🤘 The legendary German heavy metal machine, ACCEPT, is once again proving that change is an inherent part of their power chord playbook. In a move that has resonated across the metal community, the band announced in late September 2025 that they are returning to their traditional two-guitar lineup, marking the amicable departure of rhythm guitarist Uwe Lulis after a decade of service.
This isn’t just a simple lineup change; it’s a strategic realignment that harks back to the core sonic architecture that built the band’s legendary status, even as they gear up to celebrate an incredible 50th Anniversary milestone.
The Decisive Return to the Duet
For the last few years, fans have been treated to a powerful three-guitar attack, particularly since Philip Shouse joined the fold, initially filling in for Lulis during a 2019 tour and then staying on permanently. However, that triple-threat configuration is now being streamlined.
The official statement from the ACCEPT camp confirmed the decision was purely based on “logistical challenges,” unequivocally stressing that there were “no personal or musical disagreements at all.” In the often-volatile world of hard rock bands, an amicable split like this—where all parties remain “Metal Brothers in Arms”—is a testament to the respect and successful history shared during Lulis’s tenure.
Uwe Lulis, who stepped in to replace Herman Frank in 2014, leaves a significant mark on ACCEPT’s modern chapter, having contributed to fan-favorite albums like The Rise of Chaos and the recently acclaimed Humanoid (2024). Now, the band will be anchored by the iconic riff-master Wolf Hoffmann and the energetic contributions of Philip Shouse. This two-man guitar team promises to deliver the classic, tight, and surgically precise German metal sound that defined classics like Balls to the Wall and Restless and Wild.
More Than a Lineup Change: Setting the Stage for the 50th
The timing of this reconfiguration is highly significant. With 2025-2026 marking their 50th anniversary, ACCEPT is preparing for a massive retrospective. By simplifying the stage setup now, they are arguably tightening the focus ahead of the most important tour of their recent history.
Wolf Hoffmann has been vocal about the upcoming anniversary plans, which include:
* A “Very Unique” Anniversary Tour: A 50th Anniversary Tour is set to kick off at the end of 2025. It is expected to be a deep dive into the band’s vast catalogue, promising a spectacle of metal history and, excitingly, potential guest appearances from former members.
* A Re-Recorded Anniversary Album: An LP of their best songs and deep cuts, featuring re-recorded tracks and special guest musicians, is slated for early 2026.
The shift back to the two-guitar core demonstrates ACCEPT’s commitment to refining their live energy and honoring their decades-long legacy as they embark on this golden jubilee. The spotlight will now burn even brighter on the dual mastery of Hoffmann and Shouse as they lead the charge through their celebrated past and their ambitious future.
What’s Next for the Metal Brothers?
While ACCEPT, featuring Mark Tornillo (vocals), Martin Motnik (bass), and Christopher Williams (drums), continue their current US tour, Uwe Lulis will redirect his focus back to his successful career as a metal producer and his personal project, the Uwe Lulis Project.
This story is a strong reminder that even the biggest bands must adapt and evolve. ACCEPT’s return to a classic foundation is less a step back and more a powerful surge forward, ensuring the legendary roar remains loud and clear as they smash through their next half-century of metal dominance.
Are you ready for the return of the classic two-guitar assault? Which of the ‘Humanoid’ tracks do you think will sound best in the stripped-down format?