Swedish hard rock trio The Gems — formed by former Thundermother members Guernica Mancini on vocals, Emlee Johansson on drums and Mona Lindgren on bass — is set to drop its sophomore album, “Year Of The Snake”, on March 13, 2026 through Napalm Records. Celebrating the announcement, the band has also premiered its latest single, “Hot Bait”, a gritty, high-powered blues-rock anthem packed with classic, old-school swagger.
THE GEMS comment: “‘Hot Bait’ is a playful shuffle track in a ZZ TOP-oozing vibe about our days as single ladies. It’s the excitement of when you finally get what you want, told from a foodie’s perspective. ‘Cause food is always better than sex :P”.
THE GEMS added about “Year Of The Snake”: “‘Year Of The Snake’ is about facing previous hardships in your life, letting go and moving forward to a brighter chapter. It’s packed with strong and empowering themes, just like a snake shedding its skin and now standing strong in its own power!
“‘Year Of The Snake’ is a homage to our fans at our live shows. We wrote the songs envisioning an excited festival crowd; from our loyal diamonds in the front row, knowing all lyrics by heart, to the crazy headbangers in the back. The album is packed with VAN HALEN and EUROPE-inspired hard-hitting grooves and riffs that will take you back to the ’80s. Yet, the production is modern and fresh.
“In an increasingly artificial world, we want to stay true to our roots — solid musicianship and songwriting from the heart. Our aim is to always create a great sounding album with the live show in mind. The future is live and heavy glam rock is here to stay!”.
“Year Of The Snake” track listing:
01. Walls
02. Year Of The Snake
03. Gravity
04. Diamond In The Rough
05. Live And Let Go
06. Clout Chaser
07. Hot Bait
08. Forgive And Forget
09. Go Along To Get Along
10. Math Ain’t Mathing
11. Firebird
12. Stars
13. Buckle Up
14. Happy Water
