Back in January, thrash metal titans Testament parted ways with their drummer Gene Hoglan (though on good terms) – and just now they’ve announced his replacement. The band have officially announced that their new drummer is none other than the great Dave Lombardo!
Lombardo has worked with Testament in the past, providing his remarkable drumming skills to the band’s 1999 album, The Gathering. But now, Lombardo has rejoined the band. Per a press release, Testament vocalist Chuck Billy shared the following:
“I’ll state the obvious, We are more than overwhelmed to welcome back Dave Lombardo to play drums with Testament. We are so excited to share the stage again with Lombardo. Dave added immense power when he joined the band for The Gathering (release), and we are ecstatic to see what new flavor he will bring back to Testament.”
Regarding joining the band once again, Lombardo said, “This is a long-awaited reunion that was bound to happen. Once upon a time, we created a thrash masterpiece. I have no doubt that our musical chemistry will pick up exactly where we left off. I love the Testament family and am very excited to be joining them once again. Pure brutality awaits.”
Lead and rhythm guitarist Eric Preston stated, “Having Dave Lombardo join us again feels like we are picking up where unfinished business had left off. There is a silver lining to every cloud and working again with Dave calls for us to celebrate with our horns held high!”
Lombardo has had a profound career, having played in bands likes of Slayer, Suicidal Tendencies, Misfits, and more. Lombardo will be part of Testament’s upcoming “The Bay Strikes Back Tour,” where the band will be playing alongside thrash acts Exodus and Death Angel. You can find the tour poster that includes dates and locations below.
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Words by: Michael Pementel
