FELS: Tirolian Hard Rock Band Announces 2026 Concert & Debut Album Release

The Tiroler Unterland is gearing up for a double celebration as FELS, a melodic hard rock band hailing from Wörgl, prepares to rock the Komma Wörgl on March 28, 2026. The concert isn’t just a performance; it’s a joint 50th birthday bash for lead singer Mario Hirzinger and bassist Matthias Fischler. Tickets are available through oeticket.com, Bücher Zangerl, and directly at the KOMMA Wörgl office and via komma.at.

FELS, formed in 2018, has carved out a unique soundscape blending hard rock and metal influences with melodic sensibilities, layered synths, and progressive rock elements. The band’s origins trace back to a local cover band, but the members—Hirzinger, Christian Haller, Martin Haselwanter, Fischler, Reinhard Schipflinger, and Nate Matlack—decided to refocus on original compositions, a path they’d previously explored in earlier projects like Serenity, Zeus, and Avon.

From Symphonic Metal to Unfettered Rock

Mario Hirzinger’s musical journey provides a fascinating backdrop to FELS’ current trajectory. He previously spent time as a keyboardist with the symphonic metal band Serenity, departing in 2012 after a particularly memorable performance at the ProgPower Festival in the USA. As Hirzinger explained at the time, he sought a creative environment with fewer boundaries. “Serenity was a bit too symphonic for me,” he stated, finding in FELS the freedom to explore a wider range of musical influences. The Rofankurier details this transition, highlighting Hirzinger’s desire for a more expansive creative outlet.

Matthias Fischler, the band’s bassist, as well brings a wealth of experience to the table, having performed before audiences of up to 6,000 people at a Feuerwehrfest (fire department festival) in Vorarlberg. This collective experience—spanning 19 different bands among the six members—forms a solid foundation for FELS’ creative endeavors.

“An Exercise In Balance” and the Band’s Evolution

In 2023, FELS released their debut album, “An Exercise In Balance,” on CD, vinyl, and digital platforms. The album encapsulates the band’s diverse musical tastes, drawing inspiration from artists like Metallica, Ronny James Dio, Alter Bridge, Deep Purple, Van Halen, and Dream Theater. The band doesn’t attempt to neatly categorize their sound, instead embracing a broad definition of “rock” that allows for experimentation and a fusion of genres. This approach is reflected in the album’s blend of hard rock energy, melodic vocals, and subtle progressive rock flourishes.

The Unterland Scene and Beyond

FELS’ roots are firmly planted in the Tiroler Unterland music scene. Their live debut took place in December 2023 at the Stagebar of the Komma Wörgl, a venue that has also hosted Serenity in the past, even sharing a stage with the legendary Ronnie James Dio in 2004. The band’s connection to the Komma Wörgl underscores their commitment to the local music community and provides a familiar and supportive environment for their upcoming birthday celebration.

A Double Milestone, A Single Stage

The decision to combine Hirzinger and Fischler’s 50th birthday celebrations into a single concert speaks to the close bond within the band. It’s a chance for FELS to not only showcase their music but also to share a personal milestone with their fans. The Komma Wörgl, with its established history of hosting diverse musical acts, provides the perfect setting for this special event.

What’s on the Horizon for FELS?

Following the 2×50-PARTY, FELS will likely continue to build on the momentum generated by “An Exercise In Balance.” While no specific tour dates or future album plans have been publicly announced, the band’s dedication to creativity and their strong musical foundation suggest a continued commitment to producing and performing original music. The band’s website and social media channels remain the best sources for updates on their future activities. Recent news from the Unterland region, while focused on unrelated incidents like rockfalls, highlights the area’s vibrant community and potential for attracting music fans. Another incident in the Unterland, a car accident, serves as a reminder of the region’s dynamic landscape and the importance of safe travel for concertgoers.

For fans of melodic hard rock with a progressive edge, FELS’ 2×50-PARTY at the Komma Wörgl on March 28, 2026, promises to be a memorable evening. The combination of a milestone celebration, a talented band, and a well-respected venue creates a compelling event for music lovers in the Tiroler Unterland and beyond.