POWERRAGE, Featuring Former EXCITER Guitarist JOHN RICCI, Announces New Singer JO STEEL

POWERRAGE, the band led by former EXCITER guitarist John Ricci, has named Jo Steel of ICE WAR as its new vocalist. The Ottawa group said it was excited to continue making metal and confirmed that US shows are planned, with dates to be announced later.

The appointment follows the band’s search for a singer after Jacques Bélanger’s apparent departure. The current line-up also includes bassist Todd Pilon and drummer Lucas Dery; Bélanger sang on POWERRAGE’s debut album, *Beast*, released in April 2026, as well as three EXCITER albums. Ricci has described POWERRAGE as a new project that retains elements of EXCITER’s musical identity while pursuing a different direction.