William Shatner's metal project to make live debut at Riot Fest

William Shatner is adding another unexpected chapter to his career. While details surrounding the Star Trek icon's long-teased heavy metal album remain under wraps following its announcement in February, fans will get an early preview when his backing band, The *uckers, makes its live debut at Riot Fest on Sunday, September 20.

The group brings together a lineup of seasoned hard rock veterans, including guitarist and musical director Marcus Nand (Mike Tramp, Candice Night), bassist Phil Soussan (Ozzy Osbourne, Billy Idol), guitarist Britt Lightning (Vixen, Cactus), and drummer Fred Aching (Kings of Thrash, Dead Groove). Shatner and The *uckers will take the stage on Riot Fest's final day alongside Insane Clown Posse, Alanis Morissette, Elvis Costello, Patti Smith, Pennywise, Taking Back Sunday, Haywire, and dozens of other artists. Riot Fest has also unveiled a suitably over-the-top poster for the performance.

As for the album itself, concrete details remain scarce. The project has been described as a 35-track collection featuring an extensive roster of guest musicians from across the metal world, with Shatner curating the lineup himself. For now, Riot Fest will offer the first glimpse of what that collaboration sounds like in a live setting.