METAL CHURCH founding guitarist Kurdt Vanderhoof has addressed the band's recent lineup changes in a new interview, refusing to speak negatively about former bandmates Marc Lopes and Stet Howland despite persistent prodding from interviewers looking for controversy. "If they have an issue, that's fine," Vanderhoof said with characteristic calm. "I'm not going to talk smack about anybody. Life's too short for that."
The measured response is notable given the turbulence that surrounded the lineup shift. Vocalist Marc Lopes, who fronted METAL CHURCH on two albums — 2016's "XI" and 2018's "Damned If You Do" — departed the band under circumstances that neither party has fully clarified publicly. Drummer Stet Howland, formerly of W.A.S.P. and LITA FORD's band, also exited during the same period. In the music industry, where public feuds between former bandmates are practically a spectator sport, Vanderhoof's refusal to engage in mudslinging is refreshingly professional.
The band's new lineup brings together a formidable collection of talent. Former MEGADETH bassist David Ellefson, who co-founded that legendary thrash act alongside Dave Mustaine in 1983, brings not only his considerable bass-playing skills but also a business acumen and industry network cultivated over four decades. Veteran drummer Ken Mary, whose credits include ALICE COOPER, FIFTH ANGEL, and FLOTSAM AND JETSAM, adds technical precision and dynamic range. Vocalist Brian Allen, who previously fronted VICIOUS RUMORS and HEIR APPARENT, has earned strong reviews for his powerful delivery on the new material.
Vanderhoof and guitarist Rick Van Zandt round out the lineup that will release "Dead To Rights" on April 10 via Rat Pak Records. The founding guitarist has emphasized that the new configuration feels reinvigorated, describing the chemistry between the new members as immediate and exciting. For a band that has weathered the death of beloved vocalist Mike Howe in 2021 and numerous other setbacks over their four-decade career, the positive energy surrounding "Dead To Rights" represents a welcome new beginning.