with bandmates Jon and Kaspar Boye Larsen, they produced half the album in just three weeks. Their rapid progress underscored the benefits of working instinctively rather than adhering strictly to conventions. This method encouraged experimentation and innovation, yielding songs rich in diversity and depth.

Capturing Authenticity: Recording Under Pressure

Entering the studio with producer Jacob Hansen in the fall of 2024, VOLBEAT embraced urgency and immediacy in their recording sessions. To preserve the raw energy of their performances, the band opted for live recordings, minimizing retakes to maintain authenticity. This technique ensured that each track retained its unique character, capturing the essence of VOLBEAT’s sound while pushing boundaries.Lead guitarist Flemming C. Lund played a crucial role in enhancing the album’s texture. His contributions added layers of complexity, elevating the overall production quality. Remarkably, VOLBEAT completed the entire album in a mere 13 days, testament to their seamless collaboration and shared vision. The result is a cohesive body of work that reflects Poulsen’s growth and evolution as an artist.

Connecting Globally: The Greatest Of All Tours Worldwide

With the release of “God Of Angels Trust,” VOLBEAT embarks on an extensive tour titled “Greatest Of All Tours Worldwide.” Scheduled to commence in June 2025, the tour promises electrifying performances across North America and Europe. Co-headlining with THREE DAYS GRACE in Canada and featuring special guests like HALESTORM and BUSH, VOLBEAT aims to deliver unforgettable experiences to fans worldwide.Each stop on the tour represents an opportunity for Poulsen to share his journey and connect with audiences on a deeper level. Whether through his music or stories of resilience, Poulsen continues to inspire others, proving that transformation is possible with determination and perseverance.