The cult metal band that announced its return without even calling itself singer and bassist

The cult metal band that announced its return without even calling itself singer and bassist


Guitarist and drummer confirmed Nevermore’s return in a teaser and only later said they would still need other members

THE Never again has never been among the most popular heavy metal bands. Appeared in 1992 after two of its members — the late singer Warren Dane and the bass player Jim Sheppard — abandon another project, Sanctuarythe American group with a unique sound boasts rare appearances in the world charts and ended its activity when it began to reverse this situation in 2011. Their best-selling album, Dead heart in a dead world (2000), 30 thousand copies were sold in the United States.

That didn’t stop the acclaimed band, also made up of Jeff Loomis (guitar, also former member of Bitter enemy), van Williams (drums) and a series of guitarists who shared the role with the first mentioned. It is not surprising that this same segment of the public enthusiastically welcomed the news that the group would resume its activities in 2025, although obviously without Dane, who passed away in 2017 in the city of Sao Paulo, where he was working on a solo album with local musicians .

The information was shared through a mysterious teaser, released on social media by Loomis and Williams. See below.

Check out this photo on Instagram

A post shared by Jeff Loomis (@jeffloomis1)

Sheppard didn’t immediately comment, and there’s a reason: He’s not involved in this meeting. In a statement later published by his wife (and now removed), he claimed that he had not even been consulted by his former colleagues, which he called an act “completely disrespectful”.

Jim’s statement led Jeff and Van to express themselves in a long text, also published online. The duo not only explains their motivations, but also reveals something curious: the new version of Nevermore was announced without even having a defined singer and bassist. Soon, the duo took the opportunity to also launch a global audition looking for new members.

Explanations on the return of Nevermore

In the note (via Igor Miranda’s website), Jeff Loomis and Van Williams explain that they haven’t communicated with Jim Sheppard in years. The drummer in particular declares it “for a new beginning it is necessary to get out of relationships that may no longer be conducive to growth or new beginnings”. It is also specified that the recovery aims to “honoring the band’s legacy by moving forward in the way that felt right at the time”. And he adds:

“As for why I’m revisiting Nevermore, it’s simple: this band has always been my dream. To find a group of guys to be in a band with and travel the world and create music. […] But as time went on, things got out of hand… the trust, respect and joy of it all started to disappear. […] After years of building the best band we could for ourselves, we couldn’t figure out how to get through it all. Jeff and I followed a path; Warrel and Jim followed another. There was no reconciliation. Warrel went to Brazil, Jim retired to Alaska, and the years passed without contact.”

Williams also denied that he was trying to replace Warrel Dane and rejected that the group’s return had anything to do with money. The drummer underlined:

“Most musicians don’t do it for the money. We spend countless hours over the years sweating, rehearsing, playing and recording simply because we love it. This is what we choose to do in life because we’ve always loved it. This is what that drives us, the passion for the music, the connection with the fans and the creative process If the money comes from there, great, but that was never our goal, but we also have bills to pay like you.”

In the excerpt of the press release signed by Jeff Loomis there are instructions for anyone wishing to try out a place at Nevermore. Musicians from any part of the planet can participate in the online audition. Check:

“Singer Auditions: Nevermore is known for its intense emotional resonance, and this has obviously come through through Warrel’s unique vocal dynamics. We are looking for a singer who can deliver a wide range of tones and emotions with artistry and authenticity.

– Dynamic range: Able to sing resonant high and low notes, blending power and vulnerability as the music demands.

– Depth of expression: In addition to technical ability, we are looking for someone who can embody the raw emotion and haunting themes that define Nevermore’s music.

– Stage Presence: We need someone who works well with the audience and embodies the intensity of the music in a live setting.

Bassist Audition: We’re looking for a rock-solid player who knows how to create depth and direction in Nevermore’s arrangements. The precision, groove and ability to fit the Van well are a big plus. If I could contribute backing vocals that would be great. Someone who can hold the rhythm section together is all we ask for.

What we look for in both roles:

– Positive attitude… we want individuals who bring good energy to the band dynamic.

– We are looking for people who know how to maintain concentration, professionalism and respect for music. Someone who is reliable, knowledgeable and has a strong work ethic.

– You must be open to extensive world tours with an active and updated passport. A willingness to work together creatively, support each other, and represent Nevermore with integrity on and off the stage.

How to audition:

– Singers: Upload a video of yourself singing the songs “Born” and “Sentient 6” from the album This Godless Endeavor. Feel free to sing any song you want. If you choose not to sing the entire song, sing at least one complete verse and one chorus of each song. Please also include a short introduction about your background, your influences and what you can bring to the band. We invite you to demonstrate everything to the best of your ability.

Bass players: they will have to play the songs ‘Enemies of Reality’ and ‘Inside Four Walls’, standing, focusing on firmness, technique and feeling.

Send us a PRIVATE YouTube link with your auditions to: officialnevermoreinfo@gmail.com”

+++ READ MORE: The best rock albums of 2024 according to Rolling Stone Brasil critic

+++ READ MORE: The 7 best metal albums of 2024 for Charles Gavin, including the national band

+++ to follow Rolling Stone Brasil @rollingstonebrasil on Instagram

+++ to follow the journalist Igor Miranda @igormirandasite on Instagram

Source: Terra

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