Ordained Returns with Power of Powers: Remembering Erik Nelson
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Ordained’s Power of Powers: Classic Metal, Conviction, and the Legacy of Erik Nelson
When Girder Records released Ordained’s Thunder Roars in 2025, it introduced our customers to a collaboration rooted in Christian hard rock and metal. Now, Randy Swingle, Dale Thompson, and Erik Nelson return on Power of Powers, a 12-track album whose release carries a deeper meaning following Erik’s passing.
Erik died in August 2026 after a battle with cancer. As we prepare to share this recording, we also remember the musician and studio professional whose work helped make it possible.
Traditional Hard Rock in the Vein of Classic Bride
Ordained’s influences reach into the era of Quiet Riot, Krokus, AC/DC, The Rods, RIOT, and Bride. For fans of ’80s hard rock and heavy metal, Power of Powers brings that musical foundation together with an openly Christian message.
Dale Thompson, known for his work as Bride’s vocalist, handles lead vocals. Randy Swingle contributes rhythm and lead guitars and backing vocals. Their collaboration continues the work heard on Thunder Roars, with songs including “Full Throttle,” “Bringing the Thunder,” “Thunderstorm,” and “Spirit Born.”
The Guitarists Behind the Recording
Tiago James Du Souza, known for Perpetual Paranoia and Hand of Fire, plays lead guitar on 10 of the album’s 12 tracks. Troy Thompson of Bride contributes lead guitar to “Bringing the Thunder” and “Cannon Balls.” Both guest guitarists appear on “Cannon Balls.”
Erik Nelson’s lead guitar performance appears on “Fools Gold.” It is one particularly meaningful part of a recording that also preserves his work on drums and bass.
Remembering Erik Nelson
Erik’s role in Power of Powers extended far beyond his instrumental performances. He co-produced the album with Randy Swingle and recorded, mixed, and mastered it at Eclipse Studios in Normal, Illinois, with additional engineering by Rob Colwell.
His contribution runs from the playing itself to the finished recording. That makes this album a lasting document of his musicianship and his ability to help others bring their music to life.
WGLT’s August 4 remembrance described the loss felt throughout the Bloomington-Normal music community. Fellow musicians remembered Erik’s generosity, encouragement, and skill at translating their ideas into recordings. His impact reached beyond the studio credits, touching the people who trusted him with their music.
For Ordained, losing Erik means losing an essential collaborator. For those hearing Power of Powers, his work remains present in the performances and production. We are grateful to be able to share that work and recognize his place in this album.
Music with a Purpose
Ordained’s faith remains at the center of the project. The album’s dedication expresses the band’s desire for these songs to touch hearts and minister to listeners through God the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit.
As Girder Records prepares to release Power of Powers, we celebrate the music while remembering the man who helped shape it. Erik Nelson’s absence is deeply felt. His contribution deserves to be heard and remembered.
Look for Ordained’s Power of Powers on CD at GirderMusic.com.
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