Stewart, Wood & Jones Working On New "Faces" Album

Feature Photo: Bruce Alan Bennett / Shutterstock.com

Faces, the legendary rock group known for their raw, blues-infused rock sound and charismatic stage presence, are making an eagerly anticipated return to the music scene. Original members Rod Stewart, Ronnie Wood, and Kenney Jones have recently completed recording sessions for what will become their first new studio album in over fifty years, following 1973’s celebrated release, Ooh La La. The reunion has sparked excitement among fans and rock enthusiasts, rekindling memories of the band’s influential role in shaping the landscape of rock music in the early 1970s.

Recording took place at the iconic RAK Studios in North London, a location renowned for hosting numerous classic albums. Faces have laid down eleven tracks, a blend of newly written songs and a few previously unreleased compositions originating from the group’s original era. While the band members acknowledge that not all recorded tracks might appear on the final record, they express confidence in the quality and energy captured in these sessions.

Faces emerged in 1969 from the ashes of two influential British bands, Small Faces and The Jeff Beck Group. Their energetic live performances, combined with Stewart’s soulful vocals, Wood’s versatile guitar playing, and Jones’s rhythmic prowess, quickly catapulted them into rock stardom. Throughout their initial run between 1969 and 1975, the group released four influential studio albums, with hits like “Stay With Me,” “Ooh La La,” and “Cindy Incidentally” solidifying their legacy.

Following their split in the mid-1970s, each member pursued successful careers independently. Rod Stewart went on to become a global superstar, with a multitude of chart-topping solo albums and singles. Ronnie Wood solidified his place as a legendary guitarist by joining the Rolling Stones, becoming an essential part of their sound and image. Kenney Jones carried on his successful drumming career with bands such as The Who and maintained a prominent presence in rock circles.

Discussions of a Faces reunion had circulated for years, often teased by individual members, but scheduling conflicts repeatedly stalled the project. In 2021, the trio finally decided to actively move forward with new recordings, juggling commitments such as Stewart’s touring schedule and Wood’s Rolling Stones duties. The resulting sessions mark a significant milestone for the band, who are eager to demonstrate that their dynamic chemistry remains intact.

Drummer Kenney Jones confirmed the band plans to release the album in 2026, recognizing the detailed process involved in producing and finalizing the record. Additionally, the group is exploring releasing an accompanying documentary that would chronicle their rich history and provide an intimate look at the recording of the new album. Jones mentioned archival footage from 1972 that has never been publicly seen, promising a nostalgic treat for longtime fans.

Faces last publicly performed together at the 2020 Brit Awards, delivering a memorable rendition of “Stay With Me” that reminded audiences of their undeniable stage chemistry. This performance further fueled anticipation for their upcoming studio release. The new album represents not just a reunion of talented musicians, but also a powerful revival of a unique and influential musical spirit that first captured audiences decades ago.

As anticipation builds towards 2026, the Faces’ upcoming release serves as a timely reminder of their vital contributions to rock history. Their legacy as a band that defined a generation through gritty authenticity, musical talent, and undeniable charisma remains strong, ensuring their new album will be celebrated by both dedicated fans and a new generation of rock listeners.

The upcoming Faces album project includes three original members: Rod Stewart on lead vocals, Ronnie Wood on guitar, and Kenney Jones on drums. Notably absent from this reunion are bassist Ronnie Lane, who passed away on June 4, 1997, and keyboardist Ian McLagan, who died on December 3, 2014. Stewart, Wood, and Jones represent the surviving members from the band’s classic lineup, reuniting to create new music for the first time in over fifty years.