Interviews About Albums: ETERNAL FLAME - MAN OR GOD (2026)
1. What can you say about this new EP/CD?
“MAN OR GOD” is our fifth studio album and represents a new chapter in the history of Michael Schinkel’s ETERNAL FLAME. The album combines the melodic power of classic ’80s hard rock with the intensity of neoclassical metal, powerful guitar work, and strong melodies. Featuring the outstanding vocals of Mark Boals (ex-Yngwie Malmsteen, Ring of Fire, Dokken), along with special guest appearances by Göran Edman and Alessandro Del Vecchio, the album brings together some exceptional talent. Musically, “MAN OR GOD” delivers everything we love about melodic hard rock and neoclassical metal, while exploring themes of power, faith, human nature, and the fine line between good and evil. We wanted to create an album that sounds powerful, melodic, and timeless, while staying true to our musical roots. We are very proud of the result and can’t wait for people to hear it when it is released on October 30, 2026, via Fastball Music.
2. What is the meaning of the EP/CD name?
The title “MAN OR GOD” raises a fundamental question about human nature, power, and belief. What separates man from God, and what happens when human beings begin to believe they have the power to control everything? The title reflects the eternal struggle between humility and arrogance, good and evil, and the desire to rise above our own limitations. It invites the listener to question humanity’s ambitions, decisions, and the consequences of playing God. Ultimately, “MAN OR GOD” is not about providing simple answers, but about raising questions that have fascinated mankind throughout history.
3. Which one is the composer of the CD/EP?
The music on “MAN OR GOD” was co-written and composed by Michael Schinkel and Helmut Kohlpaintner, keyboardist of ETERNAL FLAME. The lyrics were written by Timothy Touchton and Tommy Wagner.
4. If you had to pick one song, which one would you pick?
That’s a really difficult question for me, because I honestly love all the songs on the album. Each track has its own character, atmosphere, and story to tell. We put a lot of passion and heart into every song, and each one means something special to me. So, I wouldn’t want to pick just one favorite. I believe “MAN OR GOD” should be experienced as a whole, with every song contributing to the album’s overall spirit.
5. Is there a special message in this EP/CD? If there is what it is?
Yes, there is a deeper message behind “MAN OR GOD.” The album explores human nature, power, faith, and the choices we make in life. It raises questions about the boundaries between good and evil, humility and arrogance, and what happens when human beings believe they are above everything and everyone.
However, we don’t want to tell people what to think or give them simple answers. Music is a very personal experience, and everyone can interpret our songs in their own way. For us, the most important thing is to make people feel something, think about the world around them, and perhaps discover a different perspective through our music.
6. Are there some lyrics that you'd love to share?
One line that captures the spirit of “RUN” is: “This is the hunt and you are the prey.” For me, this line reflects the feeling of being trapped in a situation where fear takes over and survival becomes the only priority. It fits the dark atmosphere of the song and leaves room for listeners to interpret the story in their own way.
7. Which inspirations have been important for this album?
Like musically, or friends, family, someone you'd love to thank specially? - Our musical inspirations come mainly from the classic hard rock and heavy metal of the ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s. Guitarists like Ritchie Blackmore, Tony Iommi, Yngwie Malmsteen, and John Norum have all influenced my musical journey in different ways — from powerful riffs and dark atmospheres to neoclassical melodies and expressive guitar playing. These influences are part of my musical DNA, but with ETERNAL FLAME, we always aim to combine them with our own identity and a strong sense of melody.
I’d especially like to thank Helmut Kohlpaintner, who co-wrote the music with me, as well as Timothy Touchton and Tommy Wagner for their lyrics. A special thank you goes to Mark Boals, Göran Edman, and Alessandro Del Vecchio for their outstanding contributions to the album.
Finally, I’m grateful to our families, friends, and fans for their continued support over the years. Without the people who believe in what we do, making an album like “MAN OR GOD” would not be the same.
8. Something to add?
First of all, we would like to thank everyone who has supported ETERNAL FLAME over the years. It means a lot to us to still be making music and sharing our passion for melodic hard rock and neoclassical metal.
We are incredibly proud of “MAN OR GOD” and hope that both longtime fans and new listeners will enjoy this album as much as we enjoyed creating it. A big thank you also to the magazine for giving us the opportunity to talk about our music.
“MAN OR GOD” will be released on October 30, 2026, via Fastball Music.
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